Asus's ROG Falcata promises the perfect blend of Hall effect customization and split ergonomic design, but in reality, it falls short in this ambitious endeavor. The keyboard boasts 75% key layout without dedicated macro keys like its competitor Kinesis Freestyle Edge RGB Plus, making it a more compact option on the desk.
The real standout feature is the Hall effect switches, which offer deep customization options. Each key can be adjusted to have an actuation point as precise as 100th of a millimeter at a time, ideal for gamers seeking lightning-fast commands without physical movement. The switch also has dynamic keystroke capabilities, allowing up to four unique commands per key based on travel distance.
However, the split ergonomics, particularly tenting angles, are where the Falcata falters. Limited to just seven degrees (six with wrist rests installed), it may not be enough for those accustomed to more pronounced angles like a 15-degree tent found in Kinesis's Lift Kit. This is a glaring oversight given the premium price of $419.99.
Additional drawbacks include included USB-C link cables that are too short, and rapid trigger and Speed Tap features that feel like gimmicks rather than genuinely helpful tools for competitive gamers.
To make sense as both Hall effect and ergonomic keyboard, one must really want these aspects. For those seeking a split ergo board without advanced Hall effect switches, alternatives exist at significantly lower prices.
The Verge's assessment concludes that the Falcata is a well-designed, compact, and quiet keyboard with impressive features like rapid trigger and Speed Tap. However, its limitations in tenting angles make it less appealing for those prioritizing ergonomics, particularly at such a premium price point.
The real standout feature is the Hall effect switches, which offer deep customization options. Each key can be adjusted to have an actuation point as precise as 100th of a millimeter at a time, ideal for gamers seeking lightning-fast commands without physical movement. The switch also has dynamic keystroke capabilities, allowing up to four unique commands per key based on travel distance.
However, the split ergonomics, particularly tenting angles, are where the Falcata falters. Limited to just seven degrees (six with wrist rests installed), it may not be enough for those accustomed to more pronounced angles like a 15-degree tent found in Kinesis's Lift Kit. This is a glaring oversight given the premium price of $419.99.
Additional drawbacks include included USB-C link cables that are too short, and rapid trigger and Speed Tap features that feel like gimmicks rather than genuinely helpful tools for competitive gamers.
To make sense as both Hall effect and ergonomic keyboard, one must really want these aspects. For those seeking a split ergo board without advanced Hall effect switches, alternatives exist at significantly lower prices.
The Verge's assessment concludes that the Falcata is a well-designed, compact, and quiet keyboard with impressive features like rapid trigger and Speed Tap. However, its limitations in tenting angles make it less appealing for those prioritizing ergonomics, particularly at such a premium price point.
. and what's up w/ the short usb-c cables tho? didn't they test these out thoroughly? overall, if u really want a hall effect switch keyboard w/ ergonomics, there r cheaper alternatives... this one just feels like overkill 
, the Falcata is actually kinda overhyped! 75% key layout with no macro keys? sounds like a snooze fest to me 
and yeah, limited tenting angles are a major letdown - who wants to stick to one angle when you can have more flexibility? I mean, it's not like the Verge said it was perfect or anything... but hey, if you're all about that Hall effect life, then I guess it's for you 
7 degrees of tenting just isn't enough, IMO.
, not game-changing like some ppl thought... and yeah, the compact design is nice, but 7 degrees of tenting angles is pretty meh for those who need more flexibility 
. I mean, I get what they're trying to do, but for a premium keyboard that's gonna cost you almost $420, it feels like an oversight 
.
. Can't we expect a bit more from our peripherals? 
. The Hall effect switches sound cool and all, but if it doesn't come with better ergonomics, what's the point? 
. I mean, it's $419.99 - that's a pretty penny for something that's gonna make you feel uncomfortable in the long run.
. That's like, so 2020. And Speed Tap is just another gimmick if you ask me 
. I'm all for innovation, but when it comes to ergonomics, you gotta prioritize that, right? 
but now that I think about it, the tenting angles are kinda a deal breaker for me - 7 degrees is just too low! 
and those included USB-C cables feel like they're trying to cut costs, which is super annoying. I know some people will love the rapid trigger feature though, so idk if it's worth the price... for me, I'll stick with my trusty old keyboard that gets the job done 
. I can imagine how frustrating it must be to pay that kinda cash and not get the full ergonomic experience you're looking for 
. those hall effect switches do sound like a game-changer, but when they don't deliver on other fronts... ouch 
. Don't get me wrong, the key layout is a big win, and those deep customization options are pretty sick if you're into that kinda thing 
. But, ugh, limited tenting angles? That's just a bummer for anyone who wants to really dive into ergonomic gaming goodness 
... how am i supposed to plug this thingy into my rig? 
- but at the end of the day, if you're not getting that ergonomic factor right, what's the point? The included USB-C link cables are also pretty meh 
.