Gaming mice have become increasingly lightweight, but being light is no longer enough to stand out. Manufacturers are also focusing on ergonomics, sensor performance, wireless connectivity, and customization.
The ROG Keris II Origin takes all of these features and puts them into a 65-gram ergonomic gaming mouse. It comes with a high-end 42,000 DPI sensor, 2.4GHz wireless and Bluetooth connectivity, and even allows users to replace the mouse switches without soldering.
I spent some time using the ROG Keris II Origin to see how it performs and whether it is worth considering for gamers looking for a premium wireless mouse.
Table of Contents
ROG Keris II Origin Specifications
| Sensor | ROG AimPoint Pro Optical Sensor |
| Resolution | Up to 42,000 DPI |
| Key Switch | ROG Micro Switch II |
| Connectivity | USB 2.0, Bluetooth 5.1, RF 2.4GHz |
| Lighting | ROG Logo, Scroll Wheel, Side Markings |
| AURA Sync | Yes |
| USB Report Rate | Up to 8,000Hz with ROG Polling Rate Booster |
| RF 2.4GHz Report Rate | Up to 8,000Hz with ROG Polling Rate Booster Up to 1,000Hz with included dongle |
| Battery | 370mAh |
| Battery Life | Up to 127 hours via 2.4GHz Up to 192 hours via Bluetooth |
| Cable | 2-meter ROG Paracord |
| Weight | 65g |
| Dimensions | 121 x 67 x 42mm |
Ergonomic Design
The ROG Keris II Origin uses an ergonomic right-handed design, measuring 121 x 67 x 42mm and weighing around 65 grams.
While there are lighter gaming mice available, 65 grams is still lightweight enough for quick movements, especially when playing FPS games.
The ergonomic shape also provides more support for the hand compared to flatter or symmetrical gaming mice. This makes the ROG Keris II Origin more comfortable for users who prefer a mouse that fills out the palm.
One thing I particularly like about the ROG Keris II Origin is its weight distribution.
When carrying or lifting the mouse, it does not feel like the weight is concentrated on one side. It remains balanced in the hand, which also helps the mouse feel stable during gameplay.
This is particularly useful when making quick movements or lifting and repositioning the mouse on the mousepad.
ROG offers the Keris II Origin in Black and Moonlight White. The mouse also features RGB lighting on the ROG logo, scroll wheel, and side markings, which can be customized through ASUS Armoury Crate.
42,000 DPI AimPoint Pro Sensor
For the sensor, ROG equipped the Keris II Origin with its AimPoint Pro optical sensor.
Interestingly, this is the same sensor used in the ROG Keris II Ace.
The sensor supports up to 42,000 DPI and is capable of tracking on different surfaces, including glass.
Of course, most gamers are never going to use 42,000 DPI. The more important factor is how accurate and consistent the sensor is during actual use.
For competitive games, precise tracking is important because even small movements can affect your aim.
The Keris II Origin provides the fast and responsive tracking expected from a premium gaming mouse, while its lightweight design makes it easy to move around the mousepad.
Replaceable Switches
One of the most interesting features of the ROG Keris II Origin is its replaceable switches.
I did not open the mouse during this review since I need to return the unit after testing it. However, ROG uses its Push-Fit Switch Socket II, which allows the switches to be removed and replaced without soldering.
This is useful for long-term ownership.
Mouse switches can eventually wear out after extensive use, but instead of replacing the entire mouse, users can simply replace the switches.
ROG also includes two additional ROG Micro Switches II in the box.
This gives users the option to replace worn-out switches or experiment with a different switch feel in the future.
For a premium gaming mouse, this is a feature I would like to see more manufacturers adopt. It gives users more control over maintaining their peripherals and potentially extends the usable life of the mouse.
Customization Options
Customization is another major part of the ROG Keris II Origin.
Through ASUS Armoury Crate, users can configure the mouse’s buttons, DPI settings, RGB lighting, and other functions. There is also a web-based version called Gear Link, which provides similar customization options without requiring users to download or install additional software on their PC.
The mouse also comes with grip tape and replacement mouse feet.
These may seem like small additions, but they provide more flexibility for users who want to personalize the mouse according to their preferences.
The grip tape can also provide additional texture for users who want a more secure grip during gaming.
Gaming Experience
The combination of the lightweight design, ergonomic shape, high-end sensor, and wireless connectivity makes the ROG Keris II Origin well suited for gaming.
For FPS games, the 65-gram weight makes it easy to move quickly across the mousepad.
The balanced weight distribution also helps keep the mouse stable when making fast movements.
At the same time, the ergonomic shape provides additional support for the hand, which can be useful during longer gaming sessions.
The different customization options also make the mouse more flexible. Users can adjust the buttons, DPI, RGB lighting, and even replace the switches when needed.
Battery Life and Connectivity
The ROG Keris II Origin supports three connection methods, giving users plenty of flexibility.
For gaming, the 2.4GHz wireless connection is the most practical option, while Bluetooth can be useful when connecting the mouse to a laptop or another compatible device.
The wired connection can also be used when charging the mouse.
Battery life is another strong point. With RGB lighting turned off, ROG rates the 370mAh battery for up to 127 hours using 2.4GHz wireless and up to 192 hours through Bluetooth.
Actual battery life will depend on how the mouse is configured and used, but these figures give the Keris II Origin enough endurance for extended wireless use.
What I Like
There are several things I like about the ROG Keris II Origin.
First is the ergonomic shape. If you prefer a right-handed mouse that provides more support for your hand, the design works well.
I also like the weight distribution. The mouse feels balanced rather than tilted to one side, which helps it feel stable during gameplay.
The replaceable switch system is another major advantage. Being able to replace the switches without soldering can make a big difference for users who plan to keep their mouse for several years.
Finally, the multiple connectivity options make the Keris II Origin more versatile. You can use 2.4GHz wireless for gaming, Bluetooth for other devices, or connect it through USB.
What I Don’t Like
The ROG Keris II Origin is not perfect.
The biggest issue for me is the additional cost if you want to use the 8,000Hz polling rate.
The ROG Polling Rate Booster is sold separately, meaning you cannot take full advantage of the mouse’s maximum polling rate straight out of the box.
That said, this will not be a major issue for most gamers. A 1,000Hz polling rate is already more than enough for most users, while higher polling rates are more relevant to competitive players who want to maximize responsiveness.
Another thing worth mentioning is the 42,000 DPI sensor.
While it sounds impressive on paper, most gamers will never come close to using 42,000 DPI. Still, having a high-end sensor means the mouse has plenty of performance headroom, and accurate and consistent tracking is ultimately more important than the maximum DPI number.
Verdict
The ROG Keris II Origin is a well-rounded gaming mouse that combines a lightweight ergonomic design with a high-end sensor, wireless connectivity, and plenty of customization options.
What makes it particularly interesting is the replaceable switch system. Instead of replacing the entire mouse when the switches eventually wear out, users can replace the switches and continue using the same mouse.
The separate Polling Rate Booster is disappointing, especially for users interested in 8,000Hz polling. However, I do not think this should be a deal breaker for most gamers.
Overall, the ROG Keris II Origin is a solid option for gamers looking for a lightweight ergonomic mouse that offers good performance while also giving users more control over customization and long-term maintenance.
If you prefer a right-handed ergonomic design and want a gaming mouse that can be customized and maintained over time, the ROG Keris II Origin is definitely worth considering.
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