The Asus ROG Harpe II Ace stands out as an ultralight and quick-response gaming peripheral that meets key expectations for enthusiasts. However, its 8,000 Hz polling rate demands significant battery power, and the $169.99 cost could deter budget-conscious buyers.
Asus introduces the ROG Harpe II Ace as a cordless esports accessory focused on peak speed and minimal weight. Tipping the scales at only 48 grams, it incorporates an 8,000 Hz wireless polling capability alongside the innovative ROG AimPoint Pro optical sensor capable of 42,000 DPI resolution. Does this elite device truly justify its $169.99 asking price? A detailed examination follows.
Upon opening the packaging, the Asus ROG Harpe II Ace's slim profile becomes immediately apparent. Clocking in at a mere 48 grams, it ranks among the slimmest options available for gaming rodents, surpassing numerous lattice-structured competitors. Despite its featherweight build, it maintains firmness and resists flexing, free from any loose parts or squeaks.
The exterior adopts a balanced layout but lacks full versatility for left-handers due to the pair of buttons on the left side, targeting right-handed players primarily. Its contours were refined in collaboration with professional gamers, such as Valorant competitor Maximilian ‘Demon1’ Mazanov. It rests comfortably flat during use and suits claw or fingertip holding styles. In intense titles like CS2 or Valorant, it delivers immediate feedback and slides effortlessly over surfaces, avoiding user exhaustion.
The bio-based nylon coating on the Asus ROG Harpe II Ace provides a gentle texture, though preferences vary. Certain reviewers appreciate the sleek touch, while others point out the tendency to show smudges. In general, it conveys a sense of superior craftsmanship.
At the heart of the Asus ROG Harpe II Ace lies the ROG AimPoint Pro sensor, offering resolutions up to 42,000 DPI. Although such numbers can appear exaggerated for promotion, the true value shines in accuracy and reliability. Actions register without perceptible lag, and subtle adjustments in targeting prove exact. During evaluations, the pointer remained steady amid rapid swipes, offering a distinct edge to those in competitive gaming.
A standout feature is the 8,000 Hz polling frequency, which Asus supports over wireless connections, sending eightfold the positional updates compared to typical devices each second. This results in perceptibly fluid aiming and following in action. That said, for battery preservation, enable it selectively. Running at full 8,000 Hz limits usage to about 15 hours.
When operating at 1,000 Hz, the Asus ROG Harpe II Ace extends to more than 100 hours on a charge. It recharges through USB-C, and brief connection times yield several hours of play, allowing uninterrupted sessions even with a depleted battery.
Asus equips the device with reliable ROG microswitches that produce sharp, defined presses. The primary buttons activate swiftly and provide exact tactile response without double-clicking. This performance held steady over extended, rigorous testing periods.
The scroll wheel on the Asus ROG Harpe II Ace registers steps accurately, but lacks side-to-side angling or free-scrolling modes. This setup works adequately for gaming yet feels basic for general tasks. It includes five programmable buttons and a DPI toggle, sufficient for fast-action genres but inadequate for complex MMOs.
Activating the zone mode on the Asus ROG Harpe II Ace involves pressing both side DPI buttons simultaneously. This configures the device for optimal esports settings by disabling RGB effects and maximizing output. Such a quick access proves handy for tournament participants.
Eschewing the frequently faulted Armoury Crate program, Asus opts for the Gear Link online platform. Users can tweak DPI settings, button mappings, and illumination straight in a web browser without downloads. The setup is intuitive, quick, and compatible across platforms, conserving computer resources and easing routine adjustments.
One limitation is the absence of internal storage. Custom profiles do not persist on the device, meaning reconfiguration via the web tool is needed when switching between computers.
For daily gaming, the Asus ROG Harpe II Ace shines with seamless cursor movement, rapid reaction times, and strong handling. In titles like Apex Legends or Call of Duty, the aiming reticle holds firm amid chaotic motions. Its reduced mass eases pressure on the wrist and arm, benefiting prolonged play.
It handles productivity tasks decently, but the straightforward wheel and few buttons limit versatility. The Bluetooth link remains dependable, though serious competitors favor the 2.4 GHz receiver.
Included with the Asus ROG Harpe II Ace are a pliable USB-C cord, a USB-C to USB-A converter, spare feet, premium adhesive grips, and decal sheets. This kit equips users thoroughly for enhanced hold. Adding a transport pouch would enhance portability for frequent travelers.