Asus continues to make strides in the gaming peripheral market, with their latest offering, the Asus ROG Strix Impact III. This gaming mouse is designed to blend performance and ergonomics, creating an excellent tool for FPS gamers. Let’s delve deeper into the features and specifications that make it unique.
The ASUS ROG Strix Impact III is a lightweight, ambidextrous gaming mouse that is designed for comfort and performance. It features a new, smaller shape that is better suited for claw and fingertip grips, as well as a new 12,000 CPI PixArt PAW3311 optical sensor. The mouse also features hot-swappable ROG mechanical switches, a paracord-like cable, and PTFE feet.
Asus ROG Strix Impact III Review
In this detailed review, we will take a closer look at the ASUS ROG Strix Impact III and see how it performs in gaming and general use.
Design and Ergonomics
The ASUS ROG Strix Impact III is a small, ambidextrous gaming mouse that weighs just 59 grams. It is made of a single piece of plastic with a matte finish. The mouse has a honeycomb design on the top and sides, which helps to keep it lightweight and cool.
The ROG Strix Impact III has a symmetrical shape that is designed for both right-handed and left-handed users. The mouse has a slightly curved profile that fits comfortably in the hand. The sides of the mouse have a textured grip that helps to prevent the mouse from slipping.
The ROG Strix Impact III has a total of six buttons, including two main buttons, two side buttons, a scroll wheel, and a DPI button. The main buttons are made of ROG mechanical switches that are rated for 70 million clicks. The side buttons are made of rubber and are very responsive. The scroll wheel is smooth and has a tactile click. The DPI button is located on the top of the mouse and allows you to quickly change the sensitivity of the sensor.
The ROG Strix Impact III has a Pixart PAW3311 optical sensor that has a maximum tracking speed of 12,000 CPI and a maximum tracking acceleration of 40 G. The sensor is very accurate and responsive, and it is capable of tracking on a variety of surfaces.
The ROG Strix Impact III has a braided cable that is 1.8 meters long. The cable is flexible and does not get in the way. The mouse also comes with a pair of PTFE feet that help to reduce friction and improve the glide of the mouse.
Technical Features
The heart of the ROG Strix Impact III is its high-quality 3311 optical sensor. This sensor can deliver up to a whopping 12,000 dots per inch (DPI), providing extremely accurate and fluid tracking. It’s more than capable of registering even the slightest of movements. What’s even more impressive is its class-leading 1% deviation, which means that the mouse’s precision and accuracy remain consistent regardless of the speed of your movements.
The ROG Strix Impact III boasts a maximum tracking speed of 300 inches per second (IPS) and a maximum acceleration of 35G. These figures reflect how fast the mouse can track movement and how quickly it can accelerate from a stationary state, respectively. It’s ideal for first-person shooter (FPS) games, where rapid and sudden movements are commonplace.
The mouse also features a 1000 Hz polling rate, meaning it reports its position to your computer 1000 times per second. This high polling rate contributes to lower latency, resulting in almost instantaneous response time, which can make the difference between victory and defeat in competitive gaming.
One of the standout features of the ROG Strix Impact III is the ROG Micro Switches. These switches provide a consistent click force and a life expectancy of up to 70 million clicks, one of the highest in the industry. It offers reliable performance and durability, even for heavy users.
The mouse also features on-the-fly DPI adjustment, which lets you change sensitivity settings quickly without having to pause your game or fiddle with software. This is paired with programmable buttons that can be customized to your liking for specific actions in your game.
The Impact III comes with Nvidia Reflex Latency Analyzer compatibility, a revolutionary system that measures PC performance and peripheral latency, helping competitive gamers identify issues that could affect their gaming performance. This feature allows players to have precise, real-time information about their system’s responsiveness.
The Logitech G Pro X Superlight is a worthy competitor in terms of technical features. It is lighter than the ROG Strix Impact III, weighing in at around 63 grams, but it also sports a high-performance HERO 25K sensor that can go up to 25,600 DPI. Its report rate matches that of the Impact III at 1000 Hz.
The G Pro X Superlight, however, does not offer the same level of customization as the Impact III. It lacks swappable switches and does not feature on-the-fly DPI adjustment. Moreover, the G Pro X Superlight is considerably more expensive, making the Impact III a more value-for-money proposition.
The Asus ROG Strix Impact III, with its excellent sensor, superior speed and acceleration, high polling rate, durable switches, and added features like on-the-fly DPI adjustment and Nvidia Reflex compatibility, is a top-tier gaming mouse that caters to both casual gamers and eSports professionals.
Build Quality
Build quality is an important aspect when choosing a gaming mouse, as it needs to withstand intense gaming sessions and the occasional fit of rage. The Asus ROG Strix Impact III impresses in this regard with its thoughtful design and durable construction.
The shell of the Impact III is built to last. It is robust, sturdy, and designed to withstand prolonged use. The premium materials used for its construction not only ensure its durability but also contribute to the overall look and feel of the mouse, providing a sense of luxury and comfort.
The cable used in the Impact III is not your ordinary mouse cable. It uses ROG Paracord, a highly flexible and lightweight cable that mimics the feel of wireless gaming. The ROG Paracord reduces drag and tangles, providing smooth, fast movements across your mouse pad without compromising on durability. It’s another testament to Asus’s attention to detail and commitment to providing a superior gaming experience.
The mouse feet are made from 100% PTFE (Polytetrafluoroethylene), also known as Teflon, the same material used in non-stick cookware. These feet offer low-friction contact with the surface, ensuring a silky glide across various surfaces, enhancing your control and precision during intense gaming sessions. Furthermore, PTFE is known for its durability, so you won’t have to worry about wear and tear for a considerable time.
When compared to the Razer Viper Ultimate, another high-end gaming mouse, the Impact III holds its own. The Viper Ultimate features a lightweight design with an ambidextrous shape, just like the Impact III. However, the Viper Ultimate offers a wireless design, which gives it a bit of an edge in terms of convenience and mobility.
In terms of build quality, the Viper Ultimate is also made with premium materials and features Razer’s Speedflex cable for minimal drag. The mouse feet are also 100% PTFE, ensuring a smooth glide. However, the Viper Ultimate is significantly more expensive than the Impact III, and given their comparable build quality, the Impact III offers better value.
The Asus ROG Strix Impact III’s exceptional build quality sets it apart from many gaming mice in its price range. It offers a combination of durability, premium feel, and thoughtful features, like the ROG Paracord and PTFE mouse feet, that significantly enhance the gaming experience.
Armory Crate Software
The Armoury Crate software is an integral part of the Asus ROG Strix Impact III gaming mouse, providing gamers with a range of customization options and controls.
The Armoury Crate software is known for its user-friendly interface. It is easy to navigate and provides a wide range of customization options for your gaming mouse. You can adjust settings such as DPI sensitivity, button mapping, and lighting effects, helping you to tailor the mouse to your specific gaming needs.
Armoury Crate software allows you to easily set up macros for the programmable buttons on the ROG Strix Impact III. This feature is particularly useful for gamers who require quick access to specific commands during gameplay.
Similarly, the software enables you to adjust the DPI sensitivity of the mouse. This feature gives you the flexibility to switch between different DPI settings on-the-fly, which can be invaluable during intense gaming sessions, where different situations may call for different levels of sensitivity.
The Aura Sync RGB lighting feature allows you to personalize your mouse’s lighting effects, making it stand out on your gaming desk. With a vast range of colors and lighting modes to choose from, you can create unique combinations that reflect your style. Moreover, Aura Sync allows for synchronization of lighting effects across all your Aura-enabled devices, creating a cohesive look for your gaming setup.
When compared to another popular gaming peripheral software like Razer Synapse, Armoury Crate holds up well. Razer Synapse is known for its robust customization options, allowing for macro setup, DPI adjustment, and Chroma RGB lighting effects. However, some users have noted that Synapse can be more complex to navigate, especially for new users.
Moreover, while both Armoury Crate and Synapse allow for device synchronization, Aura Sync from Asus is often lauded for its seamless and smooth synchronization, offering a superior visual experience when compared to Synapse’s Chroma Studio.
Armoury Crate software offers an impressive suite of features that enhance the ROG Strix Impact III’s performance and aesthetics. Whether it’s setting up game-specific macros, fine-tuning DPI sensitivity, or playing with a myriad of lighting effects, Armoury Crate delivers a robust and intuitive platform for customization. It offers a level of personalization that meets the demands of casual gamers and eSports professionals alike, contributing significantly to the overall value of the Asus ROG Strix Impact III.
Impressions of Use
The Asus ROG Strix Impact III truly shines when put to use. It effortlessly merges high-end specifications with user-friendly features to deliver an outstanding gaming experience.
The Impact III is incredibly smooth in operation. Its 12,000 DPI sensor, combined with a 1000Hz polling rate, results in an exceptionally responsive mouse that accurately captures every minute movement. The experience is noticeably enhanced during FPS gameplay, where the mouse’s swift responsiveness can significantly affect your in-game performance.
The DPI on-the-scroll feature is a thoughtful addition that is quite beneficial during intense gaming sessions. With a simple scroll, you can adjust the sensitivity of the mouse without interrupting your game or navigating through software. This allows for seamless transitions between different game scenarios that may require different levels of mouse sensitivity.
The ROG Micro Switches, with their consistent click force, make every click feel satisfying. This may seem like a minor feature, but a good click feel can greatly enhance the overall gaming experience, particularly during long gaming sessions.
The robust build quality of the Impact III becomes evident upon first use. The mouse feels sturdy and well-made. Despite its lightweight design, there is a reassuring feeling of durability that suggests this mouse is designed to withstand extended use and intense gaming sessions.
When compared to the SteelSeries Rival 3, another popular gaming mouse, the Impact III outperforms in several key areas. The Rival 3, while having a comfortable grip and decent responsiveness, falls short in terms of DPI, offering up to 8500 DPI compared to the Impact III’s 12,000 DPI.
The Rival 3 lacks the on-the-fly DPI adjustment feature of the Impact III, which is a significant advantage during gameplay. Moreover, although the click feel of the Rival 3 is decent, the Impact III’s ROG Micro Switches offer a more satisfying and consistent click feel.
In terms of build quality, both mice are quite comparable. However, the Impact III’s use of a ROG Paracord and PTFE mouse feet give it an edge in terms of longevity and smoothness of operation.
The Asus ROG Strix Impact III delivers an impressive user experience with its high responsiveness, easy in-game adjustments, satisfying click feel, and robust build quality. It offers a superior gaming experience, especially for FPS gamers, that few other mice in the market can match. It definitely lives up to Asus’ reputation for high-quality gaming peripherals.
Comparison With ASUS ROG Strix Impact II
The Asus ROG Strix Impact III represents an evolution in Asus’ line of gaming mice, with several improvements over its predecessor, the Impact II. While they share similarities, a deeper look into their specifications and features clearly highlights the advancements made in the Impact III.
Both the Impact II and Impact III feature a lightweight and ambidextrous design, which is a hallmark of Asus’ Strix Impact line. This design is highly accommodating, making both models suitable for a variety of grip styles. However, the Impact III takes this a step further by enhancing the overall ergonomics, offering an even more comfortable grip during prolonged gaming sessions.
The most significant upgrades are seen in the performance specifications of the Impact III. The Impact II was no slouch, with a decent 6,200 DPI sensor and a 1,000Hz polling rate. However, the Impact III takes this to another level with a 12,000 DPI optical sensor and the same 1,000Hz polling rate. This higher DPI allows for greater precision and accuracy, which can make a tangible difference, particularly in fast-paced FPS games.
One of the standout features of the Impact III that sets it apart from its predecessor is the inclusion of ROG Micro Switches. These switches provide a consistent click force and have an impressive 70-million-click lifespan, outpacing the standard switches used in the Impact II. This ensures a satisfying click feel while significantly enhancing the durability of the mouse.
Both the Impact II and Impact III utilize the Armoury Crate software for customization. However, with the Impact III, users can now take advantage of the Nvidia Reflex Latency Analyzer, a feature that allows for monitoring mouse responsiveness. This feature was absent in the Impact II, further distinguishing the Impact III as a superior choice for those looking for heightened performance.
While the Impact II remains a solid choice among gaming mice, the Impact III brings several significant upgrades to the table. These enhancements, from improved ergonomics to superior performance specifications and the inclusion of ROG Micro Switches, make the Impact III a compelling upgrade for gamers. It represents Asus’s commitment to advancing their technology to consistently deliver top-notch gaming peripherals.
Value For the Money
The Asus ROG Strix Impact III undoubtedly brings great value for its price point. It encapsulates a combination of impressive technical features, durability, and a refined user experience that cater to both professional and casual gamers.
Packed with a 12,000 DPI sensor, 1,000 Hz polling rate, ROG Micro Switches, and an ergonomic lightweight design, the Impact III boasts features that are typically found in more expensive gaming mice. Furthermore, additional features such as on-the-fly DPI adjustment, swappable switches, and Nvidia Reflex compatibility justify the cost and put the mouse in line with other high-end options.
The build quality of the Impact III adds considerable value. The robust construction, the use of premium materials like the ROG Paracord, and the PTFE mouse feet ensure that the mouse will stand up to intense gaming sessions and last for an extended period, providing more value over time.
When compared to other high-end gaming mice, like the Razer DeathAdder V2, the Impact III offers similar or even superior features, but often at a more affordable price. While the DeathAdder V2 comes with a slightly higher DPI of 20,000, the Impact III’s DPI is more than sufficient for most gaming needs. Furthermore, features like the ROG Micro Switches and the lightweight design give the Impact III an edge over its competitors.
The Impact III also competes well with other gaming mice like the Logitech G Pro, which is more expensive but offers similar features. Both mice offer high DPI, a similar number of programmable buttons, and high-quality switches. However, the Impact III’s Nvidia Reflex compatibility and lower price point provide it with a definite edge in terms of value for money.
The Asus ROG Strix Impact III provides excellent value for money. It offers an array of high-end features and durable build quality, typically found in more expensive gaming mice, at a more budget-friendly price. Whether you’re a casual gamer looking for a quality gaming mouse or a professional seeking high precision and responsiveness, the Impact III is a solid choice that promises excellent performance without breaking the bank.
Comparison to Other Technologies on the Market
In the world of gaming peripherals, the Asus ROG Strix Impact III certainly holds its own against other leading products on the market. Each mouse has its unique strengths and appeals to different user preferences. Let’s break down the Impact III’s place in this competitive landscape.
The Logitech G Pro is a renowned gaming mouse known for its wireless capabilities, which offer a clutter-free gaming setup and enhanced freedom of movement. This is a feature that the Impact III, being a wired mouse, lacks. However, the Impact III stands out in terms of customization. With its Armoury Crate software, you can personalize everything from DPI settings to lighting effects. Also, the Impact III generally comes at a lower price point than the Logitech G Pro, making it a more affordable choice without compromising on essential gaming features.
The Razer Viper is another noteworthy competitor, standing out with its optical switches that offer ultra-fast and accurate click responses. However, the Impact III competes well with its unique ROG Micro Switches, which provide consistent click force and an impressive 70-million-click lifespan. Additionally, the Impact III shines with its DPI on-the-scroll feature, allowing effortless in-game adjustments, a feature the Razer Viper lacks. Again, the Impact III’s affordability gives it an edge when value for money is a primary consideration.
Another competitor worth mentioning is the Glorious Model O. The Model O is lauded for its lightweight honeycomb shell design. However, the Impact III, despite its conventional solid shell, manages to keep its weight down to just 59 grams, similar to the Model O. Moreover, the Impact III boasts superior switch durability with its ROG Micro Switches compared to the Model O’s standard mechanical switches.
The Asus ROG Strix Impact III provides a compelling package of features and affordability that enables it to stand tall amidst fierce competition. While other products might offer specific features such as wireless capabilities or optical switches, the Impact III offers a balanced mix of performance, customization, and durability, all at an attractive price point. It makes an excellent choice for gamers seeking a well-rounded, cost-effective gaming mouse.
Gaming Performance
The Asus ROG Strix Impact III is designed for gamers who demand high performance, precision, and customization. It’s especially adept at handling a variety of gaming genres, delivering a responsive and smooth experience for any type of player.
In fast-paced FPS games such as “Call of Duty: Warzone,” “Valorant,” and “Counter-Strike: Global Offensive,” the Impact III really shines. Its 12,000 DPI optical sensor offers precision tracking with a 1% deviation, ensuring accurate aim and rapid target acquisition. The mouse’s 1000 Hz polling rate and near-zero click latency translate into instant button actuation, a crucial aspect for FPS games where every millisecond can make a difference between victory and defeat. Also, the on-the-fly DPI adjustment allows gamers to seamlessly shift sensitivity levels, helpful when transitioning between sniping and close-quarters combat.
For MOBA games like “Dota 2” and “League of Legends,” the Impact III’s 5 programmable buttons come in handy. They allow players to assign macros or hotkeys for quick access to abilities, items, and commands, enabling efficient gameplay. The ROG Micro Switches with a 70-million-click lifespan assure a consistent click feel, perfect for these games that require frequent and rapid clicking.
In strategy games such as “StarCraft II” and MMO games like “World of Warcraft,” the high DPI of the Impact III enables fast and precise cursor movements, critical for managing units and navigating large maps. The solid build quality and ergonomics of the mouse also ensure comfort during extended gaming sessions, which is common in these genres.
When playing popular Battle Royale games such as “Fortnite” or “Apex Legends,” the Impact III’s quick response time and high precision again prove beneficial. Swift aiming, shooting, and building in Fortnite, for instance, are more comfortable and accurate with the mouse’s high polling rate and DPI.
The Asus ROG Strix Impact III is a versatile gaming mouse that delivers top-notch performance across various gaming genres. Whether you’re landing headshots in an FPS, commanding armies in an RTS, or exploring vast worlds in an MMO, the Impact III is up to the task, providing an edge in your gaming endeavors.
Specifications
Here are the specifications of the Asus ROG Strix Impact III gaming mouse:
- Connectivity: USB 2.0 (Type-C to Type-A)
- Sensor: 3311
- Resolution: 12000
- Max Speed: 300
- Max Acceleration: 35
- USB Report Rate: 1000 Hz
- L/R Switch Type: 70m Rog Micro Switches
- Button: 5 Programmable Buttons + 1 DPI Button
- Aura Sync: Yes
- Grip Style: Palm Grip, Fingertip Grip
- Game Type: FPS
- Cable: Rog Paracord
- OS: Windows® 10, Windows® 11
- Software: Armoury Crate
- Dimensions: 126 x 62 x 39 mm
- Weight Without Cable: 59 g
Pros and Cons
Pros
- High DPI and precise motion tracking.
- Ergonomic, ultra-lightweight design suitable for all grip styles.
- Swappable ROG Micro Switches with a 70-million-click lifespan.
- Nvidia Reflex Latency Analyzer compatibility.
- Extensive customization options with Armoury Crate.
Cons
- The ambidextrous design might not suit everyone.
- No wireless connectivity option.
Conclusion
In the competitive landscape of gaming peripherals, the Asus ROG Strix Impact III Gaming Mouse stands out as a compelling option for both professional and casual gamers alike. It artfully combines high-performance specifications, a durable design, and an array of customization options into a single, affordable package.
The Impact III excels in delivering precise and accurate performance, courtesy of its 12,000 DPI sensor, 1,000 Hz polling rate, and 300 IPS speed. The near-zero click latency and on-the-fly DPI adjustment give gamers an edge, particularly in intense FPS games. Additionally, the mouse’s longevity is ensured by the inclusion of ROG Micro Switches, boasting a remarkable 70-million-click lifespan.
The Armoury Crate software stands out for enabling users to tailor the mouse to their preferences, from DPI settings to synchronizing RGB lighting effects. Furthermore, it incorporates Nvidia Reflex, providing valuable insight into mouse responsiveness for those seeking to optimize their gameplay further.
In terms of build quality, the Impact III’s sturdy design, ROG Paracord cable, and PTFE mouse feet contribute to both its longevity and a smooth, swift movement across surfaces. Its lightweight design and improved ergonomics also add to the user’s comfort during extended gaming sessions.
When compared to its predecessor, the Impact II, and other competing products on the market, such as the Logitech G Pro, Razer Viper, and Glorious Model O, the Impact III shines with its high-value proposition. Despite lacking certain features like wireless capabilities or a honeycomb shell design, it delivers a well-rounded, reliable, and satisfying gaming experience.
Final Verdict
Overall, the Asus ROG Strix Impact III Gaming Mouse provides excellent value for its price. It embodies a successful balance between top-tier performance, customization, and affordability, making it a standout choice for anyone seeking a cost-effective, high-quality gaming mouse.
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