What if you could attach an analog joystick to a gaming mouse? Asus, maker of the new joystick-equipped ROG Chakram wireless gaming mouse ($159.99), hopes the concept will inspire you to think up and dream about an infinite array of new ways to play PC games. At the risk of bursting someone's bubble, the joystick reality isn't that joyous (or even appealing). The Chakram successfully slams 360-degree movement controls onto a mouse, only to reveal that it isn't a particularly useful design. Even if its signature feature falls flat, though, the Chakram is a comfortable, well-made wireless mouse for those who don't mind its premium price.Stick It Out: The Chakram's Thumb Joystick Before we get into the design merits and pitfalls of the analog stick, let's take a moment to recognize that the Chakram has all the hallmarks of a good all-around wireless gaming mouse. Measuring 1.9 by 5.2 by 3 inches and weighing in at 4.5 ounces, the Chakram has a tall stature that makes it a better fit ...
The Asus ROG Chakram is an outstanding wireless gaming mouse, but its ostensible "superpower"—a thumb joystick—proves underwhelming in practice.
Built-in analog stick works in mouse and gamepad modes; Good shape for larger hands; Long battery life; Qi wireless charging; 2.4GHz and Bluetooth connectivity; Supports new ROG Armoury Crate software
Analog stick feels like a gimmick; Expensive