At Gamescom 2025, ASUS ROG unveiled its inaugural Xbox-approved wireless gamepad, known as the ROG Raikiri II Xbox Wireless Controller. This device is designed to be compatible with both PCs and Xbox consoles.
This control device resembles the authentic Xbox Series X|S controller quite closely, but it features Tactile Micro-Switch (TMR) joysticks, boasts a 1000Hz polling rate for PC usage, offers customizable back buttons numbering four, dual-mode triggers, mechanical switches, and an Xbox button.
For individuals familiar with the ROG Raikiri controller or the ROG Ally gaming handheld PC, the four buttons circling the central Xbox button might seem familiar. These buttons serve as shortcuts to launchArmoury Crate, a side menu, and additional features.
Enhancing the controller’s style, you’ll find two regions illuminated with changeable color light (RGB) climbing along each textured, non-slip grip area.
As an enthusiastic user, I’m excited to share that ROG’s controller boasts a impressive battery life of up to 30 hours in 2.4Ghz wireless mode, provided the vibration and RGB lighting features are deactivated. But don’t worry, if you need those extra features, you can still enjoy wireless connectivity via Bluetooth or opt for a wired connection using USB-C!
What is TMR anyway?
If you’re well-versed with the controller’s capabilities, you might have noticed that this is a high-end product. One of the factors contributing to its higher price point is its use of TMR sensors in the gamepad.
What are TMR joysticks?
The abbreviation TMR refers to Tunneling Magneto-Resistance, a cutting-edge technology that employs magnetism and quantum tunneling to pick up on signals.
Is TMR better than Hall Effect joysticks?
In general, yes, TMR tends to be better than Hall Effect.
In simpler terms, compared to Hall Effect joysticks, TMR (Thin-Film Magnetoresistive) joysticks are known for their ability to detect finer movements with higher precision. Additionally, TMR technology consumes less power, which means that the device’s controller can operate for a longer duration without needing a battery change.
I’ll be surprised if we don’t see more Xbox certified accessories from ASUS ROG
Given their partnership, it’s not unexpected that an officially certified ASUS ROG gaming controller for Xbox is now being introduced. This announcement comes as ASUS ROG and Xbox have collaborated to unveil the Xbox Ally and Xbox Ally X gaming handheld PCs, set to launch on October 16, 2025.
Given these circumstances, it wouldn’t surprise me at all if Asus ROG rolls out additional Xbox-compatible PC gaming equipment and Xbox accessories within the next few months.
It’s important to point out that both the earlier ROG Raikiri and the ROG Raikiri Pro, which are available for purchase on Amazon for $99.99 and $149.99 respectively, carry an official Xbox license, but have not been formally certified.
So, how does being licensed differ from being certified?
As an analyst, I can say that being “Xbox licensed” signifies that a device adheres to specific design criteria established by Microsoft. This means that the accessory in question has earned the right to carry the official Xbox seal of approval.
To achieve Xbox certification, a product must undergo more stringent tests to ensure it adheres to tougher performance standards. The Asus Raikiri II Xbox Controller was developed through the Designed for Xbox (D4X) program, which is designed to provide an optimal experience with multiple accessories by meeting Microsoft’s high-quality requirements.
It is quite possible that, given ASUS ROG has been developing a controller using the D4X program, they may also introduce additional devices following a similar development path.
It appears you may have overlooked the specific details such as price and launch date regarding the Raikiri II Xbox Wireless Controller, since these particulars have yet to be disclosed.
It might be logical for the controller to debut in October, coinciding with the Xbox All Access and Xbox All Access X events. Given its premium features and direct Xbox button, I anticipate its price to start from around $150 or higher.
But we’ll have to wait and find out.
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2025-08-21 00:40