Keyboard

On a tactile level, the Chiclet keyboard remains unchanged from the previous generation. That is, expect the same shallow travel with adequate feedback for a satisfactory typing experience. The keys clatter and wiggle in place slightly more than on the SteelSeries keyboard of the MSI series, so we prefer the latter in terms of comfort if only slightly. Note that the column of Macro keys are larger now and easier to press compared to the X5S Plus.

The biggest change to the keyboard is its individually lit RGB keys that help distinguish the new Aorus lineup from others. Like the Razer Blade Stealth and some mechanical keyboards for gamers, users can choose from one of 16.7 million colors for each individual key. The end result is admittedly very cool, but the implementation is not perfect. First, larger keys such as CapsLock, Backspace, and Enter are not illuminated as evenly compared to the smaller QWERTY keys. Secondly, cycling through the five sets of Macro keys with the top left "G"button will cause the entire keyboard backlight to inexplicably blink each time.

Yet another minor annoyance is the responsiveness of the aforementioned "G" key. It's possible to push this key without the system registering an input, which is the last thing any gamer would want when in the heat of battle. Fortunately, the issue seems isolated to this key as the rest of the keyboard operates normally and reliably.

Touchpad

Aorus has heard the pleas from users and the press about the previously glossy and hard-to-use touchpad on the original X5. The new surface is not only larger (10.6 x 7. 8 cm) but also matte and completely smooth with a slightly soft finish not unlike on the X5S Plus. Cursor control and multi-touch gestures are much easier this time around with no major complaints. Meanwhile, the integrated mouse clicks still feel the same as on the outgoing X5S Plus. They could have benefited from firmer feedback, deeper travel, and a more solid auditory click.