ASUS ROG G22CH Review: Punching Above Its Weight Class?

The small-form-factor (SFF) gaming PC market is hotter than ever, with manufacturers scrambling to cram desktop-level performance into increasingly compact chassis. ASUS, no stranger to innovation, throws its hat into the ring with the ROG G22CH. Promising powerhouse performance in a sleek, space-saving design, the G22CH aims to be the ultimate gaming solution for those tight on space but unwilling to compromise on visual fidelity and responsiveness. But does it deliver on this ambitious promise?

The ROG G22CH makes a strong first impression. ASUS clearly prioritizes aesthetics; the chassis boasts sharp lines, customizable RGB lighting, and a sophisticated overall design that seamlessly blends into any modern setup. Build quality is exemplary. The materials feel premium, and the construction is robust, instilling confidence in its durability. The smaller size, while a key selling point, does raise concerns about thermals, which we’ll address shortly.

Under the hood, our review unit packed an Intel Core i9-13900K and an NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4070. This combination, paired with 32GB of DDR5 RAM, effortlessly handles demanding AAA titles at high settings. Games like Cyberpunk 2077 and Assassin’s Creed Valhalla ran smoothly, showcasing the raw power packed into this compact machine. Benchmarks confirmed these subjective impressions, placing the G22CH competitively with larger, more traditional gaming desktops.

However, the constraints of a small form factor inevitably lead to compromises. The primary concern is thermals. While ASUS has implemented a sophisticated cooling solution, prolonged gaming sessions inevitably result in CPU and GPU temperatures creeping upwards. This doesn’t lead to immediate performance throttling, but it’s certainly something to monitor, especially during warmer months or in rooms with poor ventilation. Fan noise also becomes noticeable under heavy load, breaking the immersion somewhat. The airflow is somewhat limited.

Expandability is another potential drawback. While ASUS allows for some degree of customization, the compact design restricts future upgrades. Swapping components or adding extra storage can be a fiddly process, requiring a level of technical expertise that may intimidate novice users. The power supply, while adequate for the current configuration, might become a limiting factor should you wish to upgrade to a more power-hungry GPU in the future.

Ultimately, the ASUS ROG G22CH is a compelling proposition for gamers who prioritize performance and aesthetics in a compact package. Its potent combination of high-end components delivers excellent gaming experiences. However, potential buyers should be aware of the thermal limitations and constrained expandability inherent to the SFF design. The price is also relatively high, placing it in competition with larger, more versatile gaming desktops.

Where to Buy:

Check it out on Amazon