Logitech MX Master 4 Review: The Ultimate Productivity Mouse
The Logitech MX Master 4 stands as a pinnacle in the world of productivity mice, blending comfort, innovation, and durability into a sleek package. This latest iteration updates a legendary line with smoother materials, a repair-friendly design, and novel haptic feedback, setting a new standard for professional use.
Ergonomic Excellence and Design
Retaining the ergonomic shape that has made previous models so popular, the MX Master 4 provides exceptional grip and palm support. With eight buttons strategically placed for easy access, it ensures no stretching is required during long office hours. However, it remains exclusively designed for right-handed users, which may limit its appeal for lefties.
The mouse feels high-quality and satisfying to use, with updated materials that are harder wearing and easier to clean, addressing common user complaints about grime buildup. Button clicks are strong yet virtually silent, making it ideal for shared workspaces.
Innovative Features and Haptic Feedback
A standout feature is the new haptic button, which invokes Logitech's actions ring. This circle of app-aware actions around your cursor allows quick access to tools without reaching for menus or keyboard shortcuts. The haptic feedback mimics modern laptop trackpads or phone vibrations, providing tactile responses when depressed or when mousing over on-screen buttons.
The haptics extend beyond button presses, offering feedback for actions like moving between displays, adjusting sliders, or snapping to grids in supported apps. However, this functionality relies on plugins from the Logi Marketplace, which currently has limited availability, primarily supporting Adobe's creative suite and Zoom.
Performance and Customisation
The best-in-class MagSpeed scroll wheel uses magnets for silent ratcheting or free-spinning modes, perfect for navigating documents or web pages. The thumb scroll wheel and gesture button enhance productivity in photography and design applications.
Connectivity options include Bluetooth 5.1 and the Logi Bolt USB-C dongle, with the ability to remember three devices simultaneously. The mouse works on various surfaces, including glass, and boasts a battery life of up to 70 days, charging via USB-C.
Basic functions operate without additional software, but advanced features like the actions ring and smart actions require the free Logi Options+ app. This software offers extensive customisation but has been known to consume resources and occasionally fail with other Logitech devices.
Sustainability and Repairability
In a significant move, the MX Master 4 is designed for disassembly with exposed screws, allowing users to replace the battery at home using provided instructions. Made from recycled plastic and cobalt, it promotes sustainability and longevity, potentially making it the last mouse you ever need.
Pricing and Verdict
Priced at £119.99, the MX Master 4 sits in the premium market, competing with high-end gaming mice and creative peripherals. While expensive, its comfort, innovative haptics, and repairable design justify the cost for serious professionals.
Pros: Super comfortable, excellent button placement, quiet operation, innovative haptics, extensive customisation, productivity tools like the actions ring.
Cons: High price, limited plugin support for haptics, Logi Options+ can be resource-intensive, right-handed only.
Overall, the Logitech MX Master 4 is the best productivity mouse available, offering luxury feel and advanced features that enhance workflow efficiency.
