Logitech G309 Lightspeed Wireless Gaming Mouse
In July, Logitech, the renowned Swiss peripherals company, unveiled its latest gaming mouse, the G309 Lightspeed Wireless Gaming Mouse, globally. Following its worldwide launch, the G309 made its debut in India with a maximum retail price of ₹8,995. This mouse is designed to cater to the premium segment of the market, boasting features like dual-wireless connectivity, the advanced Hero 25K sensor, and a lightweight design. However, what truly sets the G309 apart is its exceptional battery life.
Key Specifications
- Switches: Lightforce optical-mechanical switches
- Sensor: Hero 25K
- Resolution: 100 to 25,600 DPI
- Connectivity: Bluetooth and 2.4GHz wireless
- Colors: Available in White and Black
- Weight: 86 grams (68 grams without battery)
- Battery Backup: Up to 300 hours on 2.4GHz, 600 hours on Bluetooth using a single AA alkaline battery
Editor’s Note
Logitech India provided a review unit of the G309 to IGN India for a limited time, allowing for an in-depth evaluation of the mouse over two months.
Design and Comfort
The Logitech G309 features a sleek and minimalistic design that diverges from the typical aggressive “gamer” aesthetics. Available in both Black and White, the mouse sports a textured matte finish that feels premium to the touch. The design is carefully crafted with curves and button placements that aim to appeal not only to gamers but also to non-gamers seeking a versatile mouse.
Ergonomics
The G309 is primarily designed for right-handed users, featuring two side buttons conveniently placed for thumb access. While the mouse fits comfortably in my hand, those with larger hands might find it slightly less accommodating. Despite this, I did not experience any discomfort during prolonged usage. Logitech has struck a decent balance between aesthetics and ergonomics, although more ergonomic options are available in their lineup.
Performance Overview
Weight and Sensitivity
Weighing in at 86 grams with an AA battery, the G309 is relatively lightweight for a gaming mouse. When used with the Logitech PowerPlay Wireless Charging System, the weight drops to a mere 68 grams, enhancing agility during gameplay. This feature, however, is contingent on the availability of the charging system, which is currently not available in India.
Equipped with the Hero 25K optical sensor, the G309 provides a maximum DPI of 25,600. This high sensitivity makes it ideal for competitive gaming, where precise tracking is crucial.
Button and Scroll Wheel Functionality
The left and right mouse buttons on the G309 are clicky and responsive, providing satisfying feedback during rapid-fire gaming sessions. The DPI switch and side buttons are also effective, though the scroll wheel could use some improvement in terms of tactile feedback. It doesn’t offer the same satisfying click as the primary buttons, which might be a minor inconvenience for some users.
One notable limitation is the number of side buttons; the G309 features only two. This may not be sufficient for gamers who require more input options for genres like MOBAs or MMOs, where additional functionality can enhance gameplay.
Connectivity and Compatibility
The G309 offers dual connectivity options—Bluetooth and a 2.4GHz wireless connection. Users can easily switch between the two, with the 2.4GHz wireless receiver providing a straightforward plug-and-play setup. While Bluetooth connectivity works adequately, it does come with slightly higher latency, which may not appeal to competitive gamers who prioritize performance.
Polling Rate
The G309 supports a polling rate of 1,000 Hz through the 2.4GHz connection, which is standard for most gaming mice. However, it could be argued that a higher polling rate would have been more fitting for a premium product. Although most users may not notice the difference, it’s a point worth considering for serious gamers.
Software and Customization
Logitech’s G Hub software is essential for customizing the G309 to suit individual preferences. While the mouse lacks flashy RGB lighting, the software allows users to adjust DPI settings, configure button assignments, and create profiles tailored to specific applications or games. The G Hub is user-friendly and operates smoothly, though it does have frequent update prompts, which can be somewhat annoying.
Battery Life
One of the standout features of the Logitech G309 is its impressive battery life. According to Logitech, users can expect up to 300 hours of gameplay on a single AA alkaline battery while using the 2.4GHz connection, and up to 600 hours when connected via Bluetooth. This exceptional battery life minimizes the need for frequent replacements, making it ideal for extended gaming sessions.
Value for Money
At a price point of ₹8,995, the G309 is positioned in the premium category, and while it delivers solid performance and design, its value may be diminished by the unavailability of the Logitech PowerPlay Wireless Charging system in India. This compatibility, heavily marketed as a key feature, is not accessible locally, which could deter potential buyers.
It’s also worth noting that the G309 occasionally sees price drops, sometimes falling to around ₹6,000 during sales. If you’re considering a purchase, keeping an eye on discounts can yield substantial savings.
Alternatives to Consider
While the G309 is a formidable gaming mouse, alternatives are worth exploring. For instance, the Razer Viper V3 HyperSpeed offers competitive features at a price of ₹6,499, weighs slightly less at 82 grams, and provides a maximum DPI of 30,000, making it an attractive option for gamers looking for high performance without breaking the bank.
Conclusion
The Logitech G309 Lightspeed Wireless Gaming Mouse stands out in a crowded market, thanks to its premium design, excellent battery life, and high-performance sensor. However, the limitations regarding button options and the unavailability of key accessories in India may influence buyer decisions.
If you’re already invested in Logitech’s ecosystem, the seamless connectivity provided by Lightspeed technology is a significant advantage. Overall, while the G309 is a strong contender in the wireless gaming mouse segment, potential buyers should consider their specific gaming needs and explore other options to ensure they make an informed decision.