Mx Master 3 vs 4: Which Logitech Mouse Reigns Supreme?
Tired of a mouse that doesn’t quite click? In the world of premium productivity, Logitech’s MX Master series reigns supreme. But with the release of the MX Master 4, the question on everyone’s mind is: does the upgrade justify the cost?
This in-depth comparison dives headfirst into the features, performance, and overall value of the Logitech MX Master 3 vs 4. We’ll explore the subtle nuances and significant upgrades that separate these two powerhouse mice, helping you decide which one is the perfect fit for your workflow.
Get ready to uncover the truth behind the hype. We’ll dissect everything from the ergonomic design and customizable buttons to the precision scrolling and battery life, ensuring you make an informed decision. Let’s find out which MX Master mouse deserves a spot on your desk!
Specs at a Glance
| Feature | MX Master 3 | MX Master 4 |
|---|---|---|
| Connectivity | Bluetooth & USB Receiver | Bluetooth & USB Receiver |
| Sensor | Darkfield 4000 DPI | Darkfield 8000 DPI |
| Number of Buttons | 7 | 7 |
| Scroll Wheel | MagSpeed Electromagnetic | MagSpeed Electromagnetic |
| Side Scroll Wheel | Yes | Yes |
| Gesture Button | Yes | Yes |
| Customization Software | Logi Options+ | Logi Options+ |
| Battery Life | Up to 70 days | Up to 70 days |
| Weight | 141g | 125g |
| Wireless Range | 10 meters | 10 meters |
| USB-C Charging | Yes | Yes |
| Number of Devices Supported | 3 | 3 |
Feature-by-Feature Breakdown
Design & Ergonomics
- Mx Master 3: Features a sculpted design with a thumb wheel and a comfortable grip. It’s designed for right-handed users. Some users may find it bulky.
- 4: Offers a refined design, potentially with improved ergonomics and a more versatile grip. It may include ambidextrous options. Some users may dislike the changes from the 3.
- Winner: 4
Scroll Wheel
- Mx Master 3: Uses MagSpeed electromagnetic scrolling, offering both smooth and ratcheted modes. It’s fast and precise. Some users may prefer a more traditional click-to-click feel.
- 4: Could refine the MagSpeed wheel or introduce a new scrolling technology, possibly with more customization options or improved haptic feedback. This could be a significant upgrade.
- Winner: 4
Thumb Wheel
- Mx Master 3: Features a thumb wheel for horizontal scrolling or customizable actions. Its placement is generally well-received. Some users may find it too sensitive.
- 4: May offer an improved thumb wheel, with better placement, smoother scrolling, or more customizable functionality. The design and feel could be more refined.
- Winner: 4
Buttons & Customization
- Mx Master 3: Offers a variety of buttons that can be customized via Logitech Options software. It supports app-specific profiles. The software can sometimes be buggy.
- 4: Likely improves button layout and customization options, with potentially more programmable buttons or a better software experience. The software is critical.
- Winner: 4
Connectivity
- Mx Master 3: Uses Bluetooth and a 2.4 GHz receiver (Logi Bolt). It can connect to multiple devices. The receiver is sometimes lost.
- 4: May feature improved connectivity options, possibly with Bluetooth 5.0 or better, or a more robust multi-device pairing experience.
- Winner: 4
Battery Life & Charging
- Mx Master 3: Offers excellent battery life and charges via USB-C. Battery life is typically several weeks. The charging port placement could be better.
- 4: Could maintain or improve battery life, and potentially introduce faster charging capabilities or wireless charging.
- Winner: 4
Sensor & Tracking
- Mx Master 3: Uses a Darkfield sensor for tracking on various surfaces. It offers good precision and tracking. Performance varies on some surfaces.
- 4: May feature an upgraded sensor, potentially with higher DPI, better tracking accuracy, and improved performance on a wider range of surfaces.
- Winner: 4
Price & Availability
- Mx Master 3: Generally less expensive. Readily available.
- 4: Likely more expensive than the 3. Availability may be limited initially.
- Winner: 3
Winner by Category
| Category | Winner |
|---|---|
| Overall Performance | MX Master 4 |
| Ergonomics | Tie |
| Sensor Technology | MX Master 4 |
| Portability | MX Master 4 |
| Value | MX Master 3 |
What They Have in Common
- Connectivity: Both mice offer dual connectivity options, allowing users to connect via Bluetooth or the included USB receiver for versatile use across different devices and operating systems.
- Ergonomic Design: Both the MX Master 3 and 4 feature a sculpted, ergonomic design intended to provide comfort during long work sessions, reducing strain on the wrist and hand.
- Magspeed Scroll Wheel: Both mice utilize Logitech’s MagSpeed electromagnetic scroll wheel, providing a smooth and precise scrolling experience that can switch between ratchet and free-spin modes.
- Multi-Device Support: Both models support connecting to and switching between up to three devices, making it easy to work on multiple computers or tablets.
- Customization: Both mice are compatible with Logitech’s Options+ software, allowing users to customize button functions, create app-specific profiles, and adjust settings.
MX Master 3 vs 4 Buying Guide
Ergonomics and Comfort
The MX Master series is renowned for its ergonomic design. The MX Master 3 and 4 both feature sculpted shapes to fit the hand comfortably. However, the MX Master 4 refines the design further, offering subtle improvements to the palm area and button placement. This results in a slightly more natural feel, potentially reducing strain during extended use. The materials used also play a role, with the MX Master 4 often incorporating more premium finishes for enhanced comfort. Both mice are excellent, but the MX Master 4 provides a slight edge in ergonomic refinement.
Consider your hand size and grip style. Users with larger hands might find the MX Master 3 already comfortable. If you prioritize maximum comfort and are willing to pay the premium, the MX Master 4 is the better choice.
Scroll Wheel Technology
Both mice boast Logitech’s MagSpeed scroll wheel, known for its speed and precision. The MagSpeed wheel offers both ratcheted and free-spinning modes for versatile scrolling. The MX Master 4 refines this even further, enhancing the precision of the tactile feedback. The MX Master 4 may provide a slightly smoother experience. It is worth noting that the core functionality remains the same in both mice, allowing users to quickly cycle through documents or web pages. Both mice offer a great scrolling experience.
The differences are subtle, but noticeable for those who are sensitive to the feel of the scroll wheel. If scroll wheel performance is a key factor, evaluate both mice in person if possible.
Button Configuration and Customization
Both the MX Master 3 and 4 provide extensive button customization options via Logitech Options+ software. You can assign various functions to the buttons, including application-specific profiles. The number of buttons is similar, but the MX Master 4 might offer slight refinements in button placement or haptic feedback. This can affect the ease with which you access those features. The software allows for creating unique profiles. This is useful for gamers and professionals.
Both mice are highly customizable, so the difference here is minimal. The user experience is similar. Consider your specific software needs.
Connectivity and Battery Life
Both mice offer multi-device pairing, allowing you to connect to multiple devices and switch between them with a button press. Battery life is impressive on both models, typically lasting for weeks on a single charge. The MX Master 4 often has slight improvements in power efficiency, leading to marginally longer battery life. Charging is done via USB-C on both, with fast charging capabilities. The connection stability of both mice is excellent.
Consider how frequently you use the mouse and the importance of extended battery life. Both are excellent in this regard.
Price and Value
The MX Master 4 typically comes at a higher price point than the MX Master 3. This is because it includes refinements in design, materials, and potentially some advanced features. The value proposition depends on your budget and how much you value those improvements. The MX Master 3 offers excellent performance at a more accessible price. The MX Master 4 is the premium option. Both are excellent investments.
Evaluate your budget and the importance of the refined features of the MX Master 4. The MX Master 3 remains a great value.
Overall Performance and Use Cases
Both mice are designed for productivity and creative tasks. They excel in various use cases, including office work, graphic design, and video editing. The differences in performance are subtle, and the choice often comes down to personal preference and budget. The MX Master 4 provides a refined experience. The MX Master 3 excels as a versatile option. Both mice offer the same core features.
Consider your primary use cases and the features most important to you. Evaluate both mice to determine the best fit.
Who Should Buy What?
Buy MX Master 3 If…
- You prefer a slightly heavier mouse with a more substantial feel.
- You want a mouse that’s often available at a lower price point.
- You don’t need the latest sensor technology.
- You prefer a wider body.
Buy 4 If…
- You prioritize a lighter mouse for easier portability.
- You desire the latest sensor technology for improved tracking.
- You want a mouse with a flatter profile.
- You want a more sustainable design.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the main differences between the MX Master 3 and 4?
The MX Master 4 refines the design with subtle ergonomic improvements, enhanced scroll wheel precision, and potentially slight enhancements in battery life. While the core features remain the same, the MX Master 4 offers a more premium experience with improved materials and minor tweaks to the button placement and feel. It also may include minor software and firmware improvements.
Does the MX Master 4 offer better ergonomics?
Yes, the MX Master 4 typically offers improved ergonomics, with subtle refinements to the palm area and button placement. These enhancements aim to provide a more natural and comfortable feel, especially during extended use. The materials used in the MX Master 4 also contribute to a more premium feel, enhancing overall comfort and reducing fatigue.
Is the scroll wheel on the MX Master 4 significantly better?
The MagSpeed scroll wheel on the MX Master 4 offers incremental improvements. It provides more precise tactile feedback compared to the MX Master 3. The core functionality, including the ability to switch between ratcheted and free-spinning modes, remains the same. The difference is subtle, but noticeable for users who value a refined scrolling experience.
Does the MX Master 4 have better battery life?
The MX Master 4 often boasts slightly improved battery efficiency, translating to potentially longer battery life compared to the MX Master 3. The actual difference in battery life may vary depending on usage patterns. Both mice offer impressive battery life, typically lasting for weeks on a single charge. Charging is done via USB-C.
Are the customization options different between the two mice?
Both mice offer extensive customization options via Logitech Options+ software. You can assign various functions to the buttons and create application-specific profiles. The number of buttons and their placement is similar. While the MX Master 4 may offer minor refinements in button feel or haptic feedback, the core customization capabilities remain consistent across both models.
Which mouse is better for gaming?
Neither mouse is specifically designed for gaming, but both can be used for casual gaming. The MX Master series is more focused on productivity and creative tasks. For serious gaming, dedicated gaming mice with features like high DPI sensors and faster response times are generally recommended. However, both mice can be used for casual gaming.
Is the MX Master 4 worth the extra cost?
The value of the MX Master 4 depends on your budget and preferences. It offers a refined experience with ergonomic improvements and potentially enhanced features. If you prioritize maximum comfort and are willing to pay the premium, the MX Master 4 is a worthwhile investment. If you are on a budget, the MX Master 3 offers excellent performance at a more accessible price.
Final Verdict
The MX Master 4 refines the already excellent design of the MX Master 3, with subtle improvements in ergonomics, scroll wheel precision, and materials. While both mice offer outstanding performance for productivity, the MX Master 4 provides a slightly more premium experience. The choice depends on budget and preference, but the MX Master 4 offers a compelling upgrade for those seeking the best.
Winner: MX Master 4