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The Logitech G502 is one of the most iconic gaming mice of all time, and Logitech is finally back with a full overhaul. The new and improved G502X is available in three variants, starting at $79.99 and flaring up to $159.99 for the top-of-the-line Plus edition. It features Logitech’s HERO 25K sensor technology for premium tracking and a range of enhancements to reduce weight, improve functionality and bring this classic mouse with the times. Is it worth the upgrade? We think so. Discover why in this review!

Specifications:

  • Current price:
    • G502X Plus: $159.99
    • G502X Speed ​​of Light: $139.99
    • G502X: $79.99
  • Most important features:
    • LIGHTFORCE Hybrid Switches
    • Hyper-fast scroll wheel
    • DPI Shift Button
    • Glides made of PTFE
    • HERO 25K sensor
    • Black and white colorways
    • Weight Reduced to 89 – 106 grams depending on model (less than 114 grams on G502 LIGHTSPEED)
  • LIGHTSPEED wireless technology
  • 5 built-in memory profiles with GHUB (2 memory profiles out of the box)
  • PTFE feet
  • 13 Programmable Controls
  • USB-C charging port
  • Follow
    • Sensor: HERO 25K
    • Resolution: 100 – 25,600 DPI
    • Maximum acceleration: > 40G2
    • Maximum speed: > 400 IPS
    • No smoothing/acceleration/filtering
  • Battery life: Constant movement 130 hours without lighting
  • Dimensions: 131.4 x 41.1 x 79.2mm (HxWxD)
  • Weight:
    • G502X Plus: 106g
    • G502X Speed ​​of Light: 102g
    • G502X: 89g

The Logitech G502X series is the latest in the company’s ultra-popular G502 series. It took surprisingly long. The last edition, the G502 Lightspeed, came out just over three years ago. Each version has been incredibly popular and it’s no surprise why: the G502 is one of the most comfortable mice on the market for users with claws and palms.

But after three years, the Lightspeed grew a bit long in the tooth. The gaming mouse market has changed dramatically since 2019, with mice now aiming for ultra-light weights. The lineup was ripe for an upgrade to remain competitive in today’s market.

Enter the G502X. This new line-up includes three different variants, each available in white or black. The standard G502X is wired and costs $79.99. The G502X Lightspeed uses Logitech’s fast wireless technology and costs $139.99. The G502X Plus is the same as the Lightspeed, but adds a smooth RGB light bar to the palm rest for an additional $20, bringing the price to $159.99.

All three models have the same shape and sensor technology, so they will perform identically in games. For performance, you can pick whichever feature set you want and be sure not to leave performance on the table by opting for wire or RGB lighting. However, the added wireless technology and RGB make the Lightspeed and Plus models heavier, with the standard G502X weighing 89 grams, the Lightspeed 102 grams and the Plus 106 grams. There’s no adjustable weight system this time around, so whatever you choose, you’ll find it noticeably lighter than the G502 HERO (which was 114 grams, adjustable to 130 grams).

While the shape and design are undeniably “G502” there are some major upgrades this time around, and it’s safe to say these are wholesale improvements. The biggest of these are easily new switches. While previous models all used mechanical switches under the left and right buttons, the G502X uses a unique Lightforce Hybrid Switch.

The Lightforce Hybrids are especially interesting because they combine optical responsiveness with mechanical clicks. Optical switches are inherently faster due to their lack of electrical contacts and offer improved durability over their lifetime (eliminating the chance of random double-clicking as the switch wears out). In a conversation with Logitech prior to this review, they shared that they were unhappy with their tactility and sound. To address this, the new switches add “galvanic contact parts” to the switching mechanism, so you can still experience a clear, satisfying click.

I’m not sure I agree that optical switches are less satisfying, but I agree that Logitech’s mice have long held the crown for satisfying clicks. It makes sense that continuing that trend would be a priority for them, and I’m happy to say they succeeded here. While there is slightly different feel and pitch of the switches compared to the G502 Lightspeed, they are very bright and pleasant to use.

It’s impossible to see the duration of the switch within the review window, but you can be reasonably confident that this new switch design will last a good, long time. While time will be the ultimate arbiter here, what we know about Logitech’s history with switch durability and the durability of optical switches in general inspires a lot of confidence.

Under the hood, the mouse has the same HERO 25K sensor that we saw on the previous model. It’s a great sensor and I have no complaints about its quality. Still, it would have been great to see some changes here. As it stands, it has a max DPI of 25,600, max acceleration of 40G, and a max speed of 400 IPS with no filtering or smoothing across the entire DPI range. In practical terms you can ask for very little more, but it feels strange not to see any improvements here over the 2019 model.

Returning to the physical features of the mouse, we have some clear improvements. The design of the mouse is immediately familiar, but some refinement has been made here. The reduced weight was much needed. While I think the race to the bottom in mouse weights is a bit silly, the G502 Lightspeed’s weight of 114 grams and larger size made it feel almost like a brick compared to my Razer Viper. The Plus’s 106 grams and the Lightspeed’s 102 grams are modest improvements, but it’s the standard G502X’s 89 grams that is really impressive. It’s a shame the taller models weren’t a bit slimmer, but the wired version is a definite leap forward for the G502 line.

With this model we also see the return of Logitech’s Hyper Fast scroll wheel. Unlike most middle mouse wheels, the G502X lowers its scroll wheel. With the push of a button, you can switch from normal motion to a free spin that scrolls through web pages and spreadsheets with incredible speed. This year’s version has been reduced in weight for even better glide. It’s a PC gamer’s fidget spinner and is glorious. Once you get used to it, you’ll wish every mouse had one, and that’s no exaggeration.

There are plenty of inputs to assign controls to. You have your standard left and right buttons, a DPI switch, a tilt and click scroll wheel, two buttons on the left mouse and three buttons on the left side of the mouse. These can be easily reassigned to different inputs using Logitech’s G Hub software, which also allows you to associate them with Windows shortcuts, program launches, and macros. The software also allows you to create profiles that launch with individual games. Five profiles can be stored in the mouse’s built-in memory, so you can take them with you wherever you go.

Another new change with this model is the ability to customize the DPI Shift button (formerly known as the Sniper button). The knob is held in place by a magnet and can be reversed for easier reach or removed and replaced using a blocker included in the box. If you find yourself using this button infrequently, the blocker will make sure you don’t hit it by accident and match the rest of the thumb grip perfectly.

The improvements are not over yet. Battery life has also taken a hit. These new models have a battery life of up to 130 hours. RGB makes a big difference here, cutting off nearly 100 hours, but it’s important to note that that’s 130 hours constant movement. If you only use RGB when the mouse isn’t in use, or reduce brightness, it can easily take weeks between charges or not at all if you’re using Logitech’s PowerPlay system. It is also possible to connect multiple devices to one dongle, so that you only need one wireless receiver for multiple Logitech G wireless peripherals.

Gaming impressions and final thoughts

As an unabashed fan of the G502 Lightspeed, I was delighted to learn that Logitech has a new model in the works, and I’m happy to say it’s better than ever. The new design is as comfortable as ever and I didn’t experience any downtime or learning curve compared to the previous version.

The new switches are excellent and are incredibly responsive. Working in tandem with the sensor, the G502X provides 1-on-1, pixel-perfect tracking. I was unable to make it run or lose the target even when I tried. Logitech has done a great job improving the system without breaking anything that made it so good in the first place.

However, I am concerned about the combination of mechanical and optical parts. While optical switches are inherently more durable due to their lack of mechanical contacts, the Lightforce design adds those back for the sake of tactility. Will they be more susceptible to interference than competing optical mouse switches? I’d be happy to say no (the G502 has a great track record of durability with fully mechanical switches), but it seems likely that the clicker will wear out before the actual switch is used.

But then this seems more of a review concern than a practical one. If those click mechanisms last for years into the future, I still wouldn’t have any second thoughts about recommending this mouse. And so I don’t have any major concerns here either, just something to keep in mind.

The biggest question is one of value. The G502 Speed ​​of Light is currently $119.99 and remains a great mouse. The sensor is identical between it and the G502X Lightspeed, but you get new switches and a better battery for another $20. I think that’s worth it, but you could easily save $20 here and take advantage of the new lower price. on the older model and not see a big difference.

The G502X is an excellent gaming mouse. It offers excellent responsiveness, programmability and ergonomics. If you’ve been a fan of the G502 series and have been waiting for Logitech to bring it up with the times, then the wait is over and these are safe mice to invest in.

The product described in this article is provided by the manufacturer for evaluation purposes. Some articles may contain affiliate links and purchases made through these will result in a small commission to the site. Commissions are not directed to the author or in any way relate to compensation.