Logitech MX300 Optical Mouse

Review by Michael Tran on 06.03.03
Cowritten / edited by Harry Lam

Improvements/Features:

Improvements:

The processing power used to process information received is relatively limited in an optical mouse. The specification that "measures" the most performance in a mouse is the image processing rate. The higher image processing rates are correlated with higher precision of the optical engine. This rate is measured in megapixels per second. The MX has a maximum rate of 4.7 megapixels per second, which is about 60% more than its competitors. The size of the recorded surface is increased by about 80%, allowing for higher resolution images. These higher resolution images allow for greater precision and better performance on monotone (similar color) surfaces. The number of information packets analyzed per second (frames per second) along with the increased processing rate (and processing power at that) make the MX literally as smooth and as fast as the movement of your hand. The primary problem of the first generation of optical mice was their limited resolution of 400 dpi (dots per inch) which caused the mice to skip during aggressive and rapid back and forth movements. The MX optical engine has a resolution of 800 dpi, which is ample when you take in consideration that the MX also improved their optical engine. Although some other mice out there on the market also have resolutions of 800 dpi, the MX series of mice have an advantage from their significantly better processing capabilities. The MX uses a new sensor which analyzes the fraction of inches moved in far greater efficiency than the sensors used by competing mice. The MX also use new LED's which consume less power. This is extremely relevant in cordless mice, allowing for maximum battery life while preserving the precision of a corded mouse. Logitech claims that their MX line of mice can accelerate up to 10G's (as in accelerations up to 10 times 9.81 meters per second squared) and speeds up to 40 inches per second. For obvious reasons, I personally was not able to validate this claim, but in my testing, the MX300 was flawless.

The MX300 has the least features of the MX series of mice, but the fundamental advantages of the MX optical module are present (which is the biggest improvement over other optical mice).

Similar designs

Features:

Looks- The colors are very flashy. The black compliments the sterling silver color. The black actually is not plastic, but rubber which gives a nice feel against your palm. It has a very snug grip to your palm, so that other factors such as sweat do not affect control of the mouse as much. The silver colored buttons are textured differently from the previous models, and in my testing (aka everyday use) it seemed that gunk and scum from hours of use do not get stuck on the surface as easily. The mouse definitely looks luxurious and its ascetical appeal is a definite plus.

Fourth New Button- There is also a forth button below the scroll wheel. This button's original function in application switcher, similar to the fabled "alt-tab."  Personally I did not like that function, and programmed it as the "back" button for websurfing.

Feel- I personally prefer the standard shaped mouse of the MX300 rather than the MX500 or MX700. I personally prefer the unihand design of the MX300, but that's just a matter of taste. Personally, I find the MX300 very comfortable and it adds style most desktops.

The buttons have a padded rubbery surface

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