Logitech has disappointingly exploited its loyal customer base by introducing an uninviting tenth-anniversary edition made of aluminum, lacking any discernible significance or value proposition. Since its release as the world’s top-selling gaming mouse, the product has attracted a massive global following; surprisingly, Logitech has opted against actively promoting the innovative aluminum design, instead choosing to host a public giveaway to generate buzz.
During the LogiPlay event, I was fortunate enough to lay hands on the latest mouse from Logitech, which debuted alongside the Logitech G Pro Superlight 2, G915 keyboard, and other innovative products. While Logitech’s latest offering may not make the cut for our list of top gaming mice, there is some solace for those seeking affordable options: this mouse is priced competitively.
The Logitech G502 X 10-year version, officially stamped, is a standard model of the G502 X Plus, but Logitech has leveraged the multi-paneled design to substitute three high-plastic components with precision-machined aluminum, thereby upgrading its overall build quality and durability. The left and right button plates, along with the plate that sits behind them, have inadvertently been reversed.
While the concept of creating a sleek G502 X model in principle held promise, the actual execution fell short due to the incorporation of laser-etched writing on one side, which, in my opinion, detracts from the overall design aesthetic. While the Logitech G emblem appears sufficient, the addition of the ‘x/502’ marking and the unusual decision to include the chemical symbol and atomic weight of aluminum overwhelm the design, rendering it unnecessarily cluttered and confusing.
At the Logiplay launch event, the aluminum had been gently warmed by the diverse fingers exploring its contours, resulting in a comfortable temperature that was only slightly cooler than body heat. The textured, anodized finish at the mouse’s end felt pleasant to touch, if not quite as tactilely pleasing as the soft-touch or matte coatings found on typical gaming mice; still, it didn’t prove overly slippery in practice. While the aluminum may initially outperform plastic finishes in terms of durability, there is no guarantee against corrosion over time, as evidenced by older G502 models with aluminum scroll wheels that suffered from premature degradation.
Without weighing scales or information from Logitech, it’s impossible to determine the exact weight of the aluminum G502 X. However, based on my experience with similar devices, I can tell you that it feels slightly heavier than its predecessor. While the G502 line hasn’t historically been known for its lightweight options, it appears to be taking a step in that direction with the introduction of an aluminum model.
While the Logitech G502 X mouse’s sensor performance is unremarkable, the use of aluminum for the button plates introduces an unusual texture to the left and right switch surfaces. One can subtly detect the weight and stiffness of the material. While I didn’t have enough time to fully form an opinion on the matter, I think adding extra weight to a mouse button is counterintuitive for gaming purposes.
The biggest puzzle surrounding this launch’s success lies in Logitech’s approach to addressing it. If you’re a loyal fan of the G502 and want to splurge on buying one from a second-hand seller on eBay or risk sharing your personal information by entering a lottery for one, consider yourself extremely fortunate. Logitech will distribute them via undisclosed channels, stating simply: “The gift may be awarded, earned, or gifted by Logitech G and its partners to group members worldwide.”
The vastness of the digital landscape hangs precariously in balance, with just 502 essential components waiting to vanish into thin air at any moment. Will Logitech continue to foster a competitive environment globally, allowing ordinary consumers the chance to participate and potentially win?
Initially, substitutes will have to settle for unremarkable white or black versions of the G502 X, with the Millennium Falcon edition serving as a temporary solace.
For a closer look at Logitech’s latest professional-grade gaming peripherals, check out the newly announced Astro A50 headset, which brings the innovative multi-device switching capability of its high-end counterpart, the Astro A50X, to a more affordable price point.
