Logitech G9 Laser Mouse

Logitech knows mice – and not in the same way a cat knows mice, but rather in the way that shows it knows how to combine comfort and functionality into a brilliant peripheral device that performs exceptionally well.

The G9 is the latest release from Logitech and if you were attached to your G5, but it was getting a bit worn and tired, then the G9 may be precisely the tool you are looking for. Before getting into performance, here is a quick overview of the features:

• Resolution: 200–3200 dpi (user-selectable)

• Image processing: 6.4 megapixels/second

• Maximum acceleration: 20 G

• Maximum speed: 45–65 inches/second (depending on surface)

• USB data format: 16 bits/axis

• USB report rate: Up to 1000 reports/second

• Tuning weight: Up to 28 grams

• Mouse buttons (left/right): 8 million clicks

Ok, so what does all that mean to the average consumer? The G9 is USB connected, a plug-and-play device. You can get software for it that will enable you to really utilize the mouse to its fullest and if features onboard memory that can store up to five profiles. The mouse also comes with a weight tray so users can create the weighted feel that is right for them. But lest you think the comfort stops there, think again. The mouse also has a removable outer hand grip with a replacement grip that sports a slightly different texture and narrower, longer shape.

The mouse has a lighted display to show both dpi settings (which can be changed on the fly) as well as profile settings and even has the ability to record keyboard-and-mouse macros. Don’t like the way the middle mouse wheel button clicks? No worries; the G9 will allow those who do like it to select that option but for those who may not, you can have the mouse not recognize clicks but rather move freely.

Unlike the Razer Lachesis mouse, though, the G9 is set up for right-handed people with two of the mouse’s nine buttons on the side within easy reach of the right thumb. The Lachesis had buttons on both sides of the mouse in the same location, making that mouse ambidextrous.

Part of the joy, though, of the G9’s onboard memory is that players can load in profiles and then take the mouse with them and have their information available on any machine. You thought on-the-fly settings rocked, well Logitech has improved on that with on-the-go settings.

The construction of the mouse is solid, with Teflon pads for frictionless movement across most surfaces and a material cord that is of adequate length for most users. The mouse itself comes with three pre-loaded profiles: one for gaming, another for productivity and one for general usage. Setting up a profile, though, is a relatively easy task and the customization options are very good.

To test the mouse, several games were used (GameZone is, after all, a gaming site, though the mouse did perform very well in Photoshop) – EVE Online, EverQuest II and Exteel (an NCsoft arena-combat PvP affair currently in beta). Each of the games presents a different flair and the required dpi usage varies. In the rapid pace of Exteel, the dpi settings were boosted, but at 3200, it was easy to overshoot targeting. The 200 dpi setting was just a tad slow for EVE, especially when in a combat setting and trying to quickly lock several targets. EverQuest II provided one the of more even tests and the mouse performed remarkably.

The G9 is a definite upgrade from the stalwart and oft-used G5, and with the comfort features, this mouse will be the perfect fit for any right-handed user.

Pros:
Very comfortable, on-the-fly settings and on-the-go profiles, the mouse also records and stores macros.

Cons:
Side buttons make the mouse geared more for right-handed users.

Overall: 9.3
Logitech scores with a sensitive mouse that is fast and precise, and downright comfortable in the hands. The customization is huge with this mouse, from the changeable grips to the weights. The responsiveness is also excellent. The G9 is a clear step up from the G5, which is – or was – a terrific mouse on many levels.