The Logitech MX Master 4 is my new go-to mouse, thanks to this game-changing upgrade

 

I’ve been a devoted trackpad user since I first got my very own computer over 15 years ago. Since then I’ve tried dozens of mice, but none have truly been able to dethrone Apple’s Magic Trackpad series from its place in my workflow. That is, until now. Logitech’s new MX Master 4 is far more than just an incremental upgrade to the best computer mouse on the market: It marries the brand’s renowned ergonomic design with some new customizable features that can blend into any workflow.

What I liked about it

Same beloved ergonomic design as before

Back when our team of testers sought to find the best computer mouse on the market, the Logitech MX Master 3S was a clear winner. As editors who spend all day in front of a computer, they found it delivered on all the features they’d like to see from a peripheral alongside a comfortable ergonomic design. I’ve used that mouse myself, and I also see why the Master 3S has been resting on its throne the past few years.

But now, there’s the new MX Master 4, which has some incredibly big shoes to fill, in trying to follow up such a beloved product. However, after my time with the new version, it’s safe to say that Logitech has only improved the experience of their flagship mouse. And when it comes to the actual build, Logitech isn’t messing with perfection.

Rikka Altland/CNN Underscored

The MX Master 4 has the same ergonomic design that made the previous iteration such a hit, and a little extra that allows trackpad lovers like myself to enjoy the perks of the more comfortable build. But before I get to what’s new, it’s worth reviewing some of the functionalities that mean the MX Master 4 will join its predecessor on our list of the best computer accessories.

Logitech still delivers an 8,000 DPI sensor for smooth, accurate tracking on just about every surface. Wooden desktops, glass tables — hell, even your jeans — are not an issue for the MX Master 4. The 3S earned its unique name by delivering silent button clicks, and that remains true of its successor, as does the MagSpeed scroll wheel between the left and right mouse buttons. Multi-point pairing to connect to several computers is also back in full force, including the ability to switch between a Mac and PC — and even transfer files between devices — with ease.

Haptic Sense Panel button

I could keep praising Logitech for delivering another mouse that’s incredibly comfortable to use day in and out, but that’s just par for the course for the company. For something that’s actually new (and exclusive!) to the MX Master 4, Logitech has added a Haptic Sense Panel to the side of the mouse. Embedded into the side where your thumb would typically rest, the new control lives up to its name by pairing convenience with haptic feedback.

Pressing the button in the center of the grippy thumb rest opens Logitech’s new Action Ring overlay while vibrating. The button is a novel addition, but it isn’t the most notable of changes on its own. It’s how Haptic Sense Panel works in conjunction with the Action Ring that really shines, but before I can get to the software, I have to cover how Logitech achieves the satisfying experience from the hardware perspective.