When you find something that works well, why fix what isn’t broken? That is probably what people were asking Logitech when they told us they were going to release a new version of their G502 gaming mouse this year. Well, change they did, but is it for the better? Let’s find out in our review of the Logitech G502 HERO Gaming Mouse.
Specifications
- Price: $79.99
- Sensor: HERO™
- Resolution: 100-16,000 DPI
- Max. acceleration: tested at > 40G
- Max. speed: tested at > 400 IPS
- Zero smoothing/acceleration/filtering
- USB data format: 16 bits/axis
- USB report rate: 1000 Hz (1 ms)
- Microprocessor: 32-bit ARM
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Durability
- Main buttons: 50-million clicks
- PTFE Feet: tested at > 250-km range
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Physical specifications:
- G502 Hero: 5.2in (H) x 2.95in (W) x 1.57in (D)
- Weight: G502 Hero: 4.30oz/121g (mouse only) – Optional 5x 3.6g weights and case
- Cable length: 7ft (2.10m) Braided
- LIGHTSYNC RGB: 1 zone
- Onboard Memory: 5 Profiles
In recent months, Logitech has been working hard to release new and refresh gaming mice that are more accurate than ever before. We previously reviewed the newest members of the Logitech family, the G Pro Wired and G Pro Wireless gaming mice. These mice were the first with the new HERO16K sensor, which is the most accurate sensor Logitech has made to date and, thanks to its power efficiency, may just be the best ever. With the success of the new sensor, Logitech took the next step in development and decided to upgrade an old classic, the G502 with this new optical technology. With over four million units sold it is clear to see why they decided it was time to update this mouse, I’m sure Logitech hopes, the new sensor drive current owners to run out and upgrade.
The HERO16K Sensor
The HERO16K Sensor is Logitech’s most impressive sensor to date. Their claim, borne out in our own testing (to the degree that we’re able to test), is that the HERO offers pixel perfect tracking across its CPI range without any kind of smoothing or compensation, ensuring you’re accurate to the pixel no matter where you’re playing at. Packing this new sensor also equips the G502 HERO with an ultra-fast frame rate processing speeds upwards of 400+ IPS through the 200 – 16,000 DPI Range. It also has zero acceleration, smoothing, or filtering (the two former made unnecessary).
When comparing this updated G502 to the Logitech G Wired or Wireless mouse it really stands up in the competitive testing I put it through.
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The Touch, the Feel of... Mouse Grips
Of the three Logitech mice I’ve reviewed for MMORPG, the G502 is probably the most comfortable. It’s slightly larger size fits in my hand perfectly. With its larger size and contours, it should make for a good fit for palm of claw-grip users.
It weighs a little bit more than the other two mice, coming in at 121g, but for me that’s fine. The extra weight helps to keep it rooted on my desk and harder to tip. I find the weight heavy enough already, but the weight can be customized to give it a little more heft. Five extra weights, coming in at 3.6g each, can be inserted into the bottom of the G502 in a special storage area. It’s a nice touch to really tailor how the mouse feels to your own taste.
The mouse feels super-comfortable to use. The inclusion of textured rubber grips on each side keep it locked in your hand to prevent drops and the mouse feet give it an easy glide. If there’s one common problem many gamers share with their mice, it’s the cord. It gets in the way, it drags, and is generally a nuisance. While the G502 HERO isn’t wireless, the braided cord is the smoothest I’ve used in a while, leaving little to no room for catching when in use.
Those Logitech Clicks
It might seem small, but use a variety of mice and you’ll see: there’s something special about the way Logitech mice click. It’s… deeper? More tactile? Filled with black magic to make other mice seem inferior? Either way, the Logitech G502 HERO has the magic. The left and right clicks feel great and are rated for an impressive 50 million clicks each.
The story doesn’t end there. The mouse comes with all the accouterments needed to satisfy even the toughest rodent enthusiast. Outfitted with eleven programmable buttons, you’ll be able to set up all the macros and shortcuts you’ll need with the Logitech G Hub software. G Hub is Logitech’s new software suite that allows you to quickly and easily record and edit macros or choose from one of the most extensive lists of windows shortcuts we’ve ever seen in an accessory application. You can also use these buttons to control your media, launch applications, and more. You can also quickly sync up the G502 HERO with any other Logitech devices you might have.
The mouse also supports five onboard profiles that can be cycled through with the push of a button. The left side the mouse features three built-in lights which display which mode you are in. You also have the almighty sniper button which lowers the DPI to the lowest setting in your current profile while you’re holding the button. This allows you to slowly move your mouse on targets to snipe or shoot them in games like PUBG and Call of Duty. It gives you a little bit more of a competitive edge and works well.
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LIGHTSYNC RGB (Because Who Doesn’t Love RGB?)
That one thing that makes little difference in a game, but everyone loves because, well, colors, is LIGHTSYNC RGB. Inside the software, you customize everything you want to see from the colors on your mouse. The lighting also has the power to be driven by games, audio, or even sections of your screen to give you an immersive experience and the ultimate in in-game feels.
Conclusion
Coming in at an amazingly affordable $79.99, even the most budget-conscious gamer should be tempted to throw down with the G502 HERO. The mouse gives you a great sense of control and stability, and it lets you take full control of your gaming experience. If you’re coming from a smaller mouse, it might take you an hour or so to get used to but once you do you will be in love. I have the Logitech PRO G Wireless and Wired mice as well and I have drifted to the heavier G502 for my gaming needs. The sensor built into the mouse is a game changer and has increased my accuracy while playing shooters. Logitech has taken one of their classic and best-selling mice and knocked it out of the park once again with the upgraded G502 HERO.
Pros
- Fits well in your hand
- Excellent control
- 11 programmable buttons
- LIGHTSYNC RGB Software
Cons
- A bit heavier for most people
- No wireless option
The product described in this article was provided by the manufacturer for the purpose of review.
