As an Amazon Associate, I Earn from Qualifying Purchases. Read Disclaimer
Tired of a mouse that doesn’t quite click? Logitech’s MX Master series has long been the gold standard for productivity, but the battle is on! We’re diving deep into a head-to-head showdown, comparing the features, performance, and overall value of the MX Master 3s and the newer MX Master 4.
Both mice promise to elevate your workflow, offering a premium experience with advanced features. But which one truly delivers the best performance and user experience? We’ll dissect everything from the ergonomic design and button layout to the sensor capabilities and battery life to help you decide.
Whether you’re a seasoned professional or a casual user seeking an upgrade, this comparison will provide the insights you need. Get ready to explore the nuances of each mouse, and discover which Logitech MX Master will become your next productivity powerhouse!
Specs at a Glance
| Feature | MX Master 3s | MX Master 4 |
|---|---|---|
| Connectivity | Bluetooth/Logi Bolt | Bluetooth/Logi Bolt |
| Sensor Technology | Darkfield High Precision | Darkfield High Precision |
| DPI Range | 200 – 8,000 | 1000 – 8000 |
| Number of Buttons | 7 | 7 |
| Scroll Wheel | MagSpeed Electromagnetic | MagSpeed Electromagnetic |
| Horizontal Scroll | Yes | Yes |
| Multi-Device Support | Yes (up to 3 devices) | Yes (up to 3 devices) |
| Customization Software | Logi Options+ | Logi Options+ |
| Battery Life (max) | 70 days | 70 days |
| Charging | USB-C | USB-C |
| Silent Clicks | Yes | Yes |
| Weight | 141 g | 141 g |
Feature-by-Feature Breakdown
Sensor
- Mx Master 3s: Equipped with a 8,000 DPI optical sensor, the 3S offers excellent tracking on various surfaces, including glass. It excels in responsiveness and precision for both work and creative tasks. A potential downside is that the high DPI might be overkill for some users.
- 4: Boasts a more advanced 8,000 DPI optical sensor, offering improved tracking and responsiveness compared to the 3S. It also tracks on glass. The refined sensor provides a smoother and more accurate experience, especially beneficial for detailed work.
- Winner: 4
Clicking Sound
- Mx Master 3s: Features Quiet Click technology, significantly reducing the clicking noise. This is ideal for shared workspaces or environments where noise is a concern. The quieter clicks might feel less tactile for some users.
- 4: Also incorporates Quiet Click technology, offering the same noise reduction benefit. This makes the 4 a great choice for quiet environments.
- Winner: Tie
Scroll Wheel
- Mx Master 3s: Uses MagSpeed electromagnetic scrolling, providing both ratcheted and free-spinning modes. It offers smooth and fast scrolling, and the ability to switch between modes enhances versatility. Some users might find the automatic mode switching occasionally unpredictable.
- 4: Maintains the MagSpeed scroll wheel with similar functionality. It offers both modes for versatile scrolling.
- Winner: Tie
Side Buttons
- Mx Master 3s: Includes multiple customizable side buttons, allowing for personalized shortcuts and workflows. The button placement is generally ergonomic and easily accessible. The number of buttons may not be ideal for all users.
- 4: Offers a similar array of customizable side buttons. They are well-placed, and allow for easy customization.
- Winner: Tie
Battery Life
- Mx Master 3s: Provides a battery life of up to 70 days on a full charge. It offers quick charging via USB-C.
- 4: Similar battery life. The added features do not impact battery life, and they both include quick charging via USB-C.
- Winner: Tie
Connectivity
- Mx Master 3s: Supports Bluetooth and the Logi Bolt USB receiver for reliable and secure connections. It can connect to up to three devices and switch between them seamlessly.
- 4: Maintains the same connectivity options. It supports Bluetooth and Logi Bolt, and can connect to multiple devices.
- Winner: Tie
Ergonomics
- Mx Master 3s: Designed with a comfortable ergonomic shape, suitable for extended use. The contoured design helps reduce strain. The shape might not be optimal for users with smaller hands.
- 4: Also features an ergonomic design, with potential improvements to the shape and button placement for enhanced comfort.
- Winner: 4
Software & Customization
- Mx Master 3s: Utilizes Logitech Options software for extensive customization of buttons and settings. This allows users to tailor the mouse to their specific needs.
- 4: Also uses Logitech Options, offering the same level of customization.
- Winner: Tie
Winner by Category
| Category | Winner |
|---|---|
| Overall Performance | Tie |
| Features | MX Master 4 |
| Ergonomics | MX Master 4 |
| Value | MX Master 3s |
| Silent Clicks | MX Master 3s |
What They Have in Common
- Connectivity: Both mice offer dual connectivity options via Bluetooth and Logitech’s Bolt receiver, providing flexibility for different devices and setups.
- Sensor Technology: Both utilize Logitech’s Darkfield High Precision sensor, enabling them to track on virtually any surface, including glass.
- Scroll Wheel: They both feature Logitech’s MagSpeed electromagnetic scroll wheel, offering both fast scrolling and precise click-to-click scrolling modes.
- Multi-Device Support: Both mice can connect to up to three devices simultaneously, allowing for easy switching between computers with a single button press.
- Customization Software: Both mice are compatible with Logi Options+ software, which allows for extensive button customization and profile creation.
- Battery Life: Both offer up to 70 days of battery life on a full charge, minimizing the need for frequent charging.
MX Master 3S vs 4 Buying Guide
Ergonomics and Comfort
Both the MX Master 3S and the MX Master 4 prioritize comfort, but they approach it slightly differently. The 3S retains the familiar ergonomic shape of its predecessor, often praised for its excellent hand support and preventing wrist strain during long work sessions. The 4 refines this further with subtle adjustments, potentially offering a more tailored fit for some users, particularly those with smaller hands. The materials are also slightly upgraded on the 4, offering a more premium feel. Ultimately, the best choice depends on individual hand size and preference, though both are exceptionally comfortable.
Features and Functionality
The MX Master 4 boasts an array of enhanced features designed to improve productivity. It introduces a new “Gesture Button” for customizable actions, expanding on the functionality of the previous models. The SmartWheel has also been refined, offering even more precise scrolling. Both mice support multiple device pairing and easy switching, but the 4’s updated software allows for more granular customization options. The 3S remains a powerhouse, however, offering a core set of features that fulfill the needs of most users. Consider what features are important for your workflow.
Performance and Precision
In terms of performance, both mice deliver exceptional precision and responsiveness. The MX Master 3S features a 8000 DPI sensor, while the MX Master 4 goes a step further with a 8000 DPI sensor. Both mice track flawlessly on various surfaces, providing smooth and accurate cursor control. The main difference lies in the refinements made to the 4’s sensor technology, leading to potentially slightly improved tracking performance and reduced latency. For most users, the difference will be negligible, but the 4 may offer a slight advantage for demanding tasks like graphic design.
Battery Life and Charging
Both the MX Master 3S and the MX Master 4 offer impressive battery life, allowing for weeks of use on a single charge. The MX Master 4 continues to offer similar battery life to the 3S. Both mice utilize USB-C for charging, and offer quick-charging capabilities, providing hours of use with just a few minutes of charging. The convenience of USB-C and the long battery life make both mice a practical choice for on-the-go professionals. The MX Master 4 may have slightly optimized power management.
Software and Customization
Logi Options+ software is essential for customizing both the MX Master 3S and the MX Master 4. This software allows users to remap buttons, adjust cursor sensitivity, and create application-specific profiles. The MX Master 4 benefits from the latest version of Logi Options+, with a refined user interface and a greater degree of customization options. This includes the ability to customize the gesture button and the SmartWheel’s behavior. The 3S is still supported with Logi Options+, but with slightly fewer customization options. Consider the importance of advanced customization to your workflow.
Price and Value
The MX Master 4 usually comes with a slightly higher price tag compared to the MX Master 3S. This reflects the enhanced features and refinements introduced in the newer model. However, the MX Master 3S offers excellent value for its price, providing a premium experience at a more accessible cost. When deciding, consider your budget and the features that are most important to you. If the advanced features of the 4 are crucial to your workflow, the extra cost may be justified. Otherwise, the 3S offers exceptional value.
Who Should Buy What?
Buy MX Master 3s If…
- You prioritize a slightly more affordable option.
- You prefer a proven design that has been refined over time.
- You don’t need the extra features or refinements of the MX Master 4.
- You are looking for a mouse with a very quiet clicking experience.
Buy 4 If…
- You want the latest enhancements and features.
- You value the improved ergonomics and design refinements.
- You desire the more advanced features, such as the gesture button.
- You want a mouse that might offer a slightly more premium feel.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the main differences between the MX Master 3S and the MX Master 4?
The MX Master 4 introduces several upgrades over the 3S. These include a new gesture button, a refined SmartWheel, and a slightly improved sensor. It also features upgraded materials and more advanced customization options via Logi Options+. While both mice excel in their performance, the 4 offers a more refined and feature-rich experience. The 3S is still an excellent choice, however, offering incredible value.
Is the MX Master 4 worth the extra cost?
That depends on your needs. If you value advanced features, more customization options, and the latest technology, then the MX Master 4 is worth the extra cost. However, if you are looking for a reliable, high-performing mouse that offers excellent value and all the core features, the MX Master 3S is still a fantastic choice that will meet most users’ needs. Consider your budget and your workflow.
Does the MX Master 4 have better battery life than the 3S?
The battery life of both mice is exceptionally good, with both offering weeks of use on a single charge. The MX Master 4 has similar battery life to the 3S. Both mice charge via USB-C and offer fast charging capabilities. Real-world usage may vary depending on settings and how heavily the mouse is used, but battery life is not a significant differentiator between the two models.
Are the buttons on the MX Master 4 quieter than the 3S?
Both mice are known for their quiet clicking buttons. The MX Master 3S had a focus on quiet clicking, and the MX Master 4 continues this. Both models are designed to minimize noise, making them suitable for use in quiet environments like offices or libraries. The difference in noise level between the two is minimal, with both offering a quiet and satisfying click.
Can I use the MX Master 4 with my existing Logitech peripherals?
Yes, both the MX Master 3S and the MX Master 4 are compatible with Logitech’s unifying receiver and Bluetooth technology. This means that you can easily pair them with other Logitech devices, such as keyboards or other mice. The MX Master 4 is also compatible with the latest version of Logi Options+ software, which allows you to manage all of your Logitech devices from a single interface.
Which mouse is better for gaming?
Neither the MX Master 3S nor the MX Master 4 is specifically designed for gaming. While both offer excellent performance and precision, they are primarily designed for productivity tasks. For gaming, you would be better off choosing a dedicated gaming mouse that offers features like lower latency, faster response times, and a more ergonomic design optimized for gaming. Consider a gaming mouse if gaming is a primary use case.
What is the warranty on the MX Master 3S and the MX Master 4?
Both the MX Master 3S and the MX Master 4 typically come with a standard one-year limited hardware warranty from Logitech. This warranty covers defects in materials and workmanship. Be sure to register your product with Logitech to ensure proper warranty coverage. You can find more detailed information about the warranty on Logitech’s website or in the product packaging.
Final Verdict
Both the MX Master 3S and the MX Master 4 are excellent productivity mice, each offering a premium experience. The 4 refines the 3S with a few upgrades, including a new gesture button and enhanced customization. The 3S remains a top pick, however, offering exceptional value and a familiar, comfortable design. For users prioritizing advanced features, the 4 is the better choice. For those seeking value, the 3S is still a great option.
Winner: MX Master 3S