THE QUICK EVALUATION
The LX6 offers the convenience of cordless mouse operation to any computer (desktop OR even a laptop) that can spare a USB port. It performs flawlessly on any solid surface I've tested it so far. Size is a little larger than what I would consider a 'regular' size mouse but it's ergonomically shaped to fit the human hand - both me and my 12 yr. old kid felt comfortable using it.
Other notable features include: quick and easy plug-and-play setup (no disk), up to 8 months claimed battery life (could not verify that because we've only had it for a couple of weeks), extended features and customization can be achieved by downloading and installing software off Logitech's Web site.
If what you need is a cordless mouse for your dektop, it can't get much better than this. If you need a mouse for your laptop and you don't mind sacrificing this unit's precision, the Nano line is probably the better option because of the large, USB-plugged receiver the mouse needs to operate.
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THE EXTENDED EVALUATION
Contents:
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- the mouse itself
- large (about 2" wide) corded receiver that plugs into a USB port - a good thing if you're using the mouse with your desktop computer,
- PS2 to USB adapter that would allow you to plug the mouse into a dedicated mouse port
- 2 AA batteries
- glossy, multiple-languages setup/troubleshooting quick reference sheet
Mechanics/ergonomics:
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As I stated above, the mouse is a bit larger than 'normal' size. It feels good in my hands (I am 6'2") and it feels right in my 12 yr. old's hand as well. Form-wise, it's as perfect as it can be for a 2-button/wheeled mouse. It is well balanced and the rubberized sides allow for a good grip.
A VERY good thing is the mouse becoming operational shortly after the receiver is plugged in - no installation required for just basic functions.
Logitech claims that this mouse is 'high definition'. As one who owns a couple of Nano models (a Logitech and a Verbatim) I will confirm that the LX6 is much more precise and responsive with smooth and accurate control.
As in its Logitech Nano cousin, the wheel is clickable and, with software installed, will have it's right/left tilt interpreted as configured.
The batteries are relatively easy to insert and remove. Battery life expectation (2 AA's) is 8 months if the small 'on/off' button on the bottom of the mouse is used. Also on the bottom side, a small LED turns on to indicate that the mouse is on and connected. On the top, right behind the wheel, there is a battery life indicator light. Since I've only have the mouse for a couple of weeks, it's not clear what it will do when the battery is about to run out but I expect some blinking.
I tested the wireless capabilities with the mouse up to 20 feet away from the computer and the mouse operated as expected.
Customization:
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I STRONGLY recommend that all who purchased this mouse goes to the Logitech site (it's Logitech dot com slash download) and install the SetPoint software. SetPoint adds A LOT of functionality. By the way, anyone can download the software - no need to actually have a mouse - so, if you want to see what you can do with your mouse before actually buying it, do install SetPoint and see what's available. Briefly, these are the advantages of SetPoint running on your computer - again, I am using the mouse on a Vista machine and some features may be specific to this operating system.
- Swap the 2 buttons
- Tilting the scroll wheel right/left would do left/right scroll by default but it can be set to back/forward, previous/next, cruise up/down, even to specific keystroke assignments. Oh, and these can be done for 'all apps' or specific settings can be applied to an expandable list of specific applications - i posted an image showing the buttons setup first screen.
- Mouse movement can be customized for speed, acceleration, pointer trails and so on.
- A special 'gaming' setup is available and there is a 'game detection' option that can be activated - see the image I posted, showing the 'gaming' setup screen.
- Scrolling can be customized for acceleration on the vertical and horizontal AND for specific applications, if desired.
Conclusion:
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The LX6 is well-suited for a desktop a even a laptop if precision is what is needed. I am VERY happy with it and, in fact, I'm not the only one in our household who feels this way :) - it may end up with one of my kids, eventually. The positives for this mouse are:
- Trouble-free operation.
- Easy initial setup.
- Customizable through software and feature-rich.
- Well designed.
- 5 year limited warranty, so make sure you keep that receipt.
As far as 'concerns' - and they are not necessarily 'negatives':
- It should be understood that this is NOT a Bluetooth device. Not being a Bluetooth device makes the setup and moving from one computer to another a lot easier (no need for pairing) but the receiver WILL take over a USB port so one should be mindful of this.
- The USB receiver size makes it somewhat inconvenient for using it with laptops.
- The on/off button on the bottom of the mouse is an interesting solution but, I bet, I will not always remember to turn off my mouse after done with using it.
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Overall, this is a 5 star product IF used as intended, with a desktop. For laptop use, it should be a 4-star.Get more detail about
Logitech LX6 Cordless Optical Mouse.
