Logitech G309 Lightspeed Mouse – TDP Review

As gaming technology advances, wireless mice have become increasingly popular among gamers for their convenience and sleek, cable-free design. Logitech, a renowned name in the gaming industry, has once again pushed the boundaries with its latest release, the Logitech G309 Lightspeed Wireless Gaming Mouse. Priced at an affordable $149.95 AUD, this mouse promises to deliver high-performance gaming capabilities without breaking the bank. With advanced features such as LIGHTSPEED and Bluetooth dual-wireless connectivity, LIGHTFORCE hybrid switches, and the HERO 25K sensor, the G309 Lightspeed aims to cater to gamers of all skill levels. In this review, we will delve into the design, performance, and value proposition of the Logitech G309 Lightspeed to determine if it truly lives up to its promise as the best affordable wireless gaming mouse on the market.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

1. Lightweight Design: At just 86 grams with an AA battery or 68 grams with the PowerPlay system, the G309 Lightspeed is exceptionally lightweight, reducing hand fatigue during extended gaming sessions.
2. Dual Wireless Connectivity: Offers both LIGHTSPEED wireless for ultra-low latency and Bluetooth for extended battery life, providing versatile connectivity options.
3. HERO 25K Sensor: Provides precise and accurate tracking with a wide DPI range (100 to 25,600), catering to various gaming needs.
4. Lightforce Hybrid Switches: Delivers crisp, responsive clicks with the reliability of optical-mechanical hybrid switches.
5. Customisation with G HUB: Extensive customisation options through Logitech’s G HUB software, including programmable buttons, DPI settings, and custom profiles.
6. Long Battery Life: Over 300 hours of gameplay on a single AA battery in LIGHTSPEED mode and over 600 hours in Bluetooth mode.
7. Comfortable Ergonomics: Ergonomic design suitable for various grip styles, ensuring comfort during long gaming sessions.
8. Durable Build Quality: Constructed with high-quality materials, offering durability and a professional appearance.

Cons:

1. Limited Programmable Buttons: With only six programmable buttons, it may feel limited for gamers who require more customisable options.
2. Additional Cost for PowerPlay: The PowerPlay wireless charging system, while convenient, is sold separately, increasing the overall cost.
3. No RGB Lighting: Lacks the customisable RGB lighting found in many other gaming mice, which might be a drawback for gamers who enjoy visual customisation.
4. Smaller Size: The compact size might not be suitable for gamers with larger hands, potentially affecting comfort and usability.

Design and Comfort

The Logitech G309 Lightspeed Wireless Gaming Mouse boasts an impressive lightweight design that caters to the needs of gamers seeking a comfortable and responsive device. Weighing just 86 grams with the included AA battery or an even lighter 68 grams when used with Logitech’s PowerPlay wireless charging system, the G309 Lightspeed is one of the most lightweight wireless gaming mice available.

The ergonomic shape of the G309 supports a variety of grip styles, including palm, claw, and fingertip grips. Its contoured design fits comfortably in the hand, reducing strain and fatigue during extended gaming sessions. The textured side grips provide additional control and stability, ensuring a secure hold even during intense gameplay.

In terms of build quality, the Logitech G309 Lightspeed is constructed with durable materials that can withstand the rigors of frequent use. The mouse features a matte finish that resists fingerprints and smudges, maintaining a clean and professional appearance even after prolonged use.

The mouse’s lightweight design is achieved through the use of high-quality materials and thoughtful engineering. By offering the option to use a single AA battery or the PowerPlay wireless charging system, Logitech provides gamers with the flexibility to choose the setup that best suits their needs and preferences.

Overall, the design and comfort of the Logitech G309 Lightspeed make it an excellent choice for gamers looking for a reliable and enjoyable wireless gaming experience. Whether you’re a casual player or a competitive esports enthusiast, the G309 Lightspeed offers the comfort and performance needed to elevate your gaming sessions.

Wireless Performance

One of the standout features of the Logitech G309 Lightspeed Wireless Gaming Mouse is its dual wireless connectivity options, allowing gamers to choose between LIGHTSPEED wireless and Bluetooth. This versatility ensures that users can enjoy both low-latency gaming performance and extended battery life, depending on their needs.

LIGHTSPEED Wireless

Logitech’s proprietary LIGHTSPEED wireless technology delivers a gaming-grade wireless connection with imperceptible lag and reliable performance. The G309 Lightspeed utilizes LIGHTSPEED to provide a 1ms report rate, ensuring that your mouse movements are registered instantly in-game.

In testing, the LIGHTSPEED wireless connection proved to be rock-solid, with no noticeable latency or interference, even during intense gaming sessions. The mouse maintained a stable connection at distances of up to 10 meters, making it suitable for use in a variety of gaming setups.

Bluetooth Connectivity

For those who prioritize extended battery life over the lowest possible latency, the G309 Lightspeed offers Bluetooth connectivity. While Bluetooth has a slightly higher latency compared to LIGHTSPEED, it still provides a smooth and responsive experience.

Switching to Bluetooth mode doubles the battery life to over 600 hours on a single AA battery, allowing gamers to enjoy prolonged gaming sessions without the need for frequent battery changes or charging.

Wireless Range and Interference

The Logitech G309 Lightspeed performed admirably in terms of wireless range and resistance to interference. During testing, the mouse maintained a stable connection even when placed behind obstacles, such as monitors and other electronic devices, without any noticeable impact on performance.

The wireless range of the G309 Lightspeed is sufficient for most gaming setups, with a tested range of up to 10 meters. This allows gamers to move freely around their desk or even across the room without losing connection or experiencing lag.

Overall, the wireless performance of the Logitech G309 Lightspeed is impressive, providing gamers with both low-latency responsiveness and the option for extended battery life. Whether using LIGHTSPEED for competitive gaming or Bluetooth for everyday use, the G309 Lightspeed ensures a reliable and enjoyable wireless experience.

Sensor and Tracking

The Logitech G309 Lightspeed Wireless Gaming Mouse is equipped with the company’s flagship HERO 25K sensor, renowned for its exceptional tracking performance and accuracy. This sensor is capable of tracking at up to 400 inches per second (IPS) and supports a sensitivity range of 100 to 25,600 dots per inch (DPI), providing gamers with precise control and a wide range of customization options.

HERO 25K Sensor

One of the key advantages of the HERO 25K sensor is its ability to track movements with zero acceleration, smoothing, or filtering. This ensures that every movement of the mouse is registered accurately, providing a direct and responsive feel essential for competitive gaming.

In extensive testing, the G309 Lightspeed demonstrated excellent tracking performance across various surfaces, including standard mouse pads, hard surfaces, and even glass. The sensor maintained consistent accuracy, with no noticeable jitter or stuttering, even during rapid movements.

Precision and Accuracy

The HERO 25K sensor’s precision and accuracy are particularly beneficial for gamers who require fine control for aiming and quick reflexes in fast-paced games. Whether you’re sniping in a first-person shooter or making precise movements in a strategy game, the G309 Lightspeed ensures that your actions are translated seamlessly on screen.

Performance on Different Surfaces

The sensor’s ability to perform well on different surfaces adds to the mouse’s versatility. Whether you’re gaming on a high-end mouse pad or an impromptu setup on a wooden desk, the G309 Lightspeed provides reliable tracking performance. This adaptability makes it a great choice for gamers who may not always have access to an ideal gaming surface.

Acceleration and Prediction Testing

The G309 Lightspeed performed admirably in acceleration and prediction testing, crucial for maintaining consistency in cursor movements. There was no noticeable acceleration, meaning the cursor moved at a consistent speed regardless of how fast the mouse was moved. Additionally, the sensor did not exhibit any prediction, ensuring that the cursor position matched the actual position of the mouse at all times.

Overall, the sensor and tracking capabilities of the Logitech G309 Lightspeed Wireless Gaming Mouse are top-notch, making it an excellent choice for gamers who demand precision and reliability. With the HERO 25K sensor, users can enjoy smooth, accurate tracking across a variety of surfaces, enhancing their overall gaming experience.

Buttons and Customization

The Logitech G309 Lightspeed Wireless Gaming Mouse features six programmable buttons, providing gamers with the flexibility to customize their setup to suit their preferences and playstyle. This level of customization is crucial for creating an optimal gaming experience, allowing quick access to essential commands and functions without disrupting gameplay.

Programmable Buttons

The G309 Lightspeed is equipped with six strategically placed buttons: the standard left and right click buttons, two side buttons, a clickable scroll wheel, and a DPI sensitivity switch. This button layout allows for easy access to frequently used commands and macros, enhancing the overall gaming efficiency.

Lightforce Hybrid Switches

Logitech has incorporated its proprietary Lightforce hybrid optical-mechanical switches into the G309 Lightspeed. These switches combine the best features of both optical and mechanical switches, offering crisp, precise actuation and satisfying tactile feedback. Designed for speed and reliability, the Lightforce switches ensure that every click is registered accurately and without delay.

Customization with G HUB Software

To further enhance the customization options, the G309 Lightspeed is fully compatible with Logitech’s G HUB software. This powerful software suite allows users to program the mouse’s buttons, adjust DPI settings, and create custom profiles for different games or tasks. The G HUB interface is intuitive and user-friendly, making it easy for gamers to fine-tune their settings and optimize performance.

One of the standout features of the G HUB software is its ability to create and save custom profiles. Gamers can assign specific functions or macros to each button, ensuring that their most frequently used commands are always at their fingertips. These profiles can be saved directly to the mouse’s onboard memory, allowing users to take their personalized settings with them to any computer.

DPI Customization

In addition to button customization, the G HUB software provides advanced options for adjusting DPI sensitivity. The G309 Lightspeed supports a wide range of DPI settings, from 100 to 25,600 DPI, allowing gamers to find the perfect balance between precision and speed for their preferred games and playstyles. Users can create multiple DPI levels and switch between them on the fly using the DPI switch, offering flexibility during different gaming scenarios.

Overall, the buttons and customization features of the Logitech G309 Lightspeed Wireless Gaming Mouse offer a high degree of flexibility and control, making it a versatile tool for gamers. With its programmable buttons, reliable Lightforce switches, and comprehensive customization options through G HUB, the G309 Lightspeed can be tailored to meet the unique needs of any gamer, enhancing their gaming experience and performance.

Battery Life and Charging

One of the standout features of the Logitech G309 Lightspeed Wireless Gaming Mouse is its impressive battery life, thanks to the power-efficient HERO 25K sensor and the versatility of its power options. Whether you prefer the convenience of replaceable batteries or the cutting-edge technology of wireless charging, the G309 Lightspeed has you covered.

AA Battery Life

When powered by a single AA battery, the G309 Lightspeed offers an astounding 300+ hours of continuous gameplay using the LIGHTSPEED wireless mode. This means gamers can enjoy extended gaming sessions without the need for frequent battery changes, providing a hassle-free experience.

For those who prioritise even longer battery life, the G309 Lightspeed offers Bluetooth connectivity, which doubles the battery life to over 600 hours on a single AA battery. While Bluetooth has a slightly higher latency compared to LIGHTSPEED, it still provides a smooth and responsive experience for casual gaming or everyday use.

PowerPlay Wireless Charging

For gamers who want to eliminate the need for battery changes altogether, the Logitech G309 Lightspeed is compatible with the company’s PowerPlay wireless charging system. When paired with the PowerPlay mousepad, the G309 can be charged continuously, providing unlimited power for virtually endless gaming sessions.

The PowerPlay system is convenient and easy to use. Simply place the G309 on the PowerPlay mousepad, and it will begin charging automatically. There’s no need to interrupt gameplay or worry about running out of battery mid-game.

Impact of Wireless Mode

The choice of wireless mode can significantly impact the G309 Lightspeed’s battery life. As mentioned earlier, Bluetooth mode offers extended battery life compared to LIGHTSPEED wireless. However, LIGHTSPEED provides a lower latency connection that is preferred for competitive gaming.

Gamers who prioritise the lowest possible latency may opt for LIGHTSPEED wireless and accept the slightly shorter battery life. Those who value extended battery life or use the mouse for casual gaming or everyday tasks may find Bluetooth mode to be a more suitable option.

Practicality and Flexibility

The flexibility offered by the G309 Lightspeed in terms of power options makes it an appealing choice for a wide range of users. Whether you prefer the simplicity and longevity of AA batteries or the modern convenience of wireless charging, the G309 Lightspeed adapts to your needs. This adaptability ensures that the mouse can meet the demands of both casual gamers and esports professionals alike.

Software and Features

The Logitech G309 Lightspeed Wireless Gaming Mouse is not just about hardware excellence; it also shines in the software and features department. The integration of Logitech’s G HUB software enhances the mouse’s functionality, providing gamers with extensive customization options and advanced features to tailor their gaming experience.

G HUB Overview

Logitech’s G HUB software is an intuitive and user-friendly platform that allows gamers to unlock the full potential of their G309 Lightspeed. The software enables users to customize button assignments, adjust DPI settings, create profiles for different games, and much more. The interface is clean and easy to navigate, making it accessible even for those new to gaming peripherals.

Custom Profiles and Onboard Memory

One of the standout features of G HUB is the ability to create and save custom profiles. Gamers can program specific functions or macros to each button, ensuring that their most frequently used commands are always at their fingertips. These profiles can be saved directly to the mouse’s onboard memory, allowing users to take their personalized settings with them wherever they go. This is particularly useful for gamers who frequently switch between different PCs or attend LAN parties and tournaments.

DPI Settings and Sensitivity

The G309 Lightspeed supports a wide range of DPI settings, from 100 to 25,600 DPI, thanks to the HERO 25K sensor. G HUB allows users to create multiple DPI levels and switch between them on the fly using the DPI button on the mouse. This flexibility ensures that gamers can fine-tune their sensitivity settings to match their gameplay style and the specific requirements of different games.

Advanced Button Customization

With six programmable buttons, the G309 Lightspeed offers extensive customization options. Through G HUB, users can assign complex macros, shortcut commands, and even media controls to any of the buttons. This level of customization is invaluable for creating efficient and responsive gaming setups, allowing players to execute complex commands with ease.

RGB Lighting and Effects

While the Logitech G309 Lightspeed does not feature RGB lighting, the G HUB software still offers a range of customization options for those who appreciate visual personalization. Users can choose from a variety of solid colors or create custom lighting effects such as breathing or color cycling. This allows the mouse to match the aesthetic of your gaming setup or reflect your personal style.

Community and Game Integrations

G HUB also provides access to a library of community-created profiles and lighting effects. Gamers can download these profiles to quickly set up their mouse for popular games or applications. Additionally, G HUB supports game integrations, allowing the mouse to respond dynamically to in-game events with custom lighting effects and button configurations.

Firmware Updates

The G HUB software also ensures that the G309 Lightspeed stays up to date with the latest firmware. Firmware updates can be easily downloaded and installed through the software, ensuring that the mouse always operates at peak performance and benefits from the latest enhancements and bug fixes.

Value and Pricing

The Logitech G309 Lightspeed Wireless Gaming Mouse offers an impressive array of features and performance at a price point that is highly competitive within the wireless gaming mouse market. Priced at $149.95 AUD, it stands out as an excellent value proposition for gamers seeking high-quality wireless performance without breaking the bank.

Competitive Pricing

When compared to other wireless gaming mice in its class, the G309 Lightspeed’s pricing is quite attractive. For instance, the Logitech G Pro X Superlight, a top-tier wireless gaming mouse, retails for around $200 AUD. While the G Pro X Superlight offers a slightly lighter weight and additional features, the G309 Lightspeed delivers similar high-performance capabilities at a more affordable price.

Similarly, the Razer Viper Ultimate, another popular wireless gaming mouse, is priced at approximately $250 AUD. Although the Viper Ultimate includes features such as Razer’s Focus+ sensor and a more extensive lighting system, the G309 Lightspeed offers a competitive alternative with its HERO 25K sensor and reliable dual-wireless connectivity.

Feature-Rich and Affordable

Despite its lower price, the G309 Lightspeed does not compromise on features. It includes advanced elements such as the LIGHTSPEED wireless technology for ultra-low latency performance, Bluetooth connectivity for extended battery life, and the HERO 25K sensor for precise tracking. These features make it a robust option for gamers who demand both performance and versatility.

Cost-Efficient Power Options

The G309 Lightspeed’s power efficiency further enhances its value. With an impressive 300+ hours of gameplay on a single AA battery in LIGHTSPEED mode and over 600 hours in Bluetooth mode, gamers can enjoy prolonged use without frequent battery changes. For those who prefer a more permanent solution, the mouse is compatible with Logitech’s PowerPlay wireless charging system, offering continuous power and eliminating the need for battery replacements.

Overall Value Proposition

The combination of competitive pricing, advanced features, and cost-efficient power options positions the Logitech G309 Lightspeed as a top contender in the wireless gaming mouse market. It provides gamers with a high-quality, feature-rich device at a price that is accessible to a wider audience. This balance of affordability and performance makes the G309 Lightspeed an excellent investment for both casual gamers and competitive esports enthusiasts.

Alternatives to Consider

While the Logitech G309 Lightspeed Wireless Gaming Mouse is a compelling choice for many gamers, it’s important to consider other options within the Logitech family that might better suit specific preferences or needs. Here are some notable alternatives to the G309 Lightspeed:

Logitech G Pro X Superlight

Price: Around $300 AUD

Features:

• Extremely lightweight at just 63 grams
• HERO 25K sensor
• Ambidextrous design
• Five programmable buttons
• LIGHTSPEED wireless technology

Pros:

• One of the lightest wireless gaming mice on the market
• Excellent sensor performance
• Comfortable for various grip styles

Cons:

• Higher price point
• Fewer programmable buttons compared to some competitors

The Logitech G Pro X Superlight is ideal for gamers who prioritise a feather-light design and are willing to invest in a premium product. Its ultra-lightweight build and top-tier sensor make it a favourite among professional esports players.

Logitech G703 Lightspeed

Price: Approximately $200 AUD

Features:

• HERO 25K sensor
• Ergonomic design
• Six programmable buttons
• LIGHTSPEED wireless technology
• Optional wireless charging with PowerPlay

Pros:

• Comfortable ergonomic design
• High precision and performance
• Wireless charging capability with PowerPlay

Cons:

• Heavier compared to some competitors at 95 grams
• Higher price point

The Logitech G703 Lightspeed is a great option for gamers looking for a comfortable and high-performing wireless mouse. Its ergonomic design and compatibility with the PowerPlay wireless charging system make it a solid choice for extended gaming sessions.

Logitech G502 Lightspeed

Price: Around $100 AUD

Features:

• HERO 25K sensor
• Eleven programmable buttons
• Adjustable weights
• LIGHTSPEED wireless technology
• RGB lighting

Pros:

• Highly customizable with adjustable weights and numerous programmable buttons
• Excellent sensor performance
• Ergonomic design suitable for various grip styles

Cons:

• Heavier than some other models at 114 grams
• Higher price point

The Logitech G502 Lightspeed is perfect for gamers who want a highly customizable mouse with advanced features. Its adjustable weights and numerous programmable buttons make it versatile for various gaming needs.

Logitech G305 Lightspeed

Price: Around $100 AUD

Features:

• HERO sensor
• Six programmable buttons
• LIGHTSPEED wireless technology
• Lightweight design at 99 grams with AA battery

Pros:

• Affordable price point
• High sensor performance
• Lightweight and compact design

Cons:

• No RGB lighting
• Uses a single AA battery instead of a rechargeable one

The Logitech G305 Lightspeed is an excellent budget-friendly option for gamers who want a reliable and high-performing wireless mouse without breaking the bank. Its lightweight design and solid performance make it a popular choice.

Conclusion

The Logitech G309 Lightspeed Wireless Gaming Mouse is a remarkable entry into the wireless gaming mouse market, offering a blend of performance, comfort, and affordability that is hard to beat. Priced at $149.95 AUD, it brings high-end features to a more accessible price point, making it a compelling option for gamers of all levels.

Key Strengths:

• Lightweight and Comfortable Design: Weighing just 86 grams with the included AA battery or an even lighter 68 grams with the PowerPlay wireless charging system, the G309 Lightspeed ensures a comfortable and strain-free gaming experience.
• Dual Wireless Connectivity: The combination of LIGHTSPEED wireless for ultra-low latency and Bluetooth for extended battery life provides versatility for different gaming needs.
• HERO 25K Sensor: The highly accurate HERO 25K sensor offers exceptional tracking performance with a wide range of DPI settings, ensuring precision in every move.
• Lightforce Hybrid Switches: These switches deliver crisp, reliable clicks, enhancing the overall responsiveness of the mouse.
• Customisation with G HUB: The G HUB software allows for extensive customisation of button assignments, DPI settings, and profiles, enabling gamers to tailor the mouse to their specific preferences.
• Excellent Battery Life: Offering over 300 hours of gameplay on a single AA battery in LIGHTSPEED mode and over 600 hours in Bluetooth mode, the G309 Lightspeed ensures long-lasting performance.

Considerations:

• Limited Programmable Buttons: With only six programmable buttons, some gamers might find the customisation options slightly limited compared to other high-end models.
• Additional Cost for PowerPlay: While the PowerPlay wireless charging system offers significant convenience, it is sold separately, adding to the overall cost.

Ideal For:

• Gamers looking for a high-performance wireless mouse at an affordable price
• Those who prioritise a lightweight, ergonomic design for extended gaming sessions
• Players who need the flexibility of both LIGHTSPEED wireless and Bluetooth connectivity
• Users who appreciate the extensive customisation options provided by Logitech’s G HUB software

Want more? Click here for Logitech G335 – TDP Review – Still Worth It in 2024? – TDP (techdriveplay.com)

Zachary Skinner

Zachary Skinner is the editor of TechDrivePlay.com, where tech, cars and adventure share the fast lane.
A former snowboarding pro and programmer, he brings both creative flair and technical know-how to his reviews. From high-performance cars to clever gadgets, he explores how innovation shapes the way we move, connect and live.