There is no doubt that one of the best computer mice on the market is the Logitech MX3S. It’s a superbly well-built rodent that is unmatched but isn’t cheap with a price that could put some people off. So, what else is there that offers the same kind of features as the MX3S but at a more affordable price?
The ALOGIC Apex is a USB-C wireless mouse packed with features that will appeal to users of both Windows and macOS computers. Originating in Australia, ALOGIC is a brand that has carved out a reputation for itself by making some good docking stations and computer displays aimed mainly at Mac users.
The Apex mouse has a comfortable shape that molds into the palm of an adult hand and weighs just 93g. It’s not too small but neither is it too large. In other words, it’s the perfect size.
The mouse has seven buttons including two main buttons, a clickable scroll wheel with a knurled ring, a third central button, a horizontal scroll wheel and two thumb-operated buttons, which would normally be used for moving backwards and forwards in a web browser.
Like the MX3S, the ALOGIC Apex also has Windows and macOS software for customizing buttons and functions. You can select what each of the buttons do and set the mouse up to work just the way you like.
Lots of mice use replaceable alkaline batteries but the Apex has a built-in rechargeable battery that will function for up to 104 hours on a single charge. The actual length of time the battery lasts will vary on the kind of work you are doing. The Logitech MX3S has some very sophisticated power management features which means it can go work for a long time between charges so bear that in mind.
The Apex offers a choice of Bluetooth or 2.4GHz operation. There is no wired option although a USB cable is provided for charging the battery. There is a 2.4GHz dongle that stows away in the base of the mouse for when you need it. The advantage of using the dongle over Bluetooth is you get lower latency and improved response which might be helpful when gaming competitively. For most people, it won’t make a lot of difference.
You can pair the Apex with two Bluetooth hosts and switch between them by pressing a button on the base of the mouse. The Logitech MX3S offers switching between three Bluetooth devices but two is probably enough for most of us. The wireless option is good to have and no doubt gamers will appreciate that feature.
The tracking sensor of the Apex has a switchable resolution that can be set from 1,200 to 6,400 DPI that you can toggle through using the third button. The amount of resolution you need for the mouse will depend on what you are doing but it’s good to see the option there.
To get the most out of the Apex mouse, ALOGIC has developed software for Windows and macOS. It’s good to see the company doing this but the software has a little way to go to match the usability of Logi Options+. You can set up a few profiles for the mouse to work differently with various applications but you do need to switch profiles manually as the software won’t recognize which app you are running.
Finally, there is an LED strip light running around the heel of the mouse. This light can be set as static, breathing or off by using the Apex software. With the LED turned off, you should get more operating hours out of each charge but the light show is nice to see.
Verdict: The big plus with the ALOGIC Apex mouse is its price. ALOGIC has done a good job of getting the price down so that people who want a full-featured mouse like the MX3S can have a taste of what Logitech offers at roughly half the price. The Apex isn’t quite as well made or as fully featured as Logitech’s flagship rodent but it’s still an excellent mouse and offers good value for money.
Pricing & Availability: The ALOGIC Apex wireless mouse is available now from the ALOGI website and costs $53.99 / £53.99 / €62.99.
Tech Specs:
- Buttons: Left and Right click, 2 x clickable scroll wheels, DPI switch, Forward and Backward thumb buttons.
- Weight: 93g.
- Dimensions: 120 x 75 45mm.
- Compatibility: macOS, Windows, iOS, Android.
- Battery capacity: 700mAh 3.7V.
- Battery life: Approx 104 hours.
- Finish: Black or White.
- Warranty: Two years.