Logitech VX Revolution Mouse Review

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by Caleb Schmerge

Introduction

How often do you scroll in the average sitting at your computer?  Once an hour, once a minute, once every few seconds?  How much do you end up scrolling?  Does it ever get on your nerves?

Logitech VX Revolution Mouse (view large image)

Logitech did studies that show the average person switches active windows every 50 seconds, and that in an 8 hour day of computer use that average person would scroll 26 feet.  What if you could scroll all of that with a single flick of the scroll wheel?

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The Logitech VX Revolution is the notebook mouse that will answer your prayers.  Using Logitech's new MicroGear™ Precision Scroll Wheel, you can scroll at unbelievable speeds for up to seven seconds with a single flick of the scroll wheel.  But don't forget the other features, including forward/backward buttons, a zoom slider, a search button, application switch button, performance laser, and a comfortable, sculpted body.  Logitech has built what could be the nicest notebook mouse ever.

 

Features

Wheel

The revolutionary scroll wheel is one of the major selling points on Logitech's new mouse.  It sounds like a feature you might never use, but you would be surprised how helpful it is to have a nearly frictionless scroll wheel.  Aside from being more comfortable to use than any other mouse I have used, it has amazing precision.  When you roll the wheel slowly, it goes slowly, when you flick it as fast as you can, it scrolls as fast as it can.  It took a few hours to get used to, due to its high precision (if you’re not careful, it will scroll if you tilt the mouse), but once I figured it out, it made scrolling very easy and comfortable.

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Some people might not want to have a free scrolling mouse.  What about those times when you need to make sure you go click by click?  Logitech thought of that too.  On the bottom of the mouse there is a simple switch that allows you to go from free spinning to a click based wheel (also more comfortable than the average mouse).  Despite being very fond of the free spinning, I still find myself using the mouse in this mode every now and then as well.  This option makes the mouse the most versatile I have found.

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Zoom Button

Many skeptics might say that having a zoom switch on your mouse is overkill, but that’s just because they have never had it.  It may not be as necessary as the left mouse button, but it comes in handy quite often.  Zoom in to do your work without straining your eyes (very important for those that work long hours on their computer), and zoom out to make sure your document is formatted the way you want.  This feature offers potential, but if you still don't see the need, don't worry, everything about this mouse is fully customizable, so just switch the settings to what you need.

Search Button

The Internet has been one of the most helpful tools that humans have created.  It gives us a place to escape to, a place to do research, a place to do business, or whatever your heart desires.  The search button, located just below the scroll wheel, allows you to search your favorite search engine with the push of a button.  Set your favorite, whether it be Google or Yahoo (there are many more options available, too), highlight a word in any application, click the button, and the search results open in a new window.  Or, if you don't like that feature, make it do whatever you want, anything from a custom key selection, to opening a new program.

Forward / Back Buttons

If you have ever had or used a mouse with forward/back buttons, I don't need to say more.  This is one of the best features you can have for surfing the Internet, easily navigating documents, or finding your files on your computer.  You no longer have to move from where you are to find the back button, and slip and hit refresh instead.  The buttons are right there, and much quicker to access than anything on screen.  These are placed so that you can use your thumb to access them, without having to move your hand from its already comfortable position.

Laser Tracking

Let’s be honest, your mouse could have 1 million nice features, but if it can't track, it isn't worth anything.  This mouse blows this department out of the water.  I have owned multiple Logitech Mice, including the MX 1000, and no mouse can come close to the VX Revolution in the tracking department.  I have used this mouse on mouse pads, wood desks, paper, books, jeans, carpet, and many other surfaces.  It even scrolls on the side of a clear plastic container.  There are few mice that can do this without having noticeable skips and jumps.  This makes the VX Revolution a dream to use.  I originally bought it because I needed a better mouse for traveling, one that wouldn’t cause my wrist to cramp, and now I find that I use it quite often because of how well it works, much more than just traveling.

USB Wireless Key

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I would say that a USB key wireless receiver is the most unappealing part of using a wireless mouse.  For desktop users it isn't big deal, but for a laptop, having all sorts of USB keys that you are constantly removing, storing, and trying not to break is quite a hassle.  This key is better than most for several reasons.  First, it is stored in the mouse, with a button that releases it.  This will help solve those annoying storage problems.  Conveniently, when the key is stored, the mouse is also automatically turned off to prevent any unnecessary power drain.  The key is also a lot smaller than most USB keys.  It is about 1 1/4^th inches long, and only as wide as a USB port.  Now, this leaves only the question of damaging the key while in use.  I have found that this key is more durable than most flash drives or other USB keys that I have used.  While I have never tried this, Logitech will also sell you a second key if you break or lose yours, without requiring you to buy the whole mouse again.

Batteries

Another annoying part of most wireless devices is batteries.  This mouse isn't so bad in terms of batteries.  It uses a single AA battery, and the one battery can last for close to 6 months.  Logitech will even include your first battery for free.  This helps keep the mouse light, and is convenient for when you need new batteries, because you only need one.

Comfort

This mouse is one of the most comfortable computer mice you will ever use.  Many people complain that notebook mice are too small, but this one is just the right size to fit in your hand, and has a contoured shape.  The sides of the mouse have rubberized grips and the buttons are contoured to your fingers.  Logitech also used nice, over sized feet that allow the mouse to be smooth on virtually any surface.  The Logitech VX Revolution is great for notebook users who want a portable yet comfortable and functional mouse.

Pros

• Comfortable
• Lots of Features
• Great build/quality
• Stores USB Key

Cons

• Expensive
• USB Key

 

I like the idea of that highlight a word and then push a button to search the web on it, very cool.

 

Yea, that's pretty cool, though its same as ctrl+c and ctrl+v for the l;azy ones


Wish my v400 had that sort of scroll wheel, but the v400 is much cuter

 

why o why do mice need to be so expencive !!??

70 euro here in belgium

 

Its worth it, the mouse is freaking nice!

 

One minor feature you missed in the "Batteries" department...

When you first wake the VX, there's a battery meter on the mouse which glows... one, two, three or four bars, showing you the VX's battery level.

Never have to wonder when your battery is going to go dead!

 

I love mine. It's so good, I will soon replace my desk mouse (MX 1000 lazer) with another VX - I like the size, it's perfect, and I have large hands (I'm a Cabinetmaker).

Really like the zoom feature, the Compal HEL80 1680X1050 resolution is pretty hard on my 50+ year old eyes.

Battery lasts forever. My only concern is that I might loose the USB dongle someday - I'd hate to be out $100 bucks because of that....

Not currently playing any games, so I can't speak to gaming resolution on the mouse, but Photoshop and my CAD program are both happy with the mouse.

Highly recommended.

 

I use the MX version. I have a huge hand and it fits my hand perfectly. I use Photoshop a lot and it's very good for detailed work. It is very expensive but besides the keyboard, what "part" of the computer do you use most?...the mouse.

 

Humm the screen? You're usually using the screen even when not typing or scrolling or clicking... ok, just kidding. I am just annoyed that it uses RF instead of bluetooh, beats me why they won't follow a stablished standard... ok, I am just bitter this mouse will probably not work with a Macbook.

 

I have to admit, I would like a bluetooth version of this, but oh well, I'm using it now, and the thing is nice. Also, good catch shel, I forgot about the battery indicator. Just another nice feature Logitech added, too many to count.

 

There's truth to what you say, Wooky. The 3 most important things for any computer (desktop or notebook) are the monitor, keyboard and mouse... yet they're often the components people spend the least amount of money on. Stupid really, especially considering that if you buy something good, it'll last through your next 2-3 upgrades.

Fret not, the Logitech Control Centre works under OS X.

VX Revolution product page

My only complaint with the VX is that like many other mouses, it is designed for right handed use only. Unco lefties of the world unite!

 

It seems really big for a notebook mouse, almost as big as the standard MS optical mouse. I am working on a review of the MS notebook laser mouse, and it looks like its half the size of this. The features on this really are great, but for me, as long as its got a left and right click, plus a center scrolling wheel....

 

Nice review

I just want that 1 single AA last for 2-3 months and the mouse works on glass surface.

da best mouse out in the market!

 

I'm a big fan of this series by Logitech. They look good, and apparently function very well. I'm particularly fond of that search function.

I was wondering...does that zoom function work with any application? And how does it work? With the scroll wheel?

 

I dont know if this mouse is different, but on mine, it just expands a section of the screen. just makes the pixels bigger in that area, windowed and stuff. Its cumbersome at times, but it can be useful occasionally.

 

I just wish they would get round to making more bluetooth devices!

Also, if I get this mouse can I use its dongle for my Logitech Wireless Keyboard as well? Or would I have to have two dongles.

 

There is a separate switch on the side of the mouse for zooming. I haven't tried it in Firefox, but it office applications, it just goes in or out at your request. I will try that tomorrow, and let you know.

 

In Firefox, it zooms the whole screen - that's what I've used it for....

 

i like it but im not happy to shell out more than $50 for a notebook mouse

 

Shel- Thank you! I was wondering where the battery indicators was. I thought it was left off the unit. It stays on only after taking out the dongle. lol. yay.

 

Looks like the closest to perfect on the market.

I want one. Although the price is high, it often reflects in the quality and design put into the product. In other words, it's probably worth it.
I'm going to buy one soon.

 

I can assure you that its worthwhile. The mouse is built well. It works great. I bought it when it was $80, and I think it was worth that.

 

Get it at best buy for $59. Or take it to Compusa and price match. Thats how I bought it. Btw, free wheel is fun to play with, but I still use it with the click.
And range is lower than their old wireless mouse. Sometimes just being 2ft away(with obsticals) will cause it to miss a beat. The old unit could be 4-6feet away before issues.

 

After reading this review I thought I would look at this mouse when I went out today. I want to suggest people try and compare the VX with the MX for fit. I found the MX larger and it fit better in my hand.

With the VX it was as if I had to "pinch" my hand to grip the mouse. With the MX it was more as if my hand was resting on the mouse. I have RA that affects my hands so I might be a bit more sensitive to such size differences but none the less I did sense a significant difference. Thought I would add my impressions to the mix.

 

The VX is supposed to be a notebook mouse, which is why it is smaller. It is interesting to note that you find the difference to be enough to separate the two. I have the MX 1000, which is roughly the same size as the MX Revolution, and I don't mind the difference between it and the VX Revolution.

 

Caleb:

That makes sense why the VX felt smaller. I had not realized it was targeted as a notebook mouse.

But like I mentioned I might be more sensitive to the size/fit thing then the average person. It was just something I noticed and not a knock on the VX for sure. I am very intrigued but that ZOOM button. I think for the same reason as mentioned in the review. I notice my tired old eyes kinda like things bigger on the screen now and then and some sites out there just refuse to cooperate...and that ZOOM button on the VX is a nice fast way to change the size...I suspect if I had a mouse with the ability I would come to depend on it more and more.

BTW, while I neglected to mention it, I had been looking at the MX Revolution.

 

Bought one today! Woo Hoo! nice fit, exchanged the mx 1000 (after two weeks) it was too big and heavy. The mx1000 would stick to the table because of the weight & friction.

$79 CAD at London drugs for the VX Revolution, plus a $20 rebate from the store. Everything works well, each function is adjustable with the included software.
The wheel, which is the biggest feature of this mouse, is like a flywheel (weighs three nickles), and freewheels with a flick of the finger for up to 7 seconds (if wanted). The pages will keep fliping past (somewhat slowely) until you stop it. looks gorgeous. Has a whole different feel to the action, I like it already.

 

I just got one of these and even with my oversized paws I'm in love! Paying 59.99 after mail in rebate. Very cool! Replaced an MX700 I've had since those were brand new.. Logitech has always been good to me!

 

Has anyone used this mouse for gaming? I tried the mx1000, but I found that it wasn't good at all for CS:source, so I returned it. If anyone could say if this mouse worked well in FPS games and the like, I might get it.

 

There are mice on the market that are specificly designed and marketed for gamers, perhaps you should look at those if that's your priority. There is a "game settings" file, but they seem like presets that are available anyways, like pointer speed for example.
I don't think the VX model is a gaming mouse, however the larger desktop model has two wheels on it, so that might be a better choice.

 

I just spend the last few hours playing BF2142 with this mouse... my scores have doubled! Oh wait... hehe... No, no problem playing.. but then again, I've played pretty much every style game just fine with mice/trackballs/touchpads... left or right handed... My last mouse that I used for a couple years was an MX700...

 

I understand, however as far as I've been able to tell the only wireless "gaming" mouse is the G7, which I've owned and I dislike how it fits in my hand. I've also
tried out the VX and I absolutely love how it fits in my hand, so I will probably buy it as long as it's acceptable for gaming. I have to have a wireless mouse due to my situation, and as I said I dislike the only wireless gaming mouse I've found so I'll have to make due with a non-"gaming" mouse.

 

I honestly can't distinguish between a "made for gaming" mouse and a high quality logitech mouse other then they are usually meant for either left or right hand use, while most logitech are built with right handers in mind. I find the right handed contours to be much more "friendly" for my usage. Other then that, nothing else matters to me as long as its smooth, and I can't remember the last not-smooth mouse/touchpad/trackball that I've own... (probably before ball-free mice) I think it also has to do alot with the surface your mouse is on and how you use your mouse... some people like to rest there wrist and just flick there hand back and forth, some people move the mouse like they are shifting gears in a truck..

 

For gaming mice, I find you need a fast wireless connection speed. When I first switched up to the 2.4 GHz G7, I was amazed at how much lag I'd been living with for years with the standard wireless mice.

I'm not sure how fast BT connects though, so that might be something to look into.

 

"pure performance, with ultra precise laser tracking and robust 2.4 GHz digital cordless technology" is what the VX says on the box. Does this make it a good gaming mouse?
Definately has a good feel to it, but the weighted wheel give it a total different action.

 

i would definately buy this mouse if they had a bluetooth, no dongle, version of it. Now i am thinking it over.
I might get this mouse, or i might get the Logitech V270 Cordless Optical Mouse for Bluetooth - Bright Silver found here:
http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000BDDBLG/ref=pd_kar_gw_1/002-8219575-0761615

What do you think i should get? i think i am leaning towards the similer, bluetooth mouse...

 

I can't say I agree with ever having "lag" on my own personal mice... I've used other peoples wireless mice in the past that were somewhat unresponsive, but none of my wireless logitech's have ever been sluggish. I think this has alot to do with the people's environment. I know that I used to always have to tell people to move phones (desk and cell both) away from their computers because of delay when I did pc repair because they would often have dropped devices and whatnot.

Anyways... I'd definatly say anyone interested that actually has money for this mouse to give it a shot.. whats the worst that will happen? You keep it for a week and take it back if you don't like it.. (Make sure you don't cut off UPC's until after you are sure you will keep it if you have rebates)

 

I'm sure it will be decent at the very least. Does anybody know what the highest dpi sensitivity level is on this mouse?

I didn't notice how much faster a gaming mouse is until I used one myself. There is definitely a difference there--perhaps "lag" is a poor word to use--likely more due to the dpi sensitivity that gaming mice provide? And all were used in the same environment in my case.

I think the VX Revolution is definitely worth a look. I would probably seriously consider one too, if I didn't already have the G7.

 

I just got the VX Revolution, and one thing I notice is that sometimes in IE, the scroll wheel scrolls very, very slowly. Like u have to scroll many times to go down a page. Does anyone have this problem too?

 

What's funny about using this mouse for a while is it's hard to go back to a regular scroll wheel. I use the VX on my notebook but I have a regular cordless mouse on my desktop and find myself giving the regular scroll wheel mouse a good spin on the wheel but it goes no where. LOL

 

I sometimes do the same when I'm using my MX 1000 instead of the revolution. Also, I played F.E.A.R. with the VX Revolution for a while yesterday, and I have to say I didn't notice any lag at all. I'm not a hardcore computer gamer, but I thought it did just fine.

 

Yes, I have the mouse settings to nearly the highest scroll speed. You get used to it after a while and just spin it and the pages fly past. I notice myself spinning often and slowing it down to precisly where i want. Much like a developed skill. I like the loose, floating feel to it, but realize some might not.

 

I just bought the VX revolution.. Does anyone think that the middle click is annoying on this mouse? The scroll wheel needs to be clicked real hard to middle click. And it tends to scroll a little while clicking. I'm a heavy middle click user and it's very uncomfortable atleast now.. I'll have to see if I will get used to it.. All the other features are nice.. I love the smooth scroll and the overall handling.

 

y do u need to use the middle click?

 

1. I'm a java programmer and use middle click in the IDE to open the clicked item in a new editor and life is miserable without this...
2. Clicking a link in firefox to open in new tab
3. Close an open tab in firefox
4. A few other minor usages...

Some of these can be done with ctrl - click, but i'm so used to middle-click that I can't go back to ctrl - click

 

Just set the search button to be the middle click, and the middle click to be the search button. Then you have a nice, easy to use button.

 

I tried to assign the middle click to search button as well as the left scroll button. The software doesn't let me do either of them. Did anyone try assigning middle click to these ??

 

I hear that many features don't work on Macs.

More importantly, how well does this work on Linux, or specifically Ubuntu? Anyone?

 

Good to hear!

 

Nice, I saw one on sale for 29.99CND after mail in rebate. Going to order one
For those who interested http://www.ncix.com/promo/promosale.php?webid=spring2007