Tale of the tape: Razer Basilisk V3 Pro vs Logitech G502 X PLUS

You know that it’s pretty much a back-and-forth when Razer and Logitech release mice that are pretty much on par within days of each other.

The Razer Basilisk V3 Pro and the Logitech G502 X PLUS are priced at $249, and their feature set isn’t too different as well. So, reviews notwithstanding, let’s just take a ‘first-impressions’ look and see which one stands out more.

Bling

The Basilisk here has a 13-Zone Chroma Lighting array, complete with full underglow (below the mouse), that runs the range of 16.8M colours and features multiple lighting effects. Also, there are over 200 games that support Chroma integration.

That underglow is really something else. | Image: Razer

The G502 X PLUS gets LIGHTSYNC RGB, an 8-LED lighting system that’s considerably more modest, but it is still customisable with effects that respond to events like startup, power-down, or plays.

Winner Razer, not that anyone will be surprised.

Scroll wheel

The Logitech scroll wheel on the MX3s is ‘goated’. Will it be the same here? | Image: Logitech

Both mice are equipped with a scroll wheel that supports free spin and tactile modes. Razer calls theirs the HyperScroll Tilt Wheel; Logitech, MagSpeed. Nuances in implementation aside, they’re effectively the same feature and at this juncture, it’s pretty much a draw.

Winner Everyone’s a winner, yay.

Programmable buttons

Razer has 10+1 Programmable buttons while Logitech features 13 programmable controls. While it doesn’t necessarily mean that they’ll all be comfortable to use, but it’s always good to know that you have the option.

Winner Logitech, because more is more.

Sensor

Razer’s Focus Pro 30K Optical Sensor has a resolution accuracy of 99.8 per cent and is supported by AI functionality such as Smart Tracking, Motion Sync and Asymmetric Cut-off (different trigger points when the mouse is going up and coming down). Logitech says its 25K sensor has 1:1 accuracy at sub-micron levels that allows it to do away with assists like smoothing, filtering and acceleration. Many ways to skin a cat.

For gaming mice, the sensor wars never end. | Image: Logitech

However, Razer’s sensor has a higher maximum speed of 750 IPS versus 400 IPS and a maximum acceleration of 70G vs 40G. Logitech’s approach is more conservative and is going for a sensor that requires minimal or no correction while Razer pushes the limits of what’s possible with technology. I suspect that for most of us regular joes it’s like comparing the use of two hypercars that can hit in excess of 400kph.

Winner Razer wins the numbers game.

Switches

Hybrid optical switches are the go-to options for top-of-the-ljne mice. | Image: Razer

Razer says that their Optical Mouse Switches Gen-3 will have zero double-clicking issues and no debounce delay, and the mechanism is rated for up to 90 million clicks. Logitech’s LIGHTFORCE Hybrid switches aren’t too different in the sense that they combine the actuation of mechanical switches (galvanic contacts) with the performance and durability of optical switches.

Draw Same same, but different.

Wireless

Razer claims that its HyperSpeed Wireless (2.4Ghz) is “25 per cent faster than other wireless tech”. By default, it supports a 1kHz polling rate but can go up to 4kHz when used with the optional HyperPolling Wireless Dongle. Logitech doesn’t share much information about their “pro-grade, tournament-tested” wireless solution apart from the fact that is 68% quicker than the previous generation protocol. Both mice can share a dongle, so you can pair your compatible keyboards as well and save one USB port.

Logitech has the wireless charging bit built-in while Razer needs you to buy an add-on puck ($33) to enable it. Razer’s solution is cheaper for those who are starting fresh (see Accessories below).

Winner Razer for 4,000Hz polling option. Again, not that most can tell the difference.

Battery life, weight

The Logitech supports wireless charging and the battery lasts up to 130 hours without lighting turned on, and it weighs 106g. The Basilisk is heavier at 112g and has a battery life of up to 90 hours. They can’t charge wirelessly out of the box; you’ll need to get the requisite charging solutions separately.

Winner Logitech is lighter and lasts longer.

Accessories

The Razer Mouse Dock Pro and Razer Wireless Charging Puck are priced at $119 and $33 or you can simply buy the mouse together with the Charging Puck ($282) or with the Mouse Dock Pro ($368). The dock offers both wireless charging as well 4kHz polling. Note that you do need the charging puck to enable wireless charging. The puck can also be used with the Chroma charging pad and other Qi-certified devices.

Razer and Logitech have very different approaches but they aren’t too far apart. | Image: Razer and Logitech

Logitech’s solution requires that you buy the Powerplay wireless charging system for $199 (though you can buy it at Lazada for $136). It’s a mousepad with a receiver and you can charge almost anywhere on the mousepad. It sounds neat but it also restricts your options–what if you want your own mousepad and wireless charging?

Winner Razer has a more flexible ecosystem.

Roundup

On paper at least, the Razer Basilisk V3 Pro looks like the better option, though it remains to be seen how they both perform in real life. From the perspective of a filthy casual, both are pretty much on par and it’s down to whichever mouse tickles your fancy; or if you just don’t want to install yet another device management software and just stick to the same ‘team’. Or if you want white–for now at least, only Logitech offers a white variant.

Logitech also offers two alternatives in the form of the wired G502 X ($119) and the G502 X LIGHTSPEED ($209). Both are essentially no-frills versions that eschew RGB lighting. They are both lighter as well, with the G502 X weighing in at 89g and the G502 X LIGHTSPEED at 101.5g. For those in camp Razer who don’t need wireless connectivity, there’s the Basilisk V3 ($109.90), but it uses an older sensor.