Logitech G203 Review: Performance and Value Combined for Gamers
Are you looking for a cheap but decent entry into the PC Gaming world? The Logitech G203 may be perfect for you. Logitech delivers great performance without breaking the bank, making the G203 a very popular option. Let’s take a closer look at the Logitech G203 and see if it suits your needs.
The Verdict
Rating: 4.5 out of 5.
The Logitech G203 has a solid shell accompanied by a robust and good-quality sensor. This mouse is an ideal choice for PC gamers on a budget. Its cheap price tag won’t dent your wallet while still providing a competitive edge compared to other mice. Additionally, if you’re a fan of RGB lighting, the G203 features RGB accents on the logo and edges.
The smaller size of the G203 works well for claw grip users, although it can also be used with a palm grip. The mouse’s sides are recessed, offering a symmetrical design except for the side buttons, which are absent on the left side. Left-handed users can still use the mouse but won’t have access to the secondary buttons.
While the Logitech G203 has several strengths, there are a few downsides to consider. These include the build quality, the sensor not being as advanced as some other mice in 2021, the lackluster software, and Logitech’s history with double-clicking issues. However, if you can overlook these issues, the G203 can still be one of the best budget gaming mice, even three years after its launch.
If you think the Logitech G203 suits you, you can find it at a great price on Amazon.
Logitech G203 Specifications:
Length: | ~116.6 mm (~11.66 cm, ~29.62 in) |
Width: | ~62.15 mm (~6.22 cm, ~15.79 in) |
Height: | ~38.2 mm (~3.82 cm, ~9.7 in) |
Weight: | ~85 g (~0.09 kg, ~0.19 lbs.) |
Sensor Type: | Optical (200-8000 DPI) |
Sensor Model: | Logitech Sensor 8k DPI (By Mercury) |
Polling Rate: | 125-1000 Hz |
Cable Length: | 2.1m (6.9 ft) Rubber Cable |
In The Box:
At this price point, the Logitech G203 doesn’t have many extras. In the box, you’ll find the mouse itself and some documentation; no other skates or weights are included.
The Build:
The Logitech G203 has a well-built shell, considering its low price point. While it doesn’t feel fragile, it is relatively lightweight at 85 grams. However, there is a slight metallic reverb around the buttons when pressed quickly or when the mouse is put down with force. As for the switches, Logitech mice typically have good switches in terms of feel and responsiveness. Double-clicking issues, although prevalent in some Logitech mice in the past, have been mitigated mainly in newer models.
Shape and Comfort:
The G203 is a symmetrical mouse with two buttons on the left side, but it is not recommended for left-handed users. It is relatively small compared to other mice like the Glorious Model D and Zowie EC-2, so it may not be suitable for those who prefer a larger ergonomic mouse. However, the symmetrical design works well for left-handed users except for the side buttons on the right. The mouse is comfortable for claw grip users, although prolonged use with a palm grip may become uncomfortable.
Buttons include:
– Left Click
– Right Click
– Two buttons on the side
– Scroll wheel
– DPI adjustment between left and right click
The mouse and side buttons are comfortable and clicky, except for the DPI adjustment button, which has noticeable spring ping when clicked quickly.
Sensor and Polling Rate:
The Logitech G203 features an undisclosed sensor by Logitech, reaching a maximum DPI of 8,000 with a minimum of 200. It has a polling rate of 1,000Hz, ensuring a snappy response in Windows. However, compared to Logitech’s Hero sensor found in models like the G502, there is a noticeable difference in responsiveness and speed at the same DPI and sensitivity settings.
Colors and RGB Lighting:
The G203 is available in four colors: Lilac, Black, White, and Blue. These colors are vibrant and visually appealing. The RGB lighting on the mouse is impressive, with lighting strips on the back and side and on the logo. The mouse supports a variety of lighting effects and Logitech’s three-zone lighting mode, which can be customized for a visually pleasing setup.
Connectivity:
The Logitech G203 is a wired mouse with a good-quality cable. Although it is not braided, which some may see as a disadvantage, the non-braided cable offers better drag than braided cables, such as those found on the Logitech G502 Hero. The connectivity is reliable, and the cable length is sufficient without being prone to kinks. However, the cable is not detachable, a standard feature in wired mice.
Software:
The Logitech G Hub software allows for extensive customization of the mouse. While it offers a range of functionality, including macros and lighting interactions with on-screen content, it has had issues in the past, such as profiles being reset and software not loading. Although many of these bugs have been addressed, some users may still encounter occasional problems. Despite the software’s past issues, it remains a powerful tool for adjusting settings such as polling rate, DPI, RGB lighting, and button bindings.
Onboard Memory:
The Logitech G203 has onboard memory, allowing you to save specific settings directly on the mouse. This feature is beneficial if you use the mouse with multiple devices or frequently take it to different locations. It ensures that your preferred settings are retained without software running in the background.
An Alternative/Upgrade: The G305:
For those seeking a wireless option, the Logitech G305 is an alternative to consider. It is the wireless counterpart to the G203, retaining the same shape while featuring improvements internally and eliminating the wire. Although the G305 comes at a higher price, it offers an enhanced Hero sensor for improved accuracy and the same low latency while providing wireless connectivity. It does not have RGB lighting, but if you prioritize a great sensor and lightspeed wireless performance, the G305 is a compelling choice.
Conclusion: Is It Good for Gaming?
The Logitech G203 is a top-tier mouse within the $20-$30 price range, making it perfect for newcomers to the PC gaming community or those on a budget. It offers impressive performance, featuring excellent internals at an affordable price. Moreover, its widespread availability on Amazon is a bonus. With few drawbacks apart from the absence of high-end amenities, such as those found in pricier mice, the Logitech G203 is highly recommended. Its accurate sensor, responsive buttons, and comfortable shape make it an excellent choice for gaming, surpassing many competitors in the same price range. And, of course, it offers plenty of RGB lighting. However, it’s important to note that RGB lighting does not directly enhance performance.