Logitech M90 Mouse Review: Affordable and Reliable Verdict
A Reddit user summed it up bluntly: “I use this $8 mouse and it’s the greatest thing ever.” That line captures the ethos of the Logitech Wired Mouse M90 Black USB, a no-frills, budget-friendly peripheral that consistently punches above its weight. Across platforms, scores hover between 4.1 and 4.8 out of 5, translating to a solid 8.9/10 in aggregated user sentiment.
Quick Verdict: Conditional — Strong buy for budget-conscious everyday users, but gamers and design professionals may want more features.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Very affordable | Scroll wheel louder than average |
| Simple plug-and-play setup | Sensor struggles on reflective surfaces |
| Comfortable ambidextrous design | Too light for some users |
| Durable build over years of use | Plastic can feel cheap and get sweaty |
| Reliable optical tracking (1000 dpi) | No additional buttons or adjustable DPI |
| Long 1.8m cable | Occasional quality control issues |
| Works across Windows, Mac, Linux | Limited suitability for advanced gaming |
Claims vs Reality
Marketing emphasizes “plug-and-play simplicity.” On this, buyers are in near-total agreement. Trustpilot reviewers described it as “fast and easy to set up—just plug the cable into a USB port and use it right away.” Multiple Reddit users noted that skipping software installation makes it “perfect for classrooms” and “ideal as a backup.”
The brand also touts “high-definition optical tracking (1000 dpi)” for precise control. Official specs state smooth cursor movement with or without a mouse pad. While most agreed — “the optical sensor works fine even on a mirror surface” according to one Trustpilot post — dissent exists. A ProductReview.com.au user complained that “tracking just didn’t seem to be in synch” until they switched to an old mouse pad.
Finally, “comfortable, reliable control” is a selling point. The ambidextrous design won praise from both right- and left-handed users, such as one who reported that “switching to my left hand eventually made my shoulder pain go away.” However, some with larger hands found it “too small to be comfortable” and criticized its lightweight feel, which can make it slide on smooth desks.
Cross-Platform Consensus
Universally Praised
Price is the standout strength. Amazon buyers frequently call it “more than adequate” for its low cost, while Reddit user u/…, paying just €8, still questioned “why anyone would spend more than €20 for a mouse.” Professionals and students alike appreciate the long cable; a Trustpilot reviewer described the 1.8m cord as “plenty” for working in varied setups.
Durability stories abound. One Fakespot analysis notes a buyer’s “second mouse held up for 18 months of heavy use” with only the right-click wearing out. Others boast multi-year lifespans: “Although being in service for eight years, nothing ever broke,” a Trustpilot user wrote, praising build quality.
Ease of use benefits shared workspaces and IT environments. “We use this as our mice at school,” one Redditor said, illustrating institutional trust in the model. The lack of batteries and configuration also won favor from those frustrated with higher-maintenance wireless models.
Common Complaints
The scroll wheel is a recurring issue. Descriptions include “loud chirping cricket” sounds from Fakespot and “moves in jerks” on Trustpilot. For those in quiet offices, this can be a dealbreaker. The body’s hard plastic draws criticism for being “unpleasant to the touch” and causing sweaty palms after short use.
Some users report quality control inconsistencies. Trustpilot entries detail “defective left button” issues in successive replacements. Another noted “worthless precision” for fine graphical work, blaming “low hertz” and micro pixel jerks.
For gaming, the 1000 dpi sensor meets casual needs but fails competitive standards. ProductReview.com.au users could “drive Dota” with it but warned against 3D/2D editing or high-DPI competitive play. Its 125 Hz polling rate and lack of customization leave esports players looking elsewhere.
Divisive Features
Weight splits opinion. Many call it “light and comfortable,” perfect for portability. Others hate how it “constantly strives to fly off the table” due to minimal mass. The basic design — two buttons plus scroll wheel — is praised for simplicity but lamented by macros-heavy gamers and power users who expect extra programmable buttons.
Ambidextrous form gets both love and indifference. Those with wrist issues celebrated switching hands, while others preferred a sculpted shape like Logitech’s higher-end M330.
Trust & Reliability
Durability is a major plus. Reddit threads and Trustpilot confirm longevity up to eight years in some cases, with no degradation in sensor performance. The mouse’s all-plastic shell holds up well: “no burrs, no plastic odor” noted one Revain review, and “wire has not frayed” after long-term edge-hanging use.
However, reviewers also highlight recurring manufacturing defects in certain batches — notably double-click failures and wheel misalignment. While these are often covered under warranty, the hassle is enough for some buyers to look at rival brands like A4Tech or Defender.
No significant scam warnings appeared in Trustpilot or Fakespot patterns; fake review detection notes “over 80% high quality reviews” and minimal deception.
Alternatives
Users often suggest the Logitech G502 or G402 for those willing to spend more on sensors, onboard memory, and gaming performance. Reddit debates mention the Xanova, praised for “cool RGB” and “better sensor,” though at higher cost.
For budget-conscious gamers, commenters name Redragon mice under €10, claiming they “blow most mice out of the water” while offering extra buttons.
Price & Value
Prices vary globally: Amazon.com lists at $7.20, eBay sellers at $12–$22, with regional variations from R$29 in Brazil to €8–€10 in Europe. The low price makes it a common impulse buy or backup unit.
Resale value is negligible, but community tips emphasize buying from official or high-feedback sellers to avoid defective knockoffs. Several reviewers attribute price hikes to brand recognition, calling it “a little expensive” for such a basic device but still “worth it for the quality.”
FAQ
Q: Is the Logitech M90 good for gaming?
A: Suitable for casual play but not competitive standards. The 1000 dpi sensor works in titles like Dota, but multiple users warn against using it for precise 3D/2D editing or esports.
Q: Does it work well on all surfaces?
A: Performs on most, including mirrors, per Trustpilot, but some report issues on highly reflective or patterned surfaces. Using a mouse pad can improve tracking.
Q: How long does it last?
A: Many report multi-year use — “eight years… nothing ever broke” — though defective units do occur. Right-click wear is the most common long-term issue.
Q: Is it comfortable for large hands?
A: Mixed responses. Ambidextrous design fits most, but some with large hands find it “too small” and “too light.”
Q: Does the scroll wheel noise bother users?
A: In noisy environments, no. In quiet offices, its “loud chirping cricket” sound can be distracting.
Final Verdict: Buy if you want an ultra-affordable, durable, plug-and-play mouse for everyday computing, classroom setups, or as a reliable backup. Avoid if you require high-DPI sensors, extra buttons, or silent operation. Pro tip from the community: Pair it with a simple mouse pad to minimize tracking hiccups and noise.
