Logitech M90 Mouse Review: Budget Durability Verdict
A $7 mouse with an 8-year survival record? The Logitech Wired Mouse M90 Black USB may be one of the few budget peripherals praised for lasting longer than some premium models. With ratings between 4.1 and 4.8 stars across platforms, it’s been called “precise,” “comfortable,” and “indestructible” — yet also criticized for being “too light,” “noisy,” and prone to occasional defects. Based on thousands of real-world user stories, this humble rodent earns a solid 8.4/10.
Quick Verdict: Conditional buy — great for office work and casual use, but unsuitable for competitive gaming or precision design.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Very low cost (often under $10) | Scroll wheel noise |
| Simple plug-and-play setup | No adjustable DPI |
| Reliable 1000 DPI optical tracking | Too light for some users |
| Ambidextrous full-size design | Reports of left button failure |
| Comfortable for extended use | Sensor struggles on reflective surfaces |
| Long 1.8m cable | Occasional quality control issues |
Claims vs Reality
Logitech promises “plug-and-play simplicity” and “high-definition optical tracking (1000 DPI)” with an ambidextrous design that stays comfortable “even after hours of use.” Reality largely aligns, but long-term owners point to specific quirks.
On setup, the promise holds flawlessly. A verified buyer on Amazon noted: “Simple to set up and use… just plug the cable into a USB port and you’re good to go.” Even users in schools reported deploying them en masse without driver installations. Reddit user u/[name withheld] said: “We use this as our mice at school — that’s cool.”
As for tracking precision, most daily tasks are unaffected. ProductReview user ravi r. shared: “1000 DPI is good for most tasks such as browsing the internet.” However, design and gaming pros find limits. A Trustpilot reviewer admitted: “I don’t advise it for working in 3D and 2D editors because of the sensor… better to take the X7 where the sensor is a hundred times better.”
Comfort claims are more divisive. While the ambidextrous shape suits many, dennis_to_nevi on ProductReview countered: “Too small to be comfortable unless you have small hands… body and scroll wheel are all hard plastic.”
Cross-Platform Consensus
Universally Praised
One standout theme is price-to-performance. Multiple buyers describe it as “well worth the money” and even “the greatest thing ever” for under $10. Amazon reviewers praised its reliability, with one stating: “Quality and durability in a basic mouse… low cost, comfortable.”
Durability stories are remarkable — some claim eight years of flawless operation. A Trustpilot review highlighted: “For 8 years of operation, nothing broke. Excellent optical sensor, well reads even a mirror surface.” This makes it particularly appealing for schools, offices, and budget-conscious households.
Comfort for light-to-medium workloads is consistent praise. Jay from ProductReview wrote: “Precise mouse and buttons are easy on fingers… cheap and precise. Highly recommend.” The full-size build also benefits left-handed users thanks to the symmetrical shape.
Common Complaints
The loud scroll wheel earns repeated criticism. Fakespot lists “scroll wheel sounds like a loud chirping cricket” as a top con, echoed by Trustpilot reviewers noting “loud button clatter” and “noisy wheel.”
Weight divides opinion, but for some it’s a flaw. Multiple users find it “too light,” leading to “occasional movements due to vibrations.” This lightweight design can feel insubstantial for gamers accustomed to heavier builds.
Button durability is a recurring quality control issue. A Trustpilot user warned: “Buttons don’t work as they should… single click may frequently be interpreted as a double click.” Others reported left button failure within months, sometimes recurring even after warranty replacements.
Sensor limitations emerge with niche use cases. Reflective or glossy surfaces can disrupt tracking, prompting advice to use a mouse pad. Marty VH on ProductReview noted: “Tracking is fine on a timber desk… better with a pad.”
Divisive Features
The wired-only nature is both a strength and drawback. Reddit discussions highlight lower latency than wireless — “can never have lower latency than a simple cable” — yet others prefer cordless mice for mobility.
Ambidextrous form factor is praised by those with average hand sizes but criticized as too small or generic for larger hands. The plain three-button layout misses features like side buttons or adjustable DPI that competitive gamers value.
Trust & Reliability
Digging into Trustpilot patterns, reviewers generally find minimal deception in feedback, with over 80% high-quality reviews confirmed. Long-term durability stories stand out — multiple accounts of more than a year’s use without failure, and at least one 8-year run still functioning perfectly.
However, occasional defective units are not rare. Some report immediate button sticking or double-click issues out of the box. Logitech’s warranty service seems responsive, but replacements can share the same fault, frustrating repeat buyers.
Alternatives
Reddit threads comparing budget mice often mention Redragon as better for gaming under €10, citing features like higher polling rates and extra buttons. ProductReview users propose A4Tech and Defender for more advanced sensors in a similar price bracket. For those prioritizing wireless freedom, Logitech’s own M330 Wireless Silent Mouse offers upgraded ergonomics and silent clicks — but at a higher price.
Price & Value
Across platforms, typical prices range from $7.08 USD on Amazon to €5.99 in Europe and AU$18.49 on eBay. Sale pricing around $10 or less makes it hard to beat for basic functionality. Resale value is negligible given its low new price, but community tips emphasize buying from reputable sellers to avoid defective stock.
One Reddit poster summed it up: “Bought it for 8 euros… still don’t understand why anyone would pay more than 20 euro for just a mouse.”
FAQ
Q: Is the Logitech M90 suitable for gaming?
A: For casual gaming, yes — multiple users report comfort over hours. But sensor performance and lack of DPI control limit competitive play.
Q: Does it work on all surfaces?
A: Most non-reflective surfaces are fine. Highly reflective desks or glass may require a mouse pad for consistent tracking.
Q: Is it comfortable for large hands?
A: Mixed feedback — average-sized hands fit well, but some find it too small or flat for extended comfort.
Q: How long does it last?
A: Many owners report over a year of trouble-free use, with some reaching 8 years. However, defects can appear early, particularly in buttons.
Q: Can it be used without a mouse pad?
A: Yes, optical tracking works on most surfaces without one, though pads can improve precision.
Final Verdict
Buy if you’re a student, office worker, or home user who needs a low-cost, reliable mouse for daily tasks. Avoid if you’re a competitive gamer, graphic designer, or want silent operation. Pro tip from the community: pair it with a decent mouse pad to avoid tracking issues and extend its already impressive durability.
