Logitech unveils a cushioned mouse for all-day use

Logitech has introduced a cushioned mouse and an ergonomic keyboard, but as with several of the company's other products, only right-handers need apply. The Register tested Signature Comfort Plus M850 L for more than a week, and we're not convinced it's that much of a game-changer, although it's certainly a comfortable unit. The mouse has all the usual controls a user would expect from a mid-range device: a mouse wheel, which can be moved in increments for precision scrolling or spun to speed things up, and it includes buttons that are placed nicely beneath fingers and thumbs, and can be configured via the Logi Options+ mouse. The sides of the mouse are rubber, and the near-silent buttons are made from a slightly brittle-feeling plastic. According to Logitech, between 49 and 77 percent of the plastic parts in the Comfort Plus lineup are made from recycled plastic. Connectivity is via Bluetooth, and the device works over Windows, macOS, iPadOS, ChromeOS, Linux, and Android OS 12.0 or later. Business users can opt for the Logi Bolt USB receiver, which doesn't support Android and iPadOS. Weight-wise, the mouse comes in at 107.9g with an AA battery (which the company reckons should last for two years). Its depth is 121.8 mm, its height is 74.3 mm, and its width is 44.2 mm. It fits comfortably in a user's right hand, which is where the problems start - not all users are right-handed. The next issue is that the palm cushion is not easily removable. Logitech told The Register it would supply replacement parts and instructions if customers asked, but making the cushion easy to pop out and change would open up a whole world of customer customization. A similar problem exists with the Signature Comfort Plus MK880 keyboard, which also features a palm rest that cannot be easily replaced. In this instance, it's more forgivable - keyboards with palm rests have long been a thing, and the rest is an integral part of the device. The keyboard is a full-size device with function keys that can be assigned in the Logitech Options+ application. The device is ergonomically curved thoughtfully - there's no aggressive "THIS IS AN ERGONOMIC KEYBOARD" sculpting here, but rather a gentle curve along which the deep-cushioned keys flow. Keyboards are very much a subjective thing - some users will prefer laptop-style chiclet keys, others like the tactile feedback of the IBM Model M. This device sits somewhere in the middle: keypresses are quiet (good for an office environment), but some users might prefer more feedback (even if their neighbors might not like the additional noise). There is no backlight, which is a shame, but understandable. The wireless device is powered by a pair of AAA batteries that would be rapidly drained with the addition of lighting. Unlike the solar-powered K980 signature slim keyboard, which uses solar charging to keep its battery topped up, the AAA batteries should last for up to three years, according to Logitech. The final bit of ergonomics for the keyboard comes from the adjustable typing angle, which is locked at 0, 4, or 8. It is also possible to pair the keyboard and mouse with up to three devices. Overall, this keyboard-and-mouse combination exemplifies Logitech's relentless competence in input devices. The keyboard is comfortable to use, and the mouse fits in the palm well (although the proviso about right-handed users applies). The palm cushion on the mouse is a nice touch, but you can buy the device without it, and, after more than a week of use, some high-quality soft-touch plastic would do just as well for many users. So, the new Signature Comfort Plus range is worth considering as part of a regular hardware replacement cycle, or for consumers looking for some new kit. It is, however, not something to rush out and buy unless, of course, your palm is really sore. The Signature Comfort Plus M850 L palm cushion mouse, MK880 Signature Comfort Plus combo, and M840 L non-cushion mouse will be available globally for $49.99, $99.99 and $39.99 respectively starting June, 2026. The M850 L for Business, and MK880 combo for business will be available for $59.99 and $109.99 respectively.(R)