EVERYONE'S Favorite Gaming Mouse is BACK! - Logitech MX 518 Review
0 up · 0 down · 0 ratings
Promos
Get an unrestricted 30-day free trial of FreshBooks at freshbooks.com Use code LINUS and get 25% off GlassWire at lmg.gg The original Logitech MX 518 from 2005 is a classic, and now they’ve released a modernized version - The Logitech G MX518 Legendary with their flagship Hero sensor and a new look. But does it still hold up? Buy Logitech G MX518: On Amazon: geni.us On Newegg: geni.us Discuss on the forum: linustechtips.com Our Affiliates, Referral Programs, and Sponsors: linustechtips.com Get Private Internet Access today at geni.us Displate metal posters: lmg.gg Linus Tech Tips merchandise at lttstore.com Linus Tech Tips posters at crowdmade.com Our Test Benches on Amazon: amazon.com Our production gear: geni.us Twitter - twitter.com Facebook - @LinusTech Instagram - @linustech Twitch - twitch.tv Intro Screen Music Credit: Title: Laszlo - Supernova Video Link: youtube.com iTunes Download Link: itunes.apple.com Artist Link: soundcloud.com Outro Screen Music Credit: Approaching Nirvana - Sugar High youtube.com
The video begins by framing a classic dilemma in tech: progress versus nostalgia. The host notes that even beloved devices can become outdated as the industry evolves, and introduces Logitech's updated MX518 Legendary as a modernized take on a legendary design. Visually, the new mouse keeps the familiar right-handed oval shape with thumb and finger depressions, but swaps some cosmetic details for a nightfall gradient finish and etched black labels. The reviewer highlights the redesign as a subtle but premium upgrade, including a refreshed Logitech G logo and a soft touch, rubberized side wrap for grip. Under the hood, the MX518 Legendary receives a flagship sensor and new hardware to match contemporary performance standards, signaling that this is more than a cosmetic update. Overall, the device is positioned as a high-end, nostalgic choice that still targets precise gaming and daily use. The discussion then moves into practical capabilities, such as the sensor, DPI mappings, and the way the button layout can be customized to preserve the original feel while adding modern flexibility. In the core section, the reviewer dives into the sensor: the Hero optical sensor is described as Logitech’s latest, aiming to replace or improve upon the 3360-era performance found in the G502. The mouse is rated for long battery life in wireless mode and offers a four DPI-per-second style mapping, including a new 3200 DPI default plus room for custom mappings up to 16,000 DPI. The DPI switch is explained as a multi-function button that can revert to a chosen default, a feature reminiscent of alt-tab shortcuts from older mice. The analysis emphasizes that every button on the Legendary is remappable, including macros, preserving the legacy’s flexibility while embracing modern software. The host contrasts the MX518 Legendary with modern alternatives like the G502, noting that although it remains a classic, the newer model has distinctive benefits and a more premium overall package. As the review progresses, deeper historical context is offered about why the MX518 stood out in its era, particularly its high default DPI, the way the old model re-purposed page up and down controls for dpi adjustments, and how angle snapping and negative acceleration were handled. The video explains that the original MX518 had stable angle snapping and a noticeable reliance on those legacy behaviors, while the Legendary moves to zero acceleration with an emphasis on predictable tracking. Practical testing is described, with claims that the device tracks well at high speeds and maintains accuracy during aggressive movements, which is critical for shooters and fast-paced games. The reviewer ultimately weighs the nostalgia against present-day hardware realities, acknowledging that while the MX518 Legendary is a compelling throwback, newer options might offer slightly better value depending on a gamer’s needs. The closing verdict invites viewers to decide whether this mouse is an essential upgrade or a modern homage, and it signals pricing at around $60 as an attractive proposition for a flagship sensor in a classic shell.
Topics · technology · gaming peripherals · product reviews · computer mice
Questions answered
- What makes the MX518 Legendary different from the original 2005 MX518?
- The Legendary keeps the familiar right-handed shape but adds a nightfall finish, etched labels, a bold Logitech G branding, and a refreshed grip. It uses Logitech's Hero sensor, supports up to 16,000 DPI with multiple mappings, features zero acceleration, and offers full remapping including macros.
- Does the MX518 Legendary improve on the original's features like DPI switching?
- Yes, it retains the original concept of DPI switching with multiple presets and adds a fourth 3200 DPI default option plus software-based mappings up to 16,000 DPI, all while providing a modern sensor and zero acceleration.
- Is the MX518 Legendary a good buy compared to newer gaming mice?
- It depends on the user. For nostalgia and comfort with a flagship sensor, it is compelling at around $60. For someone seeking the latest features or RGB lighting, other models like the G502 may offer different advantages.