In the realm of accessory reviews, Logitech’s Powerplay Wireless Charging System stands out as a near-perfect product. For over three years, I’ve effortlessly charged my wireless mouse without a second thought. Its simplicity feels almost magical, yet at $120, it might be out of reach for many.
Fortunately, Logitech is set to release a new $100 version in March, known as the Powerplay 2, which retains the user-friendly setup. Simply plug in the mousepad, attach the magnetic “Charging Coin” to your mouse, and place it on the pad to ensure continuous charging.
However, despite being $20 cheaper, it seems Logitech has compromised on certain features to meet this price point.
On the plus side, the Powerplay 2 boasts improvements. Logitech claims it has a 15% wider charging area and is thinner at just 3.5mm. In my review, I observed that as long as my G502 Lightspeed mouse rests within any corner of the pad, the charging indicator lights up, a significant enhancement over the original. My measurements confirm the thickness is indeed 3.5mm, including the charging base and its fabric surface.
You do still get this little mouse detection / charging indicator light. | Image: Logitech”>
Yet, my calipers reveal that the charging base remains the same 2.7mm thickness as before, with the old mousepad measuring only slightly thicker at 4.3mm. I’ve spent over three years using the original without ever needing to reposition my mouse to ensure it charges; I simply drop it when finished, and it remains charged.
What drawbacks come with the Powerplay 2? Firstly, while Logitech has removed the old micro-USB cable, we are left without USB-C. Instead, they opted for a fixed cable, limiting my ability to easily move the mousepad when I need extra desk space.
More importantly, the new model lacks the wireless mouse receiver built into the Powerplay 2, a feature I found particularly useful. Now, my mouse requires two full-size USB ports—one for the mouse and one for the dongle, which I can no longer store in the mouse for travel.
Additionally, the programmable RGB light inside the Logitech G logo is gone. While I don’t miss it much, the plain black design of the new mousepad feels cheaper; the RGB previously provided reassurance that power was being received.
Compatible mice include the Pro X Superlight series, the Pro Wireless, the G502 wireless mice, the G309, the G703 and G903. | Image: Logitech”>
While I appreciate the new thinner design of the Powerplay 2, which seems more durable than the original, it’s worth noting that the original included two mousepads (one hard, one cloth), whereas now you only get one.
Also, the new Powerplay 2 charging coin isn’t compatible with the original pad, making it impossible to mix and match components.
I tried to find additional benefits from Logitech, considering the original is one of my favorite products. I hope that the ease of production for this new version leads to great discounts or enticing bundles post-launch. The 15% larger charging area may be beneficial for future supercapacitor mice that require consistent power.
Logitech has not commented on future supercap products or potential sales but mentioned that retailers might offer bundles shortly after the launch.
As the original Powerplay becomes scarce, it may soon command a premium price on platforms like eBay. However, the Powerplay 2 retains its core functionality, making it a worthwhile product. Let’s hope for a Black Friday deal that offers a combo with Logitech’s budget-friendly compatible mouse—the G309—for under $100.
The Powerplay 2 is set to launch on Amazon and Logitech’s site on March 11th.
