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The short answer: If you already own an MX Master 3, you likely do not need to upgrade to the 3S unless you want a quieter click and a higher DPI sensor. For new buyers, the 3S is the better pick because it sits in the same price bracket or slightly higher but offers improved performance and a silent click. However, if you find the 3S at a lower price than the 3, it becomes an easy choice. Both are excellent productivity mice, but the 3S refines the formula without breaking it.
Let’s break down the main changes between the two mice. The most obvious difference is the sensor. The MX Master 3S jumps to an 8000 DPI optical sensor, while the 3 uses a 4000 DPI sensor. Most users won’t notice the difference because typical desktop use stays below 2000 DPI, but if you use a high-resolution monitor or like to move the cursor with tiny hand movements, the higher DPI can be beneficial. The other headline change is the silent click. Logitech switched from traditional clicky micro switches to their new Quiet Click technology, which reduces click noise by about 90% according to Logitech’s marketing. What can be said is that the 3S feels noticeably softer and quieter when clicking, which is great for shared workspaces or if you record audio while using your mouse. Everything else, including the shape, scroll wheel, thumb wheel, and buttons, is identical. The software, Logitech Options+, works with both, and you can customize buttons, gestures, and per-app profiles on either.
In day-to-day tasks like browsing, document editing, and photo editing, you won’t feel a massive difference. The MX Master 3 already had a buttery-smooth electromagnetic scroll wheel that can free-spin or click, and the thumb wheel for horizontal scrolling. Both mice track on almost any surface, including glass, thanks to their Darkfield sensor. The 3S’s 8000 DPI is overkill for most, but if you play games occasionally or use a 4K display, you might appreciate the extra sensitivity. The silent clicks on the 3S are a genuine improvement if you hate the loud “click-clack” of the 3. However, some users report that the quieter switch feels a bit mushy or less crisp. That’s a matter of personal preference. If you rely on tactile feedback from clicks, you might actually prefer the 3. For productivity, both are top-tier, but the 3S edges out with its sensor and noise reduction.
Both mice have the same battery life, rated at up to 70 days on a full charge, and both charge via USB-C. A one-minute charge gives you about three hours of use, which is handy when you forget to plug in overnight. Connectivity is also identical: you can use the included USB receiver or Bluetooth, and you can pair up to three devices, switching with a button on the bottom. The build quality is the same, with a comfortable contoured shape that suits medium to large hands. The thumb rest is well-placed, and the finish is a soft-touch material that resists fingerprints. One thing to note is that the 3S comes in two colors: graphite and pale gray, while the 3 originally came in graphite and light gray. So if you prefer a lighter aesthetic, you have options. Neither mouse is lightweight; they’re both around 141 grams, which is fine for productivity but not for gaming.
Pricing often fluctuates, so exact numbers are not given here, but generally the 3S is priced at the same launch price as the 3 was, and the 3 often gets discounts now. If you’re a new buyer, the 3S is the obvious choice because it’s the latest model with the same price and extra features. If you already own the 3, upgrading to the 3S won’t bring a huge productivity boost. The only reasons to switch would be if the click noise bothers you or you need the higher DPI for a specific setup. Otherwise, keep your money. However, if you’re looking for a backup mouse or want a second one for travel, the 3S might be worth it. Also, check if the 3S is on sale; sometimes it’s cheaper than the 3, which makes the decision a no-brainer. For a broader comparison of wireless mice, you can check out our buying guide for best wireless mice, which includes options for different budgets and needs.
Buy the MX Master 3S if you are new to the MX Master series, you work in a quiet office, you use multiple high-res monitors, or you want the latest tech. Buy the MX Master 3 if you find it at a significantly lower price, you prefer the louder click feedback, or you are on a tight budget. Both are excellent, but the 3S is the safer bet for future-proofing. If you’re a gamer, neither is ideal due to the high weight and lack of polling rate customization, but for productivity, they are top of the line. Also consider that the 3S is compatible with Logi Bolt, while the 3 uses the older Unifying receiver. Logi Bolt offers a more secure connection, but both work fine.
If the price difference is small, yes, because you get a quieter click and a higher DPI sensor. If the 3 is much cheaper, you can save money and lose little in everyday performance.
Yes, both the 3 and 3S use Darkfield sensor technology that tracks on glass and other glossy surfaces. The 3 has been reported to work flawlessly on glass, and the 3S should be the same.
Absolutely. Both mice work with Windows, macOS, and even Linux (with some limitations). You can switch between OSes easily, and the Logitech Options+ software lets you customize buttons on both platforms.
Related: Logitech MX Master 3S Best Wireless Mouse
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