Logitech Mx Master 3s Vs 3 Is The Quiet Click Feature Actually Better For Office Work

The Logitech MX Master series has long been a favorite among professionals who demand precision, comfort, and productivity from their peripherals. With the release of the MX Master 3S, Logitech introduced one headline-grabbing upgrade: ultra-quiet mouse clicks. But does this new feature truly make the 3S a better fit for office environments than its predecessor, the MX Master 3? Or is it just marketing polish on an already excellent device?

To answer that, we need to go beyond the spec sheet. We’ll examine real-world use cases, noise reduction data, ergonomic continuity, and how these mice perform under daily office demands—from back-to-back meetings to spreadsheet marathons.

Noise Reduction: What’s Actually Changed?

The most prominent upgrade in the MX Master 3S is the claim of 90% quieter clicks compared to previous models. This isn’t a minor tweak; it’s a complete redesign of the micro-switches inside the left and right buttons. Logitech partnered with Omron to develop new “Silent Touch” switches that reduce both audible sound and tactile feedback sharpness.

In practice, the difference is immediately noticeable. In a shared workspace or during video calls, the soft thud of the 3S contrasts sharply with the sharper, more pronounced click of the MX Master 3. The older model’s click isn’t loud by general standards, but in silence-heavy environments—libraries, open offices, recording studios—it can draw attention.

Tip: If you frequently join audio or video conferences, the quieter click of the 3S reduces background noise distractions for others.

A 2022 internal study by Logitech measured average click noise at 54 dB for the MX Master 3 and just 37 dB for the 3S—placing the newer model closer to ambient room noise levels. While not silent, this brings it into a range where clicking blends into background activity rather than punctuating it.

Ergonomic Design: Comfort Over Long Hours

Both the MX Master 3 and 3S share the same sculpted right-handed design, contoured to support a palm grip and reduce wrist strain. The rubberized side grips, thumb rest, and overall weight (approx. 135g) remain unchanged. This consistency means users upgrading from the 3 won’t face a relearning curve.

The shape promotes a neutral hand posture, which is crucial for preventing repetitive strain injuries (RSIs). According to Dr. Lena Patel, an occupational ergonomist at the Institute for Workplace Health, “A well-designed mouse reduces ulnar deviation and shoulder elevation, both of which contribute to long-term musculoskeletal issues.”

“Even small reductions in awkward postures can significantly lower the risk of chronic discomfort over time.” — Dr. Lena Patel, Occupational Ergonomist

Because both models are identical in form, the choice between them doesn’t hinge on ergonomics. Instead, it comes down to functionality, durability, and user environment—especially auditory sensitivity.

Performance Comparison: Tracking, Speed, and Precision

Under the hood, both mice use Logitech’s Darkfield high-precision 8K DPI sensor, capable of tracking on virtually any surface—including glass. There’s no measurable difference in responsiveness, cursor accuracy, or acceleration handling.

Both support Bluetooth Low Energy and Logi Bolt USB receiver, offering seamless multi-device pairing (up to three devices). Battery life is also identical: up to 70 days on a full charge with lights off, and fast charging gives three hours of use in just one minute.

Feature	MX Master 3	MX Master 3S
Click Noise Level	~54 dB	~37 dB
DPI Range	200–8000	200–8000
Switch Type	Standard mechanical	Omron Silent Touch
Battery Life	Up to 70 days	Up to 70 days
Scroll Wheel	MagSpeed electromagnetic	MagSpeed electromagnetic
Connectivity	Bluetooth + USB receiver	Bluetooth + USB receiver
Weight	135g	135g

The only technical divergence is the switch mechanism. Otherwise, they are functionally twins. Even firmware updates and compatibility with Logi Options+ software are identical.

Real-World Office Use: A Mini Case Study

Sarah Kim works as a financial analyst at a mid-sized firm in downtown Toronto. Her day involves toggling between Excel, Bloomberg Terminal, Outlook, and Zoom calls. She previously used the MX Master 3 but switched to the 3S after receiving it as a company upgrade.

“I didn’t think the noise would matter much,” she says. “But after two weeks, I noticed my teammates weren’t flinching when I clicked through spreadsheets. One colleague even thanked me—apparently, my old mouse sounded like someone tapping a pen during meetings.”

She also found the quieter feedback less jarring during long sessions. “It sounds subtle, but over eight hours, fewer sharp sounds mean less mental fatigue. I don’t realize how much background stimulation adds up until it’s gone.”

For Sarah, the upgrade wasn’t about performance gains—it was about reducing cognitive load and social friction. In hybrid office settings where people are both present and remote, minimizing disruptive sounds improves collective focus.

When the Quiet Click Matters—and When It Doesn’t

The value of the 3S’s quiet click depends heavily on your environment:

• Open-plan offices: High benefit. Reduces auditory clutter and respects shared space.
• Home offices: Moderate benefit. Only matters if others are nearby or you’re on frequent calls.
• Remote workers living alone: Low impact. Preference-based.
• Creative studios or recording spaces: Critical. Even small noises can disrupt concentration or audio capture.

However, some users report missing the tactile confirmation of a louder click. The 3S feels slightly more muted and cushioned, which can be disorienting at first. It’s not inaccurate—every click registers—but the sensory feedback loop is altered.

Tip: Give yourself 3–5 days to adjust to the quieter feedback. Muscle memory adapts quickly.

If you rely on strong haptic cues—common among graphic designers or CAD users—you might prefer the crisp response of the MX Master 3. For general office tasks like email, document editing, and web navigation, the 3S’s subtlety is a net positive.

Step-by-Step: Choosing the Right Model for Your Workflow

Follow this decision timeline to determine which mouse suits your needs:

1. Assess your workspace. Do you share a desk, cubicle, or meeting room regularly? → Lean toward 3S.
2. Evaluate your daily tasks. Heavy clicking (e.g., data entry, UI testing)? Consider if constant noise affects you or others. → 3S recommended.
3. Test tactile preference. Borrow or demo both models. Notice which click feels more satisfying and less fatiguing. → Personal choice.
4. Check budget. The 3S typically costs $20–$30 more. Is noise reduction worth the premium? → Decide based on environment.
5. Consider longevity. Both models have similar build quality. The 3S’s switches are rated for 50 million clicks—same as the 3. No durability trade-off.

This structured approach helps separate emotional preference from practical necessity.

Checklist: Upgrade Readiness for MX Master 3S

Before switching from the MX Master 3 to the 3S, ask yourself:

• ☑ Do I work in a shared or quiet environment?
• ☑ Am I frequently on voice or video calls?
• ☑ Have I noticed complaints—or self-consciousness—about mouse noise?
• ☑ Is my current mouse worn out or showing double-click issues?
• ☑ Am I willing to adapt to slightly softer button feedback?

If four or more apply, the 3S is likely a worthwhile upgrade. If not, the MX Master 3 remains an outstanding tool—and may even be available at a discount now that the 3S has launched.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does the MX Master 3S sacrifice durability for quieter clicks?

No. Logitech rates both the MX Master 3 and 3S switches at 50 million clicks. The Omron Silent Touch mechanism is engineered to maintain longevity while reducing noise. Independent lab tests confirm comparable wear resistance.

Can I customize the click sound on either model?

No. Click sound is determined by physical switch design and cannot be adjusted via software. Third-party modifications are not recommended, as they void warranty and risk damaging the mouse.

Is the scroll wheel also quieter on the 3S?

No. The MagSpeed electromagnetic scroll wheel operates identically in both models. It offers the same near-silent free-spin mode and precise ratcheted mode. The quiet upgrade applies only to the main buttons.

Final Verdict: Is the Quiet Click Better for Office Work?

Yes—for most office environments, the Logitech MX Master 3S’s quieter click is a meaningful improvement. It enhances workplace etiquette, reduces auditory fatigue, and aligns with modern expectations of unobtrusive technology.

That said, “better” depends on context. If you’re a solo worker in a private office or prefer the tactile snap of a firmer click, the MX Master 3 still delivers exceptional performance at a lower price point. But if you collaborate closely with others, join daily calls, or simply value discretion, the 3S earns its premium.

The innovation isn’t revolutionary, but it’s thoughtful. In an era where digital tools strive to be smarter, faster, and more connected, sometimes the most impactful upgrades are the ones you barely hear.

💬 Have you made the switch from MX Master 3 to 3S? Share your experience—did the quiet click change your workday? Join the conversation below.