In the world of technology, finding a perfect product is a rare feat. However, Logitech's Powerplay Wireless Charging System comes remarkably close. For over three years, I've experienced the convenience of never having to think about charging my wireless mouse. It's a simple yet magical experience. Unfortunately, the original system's $120 price tag put it out of reach for many.
Logitech is addressing this issue with the launch of the new Powerplay 2, priced at $100, which is set to release in March. This version maintains the simplicity of its predecessor. Setup is straightforward: connect the mousepad, place the magnetic “Charging Coin” into your mouse's base, and position the mouse on the mousepad for continuous charging.
Despite being only $20 cheaper, some might feel that Logitech made compromises to meet this price point. The new mousepad boasts a 15% wider charging area and is thinner at 3.5mm, as confirmed by my review unit. My G502 Lightspeed mouse now charges even when resting in any corner of the pad, a feature the original lacked. While the charging base remains the same at 2.7mm thickness, the overall difference is subtle.
The Powerplay 2 does have some drawbacks. Although it ditches the old micro-USB cable, it hasn't upgraded to USB-C, opting instead for a fixed cable. This makes it less convenient to remove the mousepad from the desk when needed. Moreover, the wireless mouse receiver, previously integrated into the charging pad, is no longer included. As a result, the mouse now requires two USB ports: one for the charging base and another for the dongle.
Gone is the programmable RGB light inside the Logitech G logo, which some might miss as a visual cue of the mousepad's connectivity. The new design feels less premium, but the thinner mousepad may resist delamination better than its predecessor. Unlike the original, which included both hard and cloth mousepads, the Powerplay 2 comes with just one.
It's important to note that the Powerplay 2 charging coin is not compatible with the original pad, and vice versa, so mixing and matching parts is not possible.
While Logitech has remained tight-lipped about future product bundles or discounts, their senior global marketing manager, Andrew Siminoff, hinted that retailers might offer bundles shortly after launch. With the original Powerplay no longer available at major retailers, it could become a sought-after item on platforms like eBay.
The Powerplay 2 still achieves its core goal of seamless wireless charging and is expected to be available on Amazon and Logitech's site starting March 11th. There's hope that by Black Friday, consumers might find bundle deals including the Powerplay 2 and the G309 mouse for under $100.
