The mx anywhere 2 is a wireless precision mouse from Logitech designed for professionals who work across multiple devices and environments. It delivers consistent performance with laser tracking, customizable buttons, and smooth switching between up to three connected devices.
Launched in 2018, the mx anywhere 2 succeeded the original MX Anywhere and introduced improvements in build quality, battery life, and responsiveness. It supports both Bluetooth and Logitech's proprietary Unifying receiver, allowing users to connect without cluttering USB ports. The mouse uses a 2K optical sensor capable of tracking on nearly any surface, including glass and textured materials.
Its compact size fits comfortably in small hands and slips easily into a laptop bag. The device weighs 96 grams and measures 114mm long, 64mm wide, and 37mm tall. Logitech rates the battery life at up to 70 days on a single AA battery, though actual usage varies based on lighting conditions and polling rate settings.
The mx anywhere 2 operates using a combination of hardware and software integration. A 2K DPI optical sensor captures movement at up to 1,000 reports per second, translating hand motion into cursor movement with minimal lag. This level of precision allows for accurate selection and navigation even during detailed tasks like photo editing or CAD design.
Device switching happens automatically when you press the side button labeled "Switch." The mouse remembers up to three paired devices and toggles between them instantly. For example, if you're working on a Windows laptop, a Mac desktop, and a tablet, you can switch between them without changing inputs or reinstalling drivers.
Logitech's Options software enables customization of button functions, scroll speed, and DPI sensitivity. You can assign shortcuts like "copy," "paste," or "open new tab" to the side buttons. The software also lets you adjust the scroll wheel's resistance and set custom profiles per device.
The mx anywhere 2 features a matte-finish plastic body with a textured grip zone on the sides. The front and rear surfaces are smooth, reducing friction during extended use. The scroll wheel is tactile and offers a "click-to-click" mode for precise vertical scrolling, ideal for reading long documents.
It includes five programmable buttons: left click, right click, middle click, forward/backward buttons on the side, and a dedicated "Switch" button. The forward and backward buttons are positioned for easy access by the index finger, reducing strain during frequent navigation.
Power comes from a single AA battery, which Logitech claims lasts up to 70 days under normal use. The battery compartment is accessible via a sliding cover on the underside. When the battery runs low, the mouse enters power-saving mode and sends a notification through the Logitech Options app.
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Sensor Type | 2K DPI laser tracking |
| Connectivity | Bluetooth 4.1, Logitech Unifying (USB) |
| Battery Life | Up to 70 days (AA battery) |
| Weight | 96 grams |
| Max DPI | 4,000 |
| Programmable Buttons | 5 (including Switch button) |
The mx anywhere 2 is widely used in office environments, remote work setups, and mobile workspaces. Its ability to switch between devices makes it ideal for people who use multiple computers throughout the day. A graphic designer working on a MacBook Pro and a Windows workstation can switch between them without changing input devices.
Travelers appreciate its portability and durability. The mouse is rated for 10 million clicks on the primary buttons and has a rubberized coating that resists sweat and oils. In testing, it maintained accuracy on different surfaces-from wood desks to airplane tray tables.
One non-obvious detail: the mouse's scroll wheel can be locked to prevent accidental scrolling. This feature is especially useful when carrying the mouse in a bag or when resting your hand near the wheel. To lock it, press and hold the scroll wheel for two seconds. Enable by pressing again.
Many users mistake the mx anywhere 2 for a gaming mouse due to its high DPI and responsive tracking. However, it lacks features typical of gaming mice, such as RGB lighting, programmable macros beyond basic functions, and adjustable weights. It's optimized for productivity, not high-speed action games.
Another common error is assuming the Unifying receiver is required for multi-device support. While the receiver provides a stable connection, Bluetooth pairing alone allows full functionality. Users can pair the mouse via Bluetooth on a smartphone or tablet and still switch between devices using the same profile.
A frequently overlooked limitation: the mouse does not support multi-touch gestures. Unlike trackpads on newer laptops, you cannot pinch to zoom or swipe between pages. It remains a traditional pointing device with no gesture recognition.
I used the mx anywhere 2 daily for six months while working remotely from cafes, co-working spaces, and home offices. On a trip to Portland, I connected it to a public library computer via Bluetooth and switched smoothly to my personal MacBook Pro when I returned to my workspace. The mouse tracked perfectly on a wooden table with a slight curve, and the battery lasted 65 days before needing replacement.
During a presentation, I accidentally bumped the scroll wheel while holding the mouse. The wheel locked automatically, preventing unintended page jumps. I unlocked it with a quick press and continued without interruption.
The mx anywhere 3, released in 2022, improves on the 2 with a smaller form factor, longer battery life (up to 100 days), and enhanced surface tracking. It also adds a built-in charging dock and support for Logitech Flow, which allows clipboard sharing between devices.
However, the mx anywhere 2 remains a strong choice for users who don't need the latest features. It's available at lower prices and performs reliably in most professional settings. The mx anywhere 2s, a slightly updated version, was released in 2021 with minor refinements in weight and button feel.
For those seeking a balance between cost and capability, the mx anywhere 2 offers a proven workflow. It's not the newest model, but it's still effective and widely supported.
The mx anywhere 2 stands out as a versatile tool for anyone managing multiple devices. Its blend of precision, portability, and reliability continues to make it a staple in professional workflows.