I have been using Logitech peripherals for years. Logitech gear always just worked.
Now they demand internet accounts to use the features of the keyboard and mouse that I purchased. WTF?
Not only that, have to use wide-open-to-snooping Chrome to adjust the settings. You cannot adjust/use your mouse and keyboard if you just use Firefox.
This only makes sense if they are planning (or are already) tracking my every move online to sell to advertisers or spooks.
What are the good options?
Also, if anybody sees how these changes could be benign, please let me know.
EDIT:
By popular demand:
The keyboard I bought that started this journey: MX Keys S
The key feature that first demanded cloud access: Swithing between computers, now it is requires it to adjust the receivers. I have both a Bolt and a Unifying receiver.
Mouse (actually a trackball) that now is requesting that I use a Chrome Browser to adjust it: M570
Software:
The Logi SetPoint Settings I open from Windows now requires you to log into your Logitech account to make changes to your Unifying or 2.4 ghz usb receiver. This link takes you to a screen that says Logi Web Connect. It does not work unless you use the latest version of Chrome, Edge, & Opera, but reccomends Chrome for the best experience.
Logitech + used to require this to enable options, but I don’t see it on my Windows computer anymore. It is still on my Mac, but upon opening it to confirm for this message, it seems to be announcing that it is now able to incorporate AI into everything I type. (ugggh)
When did you buy the M570? I bought mine 6 years ago and it doesn’t require software, if yours is recent then that’s a new thing
It just changed. It always had the app to program the buttons, but now if you need to change the receiver, it goes to the cloud.
Find a mouse and keyboard you like and buy 5-10 of them. Put them in heavy duty ziploc bags with a few dessicant packets and store them in your freezer.
For keyboards I’d highly recommend Filco, Daskey, and Ducky. The former 2 are more ‘no frills, all business’, the latter has some RGB offerings, but most of the keyboards those guys make are plate-mounted mechanical, plug and play, with really decent build quality. Also fairly common and easy to source (Microcenter usually has some of those brands in stock).
I don’t know shit about trackballs but my Dad forgot his when he came up to visit (Minnesota-Arizona snowbirds) so I bought him an ELECOM DEFT PRO from Amazon and he loved it so much he started using it over the one he forgot to bring. Might be worth a look - also a plug and play type device
My wife balked when I bought a Ducky keyboard to replace the solar UN-powered, Bluetooth DIS-connected, keys popping everywhere garbage I got from work. Once she typed on it, she never had another complaint.
This was posted on Lemmy a month or so back so i’m betting these are baby steps in that direction.
Sounds about right. If he did forego the subscription revenue, that does not mean he won’t try to monitize our useage data.
I use a Logitech mouse and do not have the problems you are talking about.
It may be possible it has features you don’t know about that are only enabled with the software. I have a Logitech mouse but only download the software because there was a macro fix for a broken clicker.
Me either. I have a G502 and I have the G Hub app to control the features(DPI, button assignments, RGB), but I’ve never needed an account to use it.
I use my 602 (the wireless one) on linux with an open-source mouse app called Piper. Does everything GHub can do - at least as far as my needs go.
Okay lemme check this out and see if this can replace my black tape.
Good luck, my friend!
Good recommendation.
I’d be stuck in the ASUS ROG bloatware environment with BSODs were it not for G Hub! Great app.
You need to share some context for that statement lol. What are you talking about?
My G503 started requiring the Windows app to set any other RGB than rainbow patterns.
I had it set to off, it used to store on the mouse, now I need to install and run Windows to have it not flashbang me.
I used black tape. I don’t recommend this dumb thing to anyone, anymore.
That is still an option, but there is a tradeoff. There is a button in the software to enable on-board memory mode.
You lose all your key assignment controls and fine-tuned DPI settings, but it stores on the device. If you want to have those features available, the mouse needs some software on the PC to talk to for more fine-grained control.
That’s the thing, I used to be able to set profiles, set what the buttons do as well as the DPI in each profile and their colour, and it used to store in memory.
They removed it. You need this application for it, now. Or think it makes sense all of this can’t be stored in memory. Point is still that the only colour setting without this is bright rainbow patterns.
Yeah, I’d like to know the specifics, too. My Logi mouse still uses the same application (although they did update terms recently) and while they’ve added some AI shovelware to it the mouse stil remembers its shortcuts with that thing off and I haven’t noticed any changes to how the application is put together.
It’s entirely possible the application is a Chromium-based browser thing, but in any case it still doesn’t require a login (although it does support one) and it will run offline.
Don’t get me wrong, Logi’s approach to this, along with a lot of other hardware manufacturers, sucks really bad. I do appreciate Microsoft, of all people, recently starting to standardize RGB controls, at least. It’s still wonky and interacts weirdly with some third party software, but it’s a start. I don’t need twenty different apps to keep glowy lights and saved shortcuts going.
I added details to the OP
Oh, cool. My current device uses Logitech Options+, which is not the same as the old G Hub and is not the same as what you’re describing.
Which honestly, before we get into the mandatory login and everything else, begs the question… why does Logitech need three different multi-device software hubs? What the hell?
It’s not (just) that manufacturers are trying to mine all this bloatware for data, it’s that most of them are absolutely terrible at making software in the first place.
I assume you’re talking about the Unifying feature.
I’ve got no direct experience, but there are a few people who say that despite Firefox not being listed as supported, it works fine.
https://forums.mozillazine.org/viewtopic.php?p=14961275
As for the spying, I can see how that could be a concern, but I don’t think it’s too likely.
For convenience, I’m guessing they’re using a web interface to the settings in the same way that your router does. They’ve made a Chrome plugin, so that’s probably the route they want you to take because they know it works.
Logitech is a global brand, an they’d get into a lot of trouble in a lot of countries if they were gathering keypress data etc.
Thanks for the comment
For convenience, I’m guessing they’re using a web interface to the settings in the same way that your router does. They’ve made a Chrome plugin, so that’s probably the route they want you to take because they know it works.
Thanks based on your comment I reloaded and checked it. It is pointing to logiwebconnect.com. That does not appear to be a web front end. I do not see a way around the browser not supported page to try it on Firefox.
The CEO already talked about, and then walked back after backlash, a subscription mouse. Sounds like they’re going forward without saying anything this time.
@RestrictedAccount@lemmy.world time to drop all Logitech gear and never buy from them again.
Currently still using the G502 Hero, and all it’s customization is on-board, edited using a portable .exe. I’m using some Rosewill mechanical keyboard which I believe has all its customization tied to inputs while holding the FN key.
Fuck, I hate always-online apps just to use the God damn peripherials I’ve paid for. I go far out of my way to avoid them.
Any chance you’ve got a non-sketchy link to where that portable exe can be found? My g600s keybindings borked themselves at some point when I gave Linux a shot, and Logitechs own downloads are a pain to find anything relevant to “older” hardware
Logitech devices do not need such drivers under Linux…
Short fix is to dump Logitech, long term fix is to install Linux and still dump logitech
Really?
My Logitech mice won’t work, at all under Linux unless I go find a third party software to make them work.
While under Windows they just work, even without the Logitech config software.
Then what you bought is not a mouse, it’s a proprietary peripheral that emulates a mouse when you install its propretary drivers.
Never encountered a Logitech mouse or keyboard that didn’t work out of the box with Linux.
The way forward is to stop looking at those as “features of the keyboard and mouse that I purchased” and consider them as “unlockables” where you have to pay again by handing over your personal info. Then stop buying their stuff, because it’s absurd to have to pay twice.
I prefer my keyboards and mice as dumb as possible. Preferably with cables, so I never have to worry about charging them.
What are some good dumb brands yall could recommend for keyboard, mouse, and other peripherals?
Anker has a nice “vertical” mouse that has a wired variant. For keyboards I usually just check for an obscure Chinese brand
Ducky Keyboards are pretty good (but ex)
I used to love Anker, but after the performance of their MagSafe batteries and recent recall, I’m hesitant to recommend them anymore 🤷
That’s fair.
Gamestop seems to be releasing competitive options right now.
I love Zowie mice because their shapes are incredible and they’re built like tanks. One of mine is 15 years old and I still use it for work.
Logitech.
G305 for a “standard” mouse
MX Vertical for a vertical mouse
Both are wireless with a dedicated dongle and run off AA batteries. I hope that’s acceptable.G332 or G432 for a headset with decent sound and mic (that even works well over hearing aides)
Keyboard? I dunno, I went with a Das Keyboard Ultimate 4, I love my clickity clacky but it’s not a cheap recommendation
They’ve all served me well for 6 or more years with the exception of the MX Vertical (2 years so far) and are all still spotless. None show any sign of wear or tear and do their job well.
EDIT I see OP had bad experiences specifically with this brand. I’m sorry to see that, disregard my opinions, OP.
I’ve been using a Dell keyboard I got at goodwill for $4. It’s great.
stop looking at those as “features of the keyboard and mouse that I purchased”
Seriously.
Maybe I’m an old timer but my idea of extra features on a mouse or keyboard are simply more inputs: more mouse buttons or wheels, more keys on a keyboard (like media keys). At most that just requires additional hardware, but nothing my OS can’t handle on its own.
I’ve done a lot of de-enshitification in my digital life over the past year, most recently by de-google my phone. I’m going to be honest: It’s not easy, nor convenient, and a lot of the time not cheap. You really have to go out of your way to get what you want, sacrificing at least something a long the way (features, usability, etc). It takes quite a bit of desire and determination to move away from the modern garbage that these companies shove your way, and I’m honestly not sure if it’s worth it for the average person because of the massive amount of effort that it takes.
All of the above is to say that if you really want to avoid enshitification you’re gonna have to make changes, such as buying a different set of peripherals for your pc, and that it’s not gonna be easy. The real question is: is all of that work worth it for you?
For me it 100% has been.
I use hyperx alloy core keyboard as I don’t actually need programmable keys or an LCD. RGB and media keys are as far as I go.
Could you remap the keys with AHK?
Just build your own keyboard. That’s what I did (and it turned out fantastic) 🤷
Mice are much easier to deal with since there’s 500 million of them to choose from. Just pick a generic, no-name brand that doesn’t need drivers and you’re all set.
Aside: Building a keyboard isn’t rocket science. It’s just a bit tedious (buy a kit). Unless you invent your own 3D printable keyboard switch and stabilizers from scratch then design an analog circuit board to work with them (also from scratch). Then it’s a bit more like rocket science 🤣
I’d like to find a small bluetooth keyboard with mechanical switches that I could use with both my.phone and my 2009 MBP running MX. I need stowable and chargeable with C.
I have time, where would I find a kit for something like that?
At this point the suggestions are getting pretty out there. So far I’ve heard in this thread that I should switch to Linux, download this and that code from GitHub, build my own keyboard and design a circuit board for it.
I think I’ll just take the adware.
Handwired keyboards with a Raspberry Pi or Arduino are achievable: https://github.com/joe-scotto/scottokeebs
I’ve made 2 keyboards with kits (see my post history) and it was good fun and an easy way to get a QMK compatible custom board. Would recommend.
I’ve had a kit for a gherkin for years but my soldering skills suck. It might be that my iron doesn’t get to the correct temp though. I have no idea. Every time I’ve soldered stuff it feels random what’s happening. It makes me wonder if the tip is not at a consistent temperature.
https://i.redd.it/8023bd3la6n11.jpg
Clean your soldering iron tip on a sponge before every joint.
I use RP2040’s for all my homemade boards. Deeply satisfying, and one of the few DIY projects where you can come away feeling like you’ve got something absolutely as usable as a commercial offering.
I’m keen to make a handwired macro board, but the learning curve of programming of QMK from scratch is not something I’m prepared to deal with right now.
I use KMK, which doesn’t require compiling, but instead uses human readable Python, and now there is POG, which I’ve used on my last two and runs you through the process.
Just build your own keyboard.
Just build one, huh? It’s super simple and easy. Doesn’t require special tools or anything. No special skills. Surely it’s cheap too. 🙄
Not hating on building your own keyboard at all, but it’s definitely not so simple as to suggest it like “just build one” lol.
Seriously. I’m really into keyboards with QMK, but I buy prebuilt keyboards and mice that are capable of running it because if using QMK required me to solder something, I wouldn’t be able to. Soldering is a skill that most people don’t have.
What are some examples of mass produced ones (if any)? I’ve got some fancier ones but idk if there are normal ones that are easier to buy.
Personally I would just avoid Logitech. I have noticed their stuff mysteriously breaks every 2-3 years and I have to replace it. It’s like planned obsolescence with them.
It can be frustrating finding a good alternative brand. I’m always on the hunt for one. I’ve had a Das Keyboard for a long time now, and it’s fantastic. My wireless mouse is a Tecknet. It’s not great but it’s pretty good. If there’s a Best Buy close to you it may be worth your time to go there and test drive some peripherals.
I’ve had much the opposite experience, in my case coming from using a variety of Razer peripherals and having them all die early deaths, and then Razer themselves to be completely useless in regards to support even well within their warranty period. I gave up and switched to basically all Logitech stuff, which has been flawless for me for many many years.
If everything from all major brands is going to require Yet Another Fucking Account (thus far Logitech does not appear to, or at least not the stuff from them I have) I will just be forced to switch to buying generic brandless Chinese garbage and deal with replacing it regularly. Generic Chinese crap never has an app or an account requirement.
I don’t think I’ve ever had any Razer stuff. I’ve had terrible luck with Logitech, but if you’ve had good luck with it, I can understand why you might want to stay with it. AFAIK Logitech periphs should “just work” with a PC, Mac Linux, or other GNU-Linux box. But yeah…wouldn’t surprise me if they try to force the cloud issue and/or want a subscription in the future.
Thus far all of my Logitech devices are in the “just works” category, but admittedly none of them are brand new. The most recent is the M510 mouse I use on my office PC. Maybe their newer stuff is all bullshit now; I wouldn’t be at all surprised to learn if it were.
If so, it makes me more motivated to finally get around to ordering a new microswitch for the left-clicker on my old Mx518 mouse.
Recently I had to replace my mouse, bought a G502. The mouse itself is a solid quality mouse. But then, three months in, the USB cord split the covering plastic and exposed the wires, right at the connector. I chose it wired specifically to use with a desktop computer that doesn’t move anywhere. It was meant to be a stationary mouse, I plugged it once, then never unplugged it again. Then one day while dusting the case I noticed the damage. Nobody touches this computer but me. The only explanation is that it came faulty from the factory and just a little heat from the case made the plastic open. I honestly didn’t want to bother with having it replaced, just sealed it with shrink wrap and moved on. But I won’t ever be buying another Logitech product.
My G305 mouse, G322 headset and G432 headset have all served me well for far more than 2 years.
My G503 mouse works, but some features that used to be part of the mouse are now walled behind a Windows app. The mouse mouses just fine, though.
EDIT I see OP had bad experiences with this brand specifically. Disregard my opinions, I’m sorry I missed that part.
Simple answer is stop buying products that require OEM software to function or an app.
Keyboards with QMK/VIA support are open and configurable on nearly any OS and for nearly any OS.
Some mice are even QMK/VIA enabled.
Mice are harder so checking for openrgb support is a good idea as well as mice that can be configured and operated without software.
Are there any good resources for qmk/via mice? Mostly can only find a few that feel like they are, at best, proof of concepts and more likely just outright predatory scams to cash in on people who want to spend money.
Ploopy mice are a real thing and run QMK. I have their Classic trackball and it’s an absolute beast
+1 for Ploopy mice. I have the Ploopy Adept, and I’ll never go back to another mouse. They mostly make trackballs, but they do have a “regular” mouse if trackballs aren’t your thing.
The biggest problem with Ploopy is that they only seem to make mice for people with bigger hands, so if that’s not you, you’re kind of screwed :/
