Hands-on review: Logitech MX Creative Console

Logitech's MX Creative Console promises to redefine digital workflows, offering creative professionals a versatile tool for greater efficiency and precision. Having spent a week with this innovative device, here's how it performed across various creative tasks.

First Impressions
Out of the box, the MX Creative Console makes a striking impression. Its sleek, minimalist design is available in Graphite and Pale Grey, both of which blend seamlessly into modern workspaces. The build quality is impressive, featuring responsibly sourced materials such as 72% post-consumer recycled plastic for the Graphite model and renewable energy-produced aluminium.

The setup process is straightforward, with the Logi Options+ software providing a smooth introduction. From customising controls to downloading app-specific plugins, the process is quick and intuitive, reflecting Logitech's commitment to user-centric design.

Performance and Features
At its core, the MX Creative Console comprises two components: the Creative Keypad and the Creative Dialpad, both optimised for customisation. The Keypad's dynamic display keys provide immediate access to your most-used actions, while the Dialpad offers tactile, analogue controls for fine-tuning adjustments.

Whether you're tweaking brush sizes in Adobe Photoshop or navigating timelines in Premiere Pro, the console's responsiveness is exceptional. The contextual dial adapts to the software you're using, offering seamless transitions between precision and range-based tasks.

Logitech's partnership with Adobe stands out, with tailored plugins for popular apps like Photoshop, Illustrator, and Premiere Pro. The integration is smooth, and AI-driven features like Photoshop's Generative Fill or Premiere Pro's Text-Based Editing feel natural and easy to access. Plus, the included three-month Adobe Creative Cloud All Apps membership is a welcome bonus.

Workflow Benefits
One of the standout advantages of the MX Creative Console is its ability to streamline repetitive tasks. By mapping complex actions to a single button, it significantly reduces the time spent navigating menus. In my testing, automating multi-step photo editing tasks in Lightroom Classic cut my workflow time by nearly half.

Switching between apps was also seamless. Thanks to the paging buttons, I could maintain distinct profiles for each software, eliminating the need to constantly reconfigure controls. The device supports up to 15 pages per profile, making it adaptable to even the most intricate workflows.

User Experience
The tactile nature of the device enhances the creative process. The fluid roller on the Dialpad makes zooming and navigating a pleasure, while the buttons are satisfying to press without being too loud. The ergonomic stand ensures the LCD keys remain visible, even in cluttered setups.

The Logi Options+ software deserves praise for its simplicity. It's easy to drag and drop commands, assign icons, and explore additional plugins via the Logi Marketplace. While the preloaded Adobe profiles are excellent, the option to create custom profiles for non-Adobe apps expands its appeal.

Sustainability Efforts
Logitech's commitment to sustainability is commendable. Alongside the use of recycled materials, the packaging is FSC-certified, and the device employs micro-textures instead of paint to reduce environmental impact. These choices make the MX Creative Console an eco-conscious purchase.

Areas for Improvement
While the MX Creative Console delivers exceptional performance, it does come with a few caveats. At $349.95, it's an investment, though its time-saving capabilities and quality construction justify the price for professionals.

Additionally, while the Logi Options+ app is robust, it's currently limited to Windows and macOS, leaving Linux users without support. Expanding compatibility would enhance the product's versatility.

Final Verdict
The Logitech MX Creative Console is a game-changer for creative professionals seeking to optimise their workflows. Its intuitive controls, deep app integration, and customisation options make it a standout tool for anyone working with Adobe software or similar applications.

Coupled with its eco-friendly design, the MX Creative Console is a forward-thinking product that bridges functionality and sustainability. While it may not suit casual users, it's a must-have for dedicated creators ready to elevate their productivity.

Rating: 4.5/5