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| The ProArt MD301 still has no price tag, and it's unclear when the mouse will launch. Pictured: a promo picture showing the swappable switches. |
CES 2026 brought a wave of innovation, and Asus gave us a tantalizing glimpse of its new productivity powerhouse: the ProArt Mouse MD301. At the time, details were sparse, leaving enthusiasts eager to learn more about this potential challenger to the throne long held by the Logitech MX Master series. Now, thanks to a fresh new video and a live product page, the full picture is coming into focus. This isn't just another mouse; it’s a hyper-customizable tool designed for creators and professionals who demand precision and comfort.
Designed for Versatility and Customization
From the start, Asus has emphasized versatility. The core of the ProArt MD301’s appeal lies in its swappable button switches. Users are no longer locked into a single feel. Prefer the crisp, tactile feedback of mechanical micro switches? Or do you lean toward the swift, silent actuation of optical switches? With this mouse, you can choose. You can even install a mix of both, tailoring the primary clicks to your exact preference for different tasks. This level of hardware customization is rare and positions the MD301 as a uniquely personalizable peripheral.
You can explore all the technical specifications and official details on the dedicated live webpage for the Asus ProArt Mouse MD301.
SmartShift Wheel and High-Performance Sensor
Taking a page from the market leader, Asus has equipped the MD301 with its own SmartShift Wheel. Much like the Logitech MX Master 3S (available on Amazon), this wheel promises a dual-mode scrolling experience. With a click, you can switch from a tactile, line-by-line scroll for precise editing to a high-speed, inertia-free spin for blazing through long documents or web pages. It’s a feature that, once used, becomes indispensable.
While Asus hasn’t named the specific sensor, it’s described as a high-end optical unit capable of up to 8,000 DPI. More importantly for smooth, lag-free performance, it supports a 1 KHz polling rate in both its 2.4 GHz wireless and wired USB modes. This ensures the cursor keeps pace with your fastest movements. The company also boasts impressive surface compatibility, stating the sensor tracks reliably even on glass—a blessing for those who work at modern desks or on the go.
Ergonomics and Battery Life: Built for Long Sessions
Asus put a clear focus on comfort. The mouse is sculpted with ergonomics as a priority, designed to fit naturally in the hand and reduce strain during marathon work sessions. A key advantage over its main competitor is its weight. At 99.7 grams, the ProArt MD301 is noticeably lighter than the Logitech MX Master 3S, making it a compelling option for users prone to wrist fatigue. Smooth, low-friction PTFE feet round out the physical package, promising a fluid glide.
Powering this productivity beast is a battery rated for an impressive up to 180 days on a single charge, assuming modest daily use. When it does eventually run low, fast charging support will minimize downtime. With six programmable buttons, users can map their most-used shortcuts for software like Adobe Creative Suite, AutoCAD, or any professional application, streamlining their workflow directly from their hand.
Availability and Final Thoughts
The Asus ProArt Mouse MD301 is shaping up to be a serious contender in the high-end productivity mouse arena. By combining unique features like swappable switches with proven essentials like a SmartShift wheel, strong ergonomics, and marathon battery life, Asus is targeting the core audience of power users and creators.
While the Logitech MX Master 3S remains a benchmark in the category, the ProArt MD301’s lighter weight and hardware customization offer distinct points of differentiation. The mouse is expected to hit the market before mid-2026. For professionals looking to elevate their setup with a tool that adapts to them, the wait for this intriguing new rival could be well worth it.
Source: Asus