Access DPI settings through the side buttons or Logitech software
The Logitech G502 has two ways to change DPI: using the physical buttons on the mouse itself, or through Logitech G HUB software on your computer. The quickest method is the side button — a small button labeled with a DPI symbol (usually a circle with a dot) sits just above your thumb rest. Press it to cycle through your preset DPI levels without opening any software.
If you want more control — setting custom DPI values, naming your profiles, or assigning different DPI levels to different games — you need Logitech G HUB, the free software that comes with the mouse. This software runs on Windows or Mac and lets you save multiple DPI configurations and switch between them.
Key Takeaways
- The DPI button on the side of the mouse cycles through preset DPI levels without needing software.
- Logitech G HUB software lets you set custom DPI values and create separate profiles for different games or tasks.
- DPI changes take effect immediately on the G502 — no restart or reconnection needed.
- The mouse stores your DPI settings in its onboard memory, so your preferences stay the same even if you unplug it or use it on another computer.
Using the physical DPI button on the mouse
Press the DPI button (the small circular button above your thumb) once to move to the next DPI level. Each press cycles forward through your saved DPI settings. The mouse has a small indicator light near the button that changes color to show which DPI level you are on — usually blue for low, purple for medium, and red for high, though the colors depend on your setup.
By default, the G502 comes with DPI levels set at 400, 800, 1600, and 3200. If you press the button four times, you cycle back to the starting level. This method works instantly and requires no software, making it the fastest way to switch DPI during gameplay or work.
Setting custom DPI levels in Logitech G HUB
Download Logitech G HUB from Logitech's website and install it on your computer. Connect your G502 via USB cable or wireless receiver. Open G HUB and select your G502 from the device list. Click on the DPI section to see your current DPI levels.
To change a DPI level, click on the number you want to modify. A slider appears — drag it left to lower the DPI or right to increase it. DPI on the G502 ranges from 100 to 25,600. Once you set your values, they save automatically to the mouse's memory. You can create up to five separate DPI profiles and name them (for example, "Gaming," "Work," or "Browsing") so you know which one you are using.
Creating game-specific DPI profiles
Logitech G HUB lets you link different DPI settings to specific games. Click the "Profiles" tab in G HUB and select "Create New Profile." Choose the game from the list or browse your computer for the game's executable file. Once linked, G HUB automatically switches to that profile's DPI settings when you launch the game.
For example, you might set a fast-twitch shooter to 3200 DPI for quick aim adjustments, but use 800 DPI for strategy games where precision matters more than speed. The profile switches happen in the background — you do not have to manually select anything once the link is set up.
Adjusting DPI sensitivity and polling rate
Beyond DPI, G HUB also controls polling rate — how often the mouse reports its position to your computer. The G502 supports 125 Hz, 250 Hz, 500 Hz, and 1000 Hz. Higher polling rates mean more responsive cursor movement but use slightly more power. Most users find 1000 Hz sufficient for gaming; 500 Hz works fine for everyday use.
You can also adjust acceleration and angle snapping in G HUB. Acceleration makes the cursor move faster the quicker you move the mouse; angle snapping locks diagonal movements to straight lines. Both are off by default. Most gamers turn these off for consistent, predictable aiming, but some prefer them on for general desktop work.
Troubleshooting DPI changes that do not work
If pressing the DPI button does not change the DPI, check that the mouse is powered on and connected. Wireless G502 mice need fresh batteries or a charged battery pack. If using the USB cable, make sure it is fully inserted into your computer.
If G HUB shows the mouse but DPI changes do not stick, restart G HUB and reconnect the mouse. If the problem continues, uninstall G HUB, restart your computer, and reinstall it. On rare occasions, the mouse firmware needs an update — G HUB will prompt you to update if one is available.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does the G502 remember DPI settings if I unplug it?
Yes. The G502 stores your DPI settings in its onboard memory. Unplug it, use it on another computer, or let the battery drain — your settings remain saved. When you plug it back in or recharge it, your DPI levels are exactly as you left them.
Can I use the G502 without Logitech G HUB?
Yes. The physical DPI button works without any software installed. You can cycle through the default DPI levels (400, 800, 1600, 3200) using only the mouse. G HUB is optional and only needed if you want to customize those values or create game-specific profiles.
What DPI should I use for gaming?
This depends on the game and your preference. Fast-paced shooters often use 1600–3200 DPI for quick reactions. Strategy games and design work typically use 400–800 DPI for precision. Start at 1600 and adjust up or down based on whether you feel the cursor is too slow or too fast.
Does changing DPI affect my Windows mouse sensitivity settings?
No. DPI is a hardware setting on the mouse itself. Windows mouse sensitivity is separate. Both affect how fast your cursor moves, so if you change DPI, you may need to adjust Windows sensitivity to feel the same. Most gamers leave Windows sensitivity at 50% and control speed entirely through DPI.