Logitech MX Ink for Meta Quest: Complete Guide and Review
The Logitech MX Ink brings precision and control to VR artists and designers. As Meta Quest's first third-party stylus, it opens new possibilities for digital creation in VR (virtual reality) and MR (mixed reality) spaces. Here's everything you need to know about this $129 device.
What Makes the MX Ink Special?
The MX Ink is a sleek black pen with hidden IR LEDs that keep tracking smooth, even when your hand partially covers them from the Quest's view. The pressure-sensitive tip changes line thickness naturally as you draw, while three buttons near the tip let you interact with apps quickly. There's also a Meta button at the end that functions the same as on the Quest controller - it opens the home menu.
It's the first 3rd party accessory to use the Quest's built-in tracking system. This means no extra sensors or complicated setup – just pair and start creating.
Getting Started with Your MX Ink
Setting up the MX Ink takes just a few minutes:
- Hold the Meta button on the stylus for 2 seconds to power up
- Open the Meta Horizon mobile app and turn on your Quest headset
- Go to your profile → menu on the top right → "Devices" → Your Quest → "Headset Settings" → "Controllers"
- Select "Pair New Controller" and select "Pair Stylus"
- In your headset, press the Meta button on the back of the stylus again to get it to show up in VR.
Once paired, head to your Quest's Settings → Devices menu to personalize the MX Ink. You'll find options to set your main hand, customize button controls, and adjust pressure sensitivity. Take a few minutes to experiment with these settings - they make a big difference in how the stylus responds to your drawing style.
Uses and Applications
The MX Ink shines in both 2D and 3D work. When drawing on surfaces in mixed reality, the pressure sensitivity makes it feel like using a real pen. Switch to 3D space, and the barrel button takes over pressure control for brush strokes.
Best Apps to Try
Based on hands-on testing, here were some of my favorite picks:
Gravity Sketch
Gravity Sketch is a professional-grade 3D design tool that lets you create and iterate on designs in virtual space at 1:1 scale. Think of it as a virtual studio where you can sketch, surface, and sculpt your ideas into detailed 3D models. I created a complete 3D model using the MX Ink and then brought it to life with a 3D printer. The precision made detailed work much easier than with standard controllers. I definitely need to improve my artistic skills and knowledge of Gravity Sketch though, but that's more of a learning curve between me and Gravity Sketch vs the Logitech MX Ink!
Painting VR
Painting VR is a beginner-friendly virtual art studio focused on acrylic-style painting with an emphasis on experimentation and fun. With unlimited supplies and a zero-gravity mode, it's perfect for those just starting their artistic journey. This app shows off what the pressure sensitivity can do. Each stroke responds exactly as you'd expect, making digital painting feel natural.
Vermillion
Vermillion is an advanced oil painting simulator that replicates the nuances of real oil paint, including color mixing and impasto effects. Unlike Painting VR's more casual approach, Vermillion aims for professional-grade realism with features like bristle brushes and palette knives. This app takes learning to paint in VR to a new level. I pulled up painting tutorials on the in-app browser and followed along. The MX Ink made it feel remarkably close to using real brushes.
Other compatible apps include:
- Figmin XR
- Shapes XR
- Open Brush
- Thrasher (yes, it even works in some games!)
Price & Options
At $129 for the stylus alone, or $169.99 if you include the charging dock, the MX Ink costs less than many previous VR stylus options. For digital artists, designers, or anyone who spends time creating in VR, the investment makes sense. The precision and natural feel can speed up workflows and make detailed work more enjoyable.
Should You Get One?
If you:
- Create digital art in VR
- Work with 3D models
- Need precision for mixed reality apps
- Want a more natural way to interact with VR
Then yes, the MX Ink deserves a spot in your VR toolkit. For the best experience, consider getting the version with the charging dock ($169.99) - it makes keeping the stylus powered up hassle-free. The standalone stylus ($129) is also a solid choice if you're looking to save some money and don't mind using a regular USB-C cable for charging.
Looking Forward
The MX Ink shows how VR input devices are growing up. It's not just about making VR creation possible – it's about making it practical and precise. As more apps add support for the device, its value will likely grow.
Whether you choose the standalone stylus ($129) or the version with the charging dock ($169.99), consider which creative apps you'll use most. The MX Ink works best when paired with software that takes full advantage of its capabilities.