The presence of a gaming mouse does not guarantee comfortable conditions for the gamer. When it comes to convenience, it is very important to determine which mouse pad is best to choose in the current situation? Now on the market you can find a huge number of similar accessories, which differ not only in their appearance, but also in the material itself. Therefore, in this article we will try to understand all the nuances, and also help you make the right choice. The user will be able to buy something they really need for a peripheral device.
Which brand of mouse pad is best to choose?
Depending on the requirements for the device, you can choose an option for both a game lover and a computer user for work or home purposes. Due to functionality, design, price-quality ratio, the list includes only the best manufacturers of mouse pads, according to buyers and experts:
- Defender is an international brand that produces computer accessories and peripheral devices. Known since 1990. The company's products are manufactured at factories in East Asia and Western Europe. The company's concept is aimed at creating high quality products that will be present in every office and home.
- Sven - the company has its own research base, as well as an engineering center for the development of innovative technologies, the results of which are presented to customers annually.
- HyperX - the company's history began in 2002 with the release of one type of product. Now it is an empire producing products with excellent performance characteristics and attractive design. Products undergo strict certification before reaching users.
- A4 Tech - the company has existed since 1987, creates products based on IT market trends and user requirements. Ergonomics, high-tech, innovation are the main differences between the company's products. The products are sold and popular in many countries around the world thanks to the introduction of the latest technologies that make the lives of customers more comfortable.
- Steel Series is a Danish company that has been around since 2001. The company began its journey with the production of gaming mouse pads. Today, the brand offers many products that expand the capabilities of professional gamers, making games better and more competitive. To make products more interesting, the manufacturer tests them by attracting professional players, supporting communities and holding tournaments around the planet.
- Logitech is a company dedicated to pushing the limits of performance, gaming capabilities, and solving problems faced by gamers. The company's products provide the best gaming experience. The company has many patents, and its products regularly receive awards for quality, design, and innovation. Now this company is a leader in the production of peripheral devices.
- Fellowes is an American company that has been offering office products and computer accessories to customers for more than 100 years. New categories of accessories and products that create a high level of health and comfort in the workplace are in demand among customers. The company's advantage is innovative leadership based on the development and implementation of new technologies.
- Hama is a German manufacturer of photo, audio, video and computer equipment. Today, more than 18,000 accessories for all types of multimedia equipment are available to customers. Modern equipment, produced taking into account the realities of the time, is in demand among buyers who value the company’s products for high quality, unique design, colors and affordable prices.
Mouse pad rating
At home, middle-aged people don’t need fancy, expensive devices with backlighting or additional wrist support. What is important to them is the quality of the mat, its abrasion resistance, tight fit to the table surface, and low price. Young people choose bright colors and original design. Young people like models in the form of curvy girls. And the female half purchases accessories with images of popular artists or interesting prints.
For gamers, it is important that the mat does not slip or deform during use. The large size of the accessory will allow you to make more high-quality mouse movements, and this model will also accommodate a keyboard. These same characteristics attract web designers, for whom the accuracy of cursor positioning is no less important than for professional players. Taking these requirements into account, a rating of the best mouse pads has been compiled. Additionally, customer findings, expert opinions, and test results were studied. The nominees were recognized as the best in the following characteristics:
- Appearance;
- Ease of use;
- Quality of coating, base;
- Size;
- Price;
- Table grip level;
- The presence of a pillow under the wrist;
- Availability of backlight;
- Select additional functions.
Users also pay attention to the convenience of the device, the presence of ergonomic elements to support the wrist, and the quality of the material from which the mat is made. The quality and result of working at the computer depend on how hard or soft the surface and base are.
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Distinctive features
Coating material
The coating of the mousepad is one of the important parameters that has a direct impact on the performance of the mouse. The materials used for coating can be varied:
- Cork. Ideal for owners of vintage devices equipped with a wheel. If you are using a laser or optical mouse, then it is better to give preference to another option, since the cork coating can cause abrasion of the device’s leg, as well as calluses the owner’s wrist.
- Made of glass and aluminum. Provides the fastest and most accurate mouse glide. This is best suited for fans of shooter games, since in them the cursor movement must be carried out quite quickly. In addition, you should take into account the fact that such models have a longer service life. But on the other hand, such options are not entirely compatible with laser mice, since some problems may occur during operation. In addition, such materials are quite cool to the touch - not every user will like this.
- Plastic. Sufficiently universal coating for all types of mice. They provide precise cursor movement and excellent speed.
- Polycarbonate. Helps ensure mouse gliding speed, which hardcore gamers will appreciate. But, if you compare it with glass coating, polycarbonate is less durable.
- Textile. This coating softens sliding, but the speed of movement is significantly reduced. This option will provide optimal convenience for ordinary users and office employees who have nothing to do with design or computer games.
- Polypropylene. Provides soft glide. Quite durable and does not require special care.
- Leather. This coating looks very stylish and beautiful - these are perhaps its main advantages. This option is ideal for organizing a workplace for a manager who is often on the road.
Despite the variety of coverings available, the most common ones are made of fabric and plastic.
Base material
The base performs only one function – securing the mat to the work surface to prevent it from slipping during use. Bases can also be made from various materials:
- Rubber. It fits quite tightly to the surface. This option will be appreciated by both gamers and office employees.
- Plastic. Most often it is assumed that the rug does not have a base, since it is entirely made of this material. This type of base is not the best choice for almost any use.
- Rubber. It is the most common and universal. This mat provides a tight fit to the surface and can be easily moved if necessary. In addition, this option is more budget-friendly.
- Polyurethane. Endowed with all the characteristics of rubber, and a fairly long service life. However, this kind of rugs can be found quite rarely.
- Silicone. It is the undoubted leader in terms of tightness; you will even have to make some effort to move it. This option will be an indispensable solution for designers and artists who work on a computer and adhere to the main goal - to prevent accidental movement of the cursor.
Size
This parameter is optional and does not impose any special requirements. Of course, for games and design activities you should give preference to a large rug, but this is not so important. The optimal size should be selected only after testing devices of different sizes and choosing the most suitable option. In size they are large (more than 30*30 cm), medium (20*20 - 30*30 cm) and small (up to 20*20 cm).
Thickness
This parameter, like the previous one, is optional. Some people prefer the position of the brush to be higher, while others prefer the opposite. It should be given special attention only if the rug is constantly moving across the surface.
Wrist rest
An excellent addition to help reduce hand fatigue during the work process. The material used is soft silicone. For gamers and designers, such models are not entirely acceptable, since the stand limits the movement of the mouse beyond the permissible range. In addition, mats with this addition have a shorter service life, since the supports tend to tear quickly.
Decor
A parameter that plays an important role, since the rug should please the user who sits down at the computer. Design is especially important for fans of computer games, whose “working” place is made in the same style - in this case, the rug should be harmoniously combined not only with the mouse, but also with all other elements.
In most cases, rugs are made with various images (abstraction, photos, logos). You can even find accessories with 3D effects that change depending on the position of your gaze.
The Best Cheap Mouse Pads
Despite the excitement of gamers and their passion for the best devices and technology, as well as the desire of computer users to feel comfortable in the workplace, buyers mainly choose models that meet the maximum price-quality ratio. More than 15 nominees were considered before compiling the TOP of inexpensive mouse pads. The rating will help you understand which mouse pad is better to choose and find out the purpose of its use: gaming or working at the computer.
Defender Black M (50560)
The high-quality black playing surface measures 360x270 mm. Its thickness is 3 mm. It looks very impressive thanks to the surface material. Soft and pleasant to the touch textiles allow the mouse to glide easily. The edges of the accessory are stitched with red threads. The mat is not backlit, the base is rubberized, the device fits tightly and evenly to the table surface. With average use (not gaming), the accessory looks good after 3 months of use without scuffs or cracks. A mouse with plastic legs is not very comfortable to use; it is better to use Teflon ones. Conclusion: a convenient device at a reasonable price.
Advantages
- Low price;
- Excellent coverage, the mouse with a metal sole glides well;
- Does not slip on the table;
- Good quality, edges are stitched.
Flaws
- It is uncomfortable to use a mouse with plastic feet.
The accessory looks stylish. It may seem inconvenient to use at first due to its size, since the device is almost 2 times larger than conventional pads.
Excellent quality, the mat lies flat on the table without creases or twists, the mouse moves smoothly.
Sven GS-S
A fabric play mat from the popular company Sven with a rubberized base. The edges are hemmed for durability. The laser and optical mouse glides easily and smoothly. The device itself is quite heavy, it practically does not move on the surface of the table. For a low price, the buyer receives a high-quality product for the home or office with an original design. Unfortunately, fans of the brand are offered only one print option on the rug. It may seem harsh to some, but over time the eyes get used to it.
Advantages
- It has a convenient size of 240x335 mm;
- Smooth mouse glide thanks to high-quality coating;
- The fabric is not easily soiled;
- Doesn't move on the table;
- Price.
Flaws
- Only 1 color option.
Easily washed with plain water without the use of special products. After 3 months of active work with it, it does not delaminate and has its original appearance. Convenient size allows you to “walk around” while playing.
Comparison table of the 10 best models
Model | Coating material | Dimensions, mm | Type | Price, rubles |
A4Tech X7-200MP (78895) | Textile | 250x200x5 | Universal | 250 |
Defender Black XXL (50559) | Textile | 355x400x3 | Universal | 300 |
Defender Easy Work (50905 / 50915 / 50916) | Textile | 260x225x5 | Universal | 300 |
ORICO MPS8030 | Textile | 800x300x3 | Universal | 700 |
SteelSeries QcK | Textile | 320x270x2 | Game | 1 200 |
ROCCAT Taito Control Edition (ROC-13-170) | Textile | 320x400x3 | Game | 1 500 |
Corsair MM300 (CH-9000108-WW) | Textile | 930x300x3 | Game | 2 500 |
Logitech G440 | Plastic | 340x280x3 | Game | 2 500 |
Razer Firefly | Plastic/fabric | 355x255x3.5 | Game | 4 500 |
Corsair MM800 RGB Polaris (CH-9440020-EU / CH-9440021-EU) | Plastic | 350x260x5 | Game | 5 800 |
Best Gaming Mouse Pads
The speed of its movement and the accuracy of the sensor positioning depend on the properties of the surface on which the mouse slides. For gamers, the speed and accuracy of the device determines the outcome of battles, so a small or large gaming mouse pad can lead to victory or defeat. In addition to the surface, the reverse side plays an important role; it must be firmly fixed on the table, preventing it from moving during sudden movements of the player. Some models have protection for the player's wrist from friction against the table surface and provide it with support.
HyperX Fury S Pro Extra Large (HX-MPFS-XL)
The playing surface has a huge size compared to other accessories: 900x420 mm. It easily fits both a mouse and a keyboard. The thickness of the accessory is 3.45 mm. Smooth stitched edges enhance durability and comfort while making the mouse as easy to move as possible. The natural rubber backing tightly holds the device on the table surface, even if the user actively moves the mouse. If necessary, it can be easily rolled up for transportation, after which it quickly returns to its original form. You can clean the mat from dust with a regular dry cloth. If dirty, wipe with a damp cloth.
Advantages
- Substrate made of natural material;
- The edges are stitched with smooth stitching;
- Rubberized bottom layer;
- Nice appearance.
Flaws
- The first few days the mat smells unpleasantly like rubber.
The dimensions of the accessory are similar to the Razer mouse pad, which is 700 mm long. It is not recommended to wet it with plenty of water for the purpose of cleaning; it is enough to use wet wipes, and it is better not to eat on the device. The model is suitable for any modern optical mice.
A4Tech Bloody B-080 (89836)
The base material of the red and black mat is rubber and fabric, the edges are processed. The accessory does not delaminate over time, the mouse moves smoothly over it, and no dirt is visible. If necessary, you can get rid of it by cleaning the mat with a damp cloth or dishwashing sponge soaked in water. The original drawing in the form of a red handprint on a black background looks stylish. A convenient and high-quality accessory may have a residual rubber smell in the first days of use, but it disappears over time. Large, pleasant to the touch, beautiful device is perfect for both home use and office work.
Advantages
- Fabric braid;
- Has good grip on the table;
- Nice drawing;
- Stitched edges.
Flaws
- Near one edge it is unevenly impregnated with a special liquid.
Some users in the reviews note that the device does not take on a smooth appearance for several days. You can clean it with a regular brush and soap. Made with high quality, after 1 month of active use it looks good thanks to the stitched sides and rubberized surface.
Steel Series QcK+ (63003)
The original fabric mat, measuring 450x400 mm and 2 mm thick, is compatible with a laser and optical mouse. The single-sided design ensures the durability of the accessory, despite the unstitched edges. It is durable when used daily, 5 days a week. The rubber backing prevents it from sliding on the table. Pleasant to the touch, solid. Designed for console. If you like to eat at the computer, you should arm yourself with a rag to wipe the device. A damp dish sponge will also help. It is not recommended to wash the accessory. The mat is great for games and is inexpensive.
Advantages
- Fabric surface;
- Durable;
- Easy to care for, just rinse under warm water.
Flaws
- The edges are not stitched.
The main thing is not to wash the device in a washing machine, do not dry it in direct sunlight or on a radiator. Due to the fact that the edges are not stitched, the fabric will fray over time, but if they are trimmed, the Steel Series QcK+ will return to its attractive appearance.
Metal mousedromes
Xiaomi Mouse Pad is available in two versions (S and L), differing in size (180 by 240 and 240 by 300 mm, respectively) with the same average price of 900 rubles, which makes this option the cheapest of the metal gaming pads.
Ozone Ocelote World is a mid-priced option with a rubber base and aluminum coating, which provides good grip on the table and high speed of mouse movement. This rug costs about 1600 rubles.
Corsair MM600 - An aluminum finish on an aluminum base makes this option the epitome of speed and reliability. It will cost an average of 3,500 rubles.
Razer Manticor is a stylish black mat from a famous brand that combines aluminum coating and a rubber base. You can buy it for an average of 4,000 rubles.
HAMA Aluminum is a small (220 by 180 mm) and very smooth mouse pad with a fabric base and an aluminum surface on which the mouse will not slip and fly. This model looks especially harmonious next to a laptop in a metal case.
Satechi Aluminum is a beautiful and stylish model that holds perfectly on the table thanks to rubber feet and offers perfect glide due to the aluminum surface. The engineers did a good job on the ergonomics of the mat, so the beveled corners will not cut your hand, and the metal, thanks to its high thermal conductivity, will provide pleasant coolness.
ORICO AMP3025 is a lightweight and durable mat with a stylish design and a grippy base. Like previous models, it boasts good glide, but it should be noted that not all mice will work perfectly on a metal surface.
Best Backlit Mouse Pads
The LED lighting built into the mat creates an interesting effect. There are not many games that would support this solution, but the accessory looks very nice. The surface of the devices is wear-resistant. The thickness of the models allows you to hide defects and unevenness of the table; the mat will last a long time even with daily use. Accessories are suitable for both optical and laser mice.
Steel Series QcK Prism (63391)
The original rug has a combined type of surface. The base material is rubber, which ensures a long service life. The presence of a side around the entire perimeter prevents the accessory from moving during use. The connection cable is located on the right; its exit point is additionally protected from bending and breaking. Perhaps its presence is inconvenient during work, but this model of accessory implies more beauty than comfort. The illumination at night defines the contour of the work area and looks interesting.
Advantages
- Thickness 8.68 mm;
- 2 replaceable bases: fabric and plastic;
- Beautiful lighting;
- The presence of a side around the perimeter.
Flaws
- High price;
- The fee for the backlight is an extra cable.
Users note the ability to link the color and behavior of the backlight with what is happening in games. For example, you can control the hero’s health, armor, and remaining ammunition. Together with headphones, a keyboard, and a mouse from this manufacturer, you can synchronize the behavior of the backlight, which will create an impressive effect.
Logitech G Powerplay
The gaming plastic accessory with RGB backlight has a size of 321x344 mm. The fabric surface is pleasant to the touch, the mouse moves over it easily and smoothly. The plastic base is dense and strong. The mat is a charging station for wireless mice using electromagnetic resonance technology. This way, you don’t need to connect the mouse to a cable, and the battery will always be charged, despite the slow charging speed. An original and beautiful accessory is very expensive and is only compatible with Logitech equipment, so you need to think carefully before spending money on such a mat.
Advantages
- Fabric surface;
- Plastic base;
- There is a mouse charging function;
- Beautiful appearance.
Flaws
- High price.
The accessory only works with some Logitech mice, which are expensive. Charging speed is 15 hours.
The model is an unreasonably expensive thing that is worth buying only if you have extra finances.
Plastic options
ROCCAT Siru is the cheapest of the quality plastic options. It stays perfectly on the table, provides tremendous gliding speed for the mouse - and costs only about 800 rubles.
Razer Sphex V2 is a stylish and thin (only half a millimeter) mat from a well-known manufacturer of gaming accessories. On average, you can buy it for 1,400 rubles.
A4Tech XP-50NH – the plastic coating gives the mouse high speed, the rubber base ensures ergonomics and comfort for the gamer’s hands, and the built-in RGB backlight is pleasing to the eye. It may not be very convenient for those who are accustomed to thin options - after all, the thickness of this model is a respectable 7 mm. This product costs about 1,700 rubles.
Razer Firefly is another combination of a rubber base, plastic coating and backlight, only much thinner (2.5 mm). You can buy it for an average of 5,000 rubles.
Logitech G G440 is an option for those who value reliability and don’t mind paying a little extra for the brand. Smooth plastic provides excellent glide, and the rubber base holds the mat securely on the table. The price is perhaps a little high, but players familiar with Logitech products will not be surprised by this.
Corsair MM1000 – This model will not only help you win any competitive game, but will also recharge your gadget: the mat has a built-in wireless charging function, as well as a USB 3.0 port, USB Micro-B, Type-C and Lightning Qi adapters. For these functions, however, you will have to pay for the increased thickness of the carpet, which is as much as 6 mm.
OKLICK OK-P0250 is a budget model (average price - 250 rubles), which offers maximum possibilities for its price: plastic surface, rubberized base, dimensions 200 by 250 mm and thickness 3 mm. Nothing extra.
Redragon Epeius is a gaming mat with RGB lighting that will complement the bright effects of your PC components. Unfortunately, it is impossible to synchronize the backlight with other components of the computer, but the presence of built-in presets will allow you to adjust its mode to the color scheme of the mouse, keyboard and case.
Xiaomi Smartpad Qi is one of the most interesting models in our selection, and it’s not just the presence of RGB backlighting. Much more attention is drawn to the disk, which allows you to adjust the sound volume and backlight brightness, as well as the 7.5 W wireless charging module.
Best Mouse Pads with Wrist Cushion
When working at a computer, your entire body is subject to stress. The wrist also suffers from being in an uncomfortable position for a long time, which can lead to a dangerous disease - carpal tunnel syndrome. A mouse pad with a wrist pad will be the solution. This accessory is considered orthopedic and performs several functions: it relieves stress from the hand, prevents wrist pain, and ensures a comfortable stay at the computer. It looks original on the table, is suitable for home interiors, and will also look good in the office.
Fellowes Tropical Beach Photogel FS-92026
The size of the rug with the image of a tropical sunny beach is 230x202 mm, its thickness is 30 mm. The edges are not stitched, this is not a gaming accessory, it is suitable for leisurely work at home or in the office. There is no backlight. The accessory has an anti-slip base. The advantage of the device is the presence of a silicone pad to support the brush. The hand does not strain when working, even if you use the mouse all day long. The original look of Fellowes Tropical Beach Photogel FS-92026 will not only take you into the hot summer, but will also keep your hand healthy and working all day long, allowing your hand to rest and not overexert itself.
Advantages
- Original colors;
- The silicone pad keeps your hand cool;
- The wrist is comfortable on the mat;
- Affordable price.
Flaws
- The edges are not stitched.
Owners of a mouse pad with a tropical island print note the ease of use of the accessory. The original colors go well with both home and office interiors. The anti-slip base prevents unwanted movement on the table surface.
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Hama Ergonomic (00054780/00054779)
The size of the mat with a cushion for the hand is 215x255x2.1 mm. The base material is rubber, ensuring a tight fit to the table. And the covering material is fabric, pleasant to the touch, quite easily soiled, but it can be easily cleaned with a damp cloth or sponge if necessary. A very comfortable, soft and beautiful accessory with no foreign odor. For a small price, buyers receive an original and health-providing device. Your hand will be grateful for the presence of a pad that supports the hand, preventing it from straining and hurting. This is an excellent prevention of carpal tunnel syndrome.
Advantages
- The brush rests naturally on the mat;
- Good grip on the table;
- Soft surface;
- Provides good mouse glide.
Flaws
- The fabric gets dirty quickly.
After 1 year of use, the roller does not press through, the mat is well made. The fabric is easily soiled, but dirt can be easily removed by hand using liquid detergents. For short people, the height of the bolster may seem high.
Which mouse pad is best to buy?
Depending on the time you spend at the computer, the work you do, your budget, as well as your appearance requirements, you can choose a rug to suit every taste. The fabric accessory is ideal for office workers. It is pleasant to the touch, provides good mouse glide, is inexpensive, and has a service life of 1 to 3 years. Accurate cursor positioning and excellent gliding are important both for people who are designers and for gamers. The plastic accessory is wear-resistant, its service life is from 3 to 5 years. These rugs are easy to clean.
- Gamers who want to install both a keyboard and mouse on the same surface choose the HyperX Fury S Pro Extra Large (HX-MPFS-XL). This simply huge rug has excellent characteristics and is relatively inexpensive;
- The Steel Series QcK Prism (63391) mouse pad is suitable for those who like to play or work at the computer on their knee. The thickness of the accessory will hide surface unevenness, and the backlight looks original in the dark;
- For those who like to sit for a long time at work or play, but want to keep their wrists healthy, there is the Fellowes Tropical Beach Photogel FS-92026 model. An accessory with a pad will reduce the load on the hand, in addition, silicone cools the skin;
- Among inexpensive models, you can choose Defender Black M (50560). This is a high-quality accessory with decent characteristics at a low price.
A high-quality mat should fit tightly to the table and not delaminate during use, ensuring good gliding and accurate cursor positioning. Reliable coating guarantees long service life, which is important for both home use and professional gamers or office workers.
Proper rug care
Like absolutely any thing, a play mat also requires proper care in order to serve you as long as possible. Let us consider with you how to care for them depending on the material they are made of.
- Fabric mat with rubber backing. Like absolutely any other fabric, this coating also gets dirty, absorbs sweat, grease and all kinds of spilled drinks and other liquids. A simple toothbrush is also suitable for weekly cleaning; you can take an old one or buy a new one especially for him. Cleaning should be done with a dry brush in one direction with quick movements and all accumulated dust and dirt will be easily removed. For a more thorough cleaning, you can use a soapy sponge.
- Rubberized coating, as well as polycarbonate and metal, are the most suitable for cleaning, since water is not a threat to them. Once a week, wash under running water using gentle detergents, such as dishwashing liquid.
- Exotic species. A product made of glass or genuine leather is not a very practical thing. If you get your hands on one, it’s better to make it a table decoration, since glass is easy to break, and leather cannot be cleaned.