Mar. 24, 2025
Having a good quality mouse pad is an important part of having an enjoyable gaming or working experience. Not only will it make your desktop look great, but it can also help with precision when using a mouse. A good mouse pad should have enough friction to allow for precise movements but not so much that it prevents you from making quick gestures. It should also be comfortable to use and have enough space for both your keyboard and your mouse.
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Finding the right mouse pad can be tricky, though - there are so many different types available! To help you pick out the best one, here's a quick guide to the different types of mouse pads you can find and what makes them great.
The first step in selecting the perfect mouse pad is to understand the different types of pads available.
Hard surface mouse pads are typically made from materials like plastic or metal and provide a smooth, flat surface for your mouse to move on. They generally don't offer much cushioning but provide an ideal surface for optical mice. Hard surface pads are best suited for gamers or anyone who needs precise control over their movements.
Soft surface mouse pads are usually made from cloth or other soft fabrics and have more cushioning than hard surface pads. This not only makes them more comfortable to use but also helps reduce strain on your wrists and arms as you work. Soft surface pads are great for general computer use, but they don't provide the same level of precision as hard surface pads.
Extended mouse pads are larger than traditional ones and often come with an ergonomic shape to fit your wrists perfectly. They generally feature a soft cloth surface that provides extra cushioning for your hands and arms. Extended mouse pads are ideal for anyone who spends long hours at their desk, as they offer maximum comfort while providing ample space to move around.
Gel mouse pads are often made with a foam core covered with a special gel material that molds around your hand for added comfort. This material is temperature sensitive, so it will adjust to your body heat, providing extra cushioning that helps reduce fatigue caused by long hours at the computer. Gel mouse pads also help reduce wrist strain which can lead to carpal tunnel syndrome in some people. However, these types of mats may be more expensive than other options due to their specialized design and materials used in construction.
Rubber mouse pads are similar to hard surface pads in that they provide a flat, stable surface for your mouse to move on. However, these mats also feature textured surfaces, which provide extra grip and help keep your mouse from slipping. Rubber mouse pads are more durable than other types of mats, so they're perfect for gamers who need reliable performance in intense gaming sessions.
No matter which type of mouse pad you choose, there are several benefits to having a quality mat.
A quality mouse pad supports your wrist as you use the mouse for extended periods. This ensures that you won't incur any pain or discomfort from using the same position for too long. The best mouse pads are designed with ergonomics in mind, meaning that they help maintain proper posture throughout extended computing sessions'this can also help reduce fatigue over time.
When it comes to gaming or other intensive tasks, having a quality mousepad can make all the difference in how well you perform. A good mousepad has just the right amount of friction so that your cursor moves smoothly and accurately across the screen. This is especially helpful if you're playing games that require quick reflexes ' you won't have to worry about any lag or choppiness affecting your gameplay.
An optimized tracking surface can help make certain tasks faster and easier by reducing drag on the cursor when moving across large sections of text or images. Furthermore, some high-end mouse pads also come with built-in wrist rests that offer ergonomic support, which helps reduce strain and fatigue while using your computer for long periods.
In addition to providing better function, a quality mouse pad can also improve the aesthetics of your desk setup. A well-designed mouse pad can add a touch of style and personality to your workspace, making it more enjoyable to use your computer. Additionally, a quality mouse pad can help protect your desktop surface from scratches and other damage caused by using a mouse without a pad.
A quality mouse pad is also likely to be more durable than a cheap or generic model. This means that it will last longer and stand up to more wear and tear, saving you money in the long run. Additionally, a durable mouse pad can help to protect your desktop surface from scratches, spills, and other damage.
Finally, using a quality mouse pad can also help reduce noise while using your computer. If you have used a cheap or generic mousepad, you may have noticed that it often makes a loud scratching sound when you use your mouse. This noise can be annoying and distracting, but a good mouse pad should be designed to minimize these noises.
When shopping for a mouse pad, there are several factors that you should consider to make sure you get the best value for your money.
The size of the mousepad will determine how much space it takes up on your desk and also how easy it is to use with your mouse. If you have limited desk space, look for a smaller pad; if you're gaming or need more freedom of movement, go for something larger. Additionally, some mouse pads come in multiple sizes, so you can choose the best fit your needs.
Different materials offer different levels of performance and comfort when using your mouse. Hard surface mats are ideal for gamers as they provide more accurate tracking and a lower friction surface, while cloth mats are softer and more comfortable. Additionally, some materials can also offer improved durability over time.
The grip of the mouse pad will determine how well it stays in place on your desk. Many models have rubberized bases that help keep them securely in place, but if you prefer a slicker bottom, then look for one with an adhesive backing. Alternatively, some mouse pads come with adjustable straps or clips to keep them firmly in place during use.
Some mouse pads also come with designs or patterns to add a bit of style to your desk. These can range from simple geometric shapes to colorful images, allowing you to choose one that reflects your taste and adds a bit of personality to your workspace.
The resistance of the mouse pad will determine how much friction is created when moving your mouse. High-end mats are designed to offer optimal tracking performance with minimal drag, while budget models often have a higher level of resistance that can affect accuracy and speed.
Finally, some mousepads come with extra features like wrist rests, built-in audio ports, and even wireless charging capabilities. While these may not be essential for everyone, they can make your experience more enjoyable and convenient.
The MP018 from FlexiSpot is our top pick for a quality mouse pad. It comes in two sizes ' small and large ' to suit your desk space and offers excellent tracking performance with minimal noise. The non-slip rubber base keeps it firmly in place during use, while the smooth cloth surface provides comfortable use without sacrificing accuracy or speed.
Additionally, this mousepad features an ergonomic wrist rest design that helps to reduce strain on your wrists during extended use. The surface pattern is neutral enough to blend in with most desktop setups, while the black and red accents add a bit of color without being distracting.
Overall, this mousepad offers durability, comfort, and convenience at an affordable price ' making it perfect for anyone looking for an upgrade from their current mousepad. Plus, FlexiSpot provides a 1-year warranty for extra peace of mind.
Choosing the right mouse pad can make all the difference in how well you perform when using your computer or playing games. With this buying guide, you'll be able to find the perfect mat for your needs and enjoy improved comfort, accuracy, and durability during use. So go ahead and pick one up today ' you won't regret it!
If you want the perfect PC setup, having the best mouse pad can make as much a difference in your experience as your other peripherals, but is too often overlooked.
Mouse pads are essential for smooth mouse performance, whether you're at work or gaming at a competitive level. The SteelSeries QcK Gaming offers fantastic design and texture without breaking the bank while being small enough for most desk setups. Larger mouse pads, like the Roccat Sense Core, are also an option if you want a unified look to your setup.
Ultimately, choosing the best mouse pad for your needs and budget is a personal choice based or your style and preference, but we've put our 15-plus years of experience at TechRadar to good use and pulled together our top picks to help you make the right decision for you.
Why you can trust TechRadar We spend hours testing every product or service we review, so you can be sure you're buying the best. Find out more about how we test.
The SteelSeries QcK is a cloth mat offering an impressive surface for mousing whatever your needs, whether that's navigating around the Windows desktop or playing games on your PC. It's officially a gaming mouse pad, but in truth, it's a fine all-rounder due to its minimalist solid black design with just the SteelSeries logo in one corner.
There are no extra frills here, but having tested this mouse pad, we found that its exclusive QcK micro-woven cloth offers just a little more control over your movements while still delivering that smooth gliding action. That's a nice balance that also makes it great for both gaming and work. Although if you do need a little bit more speed, there are better options on this list.
We also appreciate its beautiful rubber base. Not only does it do a great job of keeping the pad stable on the desk and minimizing slippage, but the rubber bits come in the shape of the SteelSeries logo as well, which is fun even though they're out of your eyeshot.
There are various size options with this mouse mat, including plus-sized and mini versions measuring 450 x 400mm and 250 x 210mm respectively. So, should you wish to have a more expansive or a more compact mat, you've certainly got options.
The only thing is that its surface does tend to track more pet hair than other mouse pads we've tested. So, if you like to keep your setup pristine, you'll have to spend some more quality time with your handheld vacuum cleaner.
The Roccat Sense Core is cheaper than many gaming mouse pads in its class while still delivering the same level of gliding performance and feel. So, if every buck/quid matters, this is definitely the one to get. And, you might even appreciate its minimalist design, especially if you don't want to be a little heavy on RGB lighting.
We tested five different mice ' some for productivity, others for gaming ' on it, and we found that its cloth surface offers that nice smooth gliding feel but also just a tiny bit of resistance. This slightest friction gives you a little bit more control and precision, which should help when you're gaming and when you're doing productivity tasks.
The rubber base is mostly effective at keeping things in place, but we do wish it had a better grip on a desk. It does move a little when you're gliding more vigorously, like during intense gameplay. That said, if you're not playing too hard, it should hold it position just fine.
It does pick up pet hair fairly quickly however, it's pretty easy to clean. A quick run with a vacuum cleaner should do the trick.
There are several different sizes on hand, from a mini one that's only 250 x 210 mm in sight and an XXL that's 900 x 420 mm. The mini size is especially handy for users with smaller setups or who travel regularly.
The WFH Desk Pad might be better suited on Work From Home Desks' brilliantly modular desks ' though that's really mainly due to its angled corners ' but it's an excellent desk pad to consider even if you've got a different desk. That's especially if you are tired of the same black color and want a big splash of color on your desk to brighten it up.
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This is more for productivity use than for gaming. However, having tested two gaming mice on it, it seems to work just fine with them as well, particularly if you're looking for a bit of resistance for more controlled gliding.
With productivity mice, however, we found that it works beautifully. The smooth gliding combined with its good amount of friction allows you a more seamless workflow ' instead of having to constantly miss a button you're trying to press onscreen. Its anti-skid natural rubber base also does a great job of keeping it in place. Plus, its edges are stitched to ensure it lasts longer and minimizes fraying.
And, as we said, it comes in different colors or colorful designs ' eight, to be exact, only three of which are solid ones. Apart from the black version, it should add a dash of life to your setup, brightening it up no matter how office cubicle-dreary it is.
The only thing that really holds this back is the price. Sadly, it is on the pricey side, which makes it inaccessible to budget users. That's why we're keeping it as our top premium option on the list.
We've spent many weeks working and gaming on the Harber London Microfibre Minimalist Desk Mat, and we can honestly say that this is the best desk mats we've ever used. We would have put it at the top of our list, if it weren't for the fact that this is still first and foremost a mouse pad guide.
The amazing this about this mat is that while it's incredibly thin and lightweight - meaning it's easier to fold and put away, and it won't leave annoying marks on your forearm - it's also surprisingly more supportive than it looks. That's all thanks to its dense microfiber body, which essentially provides extra cushioning. Not even the outer lower edge of our palm has experienced any pressure pain after a long day's work.
The soft yet finely textured finish also ensures that your skin is feeling luxe but any mouse - whether for gaming or productivity - glides effortlessly while still providing a great level of control. That's key to having an even more comfortable experience. And because the underside has an extra grippy finish, it stays beautifully in place.
The only thing about this is that it does tend to attract debris, dirt, and pet hair so we suggest keeping a handheld vacuum ready. Also, please do use a separate coaster for your drinks - even moisture from a glass of water can leave stains.
There are a lot of gaming mouse pads, but only very few can really compete with the Razer Goliathus Chroma in terms of performance, grippage, RGB lighting, and even size. There's a standard size on hand, of course, but it's the 3XL and extended sizes that are the stars of the show. That's especially true if you're looking for something that'll cover your entire gaming desk.
The micro-texture cloth surface here is optimized for all sensitivity settings and sensors. And, it did feel great to game on during our testing, offering smooth and speedy gliding. Meanwhile, its non-slip rubber base keeps it in place. Though that should also have something to do with the fact that it's massive and that other peripherals like a gaming keyboard should act as weights.
The RGB lighting, which fringes most of the pad's edge, is bright, customizable, and attractive. However, its presence does mean that this is best for gaming setups and not so much for work ones.
These big sizes might be too big for some people ' particularly those with smaller desks ' but that's what the standard size is for really. Just bear in mind that you will be paying a hefty price here, but, if you can afford it, it's certainly worth the money.
While most gaming mouse pads deliver that good balance between smooth gliding and precision control, this offering from HyperX focuses on the latter. More of a desk
mat, this Pulsefire pad is made of a densely woven cloth material that's more textured than it is smooth.
That texture allows for a bit more friction and resistance, which in turn offers better precision. The result is a more controlled gliding, which should help with competitive gaming on titles like Overwatch 2, Destiny 2, and Call of Duty. Though you also should know that it does feel a little rougher to glide your mouse on, which might be annoying for some people. It certainly felt a little weird for us to use it during testing. At least in the beginning.
The RGB lighting here is bright as well. And, the touch sensor is a nice touch, even though it only really lets you toggle between three onboard lighting profiles.
As for the anti-slip rubber base, it's pretty impressive. It has big honeycomb-shaped rubber bits that allow for better grippage ' unlike the fine ones on its rivals. It will stay in place regardless of how intense your gaming session is.
Because of the textured surface, we do not recommend this as a productivity mouse pad. If you've got a dual setup, better find a more suitable one on this list.
If you've been around since the early days of consumer PCs, the Zowie G-SR-SE might just remind you of the mouse pads from those days. This mouse pad puts on no airs ' well, except for the color patterned surface that adds a splash of color to your gaming setup ' and it does go back to basics and to the classics. Even the rubber base is just straight up that; no fancy designs, special textures, or cute patterns.
But, they are called classics for good reason: they work and work well. And, this mouse pad from BenQ's peripherals line is cut from the same excellent cloth. By cloth, we're referring to its cloth surface that feels smooth but also offers the tiniest bit of resistance since you do need a bit more control and precision when competing. Meanwhile, the rubber base, we found, is really effective and keeps it in place, no matter how intense your sessions are.
There are two color patterns on hand ' deep blue and rouge, and they're appealing. But, if you're looking for a solid option, you're out of luck. You could go for the Zowie G-SR model, but that one has a different feel.
For a minimalist mouse pad, it's a little expensive. You'll definitely find more affordable options out there. However, if you're looking for a minimalist pad for your next competition, this one's worth the price.
Roccat has always had impressive RGB lighting, though it is something of an acquired taste. So it's no surprise that the Roccat Sense Aimo not only boasts two customizable zones and comes with 10 onboard RGB lighting profiles, but also delivers bright lighting that you can sync with compatible devices for your full immersion. To access those lighting profiles, you just need to press the built-in button, which also allows you to turn it off completely if you need a break.
The brand claims that the cloth surface is machine-stitched, which apparently improves gliding. And, while we're not completely sure how that works, we've also put it through its paces, and we can attest to how smooth the gliding is and how it helps your need for speed when playing fast-paced games.
Perhaps the weakest part of this mouse pad is its rubber base. It works effectively most of the time, but we have noticed that when we're moving our mouse more forcefully, the pad moves a little with it.
There are two sizes on offer, but the mid-size should work well for most people. It offers a spacious enough surface without taking up too much. Because there is RGB lighting here, it's a little more expensive than non-RGB options; however, it's still fairly affordable.
If you're used to soft mouse pads, the Asus ROG Balteus Qi might be a bit of an adjustment because of its hard surface. But, that's not all; its surface is also textured and, therefore, a little rougher. The thing with hard mouse pads though is that they're focused on speed, which is certainly a plus if you want to get to the top of the leaderboards.
There are a few things we wish were done better here. There isn't an included USB adapter, which you will need to properly power the Qi charging, so we had to dig through our stash of wall chargers before we could test it. It needs two USB ports so you can take advantage of its features so if you're using a gaming laptop, it's not the best option. And, we did find that its Qi charging is a little on the weak side and requires you to be precise with your device placement.
However, you're still getting plenty of features, which is part of its appeal. The RGB lighting is pretty, has 15 customizable zones, and has its own button to give you access to nine lighting profiles. The USB passthrough offers easy access to a port for your mouse, keyboard, or other peripherals. And, the Qi charging, which does require you to remove your case if you want to charge your , is certainly handy.
You've probably seen mouse pads out there that have built-in raised wrist rests of some kind at the bottom of the pad (usually gel-filled) to give your wrist some added support. We used one of these in the distant past, though, and didn't find it helped ' and over time, in fact, we became somewhat concerned that it might hinder in terms of wrist health if anything.
So, if you want a mouse mat that is ergonomically sound, we'd recommend the SteelSeries QcK Heavy, one of the siblings of our top-rated overall mouse pad. This combines a micro-woven cloth surface with an extra-thick (non-slip) rubber base, and that additional thickness makes the mouse mat like a cushion for your wrist.
In our view, this is a more helpful solution than a chunky gel wrist pad, but if you do want to get a full wrist rest, our recommendation would be to buy a standalone one, not a built-in solution (Razer makes a good Ergonomic Mouse Rest if this is the route you want to take).
This Heavy variant boasts the same laudable overall quality as the SteelSeries QcK, and comes in (slightly fewer) different sizes ' medium, large and XXL ' so you can pick and choose the most appropriate amount of mouse pad real-estate for your needs. The spec above is for the medium size, with the large and XXL being 450 x 400mm and 900 x 400mm respectively, though note the latter isn't as thick at 4mm rather than 6mm. With ergonomics as the primary consideration here, we'd probably steer clear of the XXL due to it having less of a cushioning effect as a result.
A competitive gaming mouse pad needs to have less resistance than all others, and that's exactly what the Roccat Sense Pro offers. It's not too textured that it requires a massive adjustment on your part, but we have found its surface to be just slightly less smooth to glide over. But, that's also the exact point ' it's that textured finish that allows for fast, agile movements that are ideal for competitive gaming.
Meanwhile, it has a good rubber base that's pretty great at keeping it in place as well as reinforced edge stitching that ensures minimal fraying. Because it's also made of polyester military-grade fabric, you know that this will last you a good while.
There are two sizes on hand ' the square one that gives you a spacious 450 x 450 mm surface area and the XXL size that offers a massive 900 x 420 mm space. The square one, we've found, is more than good enough, but if you want to home all your peripherals, the bigger version is affordable and worth considering.
The yellow Roccat flag near the top left corner, on top of the Roccat logo, is a nice touch. However, it's still pretty minimal in terms of design and features. But, the focus here is agility so none of those matter.
Naturally, the best mouse pad for all-round use will be a matter of personal taste and depends to some extent on what you will primarily be using it for. The requirements for a working mouse pad versus a gaming mouse pad may differ, and striking a balance between the two is important.
We were impressed with the SteelSeries QcK Gaming mouse pad; it has a great price and is equally proficient for gaming and productivity alike. If the frills and spills of fancy RGB mouse pads are surplus to your requirements, you can't go wrong with this low-cost alternative.
Pro gamers will typically favor a mouse pad that provides a super smooth tracking surface, with little to no friction. A fast glide action is an essential requirement, as is a stable, non-slip base for consistency of movement.
Different playstyles will favor different types of gaming mouse pads, so again it will come down to the individual preferences of the players. But in general terms, a pro gamer will be looking for optimal tracking and an even gliding experience. Both will allow for precision movement, and enable a pro to deliver their best performance when it counts.
Testing mouse pads aren't as rigorous as testing other peripherals. However, we do try and test them for at least a couple of days, putting them through their paces by using them the way we would our own mouse pads and desk mats. We use them for work, for gaming, and for photo editing, among other things. We also try to use a variety of mice on them, typically five, including productivity mice, gaming mice, and cheap mice. Finally, if a mouse pad has features, we test those features as well.
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