How To Buy The Best Mouse Pad (And 5 You Need To Know)

One of the least appreciated components of a gaming rig (or any computer setup) is the mouse pad. It may seem like an insignificant rectangular cloth or rubber peripheral that does not need any further consideration, but that couldn’t be further from the truth.

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I want to believe that from this list, you’ll definitely find the best mouse pad to suit your style and comfort.

But before we get to that, let’s take a look at why a mouse pad shouldn’t be a second thought, but an essential component of your setup.

Understanding The Humble Mouse Pad  

When it comes to gaming, your mouse plays a critical role.

But without an equally good mouse pad for it to run on, your gaming skills will be compromised.

So how exactly does a mouse pad affect your gaming?

Let’s break the mouse pad into its 4 (yes, there’s more to a mouse pad than most people think) main components to see just how.

The Surface

A mouse pad’s surface is probably the most important part as it determines your speed and control levels.

These 2 critical factors that determine the outcome of your game are a direct result of the materials used to manufacture the mouse pad.

A mouse will move faster on a slick mouse pad as it has less friction to resist its movements and control is also easier for the same reason.

A mouse pad’s surface can be made from anything from rubber to plastic to cloth.

The Base

The base can be considered to be the skeleton of a mouse pad because it gives the mouse pad its shape and rigidity.

When it comes to mouse pad bases, they come in different thicknesses, and your choice will be determined by how it feels to you.

The 3 main base thicknesses are:

• Slim base (2mm). This is ideal for you if you prefer a more solid feel.
• Heavy base (5mm). If you are more about comfort, this is the mouse pad for you as it has a softer and more comfortable surface. If you are heading to a place where you are not sure of the type of surface you will be playing on, this is the perfect mouse pad to take with you as the thick base can counter any uneven surfaces you may be forced to play on.
• Standard base (3mm). The standard base is the best of both worlds, giving you a good balance of a solid and comfortable mouse pad. It is also the most common mouse pad base.

The Edge

The edge of a mouse pad may seem like an insignificant factor, but it’s the part that holds everything together, so yeah, it must count for something.

Most sturdy mouse pads are either stitched around the edges or feature some technology that reinforces the mouse pad to prevent any fraying or the mouse pad coming apart.

Material – Soft Or Hard

When it comes to the material used in making mouse pads, they are classified as either soft or hard.

On a hard pad, your mouse will move faster while a soft pad slows you down a bit.

Which One Is The Best For You?

Well, it all depends on your gaming style and preference. But you’ll find that most top players tend to use soft mats because they give you a better feel of your mouse movements, thereby increasing your precision.

Now that you understand a bit about mouse pads, let’s get you the best mouse pad that will help you stay on top of your game.

The Top 5 Best Mouse Pads 

Ready to get your game on with a new mouse pad?

Great!

Let’s go shopping for the best mouse pad to set right next to your rig, shall we?

Steel Series is a well-known name in gaming circles for making exceptional accessories – for over 15 years. That means they know quite a bit about making quality peripherals.

The SteelSeries QcK mouse pad keeps to those high standards.

SteelSeries QcK has the best mouse pad for you as they offer mouse pads in many different sizes, shapes and thickness. No matter your setup, SteelSeries has the best mouse pad to compliment your workstation and computer.

Thanks to its smooth surface, rubber base, and coupled with your choice of size and thickness, you’ll definitely get a mouse pad that will give you an extra edge as your game. The SteelSeries QcK also features a high thread count and surface variation optimized for tracking accuracy on both optical and laser sensor equipped mice.

This is one mouse pad that doesn’t easily fray as it features understitching along the edges of the surface. You’ll definitely game on this mouse pad for a long time.

And if its features don’t tickle your fancy, the price tag probably will, coming at very affordable prices ranging from $9.00 to $25.00 depending on which pad you opt for.

If you’re ready to take your gaming to the next level, then this soft mouse pad could be the best mouse pad to give you the comfort and precision you need to take you there.

The Razer Vespula is a one of a kind mouse pad – especially with its unique design and built-in wrist rest.

Apart from looking beautiful and “gamey”, the Razer Vespula features a reversible design that makes it 2 mouse pads in one. The first side has a smooth feel, making it perfect for MOBA, RTS and other game genres where speed is an essential component.

Turn the Razer Vespula over and you'll find a coarser surface that affords finer control for precision genres like FPS and racing.

If you have a Razer mouse, then this could be the mouse pad for you as can use the Razer Synapse 2.0 software to automatically calibrate your mouse to either one of the Vespula's surfaces.

The Razer Vespula features hard materials and is 0.2-inches thick to enhance control and speed.

The Razer Vespula V2 comes with a larger gaming surface than the first iteration, the Vespula V2 is optimized for even more play styles and genres. It is now easier to execute multiple commands or execute swift movements across the entire pad.

The Razer Vespula V2 may be a costly mouse pad ($39.99 to be exact) but it is definitely worth it for the versatility, precision, and control it affords you. Oh, and the nice fancy lights too.

If you are looking for a simple no-frills mouse pad, then the Logitech G240 mouse pad is your best bet.

This is a simple slip of black cloth with a coarse slip resistant fabric to prevent the mouse pad from moving. Featuring no embroidered edges and an ultra-low profile, the Logitech G240 is a soft-surface mouse pad that will allow your mouse pad to easily glide across its surface.

Made by one of the best gaming mouse manufacturers, the Logitech G240 is definitely a mouse pad that offers exceptional tracking performance, despite it looking as simple as it does.

As for portability, it can’t get better than a cloth mouse pad – a Logitech to be exact – as all you have to do is roll it up and fit it, well, anywhere as it is also ultra-light.

The only drawback to the Logitech G240 is the price – $39.99. But for serious gamers, it definitely is worth it.

The Corsair MM600 mouse pad is a simple, but intelligently designed mouse pad that will definitely help you game for a long time.

This is one mouse pad that you can use for any genre or playing style as one side is perfect for FPS as you can easily glide your mouse around. And for turn-based strategic games, the coarser surface allows you to move with increased precision.

To keep the mouse pad from moving around, Corsair designed it with 4 rubber nubs at each edge to keep it firmly in place, no matter which side is up. An aluminum frame keeps it rigid and firm.

If you love playing many genres, then this could be the best mouse pad for you – especially if you have $40.00 to spare.

If you are looking for a no-frills mouse pad that won’t make much of a dent on your piggy bank, then you’ll appreciate the HyperX Fury Pro mouse pad.

Plain Jane that it is, it is a versatile mouse pad that crosses genres easily, is durable, and yet very portable thanks to its soft, easy-to-clean material.

If you are worried about it moving around on your desk, the course base material ensures that the mouse pad stays in place – even when you make some vigorous swipes.

As for size, the HyperX Fury Pro comes in various sizes that make it easy for you to find the best mouse pad for your setup.

One of the best features of this mouse pad is its price – $13.95.

The Best Mouse Pad – Game On

The best mouse pad is basically a function of ergonomics, build quality, and the materials used to make the mouse pad. All 5 mouse pads listed above scored high in all 3 areas (and more), making them a safe bet for you any day.

So what are you waiting for? Take your pick and let’s get gaming.