The Best Mouse Pads
We've all experienced the discomfort of a hard day of working (or gaming) at our computers, only to have a wrist cramp throw a wrench in our plans. A good mousepad can do a world of good for making sure your computing experience is smooth and comfortable throughout the day. There are many mousepads out there, but only a few can be the best, which is why we've made this list of the best pads you can pick up today. There were a few major criteria we had for deciding whether a pad would be worth a click: does it allow your mouse to glide smoothly, is it comfortable for your hand even after long usage, and does it stay in place on your workspace through repeated use? We found a number of mousepads that went above and beyond our criteria. The SteelSeries full-desk mousepad is a behemoth size that makes the perfect accessory for serious gamers. YSAGi's leather stitched mousepads, however, work wonders for those who want a little bit of style injected into their daily computer usage. No matter what your needs are as a computer user, there's a great mousepad for you on our list, so get that clicking finger ready and read on.
MROCO Mouse Pad
Mousepad perfection
No matter what you need your mousepad to accomplish, this option from MROCO makes an ideal choice. The reinforced stitched edges and secure rubber base prevent slippage and skidding when using your mouse. Plus, the surface is optimized to work with many kinds of mice, so it provides a smooth glide whether you’re gaming or working. This mousepad serves as a great all-around tool for computer users of all types.
Pros
- The plain black color scheme allows it to mesh aesthetically with almost any computer setup.
- It’s incredibly affordable considering how well it accommodates so many different mouse styles.
- The large surface allows for wide and rapid mouse use without having to worry about going over the side.
Cons
- The stitched edges can rub against your wrist in an uncomfortable way.
SteelSeries QcK Prism
Gamers rise up
Every serious PC gamer knows how important a mousepad is for your performance, and so does SteelSeries. This massive 3XL pad is designed to go under your mouse, keyboard, and even your monitor, ensuring no space on the desk is left unusable for your mouse. And with its micro-woven cloth surface and “never-slip” base, this pad exceeds in quality as well as quantity. This is one mousepad that will let you go as big as you need for all the latest games.
Pros
- The thickness of the pad ensures your mouse won’t scuff your desk from repeated use.
- An entirely smooth underside prevents dust and other microscopic detritus from gathering and hindering movement.
- Sine this mousepad is so large, it allows you to adjust your arm to almost any comfortable position at any time, without issue.
Cons
- Due to its size and high quality, it is a bit pricier than many other mousepads.
MROCO Ergonomic Mouse Pad
Comfortable clicking
A comfy wrist equals a great computer experience, and this mousepad from MROCO is as ergonomic as they come. Smooth fabric covers a gel filling that allows your wrist to rest as you use your mouse throughout the day. The underside has a non-skid design, and the entire pad is shaped to accommodate a wide range of both hand and mouse sizes. If your hand is getting tired from clicking all day, this mousepad will be a lifesaver.
Pros
- It’s available in many different patterns, allowing you to aestheticize it with the rest of your computer setup.
- The ergonomic design is ideal for those with wrist issues such as arthritis or carpal tunnel syndrome.
- The thick fabric gives this pad a good weight and helps prevent skidding.
Cons
- It can take some time to get used to the wrist support if you’ve never used a mousepad like this one.
JIKIOU Mouse Pad, 3 Pack
Click and click again
Sometimes even the best mousepad will wear out before its time, so why not ensure comfy computing with backups? Even one mousepad from JIKIOU would be a great value, with a washable surface, nonslip padding, and smooth lycra cloth material. But since it comes in a pack of three, you’re guaranteed to have backups, and you can even use them for every computer in the household. This is one mousepad set you can’t beat when it comes to what you’re getting in return.
Pros
- If you only require one pad, the other two make handy gifts for your techie friends.
- The pads are thick enough to prevent your mouse from scratching your workplace surface.
Cons
- The pad is relatively small.
YSAGi Mouse Pads, 2 Pack
Web surfing with style
A great mousepad doesn’t have to look dull or dingy, as these lovely examples from YSAGi so ably prove. A non-slip suede underside, PVC leather surface, and waterproof design ensure that your mouse will experience a smooth glide free from the harm of spilled drinks. Plus, their round shape and wide range of lovely, subtle colors set them apart from the pack visually as well. This mousepad proves that you should never have to sacrifice quality for looks, or vice versa.
Pros
- You receive two excellent mousepads that are also very affordable.
- Since it’s made of leather, dust and detritus build up less easily on the surface than it does on other mousepads.
- Clean stitching ensures the leather is both durable and comfortable.
Cons
- They feel a bit thin compared to other mousepads.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the most important qualities a mousepad should have?
Your mousepad should let your mouse glide across it easily, so as not to put needless strain on your wrist. A good pad should also be able to sit stably on your desk even through vigorous mouse use. It should also be durable enough to not start losing traction only a few weeks or months after purchase.
How should I clean my mousepad?
Soaking your pad in hot water and soap, gently rubbing it, and then thoroughly airing it out will be enough to clean most pads. Some are machine washable, but we don’t recommend this unless the packaging explicitly tells you this is an option.
About the Author
Why Trust Us
With the constantly shifting landscape in the world of technology, GameRevolution seeks to provide gamers and tech-enthusiasts with the information they need to select the right products for their needs. Since 1996, our experts have used their knowledge on all the latest gadgets – everything from headphones to standing desks – to help millions of people navigate specs and answer common questions.