There are 2 types of mousepads: Hardpads and softpads.
A hard mousepad is usually made of plastic, metal, or glass to provide a smooth, flat surface. Due to the low friction, they are great for gamers or anyone who needs to move their mouse quickly. With the speed and the ultra-smooth surface, it becomes harder to control your mouse precisely. With a hardpad, you can make quick, large movements, but it may take some time to get used to the speed and accuracy. This is especially true if you have only used soft mousepads before. There are textured hard pads that can help to allow more control, and in return, they offer a bit less speed.
A soft mousepad is typically made of fabric and offers some padding. This can make them comfortable to use over longer periods, as you can rest your wrist and hand on it. Most softpads have some friction, so it may be easier to control the mouse precisely.
Depending on the type of surface used, movements on a softpad may be slower, but it will be easier to make small movements with pinpoint accuracy.
The material the surface of the mousepad is made from.
Whether a hard pad or a soft pad, every mousepad consists of a surface and a base. The surface contributes significantly to the characteristics of the mousepad and how it feels during gaming. There are many different materials such as glass, polycarbonate, nylon, or polyester also known as “fabric,” although this is technically an incorrect term.
Every surface can be manufactured or further processed or refined in a certain way. As a result, the mousepad acquires very specific characteristics. For example, a mousepad made of polyester can have an extremely slow or very fast glide speed, e.g., through a coating or a specific weave pattern.
The “foundation” of a mousepad and a very often overlooked component. The base is often the difference between good and great mousepads. They come in several thicknesses & “hardness levels,” and this can play a significant role in the gaming experience. Therefore, in combination with the surface, it decides how the mouse pad ultimately plays and feels. And by the way, it also ensures that the mousepad stays in place & does not slip (at least it should ^^)
A hybrid mousepad is designed to combine the features of hard and soft mousepads. It aims to provide the glide experience of hard pads while maintaining the comfort and control typically associated with soft pads. Hybrid mousepads often use a mix of materials or are specially manufactured. They can also have a unique surface texture that allows for both speed and control, enabling quick mouse movements as well as precise aiming. The mix of materials can also contribute to increased durability. While they are stiffer than a standard fabric pad, hybrid mousepads are generally more comfortable than hard pads and offer a middle ground in terms of wrist comfort and support.
A coating on a mousepad refers to a special surface treatment aimed at modifying the properties of the mousepad. This coating can be applied in various ways to achieve different effects, depending on the specific features the mousepad is intended to offer. For example, a mousepad can be made water-repellent, have a “protected” print, or have significantly improved glide speed, e.g., with a “Glass-Coating (Ice-Coating).” However, it’s important to note that coatings do not last forever and, depending on the intensity of use and the quality of the mousepad, will wear out over time, and the mousepad will no longer possess the same properties.
To better compare mousepads, I have divided them into 7 different speed levels.
From fast to slow:
Amundsen
Disclaimer: The data and mousepad specifications on my website are provided “as is, as available” without any warranty. I assume no responsibility for any damages that could be caused by errors on my site. Please verify all information directly on the manufacturers’ websites.
Razer Strider Review – A Closer Look at the New Hybrid Mouse Pad
If you’re looking for a gaming mouse pad that falls into the Speed category, then the Razer Strider is worth a closer look. Compared to the ZOWIE GTF-X and Artisan Hien, it’s slower, but faster than, for example, the Odin Gaming Infinity v2 or Fnatic DASH. With a thickness of only 3mm and a firm foam layer in the middle, it tends more towards a hard feeling, where you must rely on surface friction.
Compared to other gaming mouse pads with similar glide speed, the Razer Strider offers a bit more initial resistance and stopping power, while not losing the balance between gliding and stopping. With some practice, you can perform both precise tracking and quick flick shots with high accuracy.
The slight texture on the surface may be noticeable on your arm or hand due to the thinness of the foam in the middle. This is something that is not as pronounced with other hybrid pads. It’s a matter of taste, but it hardly affects the actual performance of the pad.
Not just compared to traditional cloth mouse pads, but also compared to other hybrid pads, the Razer Strider stands out for its high durability and long-lasting performance. The edges are neatly processed and do not affect mouse control. The bottom provides good grip, except on wooden surfaces.
In a time when there are many hybrid pad options, the Razer Strider stands out for its outstanding build quality and durability. If you’re a fan of the hybrid pad feel and don’t want to switch or buy new ones frequently, this is definitely a good choice.
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More InformationSWIPE. STOP. WIN.
Experience a fusion of slick swipes and crisp control with the Razer Strider—a hybrid mouse mat that combines the glide of a hard surface with the rollable, portable nature of a soft base. Designed to offer the best of both worlds, the only choice you’ll have to make is how you want to win.
A FUSION THAT DEFIES CONVENTION.
Hybrid Soft/Hard Mat For the best of both worlds
Crafted for the optimal balance of speed and control—with a light glide for quick flicks, and solid stopping power for consistent precision.
MID-TO-FIRM BASE
At 3mm thick, the hybrid mouse mat’s sturdy design provides a consistent foundation to game on.
ANTI-SLIP
Our hybrid mouse mat is reinforced with a grooved rubber underside to truly anchor it to your desk.
ROLLABLE AND PORTABLE
The Razer Strider can be easily stored in your backpack so you can take your game anywhere.
WARP-RESISTANT
Never worry about the mat stretching or losing its shape as it is thick enough to prevent warping from regular use.
STITCHED EDGES
Protective stitching along its edges prevents any fraying that might result from intense use or transportation.
WATER-RESISTANT
The mat’s surface can shrug off any spills, which also allows for easy routine cleaning with a quick wipe down.
CHOOSING THE RIGHT MAT
Whether you seek absolute speed, complete control, or the best of both worlds, we can help you make the perfect choice.
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