While some have extra-thick padding for comfort, others have different surface options that prioritize either speed or control. You can also choose if you want low or moderate friction, which will impact how much you feel the surface under your hand. If you aren’t so serious about these details, you can prioritize aesthetics and go with a pad that matches your setup. Choose from bold graphics, subdued neutrals, and even customizable lighting options that’ll really complete your gaming station. If you’re looking for more information to complete your setup, make sure to read our guide on what to know before buying a computer mouse before taking a look at our top picks for the best extended mouse pads. The pad’s surface is covered in micro-textured cloth to allow for precise tracking, no matter what kind of mouse you’re using. The underside has a layer of grippy rubber to prevent sliding, so everything stays where it’s supposed to. Razer also sells mice and keyboards with Chroma software, if you want to make your setup even more coordinated. Size: 36.22 x 11.57 inches | Material: Micro-textured cloth | Lighting/Ports: RGB | Additional Features: Non-slip rubber base, light synchronization There are also different sizes, if you like the mouse pad but want to go even bigger. All of the pads have a micro-woven cloth top to ensure you have good control in both high and low DPI setups. Movement feels smooth and accurate as you play games. Some people may find RGB distracting during games, but you can set up the two-zone RGB dynamic illumination to provide you with important in-game information, such as damage, ammo capacity, and more. One negative is that, to take full advantage of the PrismSync technology, you will need other SteelSeries equipment. Size: 35.4 x 11.8 inches | Material: Cloth top, rubber bottom | Lighting/Ports: Two-zone RGB | Additional Features: In-game lighting notifications The surface is printed with a pattern that looks pre-worn, a little welcome grunge for people who aren’t necessarily about RGB. The edges of the mouse pad are heavily stitched to prevent fraying and the base is a layer of non-slip rubber so when you set it on your desk, it stays there. These Corsair mouse pads also come in a “Thick” size, which puts 0.2 inches of squishy rubber between your mouse and your desk. This is a great option for anyone who wants to smooth over an uneven surface or just wants a little extra cushioning while they game. The price for the amount of extra options and thickness is what makes this our pick for best value. Size: 36.6 x 11.8 inches | Material: Cloth | Lighting/Ports: None | Additional Features: Options for extra padding, spill-proof coating While some of these extra-large mouse pads advertise super low-friction surfaces, that kind of slipperiness can make mouse movements feel imprecise or harder to control for some gamers. The G840 XL advertises moderate friction to give you a little more feedback on your mouse movements and the cloth surface has been tuned for superior tracking consistency. Like several other mouse pads on this list, the G840 XL has a rubber backing that prevents slipping and sliding on your gaming surface. Size: 36.6 x 15.7 inches | Material: Cloth surface, rubber bottom | Lighting/Ports: None | Additional Features: Transport tube The ROG Sheath has undergone lots of durability testing to ensure that the pad’s surface will hold up under repeated swipes of your mouse. It’s also temperature resistant (up to 140 degrees Fahrenheit) to withstand even the hottest PC. The one downside: This pad is lightweight enough that it can slide around a bit if you have a smooth desk surface. It has a rubber backing to cut down on this kind of movement. Size: 35.4 x 17.3 inches | Material: Cloth top, rubber bottom | Lighting/Ports: None | Additional Features: Stitched edges Like some of the other mouse pads on this list, the Fury S Speed Edition has stitched edges to prevent fraying and a non-slip rubber backing to hold it in place on your gaming surface. It’s about 0.16 inches thick, which is thicker than many options on this list. Size: 35.4 x 16.5 inches | Material: Cloth top, rubber bottom | Lighting/Ports: None | Additional Features: Stitched edges, extra-dense cloth weave for speed There are stitched edges that hold up to the movements of your arms, and prevent the edges from fraying. However, over a long period of use, you may see some mild edge fraying, but you likely won’t see fraying on the actual mouse pad surface. The spill-proof and stain-resistant coating works well, and will wipe clean easily. The bottom has a rubber coating to prevent slipping which works as it should, especially considering the heavier weight the pad has to it. Overall, this is a mouse pad that should last you for a very long time and through many gaming sessions. Size: 36.6 x 15.7 inches | Material: Micro-weave cloth fabric | Lighting/Ports: None | Additional Features: Spill-proof and stain-resistant coating The Gigantus V2 measures 37 x 10.83 inches, and has a thickness of 0.15 inches, which feels comfortable under your arms. The textured micro-weave surface has the right balance between grip and slide for your mouse, ensuring accuracy, while the rubber anti-slip base holds everything in place. The mouse pad has a simple black and green look, but the Razer website allows you to pick a design you like, and even add your gamertag for fun. There is no stitched edging, so there is the possibility of fraying, but this is a well-made mouse pad that’s worth the money. Size: 37 x 10.83 inches | Material: Cloth top, rubber bottom | Lighting/Ports: None | Additional Features: Customizable through website
What to Look For in an Extended Mouse Pad
Dimensions - Before upgrading from a regular mouse pad to one with extended dimensions, you’ll need to measure your desk space and see how big you want to go. It should be able to fit under your keyboard with some room to spare and should provide plenty of space around your mouse to move freely. Most of the mousepads on this list are among the largest offered by these brands—if they seem too big for your setup, check and see if the item is offered in “medium” or “large” dimensions rather than “extra-large.” Surface friction - The amount of friction you want from your mouse pad will depend largely on your personal preferences and play style. Generally speaking, low-DPI gamers prefer a moderate amount of friction because it improves control and makes it easier to stop the mouse after fast bursts of movement. High-DPI gamers often prefer low friction because it allows for extremely precise movement and speed. But there are no hard and fast rules. If you like to “feel” the gaming surface under your mouse, look for something with a little more texture. If you just want to zip around on a super-smooth surface, check out low-friction mouse pads that prioritize speed. Durability - If you buy better quality, you’ll buy less often. This is a piece of gear that gets used a lot and can undergo quite a bit of wear. Features such as stitched or bonded edges can help prevent fraying and improve longevity. Water and heat resistance can also prevent fading, staining, and bad smells.
