Best Mouse Pads for Gaming 2024

If you use a computer, (who doesn’t?) then you probably have a mouse pad of some kind. When it comes to the best mouse pad for gamers, however, there are certain features to look for. How comfortable is it? Does the mouse catch on the fabric? What about wrist support? With these questions in mind, we’ve narrowed down the best mouse pad for gaming based on several different needs. 

Best Mousepad with Wrist Support: Hokafenle Ergonomic Mouse Pad

Price: $24.99          Amazon link        

Reasons to Buy:

• The ergonomic design makes this one of the best mouse mats for gaming, protecting the player’s wrist to help with pain and conditions like carpal tunnel syndrome
• Memory foam gel doesn’t deform easily so it stays comfortable for long periods
• Fabric is smooth and pleasant to the touch
• Non-slip base means no sliding
• Comes in 18 colors and patterns

Reasons to Avoid:

• The 8-degree angle takes some getting used to
• Some gamers think that wrist support decreases playing agility    

This medium-sized mat isn’t as flashy or streamlined as some gaming mouse pads, but it’s more of a general-use pad that many use for gaming purposes. The reason why it made our list is how widely regarded it is for helping wrist pain. Memory foam gel is incredibly comfortable. PC gamers who play frequently are prone to hand and wrist overuse injuries. This mouse pad not only prevents such damage, it also offers relief. 

Best Affordable Option: SteelSeries QcK Gaming Mouse Pad

Price: $9.99 to $49.99 depending on size               Amazon link          

Reasons to Buy:

• Comes in 3 sizes, medium, large, or extra large
• Very affordable prices without sacrificing quality
• The largest size can cover most desktops completely, giving you extra room to move your mouse
• The high thread count of the mouse pad makes tracking smoother for laser sensors, optimizing your mouse’s reaction time
• Durable and long-lasting design

Reasons to Avoid:

• Only comes in black
• Very thin, some gamers prefer thicker material
• Edges don’t always lay flat

SteelSeries is widely respected in the gaming community for its products. If you’re looking for a desk mat gaming pad that will optimize your mouse movement, be easy to clean, and come at an affordable price, this is your best bet. Low prices and high ratings are rarely found in the same product and this is a welcome exception. The micro-fiber is comfortable on the skin, and the various sizing options mean anyone can find the right fit. 

Best for Optical Mouse: 3M Precise Mouse Pad

Price: $14.26       Amazon link        

Reasons to Buy:

• Bitmap design
• Enhances precision for optical mice
• Easy-to-clean plastic top
• Gripping foam backing
• Design of the mouse pad draws less current than other mouse pads, which extends wireless mouse battery life
• Larger size than many options

Reasons to Avoid:

• No color options
• Strong smell for the first few weeks
• Plastic edges can be uncomfortable on wrists

This may be the best mouse pad for gamers who use optical mice as it prevents sudden jumps and other inaccuracies. Because of the smooth, textured surface, it also doesn’t catch like fabric designs can. It’s a nice, in-between size where it’s a little bigger than most pads but not so big that it won’t fit in the typical desk area. Lastly, if you’re prone to spills, it will be far easier to clean than fabric-based mouse pads.   

Best for Wireless Mouse Charging: Logitech G Powerplay Wireless Charging System 

Price: $119.99              Amazon link     

Reasons to Buy:

• Continuously charges your wireless mouse
• Choose between hard and soft surfaces
• Edges don’t curl up
• Transferable power core module
• Optimized for gaming sensors

Reasons to Avoid:

• Considerably more expensive than many mouse pads
• Must have a compatible mouse
• Some say it’s too large
• If you want the charging capabilities, you have very limited design options
• Often out of stock

This Logitech large mouse pad not only performs great for gamers, but it also helps you keep your wireless mouse charged so you can play without interruption. Add to that the option to switch back and forth between soft and hard surfaces and you combine comfort, function, and precision. There’s a reason this one is often out of stock. Because of that, the specific size options may be difficult to come by so keep your eyes peeled for when the size you want comes into stock. 

Best Hard Mouse Pad: HONKID Metal Aluminum Mouse Pad

Price: $13.99       Amazon link        

Reasons to Buy:

• Can switch from the hard aluminum side or the smooth leather side
• Aluminum side is waterproof, great for spills
• Compatible with all mouse types
• Slim and thin
• Mice slide easily, maximizing movement
• Low price and comes in multiple sizes
• Has four available colors
• Comes with optional sticky pads to prevent slippage

Reasons to Avoid:

• The metal side can be noisy
• If you don’t use the sticky pads, it will slide around
• If used frequently, the finish may wear off

Many consider this the best mouse pad for gamers who prefer hard, thin surfaces. The fact that you can swap from soft to hard is even better, in case you decide you like variety. Also, if you want a mouse pad you can use anywhere for anything, this fits the bill. Several users say it’s light and comfortable enough to use in bed! There are also different sizes available, though keep in mind none of them are very big.

Best RGB Lighting Mouse Pad: GIM Wireless Charging RGB Gaming Mouse Pad

Price: $45.99         Amazon link     

Reasons to Buy:

• 10 different color lighting modes
• Built-in wireless charging for smartphones
• Large size gives you extra room to move
• Smooth and fast-tracking
• Waterproof
• Memory function for lighting settings

Reasons to Avoid:

• To turn it off you must unplug it, which can be a hassle
• Phone charging is slow
• Some phones have to be removed from case to charge

There’s a reason we chose this mouse pad for the lighting versus the phone charging. Many users say the charging itself is slow and finicky. What everyone agrees on, though, is the beautiful and customizable RGB lighting choices. With so many different effects, it will complete your gaming set-up. Plus, while not perfect, the phone charging is still a bonus that many lighted mouse pads lack. The large size and smooth surface make for comfortable gaming. 

Best for Eye-Catching Designs: CYZFF Gaming Mouse Pad

Price: $18.99         Amazon link      

Reasons to Buy:

• Large size for extra space
• Durable stitching
• Smooth surface for optimal mouse gliding
• 26 beautiful designs to choose from
• Thick enough to offer wrist support
• High-quality, vibrant printing

Reasons to Avoid:

• Some say it’s too big for their desk area
• Not as easy to clean as other gaming mouse pads
• Occasionally there will be a mistake in the printing, such as color or blurriness, which necessitates a return

If aesthetics in your gaming area is important to you, CYZFF offers some truly stunning options. Everything from mushrooms to anime scenes to cats, there is something for everyone. Besides being beautiful, users also praise the gaming smoothness of the design. It’s not just a pretty mat, it’s highly effective for gaming too, with a very large size and comfortable thickness. 

How to Choose the Best Mouse Pad for Gaming

How do you know what is the best mouse pad for gaming? Consider the features that are most important to you. Do you have chronic wrist issues? Do you want lighting capabilities that brighten up a dark room? Do you have an optical mouse? Keep these qualities in mind: 

• Wrist support
• Aesthetics
• Surface density. Do you prefer a hard, smooth surface or a soft, comfortable one?
• Mouse compatibility. Optical mice may need specific pads to work their best
• Lighting capabilities
• Size
• Ease of clean up. If you eat or drink at your desk often, this is a must to remember
• Quality. Many cheaper brands have stitching that comes apart
• Non-slip. This is a trait that’s universally desired
• Secondary functions, like charging

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between a gaming mouse pad and a regular mouse pad?

There is some overlap between a standard mouse pad and a gaming one, but gaming mats prioritize tracking smoothness and response so that your mouse doesn’t jump or skip when you’re gaming. They often have bigger options, as you’ll be using your mouse a lot more for gaming than regular computer use. 

Is a bigger mouse pad better for gaming?

Many gamers say yes. However, it depends on the physical dimensions of your playing area. A small desk means a small mat. If you play with big, sweeping motions, a larger pad would be best. Another benefit to big pads is that you can continuously move your mouse further without having to lift it and re-set the mouse down again. 

Should I use a hard or soft mouse pad for gaming?

Comfort will be the decider. Ideally, hard surfaces make for smoother, faster mouse reactions. Harder pads also offer easier clean up, don’t roll up on the edges, and don’t soak up sweat if you’re prone to perspiration. That said, they can be killer on your wrist or even irritate your skin, plus they’re noisier. When in doubt, choose a dual option that offers the ability to swap from hard to soft. Best of both worlds.