There are a lot of mousepads out there, but which mouse mat material is better: cloth or plastic?
Getting the right mousepad for your set-up is important. That’s why we’re taking a closer look at the two commonly used mouse mat materials. We’ll be identifying key features, any pros or cons, and showcasing a mouse mat for each material, all so you can make an informed decision when you next buy a mouse mat. Grab a biscuit and a notepad, and let’s go!
What is a Mouse Mat?
Starting with the basics, a mouse mat is a dedicated pad that serves as a platform for your mouse. Sometimes, they are referred to as mousepads or gaming surfaces, but they generally all mean the same thing. A mat, for your mouse.
Mouse mats are a great addition to your gaming set-up as they are optimised to track your mouse’s sensor accurately and they protect your desk from scratches or scuff marks. All in all, a low-key must!
What Materials Do Mouse Mats Use?
Whichever material is used, mouse mats follow a basic structure: optimised surface and grippy base. Typically, the surface is made from either a fabric cloth or plastic material. The base will depend on which material is used for the surface. Usually, cloth surfaces are paired with rubberised bases whereas plastic mats can utilise adhesive on the underside. This isn’t hard and fast though; some plastic pads opt for rubberised bases as they offer more flexibility with placement. One thing reigns true for all base types, they are engineered to prevent the mat from slipping about as you game. Your mouse mat will stand firm and true.
Now, we’re here for a more in-depth look at the surface materials. Is one truly better than the other?
Cloth Mouse Mats
Cloth mouse mats come in a variety of sizes, shapes, and colours – you can even find limited edition mats for popular games like Fallout. There is a great amount of choice when it comes to fabric mousepads, and for good reason. Their fabric weave is engineered to facilitate the best performance from both optical and laser sensors, making them a great platform for an extensive range of gaming mice.
Typically, the chosen fabric will be near frictionless, enabling smooth gliding action from edge to edge. Whether conducting battle with quick flicks or sweeping movements, the fabric works seamlessly with PTFE and ceramic mice feet, leaving you free to focus on the game.
One great advantage to fabric mouse mats is that they are malleable. You can roll them up and they will still lie perfectly flat when unravelled. This makes them popular amongst LAN gamers and those who game on the go. Instead of gambling on a decent surface being at your destination, you can take a dedicated gaming mouse mat with you – no bother, at all.
There are still plenty more advantages to cloth mousepads, and even a few drawbacks, too. We have a quick pro/con list for you to compare.
Pros:
- Extensive choice in size, shape, and colour
- Portable – roll up and take with you!
- Rubberised base for grip
- Protects your desk from scratches and scuff marks
- Thicker and provide slight cushioning
Cons:
- Layers can peel with extended use
- Shorter lifespan than harder mouse pads
- More difficult to clean
- Can stain
Cloth Mouse Mat Focus Product: OcUK 3XL Mega Mat
Of course, we’d be remiss to not show off our own mouse mat for the focus product. The OcUK 3XL Mega Mat is a beast. Measuring in at 1180mm by 600mm, this bad boy will protect your entire desk, provide a platform for all your peripherals, and facilitate smooth performance from your gaming mouse. What more do you want from a gaming surface?
Plastic Mouse Mats
Plastic mouse mats are characterised by their hard and firm nature. They provide a solid foundation with a smooth surface for effortless gliding action. What’s more, they are usually incredibly thin, providing little interruption to the surface of your desk.
Much like cloth mouse mats, plastic gaming surfaces boast optimisation for use with optical and laser sensors. No surprise really, it’s there to support your gaming mouse and enhance performance. The firm material is a consistent surface for your chosen sensor to read, making for more accurate tracking in comparison to just using a mouse on your desk.
A true shining feature of plastic mouse mats is they are incredibly durable. With fewer, less pronounced layers, they don’t suffer from the wear and tear you can see in cloth pads. Plus, they are easier to clean, too!
Just like cloth mouse mats, plastic gaming surfaces have their pros and cons. Oh, would you look at that, we have some listed here.
Pros:
- Incredibly thin
- Enhanced durability
- Easy to clean
- Variety in base material
Cons:
- Limited choice
- Adhesive bases provide less placement flexibility
- Harder to travel with
Plastic Mouse Mat Focus Product: Razer Sphex V3
The Razer Spex V3 Large Mouse Mat utilises a tough polycarbonate material, which is smooth with a sleek black finish. The adhesive base will keep it standing firm whilst the optimised surface facilitates accurate tracking for your optical sensor. Measuring 450mm by 400mm, this mousepad provides ample space for you to conduct battle!
Soft or hard, one thing that is a must with your mouse mat is keeping it clean! We have a nifty guide on how to clean mouse pads, just for you.
Cloth vs Plastic: The Result!
If you’ve read any of our other showdowns, then you’re bound to know what the answer here is. In truth, it all comes down to your preferences. Both cloth and plastic mouse mats have been engineered to facilitate accurate tracking and smooth gliding. They work brilliantly with optical and laser sensors, so there truly are no wrong answers. If you like the soft feel of a fabric mat under your wrist, go for cloth. Should a plastic finish vibe better with your set-up and needs, then that is what you pick.
Your gaming set-up is for you, so get what works for you.
More Mouse Mats
We’ve only showcased two mouse mats in this article. The Overclockers UK complete range is much bigger than that! We have an exciting collection of both cloth and plastic mousepads, with some even sporting gaming-focused features like RGB lighting, Qi wireless charging, and USB pass-through. Your perfect gaming surface is out there.
Still Need Help Picking?
We have some great content around mouse mats. If you are still struggling to find the perfect gaming surface for your set-up, why not have a read?
Who is Your Winner?
Where do you land on the cloth vs plastic debate? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below.
- 6 min read
Emily Haylock
Author
Emily is a board and cosy gamer, keyboard obsessive, and content copywriter for Overclockers UK. She has been with Overclockers UK since 2020, writing about everything from noblechairs to 8Pack PCs. She writes from within her desk nest with a foster pup at her feet. (What, a desk duvet is a totally normal thing!) In her downtime, she likes to play board games, farming sims, and old-school Final Fantasy. IX to be specific. It is the best, and that is a hill she will die on.
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