Choosing the right mousepad can feel overwhelming. There are cloth pads, plastic references, large XXL pads, and even desktop surfaces. But how do you know which pad actually performs well in terms of speed, control, and feedback?

I tested nine surfaces using a consistent, repeatable method that focuses on real-world behavior — not lab numbers — with multiple mice, including a 15-year-old Magic Mouse, a Lenovo Legion M600, and a Logitech G305.

• Section 1: Surface Noise Test — what it tells you
• Section 2: Glide Test (10° angle) — repeatable method
• Section 3: Slow Movement Test — micro-control & fine aiming
• Section 4: Stop Control Test — braking behavior
• Section 5: Spinning Object Test — relative friction reference
• Section 6: Observations — how usage affects pads over time (more used area)
• Section 7: Conclusion — matching pad to playstyle