Mousepads are an extremely important peripheral for an FPS player. Since we want to maximize our performance, we want to ensure our mousepads suit our needs and generally perform at their best.
The problem is that mousepads last a pretty long time, but their performance degrades over time. As a result, you are hurting yourself by using the same old mousepad for years.
So let’s talk about how long mousepads last and when you should get a new one.
How Long Do Mousepads Last?
In general, mousepads tend to last between 2 to 4 years, depending on the quality. The better the quality, the more likely it is to last longer. However, while the mousepad can still be functional after a few years, its glide performance worsens and can impact your performance.
The problem with mousepads’ life span is that it is can generally last a very long time. Typically, older people buy a mousepad and use it for more than a decade. However, it does not mean that you should use it for an extended period of time.
Mousepads’ performance degrades fast. It means that while your mousepad can still be functional and totally working, it might have a bumpy surface, uneven surface, and inconsistent glide across the mousepad.
Playing in those circumstances is not ideal, so we have to separate between mousepads’ general lifespan and mousepads’ recommended usage lifespan.
Mousepads’ recommended usage lifespan is significantly lower than the general lifespan.
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It is recommended not to use the same mousepad for more than two years. Mousepads tend to get uneven and bumpy surfaces and errant cloth fibers, which can cause inconsistent glides and harm performance. However, it may change according to your usage of the mousepad and its quality.
For example, my desk mat is only two years old, but it has become bumpy and uneven and does not glide the same. That’s why I’ve bought a new mousepad to get a more consistent glide.
Unless your mousepad is really cheap or just a knockoff for 1$ from Amazon, it will probably last a really long time. (Cheap Vs Expensive Mousepads).
But again, after some time, even though it is completely functional and your spouse or parents may say that it is perfectly fine, its performance just won’t be the same, and it will probably be the time to get a replacement.
The performance difference between a worn-out/dirty mousepad to a new, smooth mousepad is enormous. (Don’t believe me? Clean your mouse…)
Do Mousepads Really Wear Out?
Mouse pads tend to wear out after about two years of consistent usage. While the mousepad may still be functional, its performance won’t be as ideal as it will have uneven surfaces, inconsistent glide, and more. Therefore, it is recommended to change mousepads every two years.
When Should I Replace My Mousepad?
In general, it is recommended to replace your mousepad when it no longer feels smooth and its glide is inconsistent. Also, whenever its surface or corners start to show signs of deterioration and when you notice it is inconsistent and uneven, that’s when you replace your mousepad.
Before you run and get a new mousepad, since yours is inconsistent, when was the last time you thoroughly cleaned it? That’s what I thought.
In general, cleaning can fix most of the smoothness and glide problems. It can make your mousepad feel brand new. Mousepads tend to get dirty fast which causes glide inconsistencies. You might not need to get a new mousepad after all!
Check out this video for a mousepad cleaning tutorial.
But, if you cleaned it and it is still inconsistent and not smooth, it is time to purchase a new one. Please take a look below for my recommendations. Or, if you are debating speed vs control, check out Speed vs Control Mousepads: Which Is The Best For Gaming?
Playing on an uneven and inconsistent mousepad is not ideal. However, since mousepads are generally inexpensive, I highly recommend getting a new one, even if yours is fully functional since it will harm your performance.
Since you are on SweatyGaming, you are serious about your performance. So let’s not abandon our setup (Best Gaming Setup For 2022) in our process of becoming the best gamer we can be.
Generally, you should clean your mousepad before buying a new one. It can fix most glideness and inconsistency problems and will uncover a “new” fresh feeling mousepad. However, if your mousepad is still not ideal after washing it, it is time to get a new one.
How Often Do Pros Replace Mousepads?
Shroud, a former professional Counter-Strike: Global Offensive player, said he replaces his mousepad multiple times a year. Since mousepads tend to get worn out, which can have a negative impact on gameplay, pro players tend to replace them often for maximum performance.
As I said before, it is entirely understandable to replace them often as they are inexpensive, and going from an old, uneven mousepad to a new smooth one, can be pretty detrimental.
However, since we don’t have much information regarding how many times pro players replace mousepads, we can only assume they change them quite often or until they show signs of inconsistencies and gliding issues.
Of course, this depends on the quality of the mousepad, as an Artisan mousepad will last way longer than a cheap knockoff from eBay.
My Recommended Budget Mousepads
These are my recommended, inexpensive mousepads. These are some of the ultimate choices among pro players. I, myself, use the Razer Gigantus V2 at the moment.
The classic. The SteelSeries QcK is probably the most popular mousepad of all time.
The Razer Gigantus v2 is a beast and a direct competitor to the SteelSeries QcK. I love it!
The BenQ Zowie G-SR is the CS:GO player’s favorite mousepad. A bit more on the control side, perfect for tactical shooters like CS:GO and Valorant.
Final Words
That’s it for today! I hope you’ve liked the article and got your questions answered. If you want to learn more about mousepads or gaming mice, check out Mousepads Category or Gaming Mice Category.
Keep slapping, and I will see you in the next one!
FAQ - Frequently Asked Questions
How To Increase Mousepad's Life Span?
To increase the mousepad’s life span and make it last longer, the most important thing is to keep it clean. Dust and dirt can cause extra friction, which can break cloth and wear it out faster during usage.
Why Does My Mouse Pad Feel Slower?
Your mousepad feels slower because it is dirty. Dust and skin cells tend to accumulate on the mousepad during regular usage and can impact the mousepad’s friction and glide. Therefore, it is recommended to clean your mousepad multiple times a year.
How Do I Make My Mousepad Smoother?
You can improve the smoothness of your mousepad by cleaning it thoroughly. Getting rid of all the dust and skin cells that tend to accumulate on the mousepad can tremendously affect the smoothness of the mousepad. Therefore, it is recommended to clean your mousepad multiple times a year.
