In my journey to explain everything I know about mousepads and help you by answering your questions regarding mousepads, we’ve come to the following question: Speed vs control mousepads, which one is better?
I’ve answered whether RGB mousepads are worth it, whether expensive mousepads are worth it, and even whether you should use a mousepad at all.
Today, let’s focus on getting the speed or control aspect right. It is critical for competitive gaming to choose the right one. But, first let’s understand what they are and the differences so you can choose the best one for you.
What Is A Control Mousepad?
Control mousepads are generally slower, high friction mousepads that provide more control than speed ones. They have a rough texture and more friction to provide more precision at the cost of speed. They are mainly used in tactical shooters like Valorant, CS:GO, and Rainbow Six Siege.
Control Mousepad Pros
- + More control
- + Stable
- + More Consistent
Control Mousepad Cons
- – Can be slow
- – Your mouse will feel heavier & you will get fatigued more easily
- – Micro adjustments are harder to do
Control mousepads, as the name suggests, provide more control with the sacrifice of speed.
Since they are more stable, almost every professional CS:GO \ Valorant player uses a control mousepad as speed is not a concern in these games.
The biggest problem with control mousepads is that micro adjustments are harder to make. Since they are slower and have higher static friction, you end up over-adjusting often.
However, you are more consistent as the pad is slower and generally more controllable, leaving less room for errors.
Control mousepads are a great option since they have higher friction and provide more control and consistency. However, their drawback is that they are slower than speed mousepads. As a result, they are generally used in slower-paced games like CS:GO and Valorant.
What Is A Speed Mousepad?
Speed mousepads are generally faster, low-friction mousepads that provide extra speed compared to control ones. They have a smooth texture that provides a quick glide at the cost of control. As a result, they are generally better at tracking heavy games like Apex Legends & Overwatch.
Control Mousepad Pros
- + Faster
- + Micro adjustments are easier
Control Mousepad Cons
- – Less accurate
- – Less consistent as it is faster
Speed mousepads, as the name suggests, provide more speed with the sacrifice of control.
Since they are faster, they are generally used in tracking-heavy games with high TTK, like Apex Legends, Overwatch, and Halo Infinite.
The biggest problem with speed mousepads is that they are less consistent. Since they are faster, there is more room for errors like over flicking (How To Improve Your Flicking And Master Flick Shots) and such.
However, micro adjustments are easier and more accurate, which is a big deal. Many people claim that it was the reason they left the control mousepads at their nearest disposal.
Plus, it feels incredible. It glides so smoothly like ice skates, but it is a personal opinion.
Speed mousepads are a great option since they have lower friction and provide more speed and agility. However, their drawback is that they can be harder to control. As a result, they are generally used in fast-paced games like Apex Legends and Call of Duty.
Speed vs Control Mousepad: Which Is The Best?
Speed mousepads are generally better for tracking-heavy games like Apex Legends and Overwatch, while control mousepads are better for tactical shooters like CS:GO and Valorant.
Unfortunately, there is no clear winner and no clear best option. Even saying that speed is better for tracking while control is better for tactical shooters leaves me walking on a tightrope.
You should think about your playstyle and your preferences.
- Do you prefer speed or more control?
- Are you playing fast-paced games or slower-paced games?
- Do you feel your current mousepad is too fast or too slow?
- Do you lack speed and agility while aim training?
- Do you tend to over-flick?
Asking yourself these questions can help you identify your preferences and understand where you naturally gravitate to.
Since they are both excellent choices and there is no clear winner, the best you can do is understand your own preference and choose one according to your own playstyle.
My Opinion
I am generally more leaned toward speed mousepads. This goes hand in hand with the theory that speed mousepads are better for tracking-heavy games since I am primarily a Warzone player.
However, I’ve tested numerous pads and concluded that speed mousepads are for me. That’s why if you are stuck, I recommend…
Still Not Sure What To Pick?
Since there is no clear winner between speed mousepads and control mousepads, and each one fits different playstyles, it is recommended to buy a speed one and control one and try them out yourself.
They are not expensive (look below for recommendations), and you will solve this mystery once and for all.
After all, testing them by yourself and getting to your own conclusions is the best way to determine the right one for you.
But remember, if you are stuck, remember the thumb rule:
- Slow-paced games – Control mousepad
- Fast-paced games – Speed mousepad
My Recommended Control Mousepads
These are classic control mousepads that won’t break your bank. Probably the most popular mousepads in the market.
The SteelSeries QcK is a true classic. Highly recommended.
Did someone say more control? The Zowie G-SR is full of control. A classic among CS:GO players.
My Recommended Speed Mousepads
These are classic speed mousepads that won’t break your bank. The best bang for your buck!
The Razer Sphex V3 is one of the best budget options when it comes to speed mousepads.
The HyperX Fury S Pro is a no-brainer when it comes to speed mousepads. Inexpensive, durable, and generally considered one of the best mousepads for starters.
