The best gaming mouse pad in 2023: Top picks to elevate your gaming

It takes a lot to build a great PC gaming system. But while powerful processors, advanced graphics cards, and sharp monitors might get the most attention, the best gaming setups don't skimp on the smaller details, like a good mouse pad.

The best gaming mouse pad is designed for those who need the absolute best performance. They're made with strong materials, are smooth for quick movements, and might even have RGB lights or extra features like wireless charging. And although they range in price, you can score a quality pad without emptying your wallet.

Here are 16 of our favorite gaming mouse pads, along with some tips for picking the best one.

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FAQs

Why do I need a gaming mouse pad?

Having a mouse pad — whether it's intended for gaming or not — is good practice in general. Mouse pads help make your cursor movements more accurate and give you a more comfortable spot to rest your wrist, as well as prevent your mouse and desk from scratching each other up.

However, whether you truly need an actual gaming mouse pad or not really comes down to how big of a gamer you are. The best mouse pads for gaming are designed for hardcore players that need a very specific kind of cursor control, or want another RGB-enabled accessory to fit their setup's aesthetic. Some also come with bonus accessories, like the Omen Outpost and its wireless charging pad, or anti-slip grips.

But if you're just a casual gamer and you already have a mouse pad, chances are that it's already good enough for what you need.

What size mouse pad should I buy?

Gaming mouse pads tend to come in a few different shapes and sizes. Most gamers will be fine with a standard mouse pad, which are slightly rectangular in shape and have a size of about 10-to-20 x 10-to-16 inches.

That said, large mouse pads — which are usually big enough to hold your mouse, keyboard, and even monitor — can be incredibly convenient. The increased surface area means you can make wider and longer mouse movements, which is great if you're playing with low DPI, or drawing with your mouse.

How do RGB mouse pads work?

RGB mouse pads have lights embedded around the edges, and will glow softly or brightly as you play. To power the lights, you'll need to plug the mouse pad into one of your computer's USB ports.

If your RGB mouse pad comes from a major brand like Razer or Corsair, chances are that you can customize the lights using software on your computer. If the brand doesn't offer software, check the mouse pad for a button you can press to change the lighting setup.