Smooth, luxurious and extra, extra large
- Manufacturer: Acer Predator
- Model: XXL Mousepad
- Price when reviewed: £39.99
- Supplied by: Acer
Normally I wouldn’t feel compelled to write up a review of a mousepad. I mean, it’s a mousepad, there’s not much to say is there? When you reach the XXL sizes of mousepads, however, and the asking price is £39.99, it can help to have the reassurance that you’re making a smart purchase.
First things first, these mousepads are indeed extra-extra-large. Measuring in at 930mm by 450mm, you are going to need a decent-sized desk to fit them on. Once in place, though, you’re rewarded with ample space for a large keyboard and more than enough room for the most exuberant of mouse sweeps, swipes, swoops and swishes. When I’m not gaming, I have enough room to comfortably use two mice as well as keeping my phone protected on the pad, too.
The Predator XXL mousepads come in a variety of different styles, ranging from a relatively basic pattern that echoes the default desktop background of Predator PCs and laptops to richly detailed scenes full of colour and detail. The print quality is good on the mousepads I have received: There is a slight graininess to the finer details, but that’s to be expected on a mousepad of this size. The colours aren’t quite as vibrant as on the promo photos, but for me, it’s preferable as it doesn’t detract from the aesthetic of my setup. It’s entirely down to personal preference which is best for you, of course, but the manufacturing quality is the same across the whole range.
There is no embroidered edge on the Predator XXL mousepad, which did initially give me concern that the edges would end up fraying, but I’ve been using one of these pads for over 6 months and it’s as good as new. The surface fabric has been heat-sealed onto the soft and pliable rubber base, which has given the edging very good durability.
I frequently roll-up my mousepads as I often change my setup, which on cheaper pads has caused the surface and base to separate and peel at the corners in particular. I’ve had no such issues with the Predator XXL mousepads, though.
Despite how thin the mousepad is (just 3mm), it has a comfortable, slightly spongy feel which is very comfortable to rest your elbows and wrists on. The soft rubber base grips the desk well, and I had no issues with the pad sliding or bunching up.
In use, mouse response is basically perfect. I tried pressing down hard on my mouse while moving it and even with substantial pressure the pad gives a frictionless surface. Whether making slow, measured movements or high-speed flicks, I found the tracking to be supremely accurate.
Summary
Acer’s Predator XXL mousepads are ideal for anyone wanting to add a touch of gamer style to their desk. I love the look of mine, and it has elevated my fairly dull desk surface into a stylish battle-station. £39.99 is a reasonable price for a mousepad of this size, especially when it offers comfort and durability beyond that found on cheaper off-brand alternatives. Topping it off is a 2-year guarantee that makes this an attractive proposition – all you need to do now is pick your favourite design.
