Being an avid member of the [H]ard Forums, I was subjected to Kyle’s bombardment-style of advertisement of the original RatPadz. At the time, I could not justify spending $15 + shipping on a mouse-pad. With the debut of the Ratpadz GS, an upgraded version of the RatPadz, I gave in and decided to pick up a RatPadz GS from PCmods.com (currently offering the best price, including shipping).

The RatPadz GS

The Logo in all its Glory

   Upon receiving the RatPadz GS, I marveled at its gigantic size. I had to re-arrange the stuff on my desk to make room for the pad. Weighing in at 278.2 grams, it’s a massive 11.75” long, 9.25” wide from the corner and 8.25” from the middle of the pad. The backing of the pad has 9 feet, making it almost impossible for the RatPadz GS to move during regular use. A very useful feature.

How it Measures Up

The Back of the Pad

   The claim of the RatPadz GS is quite simple, more precise and accurate mouse movement by limiting the amount of friction between the mouse and the pad. What does that mean to the average computer user? Practically nothing; to the hardcore gamer or graphics designer, it’s a world of difference. Reducing the amount of friction means more accurate shots and a lot easier touchup of graphics.


   To test the RatPadz GS, I’ll be using my Logitech Cordless Optical Mouseman. There aren’t any real tests or benchmarks you can run on a mouse-pad, so I decided to load up JASC Paintshop Pro and Counter-Strike.

   In Paintshop Pro, I traced the AMD logo with a cloth pad, the RatPadz GS and the Everglide Optical. There wasn’t a real big difference in my tracing techniques and any flaws can be based on human error. However, I felt that there was more of a resistance with the cloth pad, resulting in a smoother trace. With the RatPadz GS, the lines were jumpier than the other two because it would recognize ever little movement of the mouse. This can be considered both a good and a bad thing.

RatPadz GS

EverGlide Optical

Cloth Pad

   I’m not a pro at Counter-Strike, I’m probably not even average by most people’s standards, but I did notice a little difference in my accuracy which resulted in a more forgiving kill per death ratio. I played de_aztec, 11 rounds, 6 people (bots) per team twice; first with the RatPadz GS, then again with my regular cloth pad. These results can not solely be based on the mouse pad. How I played and anticipated attacks and movements also have an effect in the results. However, I felt that playing with the RatPadz GS may make achieving that goal easier. In certain situations, all you need is a few more kills and the RatPadz GS will help you achieve that goal. Another point is that because of its massive size, to do a quick 360° turn, you no longer have to pick up your mouse. With the RatPadz GS, it’s one quick, smooth flick of the wrist.


   At only $10, the RatPadz GS is an investment everyone should at least consider. It makes your every day web browsing, game playing and graphic editing seem faster and smoother. And if you aren’t satisfied with your RatPadz GS, you’re only out $10. Overall, if want a simply better mousepad for a very reasonable price, pick up a RatPadz GS to see all of what you’ve been missing out on by using your current mousepad.

Pros:
	Slick Mousing Surface Huge Cheap

Cons:
	None so far.