Many gamers, especially newer ones, are often reluctant to invest in a high-quality gaming mouse pad because they are unsure how long it will last. If you are such a person, you are in the right place to learn.
Today, we will discuss how long gaming mouse pads last, so you know better about their durability and longevity.
How Long Do Gaming Mouse Pads Last?
Whether you use a hard plastic-coated gaming mouse pad or a soft fabric finish one, in general, it should last you at least two years. Naturally, the more you play PC games with a gaming mouse pad, the faster it will experience wear and tear from usage.
Most high-quality gaming mouse pads, like the Thasis, can easily last upwards of 3 years or even 5 years if you use them responsibly and take good care of them. However, usage is not the only factor, and other factors can also affect a gaming mouse pad's operational life.
Here are all the key factors determining how long a gaming mouse pad will be useful to you.
Usage
The type of games you play with a gaming mouse pad, and your manner of gaming can have the biggest impact on the lifespan of a gaming mouse pad. Typically, even if you play intense games with a rough hand, a high-quality gaming mouse pad is expected to last around two years.
You might be a competitive gamer who plays many first-person shooters (FPS) or other fast-paced games. You will likely wear out the surface texture of a gaming mouse pad faster than a gamer who plays DOTA2 or League.
Gripping Style
How you grip the mouse while playing is another key factor because how you hold your mouse will impact the mouse pad's lifespan.
If you have a palm grip on your mouse, you'll likely wear out a gaming mouse pad faster than a gamer who has a claw grip on their mouse. Moreover, the heavier your arm is, the more friction and wear you will cause on the gaming mouse pad's surface.
Sensitivity (DPI)
Another factor that works closely with gripping is the mouse sensitivity or DPI settings. Typically, FPS gamers like low DPI settings for accuracy, which means they use more of the gaming mouse pad surface, whereas other gamers may use high DPI settings for quick and easy movement.
Typically, gamers using low sensitivity or DPI settings are more prone to damage their pad's surface texture than those who use higher DPI settings. Of course, the weight of your arm and gripping style will also come into play here.
Construction Materials
The material used to make a gaming mouse pad significantly affects its lifespan. For instance, a hard plastic coated gaming mouse pad will typically outlast a soft fabric finish gaming mouse pad. This is simply because hard plastic lasts longer than soft fabric.
However, most gamers, especially competitive gamers, prefer soft fabric gaming mouse pads because they offer more accuracy, which is great for playing competitive FPS games. However, if you are a gamer who prefers speed over accuracy, you may prefer hard plastic coated gaming mouse pads.
Hard plastic-coated gaming mouse pads work best for gamers who play MOBA or RTS games because they require constant fast movements without needing too much accuracy.
Usage Conditions
The conditions a gaming mouse pad is used under can make a difference in its lifespan. If you use your mouse pad in a moist or damp environment, the surface will come off faster than if it was in a dry environment.
Similarly, if you regularly spill liquids on your gaming mouse pad, it won't last as long as it should. This is another reason the Thasis is such a good soft fabric gaming mouse pad because it is water-resistant.
Just like moisture and liquids can damage a mouse pad, so can sharp or rough objects. It would be best to show care while using the mouse, not drag it. Also, don't place sharp or rough objects on the mouse pad to ensure the surface doesn't get damaged easily.
Maintenance
Unmaintained or dirty gaming mouse pads will not last as long as a similar well-maintained and clean mouse pad. Over time, a gaming mouse pad will likely collect dust, dirt, debris, and other elements, and they can ruin the mouse pad's surface, especially when it's in use.
It is best to clean your gaming mouse pad at least 2 to 3 times a year or whenever needed. The frequency of cleaning will largely depend on your usage. However, cleaning it every few months of regular usage is important for maintenance and longevity.
Conclusion
The mentioned factors combine to determine how long a gaming mouse pad lasts. If you consider these things and take care of the gaming mouse pad accordingly, it should easily last you 3 to 5 years or maybe even more.
Just remember that low-quality gaming mouse pads are not designed for longevity and will likely get damaged within a year or two. Therefore, you should only buy reliable, high-quality gaming mouse pads.
