XTracPads Fat Mat

Conclusion

Published: 11th October 2007 | Source: XTracPads | Price: US$28.95 | Author: Matthew Fogg

Conclusion

So how do we sum up the performance of the XTracPads Fat Mat?

Well considering that the Fat Mat has taken a substantial hit in the way of real-estate, it still provides a fast surface to game on and unhindered gameplay. This would certainly lend itself well to situations where desktop space is at a premium...like at a LAN party for example.

Personally I found the XTracPads Fat Mat a little more comfortable to play on for extended periods of time over both the Ripper XL v2 and RAZER MANTIS due to its increased thickness. Plus the Fat Mat felt like it molded better to the shape of my forearm and wrist when my arm was left in one position for any period of time. The increased thickness of the Fat Mat also smoothed out the slightly dimpled faux-timber top on my desk which effectively eliminated any possible tracking issues.

Now here is where the obvious choice becomes a little more blurred. The XTracPads Fat Mat retails for US$28.95 which is roughly US$4.00 more than the online price for the RAZER Mantis, and around US$10.00 more than the XTracPads Ripper XL v2. Both the Ripper XL v2 and the RAZER Mantis offer more gaming real-estate for your dollar, but yet the XTracPads Fat Mat is certainly the more comfortable option.

If you're looking to upgrade your mouse mat, the major decision that you will need to make is whether the XTracPads Fat Mat is worth the additional price premium. Reagrdless, the XTracPads Fat Mat is a worthy contender for your dollar but what kind of price do you put on comfort?

The Good
• Comfort
• Generally provides fast and accurate tracking
• Perfect size for LAN's
• Easy to clean surface
• Non-slip rubber backing
• Simple and unimposing looks

The Mediocre
• It attracts dust and lint like crazy
• While the pricing is certainly reasonable it creates a dilemma when compared to other mouse mats in its price range.

The Bad
• None to report

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