Photo by Bonus Action
Up until recently, I had given up on finding a mousepad that truly did it all, opting for a colorful tabletop gaming mat instead of the peely, sticky, staticky options I’ve struggled with for years. SteelSeries just banished that mat to the closet, as the QCK Performance mousepad has solved all my problems.
The QCK Performance line is made up of three texture options: Balance, Control, and Speed. These can be purchased in a large and extra large size, which measure 490 x 420 mm and 900 x 400 mm, respectively. Each option offers a different type of quality woven fabric with low-impact edges that make gaming or working a breeze.
Key Details
- Developer: SteelSeries
- Size Options: Large (490×400 mm), XL (900×400 mm)
- Colors: Standard Black
- Textures: Balance, Control, Speed
- Where to Buy: SteelSeries Online Store
- Price: Large – $39.99, XL – $49.99
- Sample Provided for Review: Yes
Finding Your Fit
SteelSeries has put in the time with these mousepads. Rather than focusing just on the cushion or a pretty surface, the QCK Performance puts gamers’ needs first. Each of the three surface options provides noticeably different experiences, and in testing them out, I was able to find the perfect fit for my requirements.
The Speed mousepad is going to be the most appealing to professional gamers. The fabric has been woven so tightly that the mouse glides right over the surface. It is almost slippery to the touch, allowing users to slide their mouse right off the desk with almost no resistance. Though we do recommend not flinging your mouse. For me, this option was a little too slippery, so I moved on to the next texture option.
The Balance is my all-time favorite mousepad. At the XL size, it easily accommodates my keyboard, mouse, and controller with room to spare. The surface offers just enough drag to control my mouse movements, but without causing issues while gaming or working. It is the perfect blend of friction and smoothness, and the low-profile edges don’t dig into my wrists or distract me while I am playing.
The Control is a particularly special mousepad. The heavily-textured surface swaps speed for finesse and is a great option for WoW players or anyone who needs extra control with their mouse. I struggled a bit with the texture on this, as it tickled my wrist and rubbed a bit, but for those looking for something with as much control as possible, this pad will not disappoint.
Big or Bigger? The XL Is Worth The Extra Cost
With two sizes to pick between, it might be tempting to grab the large size of your preferred texture to save money on the XL. However, I will tell you now, if you have the desk space, go big.
The XL mousepad sits beautifully on the desk and not only offers customized mouse control but keeps your keyboard from scooting and sliding as you play games or work on projects. The black backdrop is beautiful and will enhance your gaming setup.
If you don’t have a big space for a mousepad, the large will get the job done, but the XL really showcases what the QCK Performance can do while looking absolutely gorgeous.
Final Score – 9/10
The size, customization options, and overall quality of the SteelSeries QCK Performance mousepad make it one of the best options currently available. The only thing missing is a few bright colors to pick from, and as soon as they are available, I’ll be grabbing a couple.
One of the best elements of these mousepads is the ability to swap between different textures. If you need speed and reaction, pull out the Speed pad; if you are working on a project and want more control, swap out for the Balance.
The QCK Performance delivers an excellent, high-quality option for a mousepad, and the premium feel, look, and use will level up your office setup.
**Bonus Action was provided with samples of the Speed, Control, and Balance QCK Performance mousepads for the purpose of this review**
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