Flat, Black and Sexy –
As mouse technology has significantly increased over the last several years, mousepads have seemingly become more irrelevant as laser and optic mice can be used on any surface. Whether you are using that old wrist-resting mousepad or just a desk’s wood surface, you cannot really understand the different of using a high end mouse with a specifically designed mousepad until you try it for yourself. It is buttery smooth, accurate, and overall, professional.
The Mionix Ensis 320 is an aluminum alloy mousepad that is designed to be paired with high end gaming mice such as the Avior 8200. Mionix has developed a system called SQAT – Surface Quality Analyzer Tool – and implemented it into their mice products. This system basically determines the surface the user is using and adjusts the mouse accordingly. SQAT, in conjunction with this mousepad, offers a fluidity that is unmatched and difficult to describe.
The overall thickness of the pad is 2mm – 1mm thick for the forged aluminum alloy finish and another millimeter for the rubber underside to prevent slipping. The unit features a sleek black design that almost appears to glow thanks to the smooth matte finish; the curved indent at the bottom also provides a more dynamic and eye-catching aesthetic. But like many dark surfaces, the pad will show finger prints but can be wiped away with some cleaning solution and elbow grease. The padding on the underside is also very stable and will not slip even with tough use. This glossy finish reduces data loss between the surface and mouse which provides a low friction glide, kind of like ice skating with your mouse. The surface of the pad also seems to stay cooler to the touch which is an accidental but highly welcomed feature especially when sitting at your computer for hours. The packaging of the product has been designed with care as the unit is covered in a laser tape to prevent damage during shipment.
Even though this mousepad works great and has a very sexy design it might not be for everyone. First, it costs $40. This price is undoubtedly high especially when similar pads are on the market for $10-$20 less. Also, this mousepad only comes in one size: 320mm x 260mm, or about the size of an open text book. Using myself as an example, I sit at a desk with a roll out drawer that contains my keyboard and I have a little space next it to for a mouse. Unfortunately my desk situation cannot accommodate this mousepad even if I rotate it sideways. There is no smaller option nor is there an option to order a couple smaller pads and fit them together puzzle-piece style. On the other hand, if you have enough space and don’t mind the higher price tag, this mousepad could be a great fit.
Dropping a couple $20s on a mousepad might seem outrageous but it does offer a quality experience. The low-profile simple black design looks impressive just sitting on top of a desk but really can increase performance when paired with a corresponding optical or laser mouse. This is one product that you never knew you wanted.
4/5
Also Try: using this pad as a weapon
Better Than: just using any surface
Wait For It: a sale price
By: Zachary Gasiorowski, Editor in Chief myGamer.com
Specs:
- Material: Aluminium alloy
- S.Q.A.T value: 10
- Surface: Ultra low data loss coating / rigid
- Dimensions: 320mm x 260mm
- Thickness: 2mm
- Back: Rubber based backside for a steady grip
- Compatibilty: LED-optical & laser
WARRANTY INFORMATION
Warranty for Mionix products only covers defects caused by manufacturing. The warranty does not cover defects caused by any kind of usage that is not attributable to the manufacturing process. All of our products have 1 year warranty. Defect products will be replaced with a new product. For more information read our FAQ or contact your local vendor.
http://mionix.net/products/ensis-320/
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