The Pad

The pad comes in a plastic tube with a paper insert which tells you all of the specs of the pad, and makes for a more eye-catching package. Once opened, the first thing I noticed was the smell; the pad stinks! It’s either the glue or the rubber backing, but there is a definite pungent odour that hopefully will go away with time.

Rolled up inside is the Razer Mantis. Printed across the pad is the green Razer logo, making sure that everyone knows who you bought it from. In the bottom right corner, Razer have put the Mantis logo, and the type of pad; either control or speed. This specific pad is the control version, and is designed for people who have their mice set to high DPI settings (i.e. every Razer mouse owner).

The Mantis actually uses the technology (Fibertek TM) made by EverGlide. In face, I’m pretty sure that it is simply an EverGlide pad endorsed by Razer and packaged as their own. The packaging makes it quite clear that EverGlide are the owners of the Fibertek trademark. Baring in mind that EverGlide are a well-known and trusted brand, I’m sure Razer’s decision wouldn’t be a poor one.

Most pads choose to go for a very finely weaved top that makes for a smooth surface. The Mantis differs, as it is weaved from thick synthetic fibres that leave large hexagon spaces between, allowing for optical/laser mice to accurately follow movement. The fibres are self-lubricating allowing for a low friction surface.

As with most pads, the back of the Mantis is rubber which stops it from sliding around when gaming. The pad is large, with over 40cm x 35cm of gaming space, allowing for large mouse movements.