Notebook Computers
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Xtrac Ripper XXL Mouse Mat & InstaGlide
Written by Mikhail Ivanenkov
Monday, 09 July 2007
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As far as thickness goes, the entire pad is comparable to a pair of CDs on top of each other. Not too thick, not too thin. One of the big concerns with cloth pads is frilling. I must say, when I first reviewed the original Ripper XL way back when, I was skeptical of this fact. However, having used it for over a year without any major frilling (some edges get worn, but that's expected) I'm pleasantly surprised.
In addition to the mat, XtracPads also provides a sticker, some alcohol prep pads, and a couple strips of Mad Tape. Take a strip, cut it to size, and slap it on your mouse feet for reduced friction. Simple solution but it works. Unfortunately the adhesive on the tape is pretty weak. This may be due to transportation in hot climate, but either way it doesn't stick like normal tape would. Granted it'll stay, but I question for how long. Most mice nowadays have slick feet anyway so with the exception of the most hardcore gamers, it's not a necessity.
Although it doesn't ship with the RipperXXL, XtracPads also sent over a sample of their InstaGlide. This is an anti-friction liquid soaked up in a sponge. You apply it every 3-4 days to your mouse feet to reduce resistance. The container holds enough to get you through roughly 100 applications (3-4 months' worth if you're on the spot). It's an interesting solution if you actually remember to use it.
And what better way (or what better excuse for gaming) to test a mouse pad than with some serious playtime. I spent considerable hours "testing" it with CS:S, Fear, C&C 3, and Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion. It was also large enough to accommodate the mouse from my workstation to the left, so I got to do some less fun but more typical work with it as well. There's not much you can say about a mouse pad other than it's good or bad, and this one's good. The size may not be for everyone, but the performance and comfort are there. For those wanting something a bit more manageable, a Ripper XL (17.75" x 14") or just a Ripper (17" x 11") may better suit your needs.
Pros
World's largest mouse mat!
Looks nice
Comfortable
Simple design
Almost no frilling
Stays put thanks to Sure Grip backing
Great performance
Cons
Mad Tape has weak adhesive
May be too large for some
Not as slick as plastic surfaces
The XXL does a great job of keeping things stationary, provides comfort for your hands, and is large enough to ensure that you never run out of mouse space. It's not as slick as plastic pads, but it's a lot more comfortable and the tracking is flawless. If interested, you can get yours here. Feel free to comment on this review here. Thanks for reading and enjoy the site!
