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Written by Mikhail Ivanenkov
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Wednesday, 13 June 2007 |
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Page 3 of 3
The Thunder 9 looks identical to the Thunder 8 with a few exceptions. Most notably it's a lot larger at 13.8" x 11" x 1/6". For me this is the ideal size. It also has another logo on the bottom left and ships with mouse enhancers. Unfortunately it doesn't have a cord clip or provisions for one like the Thunder 8 (though one can be fitted with a little bending if need be). Also, the surface is non-removable. You can choose whether you want smooth or rough, but you'll then have to buy the appropriate model (meaning you can't have both on the same pad).
The bottom is about the same as that of the Thunder 8. Here you'll find 11 identical silicone feet that prevent slipping. As far as colors go, currently the Thunder 9 is only available in black.
Last of all we have the big daddy of the X-ray family, the Aqua 3. This thin cloth mouse pad measures a giant 17.7" x 13.8" x 0.06". You can probably tell that from the above photograph. It's a typical cloth pad, yet thinner than most. It features a rubber bottom to prevent slipping. As with all cloth pads, there's a bit more friction involved. Furthermore, few will have a use for such a huge surface.
Testing a mouse pad is of course subjective. After doing a couple days work and some gaming, I've come to realize that X-ray's pad are on about the same level as most other performance surfaces. All have flawless tracking, but that has more to do with the mouse than the pad itself. The cloth Aqua 3 is on par with various competitive offerings (such as Xtrac's models). However, the Thunder 8 and Thunder 9 are probably the most comfortable hard-surface mouse pads I've used (smooth side that is). What it really comes down to is comfort and X-ray offers that and more.
Pros
- Great presentation
- Included transportation cases (tin or mesh)
- Good sizes
- Several available color options
- Optional mouse enhancers (perfect size for Logitech and Microsoft models)
- Included mouse cord clip
- Thunder 8 has swappable sides
- Overall great mouse pads
Cons
- Mesh container for Thunder 9 might frizz
- Aqua 3 is way too large
X-ray's mouse pad line is, overall, on par with the competition. The Aqua 3 is a bit large and devoid of anything special, but the other two are great. The Thunder 8, in particular, is the most complete kit (if such a thing exists when talking of mouse pads) I've come across: great surface, optional mouse feet, cord clip, and a useful/visually appealing tin case. The Thunder 9 is more in tune with my size preferences, but its mesh casing could degrade over time. If interested, you can take your pick here.
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Last Updated ( Friday, 15 June 2007 )
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