Mionix Sargas 400 Review

By Kevin Mitchell  |  Posted: November 12, 2012

Editor's Note: The mousepad's size is the only notable difference between the Sargas 400 and the Sargas 320. The following review matches what was written for the Sargas 320.

The Swedish-based company Mionix has released a new line of professional high-end gaming mouse pads developed using their Surface Quality Analyser Tool. Using the tool, Mionix has a formula to determine a rating for data loss between the surface and a mouse sensor. Mousepads with a rating of 8 or higher out of 10 will provide no tracking loss and shouldn't negatively affect gaming performance. The Sargas line – 320, 400 & 900 – all rate an 8 using the tool, but does that translate into a must-have mousepad for gamers?

Overview

Hoping to define the new standard of uncoated mousepads, the Sargas 400, consisting of a 400mm x 260mm surface, is the new Sargas line's middle child. With only a 2mm thickness and natural rubber backside, this mousepad stays low to the surface without sliding across the desktop. Honestly, this thing will not move... ever!

Specifications

• Material: Durable, smooth, and flexible microfiber
• S.Q.A.T value: 8
• Surface: Uncoated / semi-rigid
• Dimensions: 400mm x 260mm
• Thickness: 2mm
• Back: Rubber-based backside for a steady grip
• Compatibility: LED-optical & laser

Growing up, I never believed that there were differences between mouse pads. Why would I spend $15 on a so-called "gaming" version when I can go to Staples and pick up a $3 circular mousepad with a cute dog graphic on it? Okay, so I never owned one with a cute dog, but I'll admit I used to use one with Jar Jar Binks on it for over ten years.

Have you ever had your mouse cursor occasionally skip across the screen? Isn't that one of the most annoying things in the world? Using a high-quality mousepad will make all the difference. When first using the Sargas 400, I was surprised at the slightly higher friction when sliding the mouse across the surface. Will it take some time to get used to it? Probably, depending on your previous mousepad, but in the end, you will be happy that you made the switch. The added friction gives you better control when continually moving the mouse.

The surface has a very smooth, soft feel – except around the edges that feel frayed and irritable. I tend to place my wrist across the very edge of the mousepad, so after prolonged gaming sessions, my wrist did become irritated. This may or may not be a factor depending on how you position your mouse. Over time, however, the edges become smooth to the touch, and eventually, you won't even notice them.

Simply Put

If you are in the market for a new mousepad, I recommend you take a look at the Sargas line for gaming mousepads – each one made from the same high-quality surface. If you want a smaller mousepad, check out our Sargas 320 review.