Page 2 - A Closer Look
Flipping the folder onto its backside, I found the quick and easy opening tab, and tore the package open with ease. After opening it, it was time to inspect the contents. To be expected, there were two Skyn mousepads in the folder, and easily differentiated once I took it out. Both mousepads had the standard HyperX and Skyn logos printed on the front. However, a special design feature I personally enjoyed was the logo that differentiated the Skyn Speed and Skyn Control. The Skyn Speed featured a special boot with a pair of wings on it to represent the performance of speed it offers. The Skyn Control, on the other hand, featured a cross-hair of a similar size to represent the control it delivers. At 355mm by 255mm, it was smaller than the XtracGear Ripper I was previously using. Hence, I was able to replace it with either one of the Skyn, and it fits nicely under my cooling fan, and tight to the edge of my desk.
To ensure I got the best grip possible, I took wiped the area off before applying the new mousepads. The application of the mousepad was fairly easy, as it was as simple as removing the film on the backing to expose the adhesive. I looked at both the Skyn, and decided to apply and use the Skyn Control first. The first thing I noticed after applying it was how well it was sticking to my desk. I will admit it is a bit nontraditional, but hey -- using glue is always a solution that works. Another thing I noticed was the pure size of the mousepad. I am not sure if there is a metric measure for the perfect mousepad, however this one is quite good. Over the course of usage, my wrist were not met with any sharp edges or any discomfort at all from the 0.254mm of padding it offers. The black color for both the mousepads are sleek yet simple. The only slight complaint I have for it is when oil gets onto the surface of the mousepad, it is easily noticeable. However, this is minor, and can be taken care of with a swipe of a cloth.
As mentioned previously on other mousepad reviews here at APH Networks, there are certain advantages and disadvantages in a plastic mousepad. A plastic mousepad is easy to clean if any dust or dirt accumulates on it. In addition, a plastic mousepad guarantees a hard, flat surface, which usually means great slide. I recall having spilled some water onto the mousepad while I was using it, and a couple swipes with a microfiber cloth, it was not only dry, but also clean. However, there are some notable downsides to using a plastic mousepad. Plastic mousepads typically make more noise, less comfortable on the wrist depending on how users grip their mouse, and control of the mouse may be decreased compared to a cloth-based product.
Looking at the surface of the Skyn Control under the scanner at 600 dpi to get a more detailed image, it reveals a lava-rock like texture. On a second look, it actually reminded me of the elephant print Michael Jordan still uses in his signature sneakers today. The reason behind this was his desire for an animal print that added a level of luxury to his shoes. However, performance-wise, I suspect such a design would lead to more precise control over a completely smooth surface.
Compared to the detailed surface of the Skyn Control, the textural structure of the Skyn Speed is completely different. The Skyn Speed shows close resemblance to the surface of the Ripper with small dimples that are not as uniform. My assumption would be the glide of the mouse will be smooth without much drag in any particular direction. In the next part, we will talk about how well the backing can hold up to the desk.
Page Index
1. Introduction, Packaging, Specifications
2. A Closer Look
3. Subjective Performance Tests
4. Conclusion
