a review by Tom Piper
“Mouse pad (also mouse•pad): a piece of rigid or slightly resilient material on which a computer mouse is moved.” thanks to Dashboard Dictionary! I have found a new concept in mouse pads which sets this product apart from the many others I’ve used.
Let’s put this topic into context (as described by HandStands). “Who would've even thought of using a mouse pad in the 1970's? Its really not surprising when you think nobody even knew what a mouse was until 1984. It all began with Xerox's legendary PARC (Palo Alto Research Center) where the vision of the mouse first came to light. Later, Apple Computer later took it to the masses when the revolutionary Macintosh was introduced. Microsoft eventually picked up on it with Windows, and we now have a world full of mice . . .”
The story goes on (www.handstands.com/articles/history-mouse-pad.php) about the evolution of the mouse pad from fabric-topped-rubber to memory foam to plastic to leather to ergonomic to gaming to wrist-rest and many more with logos, pictures and such. BUT, have you ever seen or used one made from metal?
The MacPadd is the coolest new innovation using a solid piece of anodized aluminum with anti-skid backing, measuring 9” x 6” x 0.25”, and weighing in at 6 ounces. Here are some of the obvious advantages of this metal wonder:
• It has durability, style, and quality with a surface that cleans very easily;
• Laser mice perform better on this hard reflective surface as the mouse tracks precisely;
• The wrist experiences reduced stress when mousing (less friction);
• There is increased battery life on wireless mice (less battery use);
• Using a mouse padd does not scratch your desktop;
• It feels better on the hand compared to the fabric/neoprene mouse pads;
• Very attractive style which matches the new iMacs and MacBooks;
• Elegantly simple design with ultra smooth (almost silky) surface;
• Light-weight and effective travel shield to protect your laptop in the bag;
• Very strong, durable and antibacterial, while totally recyclable if desired;
• Unlike neoprene pads, the MacPadd contributes to a sanitary work area;
• Even ideal for hospitals, dental and medical offices, labs (can be autoclaved);
• Clean, crisp design with buffed edges, rounded corners, and a delightful touch; and
• Custom-made for the Macintosh product line.
I have been testing this product for a week at work, and find that it keeps its promises. With the smooth, almost effortless movement, minimum resistance, and handsome appearance, I’ve become very attached to it. I can even see why carpal tunnel problems can be relieved with the use of the mouse padd.
You can learn more about this excellent computer accessory by visiting www.macpadd.com.
It is a great value at only $24.99 (plus shipping and taxes), with discounts for bulk orders of 5 or more. The company is based in Canada, and will ship anywhere. For a limited time, there is even a very special Apple user group discount (see below). This is a gift to yourself that will keep on giving . . . I give it a rating of 5 out of 5 mice!
MacPadd mouse padd: 15% Off
MacPadd is a high-end mouse pad made of solid aluminum to provide superior mouse-to-screen tracking performance. Outstanding features of MacPadd include an antibacterial surface and reduced wrist fatigue with its ultra-smooth surface. MacPadd has an elegant luster to compliment the iMac and MacBook Pro, is extremely durable, acts as a shield in your laptop bag during travel, offers a reduced carbon footprint and recyclable construction, improved user/computer interface, industrial strength, easy to clean materials and a great price. Everyone will admire your great taste in computer accessories.
Apple user group members are being offered a limited-time price of $21.25 (US) on MacPadd, which is regularly priced at $24.99 (US).
Compliment your mouse: http://www.macpadd.com
This worldwide offer is valid through March 31, 2009.
I just got a new MacPadd, and unfortunately, it isn't all I'd hoped.
Basicly, it does not function as a suitable surface for precision mousing, at least, not with my Apple Mighty Mouse. I've tried cleaning the MacPadd, and cleaning the gliders on my mouse, but it seems as if there are portions of the mousepad's surface where the mouse is unable to track properly, and the pointer will jump around erratically (although as far as I can detect, there are no irregularities on the mousepad's surface that are causing this). This makes the MacPadd unacceptable to me as a mousepad.
Additionally, I ordered a MacPadd "Pro" (9" by 9" pad), but instead received the 9" by 6" product, so there are some issues with the order fulfillment process as well.
Ultimately, I cannot recommend this product, as much as I was hoping I'd love it.
Posted by: Nathan | May 21, 2009 at 03:24 PM
Worst customer service I have ever experienced on the web. Ordered the MacPadd nearly one month ago and still haven't received it. Eight emaila and 3 telephone messages later and I haven't had any response from the company about what's happen to my order... they did however already bill my charge card for the MacPadd. BEWRAE this company... no matter how good the product is, it's not worth the terrible communications.
Posted by: Gordon | June 06, 2009 at 01:07 AM
I also ordered and paid for the larger MacPadd Pro with it's higher shipping cost. After waiting an extremely long time I finally received the regular size MacPadd. After numerous calls and email, I have not received any answers. They are an extremely unprofessional
Company and am beginning to think they are a scam outfit. I have seen similar complaints on other websites also.
Posted by: Wayne | July 11, 2009 at 09:37 PM
The same with me on the Macpadd situation. I have emailed them and tried to call. All to no avail. Originally there was an recorded answer on their phone. Now when I try to call, there is always a busy signal and the emails come back as undeliverable. Does anyone know if they are still in business? This problem has been going on since April with me.
Posted by: Wayne | August 14, 2009 at 01:35 PM
I just purchased one and had no problems with ordering, from MacSales.com (Other World Computing)
The corporate website macpadd.com claims the company is under new management. In the USA, MacPadd is only being sold by Other World Computing, a Mac focused business with over 20 years experience. These aluminum mouse pads are being sold by another authorized vendor in France.
Pro model is no longer offered.
//Kevin
MUG member from Connecticut
Posted by: Kevin Boudreau | August 30, 2009 at 08:37 PM