The 30 best gaming mats brands
Konami, Fantasy Flight Games and Mattel lead our ranking of 30 gaming mats brands. Compare what each brand makes, visit its official site, or shop it online.
Gaming Mats brands, ranked
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1
Konami
Konami Holdings Corporation is a Japanese video game and entertainment firm. They create, produce, license, distribute, and market video game software, films, and music recordings. The company's stock has the symbol 9698 on the Tokyo Stock Exchange. Metal Gear and Castlevania are two of the company's most well-known franchises. Fusajiro Yamauchi created the company in 1969 in Osaka, Japan, as an electronic game producer. It has also worked in various industries, including consumer and electronic entertainment, health and fitness clubs, theme parks, and love hotels. The organization has become one of Japan's most powerful entertainment conglomerates.
Website: konami.com |Brands like Konami
Popularity 10.0/10
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2
Fantasy Flight Games
From Minnesota, Fantasy Flight Games publishes board games, card games, role-playing games and miniatures. Titles from the company include Arkham Horror, Twilight Imperium and its Star Wars games. Its horror board games are built around cooperative investigation and dark, story-driven play, where players work together rather than against one another.
Website: fantasyflightgames.com |Brands like Fantasy Flight Games
Popularity 9.5/10
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3
Mattel
Mattel makes dolls, action figures, games and toys under well-known names such as Barbie, Hot Wheels and Fisher-Price. Harold Matson and Elliot Handler founded the company in 1945, and its name combines their surnames. Its products are aimed at children and built around play.
Website: shop.mattel.com |Brands like Mattel
Popularity 8.8/10
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4
Speed Stacks
Speed Stacks helps the World Sport Stacking Association achieve a standardization and advancement for stacking sports. Through their Supercharged PE, students can learn the basics of stacking and organizing them in patterns through aided video tutorials. Their Sports Stacking Gear includes all the equipment needed to become an expert stacker. The G5 Competitor consists of 12 Speed Stack Cups, a mat, a timer, and a bag.
Website: speedstacks.com |Brands like Speed Stacks
Popularity 8.4/10
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5
Ideal
Electricians and DIY wiremen rely on Ideal's wire strippers and other electrical hand tools for clean, consistent cuts. The company's name also appears on water heaters, dolls and board games, which come from separate product lines that sit apart from the electrical hand tools.
Popularity 7.2/10
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6
Tamiya
Tamiya Championship Series is a brand-new racing competition that takes RC vehicle racing to the next level. In collaboration with Tamiya America, Inc., the UK-based retailers have launched a one-of-a-kind series that matches drivers against one another in a thrilling race scenario. With the help of cooperating hobby stores from throughout the country. The event attempts to uncover the country's greatest and most inventive racers and allow them to demonstrate their abilities at one of their premier competitions. Over 70 regional events in North America, Asia-Pacific, Europe, and South America are part of the series.
Website: tamiyausa.com |Brands like Tamiya
Popularity 6.6/10
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7
Chessex
Founded in the U.S. in 1987, Chessex Manufacturing is a company that primarily sells dice for role-playing games (RPG) and collectible card games (CCG), among others. It offers other attachments generally used in CCGs and RPGs, and dice. The company also publishes and distributes tabletop games, miniature war games, board games, and similar games. However, they mainly focus on selling dice. The company aims to manufacture high-quality yet affordable gaming accessories.
Website: chessex.com |Brands like Chessex
Popularity 6.3/10
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8
Games Workshop
As a British manufacturer, Games Workshop produces miniature war games, model soldiers and tabletop games. It is the company behind the Warhammer 40K setting, including Space Marines models and the Citadel paints and terrain used by hobbyists. Founded in 1975 by Ian Livingstone and Steve Jackson, it has since acquired companies such as Citadel Miniatures and Grenadier.
Website: games-workshop.com |Brands like Games Workshop
Popularity 4.6/10
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9
Mantic
Mantic produces tabletop games and gaming accessories for players who enjoy painting and assembling their own models. Its miniatures are easy to paint and handle for hobbyists. The company also publishes role-playing games and books, and its team includes authors,...
Website: manticgames.com |Brands like Mantic
Popularity 4.4/10
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10
Learning Resources
Learning Resources is your one-stop-shop for fun learning toys. With over 2000 goods, they have everything teachers and parents need to raise an extraordinary generation of children. To ensure that their toys are developmentally appropriate, they are created by early...
Website: learningresources.com |Brands like Learning Resources
Popularity 3.8/10
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11
Wizards of the Coast
Wizards of the Coast produces rulebooks, adventure books and miniatures for Dungeons and Dragons, used by tabletop players. It is a subsidiary of Hasbro and publishes the Magic: The Gathering card game. Its products include core rulebooks, campaign modules and...
Website: dnd.wizards.com |Brands like Wizards of the Coast
Popularity 3.7/10
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12
WizKids
Tabletop games and collectible miniatures for players of fantasy roleplaying games come from WizKids. Its figures include dragons and creatures sold for Dungeons and Dragons and other systems. Board games designed for repeat play by families and groups of friends...
Website: wizkids.com |Brands like WizKids
Popularity 3.6/10
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13
Cool Mini or Not
Cool Mini or Not, popularly known as CMON, is a Hong Kong-based miniature painting enterprise. Apart from being an online business, CMON includes many tiny painting tools. They get their paint line, MSP (Made to Suffer Paint), and a vast...
Website: coolminiornot.com |Brands like Cool Mini or Not
Popularity 2.6/10
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14
Steve Jackson Games
Steve Jackson initially established Steve Jackson Games in 1980. SJ Games now publish books, games, and magazines for online gaming enthusiasts. The Fantasy Trip, an old-school Role-playing game that takes its dragon lair crawls seriously, is one of SJ's top...
Website: sjgames.com |Brands like Steve Jackson Games
Popularity 2.3/10
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15
Banzai
Banzai makes outdoor water toys for children, including sprinklers, water blasters, pool floats and slides. Its Wigglin' Water Sprinkler, one of the brand's most recognized models, sits on a hose and sprays water in a moving pattern. The line is...
Popularity 2.1/10
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16
SEGA
The Mega Drive console launched one of Sega's most important eras, and the Japanese company still sells game consoles and controllers. Its catalog also includes anime action figures tied to its games, alongside the hardware it sells. Sega's hardware and...
Popularity 1.8/10
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17
Kromlech
Kromlech is a company that creates intricate and artistic miniature pieces to adorn tables with their sophisticated grace and elegant effect. Their finely carved and meticulously crafted artifacts are renowned for the quality of their craftsmanship and the effect they...
Website: kromlech.eu |Brands like Kromlech
Popularity 1.8/10
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18
Privateer Press
Foundation set in 2000; Privateer Press has been since then bringing imagination entirely to the games. This use of vision has led to the curation of successful gameplay that gamers have adored. There are various games like Hordes, Minicrate, Warmachine,...
Website: privateerpress.com |Brands like Privateer Press
Popularity 1.8/10
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19
Blizzard Entertainment
Several of the top video games on the market today were created by Blizzard Entertainment. Video games represent the pinnacle of entertainment and can be enjoyed with friends and family providing hours of fun and good memories. Blizzard Entertainment has...
Website: blizzard.com |Brands like Blizzard Entertainment
Popularity 1.6/10
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20
Asmodee
Asmodee is the world's largest board game publisher. They also make card games and role-playing games. Its mission is to connect people via a shared love of gaming to have fun as a community. It also produces role-playing game books...
Website: store.us.asmodee.com |Brands like Asmodee
Popularity 1.6/10
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21
Imagination
Imagination produces board games, adult party games and DVD-based board games designed for grown-up game nights. The UK company's tagline, stimulating imagination through game play, sums up its focus on interactive fun. Its catalogue spans tabletop titles and adult-oriented games,...
Website: imaginationgaming.co.uk |Brands like Imagination
Popularity 1.3/10
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22
Micro Art Studio
Founded almost twenty years ago by a group of hobbyists with a creative idea, Micro Art Studio creates hand-painted figures and models for war video gaming systems and franchises. Their collections are officially affiliated with the Discworld universe and the...
Website: shop.microartstudio.com |Brands like Micro Art Studio
Popularity 1.3/10
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23
Palladium Books
Palladium Books publishes role-playing games set in fantasy and science fiction worlds, including Dungeons and Dragons related titles and number games. The company began releasing its weapon series in 1982 before expanding into fuller role-playing worlds. Its Mechanoid Invasion Trilogy...
Popularity 1.3/10
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24
Parker Brothers
Parker Brothers Textile Mills creates some stylish fabrics. For more than 50 years, this Canadian-based company has been providing textile fabrics for residential and office wearers. With their determination to provide their buyers with high-quality fabrics, this brand has repeatedly...
Popularity 1.3/10
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25
Reaper Miniatures
Reaper Miniatures' main product is figurines in roughly 25 to 33 mm scale, made from pewter for tabletop gaming. Its sculpts focus on science fiction and fantasy themes for Dungeons and Dragons and other role-playing games. The acrylic paint line...
Website: reapermini.com |Brands like Reaper Miniatures
Popularity 1.3/10
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26
Woodland Scenics
Woodland scenic is an American brand founded in 1975 by David Osment. They manufacture realistic models of scenery and educational art and crafts used by many industries and companies as display projects. They sell building materials for the project, such...
Website: woodlandscenics.woodlandscenics.com |Brands like Woodland Scenics
Popularity 1.3/10
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27
Daron
Children will become happy by seeing airplanes in the sky. They also love to play with planes. Daron is a brand of toys for children. Their products mainly include spacecraft, jet airplanes, helicopters, ships, trains, and flying toys. Best-sellers are...
Website: daronwwt.com |Brands like Daron
Popularity 0.9/10
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28
Bushido
Bushido is an online company that specializes in various men's accessories and apparel. It takes heavy inspiration from the samurai attitude and ancient Japan. Their designs are unorthodox and feel like a breath of fresh air. Their accessories are proven...
Website: shopbushido.com |Brands like Bushido
Popularity 0.9/10
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29
Cryptozoic Entertainment
Cryptozoic Entertainment is the ultimate American distributor of a diverse portfolio of licensed and original Intellectual Property, including trading cards, tabletop games, and collectibles. They have steadfastly dedicated their work ethics to the motto "Fans First" since 2010. The website...
Website: cryptozoic.com |Brands like Cryptozoic Entertainment
Popularity 0.9/10
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30
Impact Miniatures
Miniatures and minis have been widely popular among the youth especially. Impact! is the home to many such miniature products. Their product line includes many products like resin miniatures and sport-related games to help you pass your free time. They...
Website: impactminiatures.com |Brands like Impact Miniatures
Popularity 0.9/10
Official websites and social accounts
| Brand | Website | X / Twitter | YouTube | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Konami | konami.com | – | – | – | – |
| Fantasy Flight Games | fantasyflightgames.com | /FantasyFlightGames | fantasyflightgames | @ffgames | FantasyFlightStudio |
| Mattel | shop.mattel.com | – | – | – | – |
| Speed Stacks | speedstacks.com | /SpeedStacks | speedstacksinc | @speedstacksinc | – |
| Tamiya | tamiyausa.com | – | – | – | – |
| Chessex | chessex.com | – | – | – | – |
| Games Workshop | games-workshop.com | – | – | – | – |
| Mantic | manticgames.com | /manticgames | – | @manticgames | manticgames |
| Learning Resources | learningresources.com | /learningresources | learningresources | – | LearningResourcesInc |
Gaming Mats Buying Guide
Gaming is one of the most popular pastimes in the world. It is a great way to relax, have fun and connect with other people. However, if you are a serious gamer, you know that having the right equipment can make all the difference. One of the essential pieces of equipment for gamers is a gaming mat. A good gaming mat can provide a stable and smooth surface for your mouse, as well as enhance your overall gaming experience. In this article, we will provide a handy guide for buying gaming mats.
Why Do You Need a Gaming Mat?
A gaming mat is a specialized piece of equipment designed to improve the gaming experience. It provides a stable and smooth surface for your mouse, which means you can move it more accurately and quickly, without any interruptions or jumps. It allows you to perform quick and precise movements, which is essential for many competitive games. Moreover, a gaming mat can also reduce the wear and tear on your mouse, especially if you use it frequently.
What to Look for When Buying a Gaming Mat?
When it comes to buying a gaming mat, there are several important factors to consider. Here are the most important ones:
- Size: The size of the gaming mat is crucial, as it depends on your gaming setup and preferences. A larger mat will provide more surface area and freedom of movement, but it may not fit your desk or your gaming area. A smaller mat may restrict your movement, but it may be more convenient and portable. Make sure to measure your desk and your mouse movement to find the right size for you.
- Material: The material of the gaming mat can affect its durability, quality and performance. The most common materials are cloth, plastic (or polymer) and rubber. Cloth mats are soft and comfortable, but they may wear out faster and collect dust and stains. Plastic mats are more durable and resistant to liquids, but they may be less comfortable and have a more artificial feel. Rubber mats are eco-friendly, non-slip and durable, but they may have a stronger odor and attract dust.
- Texture: The texture of the gaming mat can also affect its performance and feel. The most common textures are smooth, rough, woven and etched. A smooth mat provides a seamless and consistent surface for your mouse, but it may lack grip and control. A rough mat provides more friction and control, but it may also cause more resistance and noise. A woven mat combines the advantages of smooth and rough mats and provides a balanced and natural feel. An etched mat has a more specialized texture and can enhance specific gaming genres or styles.
- Design: The design of the gaming mat can be a personal and aesthetic choice, but it can also affect its visibility and accuracy. A plain mat may be more versatile and less distracting, but it may also blend in with your surroundings and make it harder to locate your mouse. A colorful or patterned mat may be more eye-catching and enjoyable, but it may also interfere with your focus and accuracy. Some gaming mats also feature specialized designs or graphics that correspond to specific games or themes.
- Price: The price of the gaming mat can vary widely, depending on its size, material, texture and design. A basic mat can cost around $10, while a high-end mat can cost over $50. It is important to balance your budget with your needs and preferences, and choose a mat that offers the best value for your money.
- Brand: The brand of the gaming mat can also be a factor in your decision, as it can affect its reputation, customer support and warranty. Some of the most popular gaming mat brands include Corsair, Razer, Logitech, SteelSeries and HyperX. Make sure to read reviews and compare different brands before making a purchase.
Types of Gaming Mats
There are several types of gaming mats available on the market, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. Here are the most common types:
Cloth Mat
A cloth mat is a soft and comfortable mat made of woven or knitted fabric. It provides a smooth and uniform surface for your mouse, which allows for consistent and accurate movements. It is easy to clean and maintain, but it may wear out faster and collect dust, hair and stains. A cloth mat is suitable for gamers who prefer comfort, versatility and affordability.
Plastic Mat
A plastic mat is a hard and durable mat made of polymer or PVC. It provides a firm and flat surface for your mouse, which allows for precise and controlled movements. It is resistant to liquids, scratches and heat, but it may be less comfortable and have a more artificial feel. A plastic mat is suitable for gamers who prefer durability, precision and hygiene.
Rubber Mat
A rubber mat is a flexible and eco-friendly mat made of natural or synthetic rubber. It provides a non-slip and shock-absorbent surface for your mouse, which allows for stable and comfortable movements. It is resistant to wear and tear, water and heat, but it may have a stronger odor and attract dust and hair. A rubber mat is suitable for gamers who prefer grip, comfort and sustainability.
Top Gaming Mat Brands
There are many brands that specialize in gaming mats, each with its own style, features and reputation. Here are some of the top gaming mat brands:
Corsair
Corsair is a well-known brand in the gaming industry, offering a wide range of gaming peripherals and accessories, including gaming mats. Their gaming mats are known for their high-quality materials, precise textures and stylish designs. Some of their popular models include the MM300, the MM800 and the K63 Wireless Lapboard.
Razer
Razer is another popular brand in the gaming world, famous for its innovative and cutting-edge products. Their gaming mats feature a range of textures and designs, as well as advanced features such as RGB lighting and wireless charging. Some of their popular models include the Goliathus Extended Chroma, the Firefly and the Sphex V2 Mini.
Logitech
Logitech is a trusted and reliable brand that has been producing high-quality gaming peripherals for decades. Their gaming mats are designed to provide a smooth and consistent surface for maximum precision and control. Some of their popular models include the G240, the G640 and the Powerplay Wireless Charging System.
SteelSeries
SteelSeries is a company that focuses on delivering high-performance products for gamers and esports enthusiasts. Their gaming mats are made of premium materials and feature unique designs and textures that cater to different gaming styles. Some of their popular models include the QcK, the Dex and the QcK Prism.
HyperX
HyperX is a brand that specializes in gaming accessories and hardware, including gaming mats. Their gaming mats are known for their smooth and optimized surfaces, which provide maximum precision and speed. Some of their popular models include the Fury S, the MP510 and the ChargePlay Base wireless charger.
Conclusion
Buying a gaming mat may seem like a small decision, but it can have a big impact on your gaming experience. A good gaming mat can provide a stable and smooth surface for your mouse, as well as enhance your overall gameplay. Make sure to consider the size, material, texture, design, price and brand of the gaming mat before making a purchase. Don't forget to read reviews, compare different models and brands, and choose a mat that suits your needs and preferences. With the right gaming mat, you can level up your gaming skills and enjoy your favorite games even more.