Performance

Tracking

This test is three-fold. First, I'm doing several medium-speed swipes across the entire pad in order to detect any tracking irregularities (plotted as xCount). Second, I'm trying to hit and exceed the PCS (perfect control speed) of the sensor in question in order to gauge how well the Atlas measures up against other pads in this regard. Lastly, I try to determine if and possibly to which degree the LOD (lift-off distance) is affected. For this test, the currently most widely used sensor models have been selected, along with an older model.


PixArt PAW3950 (Focus Pro 30K, Razer DeathAdder V3): No issues with tracking, even at the lowest available LOD setting. PCS within expectations. LOD within expectations.


PixArt PAW3395 (G-Wolves Hati-S Plus ACE): No issues with tracking, even at the lowest available LOD setting. PCS within expectations. LOD within expectations.


PixArt PAW3370 (Glorious Model D- Wireless): No issues with tracking, even at the lowest available LOD setting. PCS within expectations. LOD within expectations.


PixArt PMW3366 (Logitech G403): No issues with tracking. PCS within expectations. LOD within expectations.


HERO 26K (Logitech G Pro X Superlight): No issues with tracking. PCS within expectations. LOD within expectations.

Subjective evaluation

When using the Atlas for the first time, the first thing that becomes immediately noticeable is how cold to the touch it is. However, this sensation doesn't last for long, and is quickly replaced by an appreciation for how effortlessly the mouse can be moved on the Atlas's surface, as both dynamic and static friction are very low. While much faster than the average cloth pad, the Atlas does retain some control in that it does not feel slippery. Of particular note is how the pad doesn't move one bit, which is something most cloth pads tend to struggle with regardless of how good the non-slip properties of its base are. Liquids are handled perfectly by the Atlas in that they immediately bead up, and since the surface obviously cannot soak up anything, its glide properties remain largely unchanged even when sweating. Over time, I've also grown to like how the Atlas feels to the skin, and I haven't experienced any skin irritation or the like, no doubt owing to the surface finish and immaculate rounded edges. That said, as natural as the Atlas feels in games, outside of games even mundane tasks such as double-clicking an icon on the desktop may require a second attempt initially, due to friction being that much lower compared to cloth.