The question of what mousepad Poach, the renowned Fortnite player, uses is a popular one amongst aspiring gamers and fans alike. Understanding the tools of the trade used by professional gamers offers insights into optimizing one’s own setup and potentially improving performance. While Poach has retired from competitive Fortnite, his influence remains strong, and his gear choices are still relevant for those seeking high-quality gaming peripherals. Let’s delve into the details of Poach’s mousepad and explore the factors that make it a popular choice among esports professionals.
Deciphering Poach’s Mousepad Preference
Pinpointing the exact model of Poach’s mousepad can be tricky, as preferences can evolve and information online might not always be up-to-date. However, based on observations from past streams, social media posts, and general consensus within the gaming community, Poach has been known to use the Artisan Hien mousepad. This is a high-performance gaming surface known for its unique texture and speed.
The Artisan Hien is widely regarded as one of the best mousepads for competitive gaming, prized for its balance of speed and control. Understanding the specific characteristics of this mousepad is key to understanding why it’s a popular choice for gamers like Poach.
The Artisan Hien: A Closer Look
The Artisan Hien is not your average mousepad. It’s designed specifically to provide a unique gliding experience that caters to the needs of fast-paced gaming. It differentiates itself from common cloth pads through its construction and surface material.
The distinguishing factor is the surface texture. Unlike smooth cloth pads, the Hien features a slightly rough, woven surface. This roughness isn’t abrasive but provides a tactile feedback that allows for precise control. The rough surface also contributes to its speed, allowing the mouse to glide with minimal friction.
This unique texture is achieved through a specialized weaving process using polyester fibers. This particular weave pattern and material contribute significantly to the Hien’s distinctive characteristics.
Why the Hien Suits Poach’s Playstyle
Poach, like many professional Fortnite players, relies on quick reflexes and precise aiming. The Artisan Hien lends itself perfectly to this style of gameplay. The speed of the mousepad enables rapid flicks and quick turns, crucial for reacting to sudden movements in-game.
Moreover, the controlled stopping power of the Hien prevents overshooting targets. While the mousepad is fast, it still provides enough friction to stop the mouse accurately when needed. This balance between speed and control is a key factor that attracts many professional gamers to the Hien.
Fortnite demands consistent performance. The Hien is known for its durability and consistent glide over time. The specialized weave resists wear and tear, maintaining its performance characteristics even after prolonged use.
Understanding Mousepad Characteristics Important to Gamers
Beyond the specific model used by Poach, understanding the key characteristics that make a gaming mousepad suitable for competitive play is crucial. These characteristics include surface material, size, thickness, and base material.
Surface Material: Speed vs. Control
The surface material is the most crucial aspect of any gaming mousepad. Different materials offer varying levels of speed and control. Cloth pads are generally known for providing more control, while hard pads are typically faster. The Artisan Hien finds a middle ground with its unique woven surface, offering a balance of both.
Cloth pads are a popular choice due to their comfort and ability to provide precise control. However, they can be susceptible to wear and tear and may require more frequent cleaning.
Hard pads are known for their speed and durability. However, they can be less comfortable for some users and may not offer the same level of control as cloth pads.
Size: Making Room for Movement
The size of a mousepad is another important consideration. Gamers typically prefer larger mousepads, as they provide ample space for making large mouse movements without running off the edge. This is especially important in games like Fortnite, where quick and sweeping turns are common.
Larger mousepads, often referred to as extended or desk mats, can cover a significant portion of the desk, providing a consistent surface for both the mouse and keyboard. This can enhance comfort and improve overall stability.
Smaller mousepads may be suitable for users with limited desk space or those who prefer higher DPI settings, which require less physical mouse movement.
Thickness: Comfort and Stability
The thickness of a mousepad affects both comfort and stability. A thicker mousepad can provide more cushioning for the wrist and hand, reducing fatigue during long gaming sessions. It can also help to dampen vibrations and prevent the mousepad from sliding around on the desk.
Thinner mousepads may offer a more direct feel and can be easier to transport. However, they may not provide the same level of comfort or stability as thicker mousepads.
Base Material: Staying Put
The base material of a mousepad is typically made of rubber or silicone, designed to provide a non-slip grip on the desk surface. A high-quality base material is essential for preventing the mousepad from moving during intense gaming sessions.
Rubber bases are a common choice, offering good grip and durability. Silicone bases can provide even better grip but may be more expensive.
Why Professional Gamers Prioritize Specific Mousepads
Professional gamers take their equipment very seriously, as even minor differences in performance can impact their gameplay. Mousepads are no exception, and they often spend a considerable amount of time experimenting with different models to find the perfect fit.
Consistency is paramount. Professional gamers rely on consistent performance from their equipment to maintain their skill level. A high-quality mousepad like the Artisan Hien provides a consistent gliding experience, allowing them to execute precise movements without having to adjust to variations in friction or tracking.
Comfort is also a factor. Professional gamers often spend hours practicing and competing, so comfort is essential. A comfortable mousepad can help reduce fatigue and prevent injuries, allowing them to perform at their best for longer periods.
Personal preference plays a role. Ultimately, the best mousepad for any gamer is a matter of personal preference. What works well for one player may not work as well for another. Professional gamers often experiment with different mousepads to find one that suits their individual playstyle and preferences.
Alternatives to the Artisan Hien
While the Artisan Hien is a popular choice, it’s not the only high-quality gaming mousepad available. Several alternatives offer similar performance characteristics and may be worth considering.
The Glorious PC Gaming Race mousepads are widely praised for their quality and affordability. They offer a variety of sizes and thicknesses, as well as different surface materials, allowing gamers to find a mousepad that suits their individual needs.
The SteelSeries QcK series is another popular option, known for its consistent performance and durability. The QcK mousepads are available in a range of sizes and thicknesses, and they feature a smooth cloth surface that provides excellent control.
The Logitech G series mousepads are designed to complement Logitech’s gaming mice. They offer a variety of features, such as RGB lighting and wireless charging capabilities, and they are available in different surface materials to suit various playstyles.
Conclusion: Choosing the Right Mousepad for Your Needs
While the Artisan Hien appears to be a favored choice by Poach, selecting the ideal mousepad ultimately hinges on individual preferences and gameplay style. Consider the factors outlined above, such as surface material, size, and thickness, to narrow down the options. Researching different models and reading reviews from other gamers can provide valuable insights.
Experimentation is key. Don’t be afraid to try out different mousepads until you find one that feels comfortable and helps you perform at your best. Remember that the right mousepad can make a significant difference in your gaming experience, so it’s worth investing the time and effort to find the perfect fit.
What specific mousepad does Poach currently use for Fortnite?
Poach primarily uses the Artisan Hien mousepad, often opting for the Soft or Mid firmness. This is a high-performance Japanese-made mousepad known for its exceptional speed and consistent glide. He has mentioned its reliability and the control it affords him in intense Fortnite matches, making it a crucial part of his gaming setup.
The Hien’s textured surface offers a unique feeling, providing a balance between speed and control. Many professional gamers, including Poach, appreciate the consistent tracking and durable construction of the Artisan Hien. It allows for precise movements and rapid adjustments, critical for competitive Fortnite gameplay.
Why is the Artisan Hien mousepad popular among professional gamers like Poach?
The Artisan Hien’s popularity stems from its ability to provide a very fast glide while still offering a degree of control that allows for precise aiming. Its unique weave pattern and material composition create a low-friction surface ideal for quick flicks and smooth tracking, which is essential in fast-paced games like Fortnite. The consistent performance and durable build quality also contribute to its appeal.
Furthermore, professional gamers like Poach rely on equipment that minimizes inconsistencies and maximizes responsiveness. The Artisan Hien delivers on both fronts. Its reputation for reliability and its ability to handle the demands of intense gaming sessions make it a preferred choice for players who need a competitive edge.
What are the different firmness options available for the Artisan Hien mousepad?
The Artisan Hien comes in several firmness options, typically Soft, Mid, and XSoft. The Soft version provides a slightly softer feel and a bit more stopping power compared to the Mid. The XSoft offers the most cushion and stopping power, but can sometimes feel less consistent for some users.
Poach has been known to use both the Soft and Mid versions depending on his preference and feel for the day. The choice between these options largely depends on the user’s personal preference for the amount of friction and the tactile feedback they desire from their mousepad. Experimenting with each option is recommended to find the best fit.
How does the Artisan Hien contribute to Poach’s gaming performance in Fortnite?
The Artisan Hien’s fast and consistent glide allows Poach to make quick, precise movements, essential for aiming and building in Fortnite. This responsiveness helps him react faster to in-game situations and execute complex maneuvers with greater accuracy. The consistent surface ensures that his mouse movements translate directly into on-screen actions, minimizing any lag or inconsistencies.
Beyond speed, the Hien’s controlled glide prevents overshooting targets, a common issue with excessively slick mousepads. This control allows Poach to maintain accuracy during high-pressure engagements, enabling him to secure crucial eliminations and outmaneuver opponents, thereby contributing significantly to his overall gaming performance.
Are there any alternative mousepads that are similar to the Artisan Hien that Poach might consider?
While Poach primarily uses the Artisan Hien, there are alternative mousepads that offer similar qualities. The VAXEE PA Black and the Gamesense Radar are often mentioned as alternatives due to their balance of speed and control, along with their durable construction. These options provide a similar glide feel with varying degrees of stopping power.
Other options worth considering include the Glorious Elements Ice and the Razer Strider. These mousepads cater to gamers who prefer a fast glide with a focus on speed, much like the Artisan Hien. Ultimately, the choice depends on personal preferences regarding texture, firmness, and overall feel.
Where can you purchase an Artisan Hien mousepad if you want to try it out like Poach?
The Artisan Hien mousepad is primarily available for purchase directly from the Artisan JP website, which ships internationally. Due to its popularity and niche appeal, it’s less commonly found in major retail stores. Checking their official website is the best way to ensure authenticity and availability.
Alternatively, you might find the Artisan Hien on some specialized gaming peripheral retailers or online marketplaces like eBay. However, it’s essential to verify the seller’s reputation and ensure the product is genuine to avoid counterfeit products, which can significantly differ in performance and quality from the authentic Artisan Hien.
Does Poach use any other gaming peripherals that complement his Artisan Hien mousepad?
While the focus is often on the mousepad, Poach’s overall gaming setup is crucial. He uses a high-performance gaming mouse, often wireless, with a low DPI setting to maximize precision. A comfortable and responsive keyboard with fast actuation switches also plays a significant role in his movement and building mechanics.
Additionally, Poach likely optimizes his in-game sensitivity settings to perfectly complement his mousepad and mouse combination. This fine-tuning is crucial for achieving consistent and accurate aim. The combination of high-quality peripherals and personalized settings contributes to his overall proficiency in Fortnite.