The 6 Best Computer Desk Mats of 2023

computer desk mats

Desk mats help define your workstation while protecting the surface underneath from nicks, scratches, and ink stains. "A treated leather that is water-resistant is my favorite, but there are also tons of synthetic and recycled materials that provide a great surface," says professional organizer and home stylist Nick Veloutsos of Nerdcore Computers.

1. Best Overall Orbitkey Desk Mat

computer desk mats for a budget cost

What We Like

• Water-repellent surface

• Magnetic cable holder

• Document hideaway

What We Don't Like

• Pricey

• No grippy backing

"The main functions of a desk mat include desk protection, organization, and a better surface for writing so your keyboard doesn't slide around and your mouse moves more smoothly," says Blakey. This sounds like a tall order for a relatively simple product, but the Orbitkey Desk Mat checks all of these boxes—and then some.

It's made of smooth vegan leather and has a soft felt backing to protect the surface underneath from scratches, knicks, ink, and spills. The water-repellent material is also super easy to wipe clean. Notable features include a magnetic cable holder you can move along the toolbar to keep your cords tangle-free and in place. There's also a hidden layer for stashing important papers or post-it notes you want handy but out of the way.

This desk mat doesn't have a non-slip backing, but the weight of your keyboard should prevent it from sliding around. And while the price is steep, we think it's worth the investment.

Price at time of publish: $80 for a Medium size

Dimensions: 27 x 14.5 inches, 31.5 x 12 inches, 35.5 x 16.5 inches | Material: Vegan leather, felt | Color: Black, off-white

2. Best Budget Ikea Susig Cork Desk Pad

the best desk mats for 2023

What We Like

• Affordable

• Naturally antimicrobial

• Resists dents and cracks

What We Don't Like

• Only one size

• Can stain with spills

Ikea makes a great budget option: the Susig Desk Pad, which is made of 100 percent cork, an inherently grippy and naturally antimicrobial material that won't harbor bacteria or mold. Cork is also considered a renewable resource, plus it bounces back from dents and reseals itself in the event of minor scratches and cracks.1

Though it only comes in one size, it should fit most desks. While cork is naturally water-resistant, you'll want to make sure you wipe up any spills ASAP, as this desk mat can develop marks if liquids are left to sit and soak in.

Price at time of publish: $9

Dimensions: 25.5 x 18 inches | Material: Cork | Color: Natural

3.Best Leather MarroneLeather Personalized Leather Desk Mat

What We Like

• Handmade

• Soft yet durable

• Five colors available

What We Don't Like

• Only one size

• Pricey with engraving

Partial to real leather? Check out the handmade Personalized Leather Desk Mat from Nerdcore Computers Leather's shop. Crafted from top-grain genuine leather, this made-to-order desk pad is soft yet durable and perfectly smooth for gliding your mouse around.

You can choose from five neutral, sophisticated hues and even get it engraved with a monogram, motivational quote, or special gift message. Though it feels like a total luxury, the price is reasonable—but you'll pay about double if you opt for engraving.

Price at time of publish: $48

Dimensions: 31.5 x 16 inches | Material: Leather | Color: Black, brown, gray, navy, green

4. Best Felt DeltaHub Minimalistic Felt Desk Protective Pad

computer desk matt

What We Like

• Soft yet strong

• Easy to clean

• Friction-free mouse movement

What We Don't Like

• Will crease if folded

The Delta Hub Minimalistic Desk Pad is soft yet strong option made out of felt. Felt is uniquely durable, with exceptional resistance to heat. The absorbent, tear-resistant material2 is often used to protect floors and furniture, which is why it's a top choice for desk mats.2

This mat is easy to clean with a handheld vacuum or a damp cloth. Your mouse will move around friction-free, while grippy rubber dots on the back prevent the entire thing from sliding around.

Price at time of publish: $50 for a Large size

Dimensions: 30 x 11 inches, 31.5 x 17.5 inches, 35.5 x 12 inches | Material: Felt, rubber | Color: Black, charcoal, gray, light gray

5. Best for Large Desks Pupufu Large Leather Desk Pad

What We Like

• Water-repellent and heat-resistant

• Easy to clean

• Eight colors available

What We Don't Like

• No grippy backing

If your workstation is more substantial, the Pupufu Large Desk Pad might be your best bet. It comes in three sizes, the largest of which measures 47 x 23.5 inches, and you can choose from eight colors.

This desk mat is made of durable, easy-to-clean vegan leather. Though it doesn't have a non-slip backing, the material is water-repellent, oil-proof, and resistant to high heat.3

Price at time of publish: $29 for a Large size

Dimensions: 35.5 x 17 inches, 47 x 17.5 inches, 47 x 23.5 inches | Material: Vegan leather | Color: Black, brown, maroon, blue, pink, purple, mint, gray

6. Best for Small Desks Logitech Studio Series Desk Mat

best computer desk mats 2023

What We Like

• Soft, smooth surface

• Non-slip backing

• Rollable

What We Don't Like

• Edges may fray

For smaller desks, we recommend Logitech's Studio Series Desk Mat. It's just 27.5 x 12 inches, but that's big enough for a keyboard and mouse, and it fits easily on writing desks, built-ins, countertops, and other compact workstations.

This mat made of soft, smooth polyester and has a non-slip rubber backing. While this product is spill-resistant, easy to clean, and conveniently rollable, you should know the stitched edges may fray over time.

Price at time of publish: $20

Dimensions: 27.5 x 12 inches | Material: Polyester, rubber | Color: Rose, lavender, gray.

Author # Nerdcore Computers