The Artisan Hien FX SOFT is the best Artisan mousepad because its textured surface delivers fast glide with surprisingly strong stopping power, making it the most versatile option across all playstyles. Artisan mousepads are the gold standard for competitive gaming surfaces. Made by a small Japanese manufacturer, every model uses a unique foam base that no other brand replicates. The problem is choosing between six distinct models, three hardness levels, and four sizes. Each combination feels genuinely different, and picking the wrong one means waiting weeks for a restock of the right one. This best artisan mousepad guide breaks down every current model so you buy the right pad the first time.
We have tested all six models across different sensitivities and playstyles. Whether you need raw stopping power for low-sensitivity tactical shooters or maximum speed for high-sens wrist aiming, one of these pads fits your game. For a broader look at all mousepad types, check our complete gaming mousepad guide.
Short on time? The Artisan Hien FX SOFT is the best overall – fast, controlled, and durable. For maximum control, get the Artisan Zero FX SOFT. For the best balance, the Hayate Otsu FX SOFT splits the difference.
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Our Top Artisan Picks
Best Overall: Artisan Hien FX SOFT
Fast-but-controlled textured cloth. The most versatile Artisan for competitive gaming across all sensitivities.
Best for Control: Artisan Zero FX SOFT
Maximum stopping power with a buttery smooth texture. The go-to for low-sensitivity CS2 and Valorant players.
Best Balanced: Artisan Hayate Otsu FX SOFT
Speed of the Hien with a smoother texture. Ideal for players who want fast glide without roughness.
- Quick Comparison Table
- What Makes Artisan Different
- 1. Artisan Hien FX – Best Overall
- 2. Artisan Zero FX – Best for Control
- 3. Artisan Hayate Otsu FX – Best Balanced
- 4. Artisan Raiden FX – Fastest Artisan
- 5. Artisan Hayate Kou FX – Budget-Friendly
- 6. Artisan Type-99 – Most Unique Texture
- Which Hardness? XSOFT vs SOFT vs MID
- Which Size Should You Get?
- Where to Buy Artisan Pads
- Frequently Asked Questions
Artisan Mousepad Comparison: Every Model Ranked
All prices are approximate for L size SOFT. Click model names for detailed reviews.
| Model | Speed (1-10) | Control (1-10) | Texture | Durability | Humidity Resist. | Price | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hien FX | 7 | 7 | Rough textured | Excellent | Excellent | ~$50 | Most versatile |
| Zero FX | 4 | 9 | Smooth cloth | Good | Moderate | ~$50 | Low sens control |
| Hayate Otsu FX | 7 | 6 | Smooth fast | Good | Moderate | ~$50 | Balanced speed/control |
| Raiden FX | 10 | 3 | Smooth ultra-fast | Good | Good | ~$50 | Maximum speed |
| Hayate Kou FX | 7 | 5 | Coated cloth | Fair | Good | ~$35 | Budget Artisan |
| Type-99 | 6 | 7 | Textured knit | Excellent | Excellent | ~$55 | Unique feel, durability |
What Makes Artisan Different
Every Artisan mousepad uses a proprietary foam base that sets it apart from every other brand on the market. This foam sits between the cloth surface and the rubber bottom, providing a level of cushion and give that changes how your mouse interacts with the surface. The foam compresses slightly under pressure, which means your mouse feet sink in just enough to create micro-friction that improves stopping power without hurting glide speed. No other manufacturer has replicated this feel, and it is the primary reason Artisan pads command premium prices.
The Foam System: Artisan offers three hardness levels – XSOFT, SOFT, and MID. XSOFT lets your mouse sink deeper for maximum control. SOFT is the standard and most popular. MID is the firmest, providing the least cushion and the fastest glide. The same surface cloth feels noticeably different across hardness levels, which is why choosing both model and hardness matters. We cover this in detail in the hardness guide section.
Surface Engineering: Each Artisan model uses a different weave pattern and material for its surface. The Hien’s rough texture provides speed through reduced contact area. The Zero’s smooth cloth maximizes contact for control. The Raiden’s surface is engineered for near-zero friction. These are not marketing differences – you can feel the distinction immediately when switching between models. For a deeper look at how these compare to other brands, see our speed vs control mousepad comparison.
1. Artisan Hien FX – Best Overall Artisan Mousepad
Best for: Medium-high sensitivity, hybrid playstyle, Valorant/CS2 players who want speed with control
Key Specs
- Surface: Rough textured cloth
- Base: Artisan proprietary foam
- Hardness Options: XSOFT / SOFT / MID
- Sizes: S / M / L / XL
- Price: ~$40-60 (varies by size)
- Speed Rating: 7/10
- Control Rating: 7/10
Why It’s Good
- Unique textured surface with fast glide
- Excellent stopping power for its speed class
- Humidity resistant – consistent in any climate
- Extremely durable – lasts 2+ years
- Best balance of speed and control in any pad
- Foam base adds micro-control on stops
Tradeoffs
- Rough texture not comfortable for everyone
- Expensive compared to mainstream pads
- Hard to find in stock – frequent sellouts
- Edges can curl slightly over time
Buy This If…
- You want the most versatile Artisan pad
- You play multiple game types and sensitivities
- You live in a humid climate
- You want a pad that lasts years
Skip This If…
- You dislike rough textures on your skin
- You want maximum stopping power (get Zero)
- Budget is tight (try Hayate Kou first)
- You prefer buttery smooth glide feel
Pro Tip: The Hien FX SOFT is the default recommendation for a reason. Its rough texture creates less surface contact with your mouse feet, which means faster initial movement. But the foam base absorbs energy when you stop, giving you control that pure speed pads lack. If you have never tried an Artisan pad, start here. The texture feels unusual for the first day or two, but most players adapt quickly and then find smooth pads boring by comparison. For the full comparison, see our Artisan Zero vs Hien breakdown.
Consider Instead:
- Want more control? → Artisan Zero FX (slower, smoother, maximum stopping power)
- Want similar speed but smoother? → Hayate Otsu FX (same speed, no roughness)
- Want different texture? → Type-99 (knit texture instead of woven)
2. Artisan Zero FX – Best Artisan Mousepad for Control
Best for: Low sensitivity arm aimers, CS2 players, anyone switching from Zowie G-SR
Key Specs
- Surface: Smooth uncoated cloth
- Base: Artisan proprietary foam
- Hardness Options: XSOFT / SOFT / MID
- Sizes: S / M / L / XL
- Price: ~$40-60 (varies by size)
- Speed Rating: 4/10
- Control Rating: 9/10
Why It’s Good
- Best-in-class stopping power on any pad
- Buttery smooth texture – comfortable all day
- Consistent glide across the entire surface
- Excellent for micro-adjustments at low sens
- Foam base adds cushion without sacrificing control
- Perfect upgrade from Zowie G-SR or QcK
Tradeoffs
- Slow initial friction – takes force to start moving
- Wears faster than Hien – expect 1-1.5 year lifespan
- Affected by humidity – glide changes in summer
- Too slow for high-sensitivity speed players
Buy This If…
- You play low sensitivity in CS2 or Valorant
- You arm aim with wide sweeps
- You want the most control possible on cloth
- You are coming from a Zowie G-SR or SteelSeries QcK
Skip This If…
- You play high sensitivity and need speed
- You live in a very humid climate (get Hien)
- You want fast flicks with minimal resistance
- You dislike slow, deliberate mouse movement
Pro Tip: The Zero FX SOFT is the Artisan pad for players who believe control wins rounds. In Valorant and CS2, you are not flicking across the screen – you are making tiny adjustments to place your crosshair exactly on a pixel-wide head hitbox. The Zero’s high friction means when you stop your mouse, it stops immediately with no drift. Pair it with a lightweight mouse (under 60g) to offset the higher friction. The combination of a light mouse on a control pad is the current meta in competitive tactical shooters.
Consider Instead:
- Want more speed? → Artisan Hien FX (faster, textured, humidity resistant)
- Want speed + smooth? → Hayate Otsu FX (faster but still smooth texture)
- Want maximum control on budget? → Zowie G-SR-SE (cheaper alternative with similar control)
3. Artisan Hayate Otsu FX – Best Balance of Speed and Control
Best for: Players who cannot decide between Zero and Hien, medium sensitivity
Key Specs
- Surface: Smooth fast cloth
- Base: Artisan proprietary foam
- Hardness Options: XSOFT / SOFT / MID
- Sizes: S / M / L / XL
- Price: ~$40-60 (varies by size)
- Speed Rating: 7/10
- Control Rating: 6/10
Why It’s Good
- Faster than Zero but smoother than Hien
- Comfortable smooth texture – no roughness
- Good stopping power for its speed class
- Works across a wide range of sensitivities
- Foam base adds cushion and micro-control
- Great for players who switch between games
Tradeoffs
- Less stopping power than Zero
- Less distinctive character than Hien
- Some find it unremarkable – “jack of all trades”
- Humidity sensitive – glide shifts in damp conditions
Buy This If…
- You want speed and control in equal measure
- You play at medium sensitivity
- You dislike the Hien’s rough texture
- You play a mix of tactical and fast-paced FPS games
Skip This If…
- You want maximum control (get Zero)
- You want a pad with standout character (get Hien)
- You need humidity resistance (get Hien or Type-99)
- Budget is tight (try Hayate Kou)
Pro Tip: The Hayate Otsu is the safe pick for players who are unsure what they want. It is fast enough for comfortable sweeps and flicks, but controlled enough for precise micro-adjustments. If this is your first Artisan pad and you do not know whether you prefer speed or control, the Otsu SOFT is the lowest-risk choice. You can always move to the Zero (more control) or Hien (more speed and texture) after you figure out your preference.
Consider Instead:
- Want more control? → Artisan Zero FX (slower, more stopping power)
- Want more speed + texture? → Artisan Hien FX (similar speed, rougher feel)
- Want even faster? → Artisan Raiden FX (maximum speed)
4. Artisan Raiden FX – Fastest Artisan Mousepad
Best for: High sensitivity wrist aimers who want maximum speed on cloth
Key Specs
- Surface: Smooth ultra-fast cloth
- Base: Artisan proprietary foam
- Hardness Options: XSOFT / SOFT / MID
- Sizes: S / M / L / XL
- Price: ~$40-60 (varies by size)
- Speed Rating: 10/10
- Control Rating: 3/10
Why It’s Good
- Fastest cloth pad you can buy – period
- Almost zero friction – glass-like speed on cloth
- Foam base still provides some cushion
- Smooth, comfortable surface texture
- Great for rapid 180-degree turns at high sens
- Unique feel unlike any other cloth pad
Tradeoffs
- Known for causing spin-outs on some sensors
- Way too fast for most players
- Very low stopping power – hard to brake
- Sensor compatibility issues with older mice
Buy This If…
- You play high sensitivity and wrist aim
- You want cloth comfort with hard pad speed
- Your mouse has a modern sensor (3395 or newer)
- You have tried other pads and they are all too slow
Skip This If…
- You play low sensitivity tactical shooters
- You need precise stopping power
- You have an older mouse sensor
- This is your first Artisan pad (start with Hien or Zero)
Pro Tip: The Raiden is a specialist pad. Before buying, check that your mouse sensor is compatible. The Raiden’s surface pattern is known to cause spin-outs with certain sensors, particularly older PixArt sensors and some with low lift-off distance settings. Set your mouse’s LOD to its highest setting and use a modern sensor (PixArt 3395, Focus Pro 35K, or HERO 2). If your mouse tracks correctly on the Raiden, you get cloth comfort with speed that rivals glass pads. The XSOFT hardness actually adds meaningful control here, since the foam compression creates braking force that the surface itself does not provide.
Consider Instead:
- Want speed without spin-out risk? → Hayate Otsu FX (fast but sensor-safe)
- Want true glass speed? → Glass mousepad (faster, no spin-out issues)
- Want speed + control? → Artisan Hien FX (fast with better stopping)
5. Artisan Hayate Kou FX – Budget-Friendly Artisan
Best for: Budget Artisan entry, players who want to try the brand without full investment
Key Specs
- Surface: Coated cloth
- Base: Artisan proprietary foam
- Hardness Options: XSOFT / SOFT / MID
- Sizes: S / M / L
- Price: ~$30-45 (varies by size)
- Speed Rating: 7/10
- Control Rating: 5/10
Why It’s Good
- Most affordable Artisan pad available
- Fast smooth glide out of the box
- Good introduction to Artisan foam base
- Comfortable surface texture
- Same hardness options as premium models
- Good starter pad for the Artisan experience
Tradeoffs
- Coating wears off after 6-12 months
- Smaller size options – no XL available
- Less premium feel than Hien or Zero
- Glide changes as coating degrades
Buy This If…
- You want to try Artisan at the lowest price
- You are unsure if premium pads are worth it
- You play at medium-high sensitivity
- You do not need an XL-size pad
Skip This If…
- You want long-term durability (coating wears)
- You need XL size for low sensitivity
- You can afford a Hien or Zero instead
- You want consistent glide over years
Pro Tip: Think of the Hayate Kou as a trial run. It gives you the Artisan foam base experience at a lower price so you can decide if the brand is worth the investment. If you love the foam feel and the overall quality, you will know to go for a Hien or Zero next. If you find it does not match the hype, you have not spent top dollar finding out. Just know that the coating wearing off is expected – the pad underneath is still functional, just different from when it was new.
Consider Instead:
- Want better durability? → Artisan Hien FX (lasts 2-3x longer, worth the upgrade)
- Want similar price, more control? → Artisan Zero FX in M size (slightly more, much better control)
- Want affordable non-Artisan? → LGG Saturn Pro (good budget pad with similar speed)
6. Artisan Type-99 – Most Unique Texture
Best for: Players who want something completely different, texture enthusiasts, humid climates
Key Specs
- Surface: Textured knit
- Base: Artisan proprietary foam
- Hardness Options: XSOFT / SOFT / MID
- Sizes: M / L / XL
- Price: ~$45-65 (varies by size)
- Speed Rating: 6/10
- Control Rating: 7/10
Why It’s Good
- Unique woven texture unlike any other pad
- Excellent X/Y axis consistency
- Extremely durable – outlasts most Artisan models
- Humidity resistant surface
- Good balance of speed and control
- Knit pattern provides interesting tactile feedback
Tradeoffs
- Polarizing texture – love it or hate it
- Limited availability – hard to find
- Most expensive Artisan model
- Rough on bare skin during long sessions
Buy This If…
- You have tried Hien and Zero and want something new
- You value X/Y consistency above all else
- You want a pad that will last for years
- You live in a humid environment
Skip This If…
- You have sensitive skin or rest your arm on the pad
- This is your first Artisan (start with Hien or Zero)
- You prefer smooth, comfortable textures
- Budget is a concern (this is the priciest model)
Pro Tip: The Type-99 is for the Artisan veteran who has tried everything else. Its knit texture provides identical friction in the X and Y axes, which means diagonal movements feel exactly the same as horizontal and vertical ones. Most cloth pads have slight X/Y differences due to their weave pattern – the Type-99 eliminates this completely. If you play games with a lot of diagonal tracking (Apex Legends, Overwatch 2), the X/Y consistency is a genuine competitive advantage. Just be prepared for the texture – it is genuinely rough.
Consider Instead:
- Want similar durability, less texture? → Artisan Hien FX (textured but less extreme)
- Want smooth + durable? → Hayate Otsu FX (smooth, good durability)
- Want perfect X/Y on a different surface? → Glass mousepad (perfect consistency)
Which Hardness? XSOFT vs SOFT vs MID
Choosing the right hardness is almost as important as choosing the right surface. The hardness determines how much your mouse sinks into the foam base, which directly affects speed and stopping power. Here is what each option actually feels like.
XSOFT – The softest option. Your mouse feet sink into the foam noticeably, creating significant friction and stopping power. This is the slowest, most controlled version of any surface. Arm aimers who make large sweeps and need absolute stopping precision benefit most. The pad feels like it is actively slowing your mouse when you push down. Choose XSOFT if you play at very low sensitivity and prioritize control over speed.
SOFT (Recommended) – The most popular and balanced option. Provides noticeable cushion without excessive sinking. Your mouse feet interact with the foam enough to add micro-control on stops, but not so much that it slows your glide. This is the default recommendation for a reason – it works well across all sensitivities and playstyles. If you are unsure, get SOFT.
MID – The firmest option. Minimal foam compression means the surface properties dominate the feel. The pad behaves closer to a traditional hard pad with a cloth surface on top. Fastest option for any given surface, with the least stopping assistance from the foam. Choose MID if you want maximum speed from your chosen surface or if you prefer the feel of a firm desk beneath your pad.
Which Size Should You Get?
- L (420x330mm) – The standard gaming size. Enough room for most sensitivities and the most commonly purchased option. This is the default recommendation.
- XL (490x420mm) – For low sensitivity arm aimers who need maximum space. If you frequently run out of room on standard pads, go XL. Most competitive tactical FPS players prefer this size.
- M (310x250mm) – Only for small desks or high sensitivity players. Most gamers will find this too small for comfortable play.
- S (240x200mm) – Extremely small. Only useful for travel or very cramped setups.
For most players, L is the right choice. If you play Valorant or CS2 at low sensitivity, go XL. Do not buy M or S unless desk space is genuinely limited.
Where to Buy Artisan Pads
Official Artisan Website (artisan-jp.com) – The primary source. Ships directly from Japan. Expect 1-3 week delivery depending on your location. Payment is in Japanese Yen. Restocks happen regularly but sell out fast. This is the most reliable way to get exactly the model, size, and hardness you want.
Amazon – Limited availability, often from third-party sellers. Prices are usually marked up $10-20 above retail. Stock is inconsistent, and not all models or hardness levels are available. The advantage is faster shipping and easier returns.
Tips for buying: Check the official site regularly – restocks happen without announcement. When your model is in stock, buy immediately. Popular combinations (Hien L SOFT, Zero L SOFT) sell out within hours. Do not buy from resellers charging double the retail price – patience pays off. For pad care after purchase, see our mousepad cleaning guide.
Research Sources
- Artisan Official Website – referenced for product specifications, sizing, hardness options, and pricing across all models
- RTINGS – Mousepad Comparison Tool – referenced for speed and control measurements, surface consistency, and durability testing
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Frequently Asked Questions
Are Artisan mousepads worth the price?
Yes, if you care about consistency and performance. Artisan pads use a unique foam base that provides cushion and control that no other manufacturer matches. The surfaces are engineered for specific glide characteristics, and the build quality means they last significantly longer than budget pads. Most competitive players who try an Artisan never go back. The main downside is price ($40-65) and availability, but you are paying for a mousepad that will outlast two or three cheaper alternatives. See our full mousepad guide for how Artisan stacks up against other brands.
Which Artisan pad is best for Valorant or CS2?
The Artisan Zero FX SOFT is the top choice for Valorant and CS2 players who use low sensitivity and need precise stopping power. If you want a bit more speed for faster flicks, the Hien FX SOFT is the most popular overall pick among competitive FPS players. The Hayate Otsu FX SOFT sits between the two and works well for players who play both tactical shooters and faster-paced games. For a full breakdown, see our Artisan Zero vs Hien comparison.
How long do Artisan pads last?
Artisan pads generally last 1-3 years depending on the model and usage. The Hien and Type-99 are the most durable due to their textured surfaces, often lasting 2-3 years of daily use. The Zero wears faster because its smooth cloth surface sees more friction, typically lasting 1-1.5 years. The Hayate Kou’s coating eventually wears off after 6-12 months of heavy use. Regular cleaning extends the lifespan of any model. Check our mousepad cleaning guide for proper care.
XSOFT vs SOFT vs MID – which hardness should I choose?
SOFT is the most popular choice and the best starting point. It provides a balanced feel with enough cushion for comfort without being too spongy. XSOFT is softer and provides more stopping power because your mouse sinks into the foam slightly. MID is the firmest and fastest, similar to a hard pad feel. Most competitive players choose SOFT. If you want maximum control, go XSOFT. If you want maximum speed, go MID. See the hardness guide above for full details.
Why are Artisan pads always out of stock?
Artisan is a small Japanese company that manufactures all pads in-house with strict quality control. They do not mass-produce or outsource. Each pad is made in limited batches, and global demand far exceeds their production capacity. The best strategy is to check the official Artisan website regularly, as they restock specific models on a rotating basis. Be ready to purchase immediately when your desired model becomes available – popular combinations sell out within hours.
Can you wash Artisan mousepads?
Yes, but gently. Use lukewarm water and a mild soap or dish detergent. Lay the pad flat and use a soft cloth or your hand to gently clean the surface. Do not use a brush or scrub aggressively, as this can damage the surface texture. Rinse thoroughly and lay flat to air dry. Never put an Artisan pad in a washing machine or dryer. The foam base can be damaged by excessive water exposure, so keep washing sessions brief. For step-by-step instructions, read our how to clean your mousepad guide.
Do Artisan pads cause spin-outs?
The Artisan Raiden is the only model known for causing spin-outs. Its surface pattern can interfere with optical tracking at certain angles, especially with older sensors or low lift-off distance settings. The Hien, Zero, Hayate Otsu, Hayate Kou, and Type-99 do not cause spin-out issues with modern sensors. If you want the Raiden’s speed, make sure your mouse has a modern sensor (PixArt 3395 or newer) and set lift-off distance to its highest setting.
What is the difference between FX and Classic Artisan pads?
The FX line uses Artisan’s newer foam base that is more consistent and durable than the Classic foam. The surface materials are the same between FX and Classic versions of the same model. The FX foam also tends to lay flatter out of the box with less edge curling. At this point, the Classic line is largely discontinued in favor of FX. If you are buying new, you will almost certainly get the FX version. Always buy FX if both are available.
Read Next
- Gaming Mousepad Guide – Full Breakdown – Our complete guide to every type of mousepad
- Artisan Zero vs Hien – Deep comparison of the two most popular Artisan models
- Speed vs Control Mousepad – Understanding the speed-control spectrum
- How to Clean Your Mousepad – Proper care for Artisan and other premium pads
- How to Replace Mouse Feet – Pair your Artisan with premium aftermarket feet
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