Someone made a touch-sensitive mouse mat that could obliterate desk clutter and Reddit users are shocked it doesnt already exist

Date:
Tue, 23 Jun 2026 11:52:10 +0000

Description:
The Kage GhostPad is a touch-sensitive mouse mat with built-in programmable buttons.

FULL STORY ======================================================================Copy link Facebook X Whatsapp Reddit Pinterest Flipboard Threads Email Share this article 0 Join the conversation Follow us Add us as a preferred source on Google Newsletter Subscribe to our newsletter A Reddit user has created a touch-sensitive mouse mat with built-in buttons The Kage GhostPad device can be programmed with different functions It will enter crowdfunding soon, but already looks to be expensive Over the years, there have been various devices that put quick computing controls at your fingertips think the Elgato Stream Deck , for example, or standalone numpads built for your keyboard . But all
of these things take up space on your desk, quickly making it crowded and cluttered. Now, though, one enterprising PC user thinks theyve come up with a solution.

Posting on Reddit , user cmajmus revealed a mouse mat theyve apparently been working on for the last two years. Dubbed the Kage GhostPad , this isnt just any old desk pad this one is equipped with 16 touch-sensitive buttons that put quick PC controls at your fingertips. The buttons are built into the pad and sit under its surface, something cmajmus says means there are No buttons, no bumps. Once you press one of the active zones, it triggers whatever youve mapped to it: keyboard shortcuts, macros, media keys, MIDI notes, gamepad inputs, even launching apps, the creator says. Latest Videos From Watch full video here:

You can customize what each button does using a browser-based companion app once the desk pad is plugged into your PC using a USB cable. Youll be able to drag and drop functions onto each zone, set pressure thresholds, add custom icons, and more.

And on the side, youll find a detachable LCD module that shows the devices active mode, assigned shortcuts and any status indicators, helping you see what the GhostPad is up to at a glance. And you can divide the surface into programmable zones, cmajmus states, each with its own set of controls that
can be switched between as needed. You may like Stop memorizing hotkeys this Prime Day Elgato Stream Deck Mini deal is the ultimate office hack This weird-looking open-sourced computer mouse has four buttons plus a point stick Logitech launches a foldable mouse for workers on the move Convenience at a cost (Image credit: Kage) The GhostPads creator explained that they were motivated to create it due to frustration with having a Stream Deck, macro pad, MIDI controller and numpad all eating desk space. They then added: I wanted one thing that does all of it and disappears visually.

Some Reddit users were curious about how the product prevents accidental touches, such as if you bump your hand against the mat or place an object on its surface. To this, cmajmus said that you can turn off some zones if your keyboard overlaps while also claiming that you can have 0.5L of beer on it without triggering any of the buttons. Get daily insight, inspiration and deals in your inbox Sign up for breaking news, reviews, opinion, top tech deals, and more. Contact me with news and offers from other Future brands Receive email from us on behalf of our trusted partners or sponsors By submitting your information you agree to the Terms & Conditions and Privacy Policy and are aged 16 or over.

If you dont like how the GhostPad looks or if it becomes worn down over time
you can swap out the top surface with a variety of different visual options. And while the pad isnt machine washable, the creator says it is water resistant and can be washed using gentler methods.

Reaction seems to have been positive on Reddit. User Jfaun said it was one of those things I see and am shocked it doesnt already exist and I never thought of it myself", while another called it "ridiculously cool". XLB135 , meanwhile, opined: As a minimalist with literally nothing on my desk other than a phone stand and a small bamboo box of notecards, this is very
appealing to me.

The GhostPads creator revealed in a different Reddit thread that the product will begin crowdfunding in a few months. You can also pre-order the device on its website , with early bird pricing set at 129 (about $147 / 111 GBP / $211 AUD).

That makes it very pricey for a mouse mat, but if you think it could save you money on accessories like a Stream Deck (not to mention the desk space), you might feel its worth it. Follow TechRadar on Google News and add us as a preferred source to get our expert news, reviews, and opinion in your feeds. The best laptops for all budgets Our top picks, based on real-world testing and comparisons

Read our full guide to the best laptops 1. Best overall: Apple MacBook Air 13-inch M5 2. Best budget: Apple MacBook Neo 3. Best Windows 11 laptop Microsoft Surface Laptop 13-inch 4. Best thin and light: Lenovo Yoga Slim 9i 5. Best Ultrabook Asus Zenbook S 16



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Link to news story: https://www.techradar.com/computing/someone-made-a-touch-sensitive-mouse-mat-t hat-could-obliterate-desk-clutter-and-reddit-users-are-shocked-it-doesnt-alrea dy-exist


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