Dark mousepads are usually better for low lift-off mice.

Yes, color can matter—but more because of how it affects reflectivity than the shade itself. Low lift-off distance means the sensor is sensitive to tiny changes in surface brightness. A very light mousepad can cause overly bright reflections, which may confuse the sensor and make it jitter or lose tracking when you lift the mouse. Dark pads absorb more light, giving a cleaner signal.

That said, texture matters more than color. A glossy white pad is worse than a matte black one. But a matte light pad is often fine. The real issue is inconsistency: a pad with patterns or uneven brightness can mess with lift-off behavior.

If you’re chasing the absolute best lift-off performance, go with a dark, matte, woven cloth pad. It’s the safest bet.

Your mouse’s sensor also plays a role—some handle light surfaces better than others.