Textured pads cause problems for low-lift mice.

Yes, that can happen. Low lift-off distance means the sensor stops tracking when you raise the mouse just a fraction of an inch. But a heavily textured surface can trick the sensor into still reading movement even after you’ve lifted—especially if the texture is deep or inconsistent. The sensor might see the texture shifting under the lens as you reposition, causing a sudden jump or jitter when you set it back down.

This is why serious FPS players tend to use smooth cloth pads with low-lift mice. The flatter surface gives a clean break when you lift, no phantom movement. Textured hard pads or rough cloth can create enough surface variation to confuse the sensor at the edge of its tracking range.

If you lift and reposition a lot—like with low sensitivity—a smooth pad is the safe bet. Mushy or bumpy textures introduce randomness you don’t need.