DISCLAIMER

I've used this pad on my desk for the last 4 weeks. I will be using my Kyomi Ryo as the main baseline to compare and review the Tekkusai Apex (Unit #1,832 of 2,500).

FIRST IMPRESSIONS

This pad is massive (500 x 450 mm) and super thin at 1.5 mm thick with beautifully finished bevel-rounded edges.

One crucial tip: wipe it down thoroughly with water and a little bit of soap, 1 to 2 times, before using it. There’s a factory coating residue straight out of the packaging that actively interferes with mouse glide and sensor tracking if you don't clean it off first.

The bass is outstanding—way better than my Ryo. Even on my IKEA desk surface, this pad locked down completely and didn't shift at all during heavy use.

PRINT AND DESIGN

Design-wise, Tekkusai went with their signature theme: an anime character facing off against a massive monster/beast.

I know some people might be tired of the "anime boy vs. giant beast" concept across Tekkusai pads, but as someone who loves red/black colorways and natural/beast artwork, this design looks incredible on the desk.

And I love black and red combined together, this was one of the main reasons why I bought this pad.

COMPARISON (SPEED, TEXTURE, AND NOISE)

Speed: On paper, the Apex is supposed to be slower than the Ryo, but my copy (#1,832) is surprisingly faster than my Ryo. I actually love that it turned out faster, but this is a QC problem.

Texture: The surface coating is smoother and less textured than the Ryo, giving it a very slick, effortless glide, again another QC problem.