Silicone vs natural rubber mousepads: Silicone wins for smell and longevity

Silicone is almost odorless from day one and doesn’t degrade from UV or sweat, while natural rubber has a strong smell that fades but never fully disappears and can become tacky or crumbly after a year or two. Silicone stays grippy without getting sticky and lasts longer, though it attracts more dust (easily wiped). Rubber is cheaper but needs replacement sooner.