If you follow competitive gaming closely, you already know the name. Artisan is a Japanese esports gear company that has quietly built one of the most devoted followings in the peripheral world, not through flashy marketing or influencer deals, but through pads that serious players simply refuse to give up. Today, we're excited to announce that Artisan mouse pads are officially available in New Zealand, exclusively through Computer Lounge. Pre-orders are open now.
Who Is Artisan?
Artisan is a Japanese gaming peripheral company that has been producing high-performance mouse pads since 2008. Every pad is made in Japan, built on a philosophy that combines material science with what the brand calls "artisanal commitment." That means tightly controlled manufacturing, premium polyester weaves, multi-layered foam construction, and a non-slip rubber base engineered to stay planted even during intense play.
What sets Artisan apart is the level of intentional design behind each surface. Where most brands offer one or two cloth options, Artisan has developed distinct surface types, each tuned for a specific play style, with three foam hardness levels available across the range. It's a level of choice that lets players dial in exactly the feel they want, and once they find it, they don't tend to leave.
The brand is used in over 60 countries and has earned a reputation in the competitive community as one of the most recommended mouse pad brands on the planet. The Artisan Zero, in particular, became the number one recommended mousepad on ProSettings.net, a site that tracks the gear used by professional esports players worldwide.
Understanding the Artisan System
Before diving into the specific pads, it helps to understand how Artisan structures their range. Each model has a distinct surface type that determines glide speed and stopping behaviour. On top of that, every pad is available in three foam hardness options that change how the surface responds under pressure:
- XSOFT – The softest base, most cushioning, maximum surface give when stopping
- SOFT – A balanced middle ground, responsive without being stiff
- MID – Firmer feel, flatter surface, preferred by players who want a more controlled, consistent glide
Choosing the right combination of surface and hardness is what makes Artisan genuinely personal. The range we're carrying covers the full hardness spectrum across each model.
What We're Bringing In
We're launching with six models from Artisan's NINJA FX series, all available in XL size. Here's what each one is built for:
Artisan FX Zero — The most versatile pad in the range and the one most recommended to newcomers to the brand. The Zero is an all-rounder with a rough knit fabric that balances a sharp glide start with reliable stopping power. It pairs well with almost any sensitivity and playstyle. Trusted by professional players across multiple esports titles. Available in Black and Daidai Orange, in XSOFT, SOFT, and MID. From $119.00.
Artisan FX Hien — Built for players who want an explosive start and confident stopping control. The Hien has one of the fastest initial glides in the range, with a very rough texture that gives you genuine grip when you need to slow down. A favourite among aggressive aimers and flick-shot players. Available in Black, Navy Blue, and Wine Red, in XSOFT, SOFT, and MID. From $119.00.
Artisan FX Key-83 — A speed-balance pad built for smooth, consistent glide in every direction. The Key-83 features a unique hexagonal weave pattern that allows your mouse to move freely regardless of angle, making it particularly well suited to players who mix tracking and flick aiming styles. It also incorporates conductive threads that reduce glide interference caused by static electricity, a thoughtful touch that makes a real difference in low-humidity environments. Available in Black, in XSOFT, SOFT, and MID. From $129.00.
Artisan FX Hayate-Otsu V2 — A medium-speed all-rounder with a slightly rough texture that's easy to start and stop on. The Hayate-Otsu is the updated version of one of Artisan's most popular pads, and the V2 refines the surface for even more consistent performance. Great for players who want a balanced experience without committing to a full speed or control pad. Available in Black and Wine Red, in XSOFT, SOFT, and MID. From $129.00.
Artisan FX Raiden — The fastest pad in the Artisan lineup. The Raiden features an extremely smooth texture designed for silky, consistent glide with minimal friction. If you play at higher sensitivities and want your mouse to move freely and quickly across the surface, this is the one. Available in Coffee Brown and Daidai Orange, in XSOFT, SOFT, and MID. From $119.00.
Artisan FX Type-99 — The control specialist. The Type-99 is built for low-sensitivity players who need maximum stopping power and deliberate, precise tracking. Its smooth, fast-drying fabric is engineered to minimise the impact of sweat and humidity on performance, keeping your glide consistent during long sessions. Available in Black and Matcha, in XSOFT, SOFT, and MID. From $119.00.
Pricing Summary
- Artisan FX Zero XL — from $119.00
- Artisan FX Hien XL — from $119.00
- Artisan FX Raiden XL — from $119.00
- Artisan FX Type-99 XL — from $119.00
- Artisan FX Key-83 XL — from $129.00
- Artisan FX Hayate-Otsu V2 XL — from $129.00
Pre-Order Now
All Artisan pads are currently available for pre-order through Computer Lounge. Stock is on its way and these are the kind of pads that people order more than once, so if you've been waiting to get your hands on Artisan in New Zealand, now's the time.
Browse the full Artisan range at Computer Lounge and place your pre-order today. If you're unsure which surface or hardness is right for your play style, get in touch with our team and we'll help you find your match.
