Product comparison
M5 vs Notrax Cushion-Ease: Which modular system is right for you?
Two modular interlocking anti-fatigue systems with different origins and price points. M5 offers UK manufacturing and 100% recycled materials; Notrax Cushion-Ease delivers premium US-made nitrile rubber construction. This guide compares specifications and value.
Specification comparison
Side-by-side specifications for M5 and Notrax Cushion-Ease modular matting systems.
| Specification | M5 | Notrax Cushion-Ease |
|---|---|---|
| Manufacturer | Ergo Advantage (West Midlands, UK) | Notrax / Justrite (USA) |
| Material | 100% recycled PVC compound | Nitrile rubber compound |
| System Type | Modular interlocking tiles | Modular interlocking tiles |
| Tile Sizes | 112×112cm, 158×112cm, 249×112cm | 91×91cm standard tiles |
| Thickness | 16mm | 19mm |
| Slip Rating | R13 | Check product variant |
| Installation | Interlocking, no adhesive | Interlocking, no adhesive |
| ESD Option | Yes (IEC 61340 compliant) | Yes (ESD variants available) |
| Drainage Option | Open-grid variant available | Yes (perforated options) |
| Price Positioning | Mid-range | Premium |
| UK Availability | Direct, 1 working day samples | Via UK distributors |
About M5
M5 is manufactured by Ergo Advantage in the West Midlands, UK. Every tile is pressed from 100% recycled PVC compound, offering clear sustainability credentials for organisations with environmental targets or ISO 14001 commitments.
The system uses larger tile formats than Cushion-Ease—up to 249×112cm—reducing the number of joints in an installation. M5 variants include standard anti-fatigue, ESD, and fire-resistant options, all within the same interlocking system.
M5 Pros:
- ✓ 100% recycled PVC—strong sustainability credentials
- ✓ UK manufactured—shorter lead times, local support
- ✓ Larger tile formats reduce joints
- ✓ Mid-range pricing offers better value
- ✓ Free samples dispatched in 1 working day
- ✓ RAMS and CAD layout support included
M5 Cons:
- ✗ Smaller brand recognition internationally
- ✗ PVC rather than nitrile rubber construction
About Notrax Cushion-Ease
Notrax Cushion-Ease is a modular anti-fatigue system from Notrax, now part of the Justrite Safety Group. Manufactured in the USA, Cushion-Ease uses nitrile rubber compound known for durability and oil resistance.
At 19mm thick, Cushion-Ease is slightly thicker than M5. The range includes solid and perforated options for drainage applications. Notrax has built strong brand recognition over 40+ years, with Cushion-Ease often specified for premium industrial installations.
Cushion-Ease Pros:
- ✓ Established premium brand with 40+ years history
- ✓ Nitrile rubber—excellent oil resistance
- ✓ 19mm thickness for maximum cushioning
- ✓ Perforated drainage options available
- ✓ Often specified by H&S consultants
Cushion-Ease Cons:
- ✗ Premium pricing—higher investment required
- ✗ US manufacturing—longer lead times to UK
- ✗ Smaller tile format (91×91cm)
- ✗ No recycled content claims
Which to choose for your application
Choose M5 if:
- ✓ Sustainability and recycled content are priorities
- ✓ You want UK manufacturing with local support
- ✓ Budget is a consideration—better value per m²
- ✓ Larger tile formats suit your layout
- ✓ You need fast UK samples and RAMS documentation
- ✓ ESD or fire-resistant options needed in same system
Choose Cushion-Ease if:
- • Nitrile rubber is specified for oil/chemical resistance
- • Maximum cushioning thickness (19mm) is required
- • The project specifies Notrax by name
- • Budget allows for premium product investment
- • You have an existing Cushion-Ease installation
- • Perforated drainage tiles are needed
Key consideration
Tile size comparison
Larger tiles mean fewer joints, faster installation, and a cleaner finished appearance. M5 offers significantly larger formats than Cushion-Ease.
M5 Tile Sizes
112×112
cm
158×112
cm
249×112
cm
Cushion-Ease Tile Size
91×91cm
Standard format
Material comparison
Recycled PVC vs Nitrile Rubber
The core material difference affects sustainability, chemical resistance, and cost.
M5: Recycled PVC
- • 100% recycled content
- • Lightweight and durable
- • Good chemical resistance
- • Lower environmental impact
Cushion-Ease: Nitrile Rubber
- • Excellent oil resistance
- • High-density cushioning
- • Premium durability
- • Higher material cost
FAQ
M5 vs Cushion-Ease: Common questions
What is the main difference between M5 and Notrax Cushion-Ease?
Both are modular interlocking anti-fatigue systems, but they differ in origin, material, and price positioning. M5 is UK-manufactured from 100% recycled PVC, offering sustainability credentials and local production benefits. Notrax Cushion-Ease is a US-made premium product using nitrile rubber, known for durability and established brand recognition. Cushion-Ease is typically priced higher than M5.
Which is thicker: M5 or Cushion-Ease?
Notrax Cushion-Ease is slightly thicker at 19mm compared to M5 at 16mm. However, thickness alone doesn't determine comfort or durability—material composition, density, and construction also matter. Both provide effective anti-fatigue properties for workers standing for extended periods.
Is M5 compatible with Notrax Cushion-Ease tiles?
No. Each manufacturer uses their own proprietary interlocking system. M5 tiles only connect with other M5 tiles; Cushion-Ease tiles only connect with other Cushion-Ease tiles. You cannot mix systems within the same installation.
Which offers better value for money?
M5 is positioned at a mid-range price point with UK manufacturing and 100% recycled content. Notrax Cushion-Ease commands premium pricing reflecting its established brand and nitrile rubber construction. For buyers prioritising sustainability and value, M5 typically offers better cost-effectiveness. For those requiring a premium specified product with established credentials, Cushion-Ease may justify the higher investment.
How do I get samples to compare both?
M5 samples are available free from Maximum Matting, dispatched within 1 working day with full specification sheets and RAMS documentation. Notrax Cushion-Ease samples can be requested through Notrax EU or their UK distributors. We recommend testing both in your actual environment before committing to a large order.
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Planning a larger matting install?
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