The Best Laptop Cooling Pads: These Coolers Actually Work

High-performance gaming laptops pack a punch, but that power generates significant heat. Untamed heat leads to thermal throttling—your system slows down to prevent overheating, impacting game performance. A laptop cooling pad offers a simple solution to maintain peak performance by effectively managing heat.

TL;DR – Top Laptop Cooling Pads:

----------------------------------------------- Our Top Pick### IETSGT300

4See it at Amazon### Thermaltake Massive 20 RGB

3See it at AmazonSee it at Walmart### TopMate C5 Laptop Cooler

2See it at Amazon### Targus Lap Chill Mat

2See it at AmazonSee it at WalmartSee it at Target### HavitHV-F2056

1See it at Amazon### Klim Tempest

2See it at Amazon### Klim Ultimate

1See it at Amazon### Miggoing Laptop Table

0See it at Amazon### Cooler Master NotePal X3

0See it at Amazon

Laptop cooling solutions are diverse, ranging from large, RGB-laden pads to compact, clip-on blowers. While many are affordable, premium models often justify their cost with features like temperature sensors and multiple fans. Our nine picks cater to various needs and budgets.

Additional contributions by Danielle Abraham, Kegan Mooney, and Georgie Peru

Key Considerations When Choosing a Laptop Cooling Pad:

Cooling efficiencyNoisePortabilityDesignPrice

AnswerSee Results

1. IETS GT300 - Best Overall Laptop Cooling Pad

------------- Our Top Pick### IETSGT300

4

Powerful cooling via dual high-speed blower motors and dust-filtered intake vents.

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Product Specifications: Fans: 2 x 4,500 RPM blowers; Size: 15.75" x 13.7" x 1.97"

Pros: Dual blower fans for efficient cooling; Dust filters; Customizable RGB; Wide compatibility

Cons: Large and bulky; Limited RGB customization

This top-performing cooler, from a perhaps lesser-known brand, provides reliable cooling even under demanding conditions. Its bulk is offset by its effective design. The rubber gasket ensures efficient air delivery directly to heat-generating components, minimizing loss. High-speed blower motors (4,500 RPM) significantly reduce temperatures, confirmed by numerous Amazon reviews. Dust filters maintain cooling efficiency over time. Additional features include two USB ports (allowing external power), adjustable angle, and RGB lighting.

Its design requires bottom vents on your laptop; MacBooks might not be ideal. However, it supports 14" to 17" laptops due to its secure mounting.

2. Thermaltake Massive 20 RGB - Best Laptop Cooling Pad Runner Up

----------------------------- ### Thermaltake Massive 20 RGB

3

The Thermaltake Massive 20 RGB is a powerful solution, blasting your laptop with cool air for extended gaming sessions.

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Product Specifications: Fans: 1 x 200mm; Size: 18.54” x 13.96” x 1.83”

Pros: Powerful airflow; Adjustable height

Cons: A little clunky

Addressing common laptop cooling issues, the Thermaltake Massive 20 RGB features a large 200mm fan for effective heat dissipation. Quiet operation (up to 800 RPM, 64 CFM) and adjustable fan speed are key features. Three height adjustments provide ergonomic versatility. While somewhat bulky (3.35 pounds, 18.54 x 13.96 x 1.83 inches), it supports laptops up to 19 inches. RGB lighting adds a visual flair with various modes and color options.

3. TopMate C5 Laptop Cooler - Best High-Airflow Laptop Cooling Pad

--------------------------- ### TopMate C5 Laptop Cooler

2

The TopMate C5 boasts five fans for exceptional cooling, even during intense gaming.

See it at Amazon

Product Specifications: Fans: 5; Size: 14.57" x 11.8" x 1.4"

Pros: Lots of fans; Two USB ports

Cons: Not suitable for larger laptops

With five fans (one 140mm, four 70mm), the TopMate C5 delivers powerful airflow. An LCD control panel allows for multiple cooling modes and displays wind speed. Five height adjustments enhance ergonomics. It supports laptops up to 15.6 inches and includes two USB 2.0 ports for added convenience.

4. Targus Lap Chill Mat - Best Laptop Cooling Pad for Your Lap

----------------------- ### Targus Lap Chill Mat

2

The Targus Lap Chill Mat provides effective cooling without being overly bulky or flashy.

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Product Specifications: Fans: 2; Size: 15" x 11.75" x 1"

Pros: Simple but effective; Rubberized grip

Cons: No height adjustment

A reliable and simple cooler, the Targus Lap Chill Mat offers comfortable lap use thanks to its lightweight design and neoprene cushioning. A rubberized grip prevents slippage. Mesh surface and hollow chamber enhance airflow, with built-in fans strategically positioned for optimal cooling. A four-port USB hub adds convenience.

5. Havit HV-F2056 - Best Budget Laptop Cooling Pad

----------------- ### HavitHV-F2056

1

The Havit HV-F2056 offers excellent cooling at a budget-friendly price, along with two USB passthroughs.

See it at Amazon

Product Specifications: Fans: 3 x 120mm; Size: 14.96" x 11.02" x 1.18"

Pros: Affordable; USB passthrough ports

Cons: Limited to 3 fans

This affordable option features three 120mm fans arranged for efficient cooling. Blue LEDs add a visual touch. Two USB passthrough ports maintain connectivity, and it operates quietly.

6. Klim Tempest - Best Portable Laptop Cooler

--------------- ### Klim Tempest

2

A portable solution with a 4,000 RPM fan that attaches directly to your laptop.

See it at Amazon

Product Specifications: Fans: 1; Size: 3.23" x 1.57" x 3.94"

Pros: Extremely portable; High RPM

Cons: Will only work on some laptops

This highly portable cooler clamps onto your laptop's side vent, using a rubber gasket for a secure seal. A powerful 4,000 RPM fan efficiently removes hot air. A built-in temperature sensor allows for manual or automatic control (based on temperature). Note: Compatibility is limited to laptops with side vents.

7. Klim Ultimate - Best RGB Laptop Cooling Pad

---------------- ### Klim Ultimate

1

The Klim Ultimate delivers robust cooling with vibrant RGB lighting.

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Product Specifications: Fans: 1 x 200mm; Size: 16.73" x 12.4" x 1.69"

Pros: RGB lighting; Adjustable fan speed

Cons: Can't adjust RGB brightness

Designed for powerful gaming laptops, the Klim Ultimate features a sturdy metal grid and a 200mm fan (up to 750 RPM) for efficient cooling. Quiet operation (23dB) is a plus. It supports laptops from 11 to 17.3 inches and offers multiple inclination levels. RGB lighting provides customizable effects and colors (brightness adjustment is unavailable).

8. Miggoing Laptop Table - Best Laptop Cooling Stand

------------------------ ### Miggoing Laptop Table

0

The Miggoing Laptop Table functions as both a comfortable stand and a cooling pad.

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Product Specifications: Fans: 2; Size: 16.5" x 10" x 18.9"

Pros: Versatile; Sturdy

Cons: Adjustment is a little awkward

This versatile stand offers adjustable height (up to 18.9 inches), suitable for various uses (couches, beds, desks). Dual USB-powered fans and ventilation slots provide cooling. A sturdy aluminum tray supports devices up to 33 pounds, and a mouse plate is included.

9. Cooler Master NotePal X3 - Best Laptop Cooling Pad for Larger Laptops

--------------------------- ### Cooler Master NotePal X3

0

Supporting laptops up to 17 inches, this cooler features a large 200mm blue LED fan.

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Product Specifications: Fans: 1 x 200mm; Size: 15.7” x 12.2” x 2.8”

Pros: Front vent; Stylish design

Cons: Quite large

This high-quality cooler, with its large 200mm fan, is ideal for larger gaming laptops. It supports laptops up to 17 inches. Side controls include USB ports, fan speed dial, and LED switch. A front vent cools your hands, and two height adjustments provide flexibility.

Where to Get the Best Cooling Pad in the UK

------------------------------------------- ### Thermaltake Massive 20

26See it at Amazon### Klim Ultimate

15See it at Amazon### TopMate C5 Laptop Cooler

7See it at Amazon### Targus Lap Chill Mat

7See it at Amazon### Klim Wind

6See it at Amazon### Klim Cool+

3See it at Amazon

How We Chose the Best Laptop Cooling Pads

-----------------------------------------

Our selection process involved a combination of hands-on testing, expert reviews, and user feedback. We prioritized proven performance and considered a wide range of laptop types and user experiences to ensure our recommendations represent the best available options.

FAQs

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Do laptop cooling pads really work?

Yes, they can prevent overheating and extend your laptop's lifespan. However, effectiveness varies; consider the mounting mechanism and fan power. A leaky seal or weak fan significantly reduces effectiveness.

Do laptop cooling pads improve performance?

They can, especially if your system is thermal throttling. Use system monitoring software (or 3DMark) to check for throttling; a drop in performance over time indicates potential improvement with a cooling pad.

How well do laptop cooling pads work?

Effectiveness depends on the pad and laptop design. High-quality pads can lower temperatures by 5° to 10° Celsius or more.