Best Cooling Pads for Laptops: Heat-Defying Solutions

Top 9 Laptop Cooling Pads to Keep Your Gaming Rig Cool

High-performance gaming laptops generate significant heat. To prevent thermal throttling and maintain peak performance, a laptop cooling pad is a worthwhile investment. This guide reviews nine top-rated options, catering to various needs and budgets.

TL;DR – Our Top Picks:

IETS GT300 (Our Top Pick)

Thermaltake Massive 20 RGB

TopMate C5 Laptop Cooler

Targus Lap Chill Mat

Havit HV-F2056

Klim Tempest

Klim Ultimate

Miggoing Laptop Table

Cooler Master NotePal X3

Laptop cooling solutions vary widely, from large, RGB-equipped pads to smaller, clip-on blowers. While many are affordable, premium models often offer features like temperature sensors and multiple fans.

This review incorporates contributions from Danielle Abraham, Kegan Mooney, and Georgie Peru.

Detailed Reviews:

1. IETS GT300 – Best Overall

• Features: Dual high-speed blower fans (4,500 RPM), dust filters, customizable RGB lighting, adjustable angle, two USB ports.
• Pros: Highly effective cooling, dust protection, versatile design, wide compatibility (14"-17" laptops).
• Cons: Bulky, limited RGB customization.

2. Thermaltake Massive 20 RGB – Best Runner Up

• Features: Massive 200mm fan, adjustable height, RGB lighting.
• Pros: Powerful airflow, adjustable height, customizable RGB.
• Cons: Clunky, large size.

3. TopMate C5 Laptop Cooler – Best High-Airflow

• Features: Five fans (one 140mm, four 70mm), LCD control panel, multiple height adjustments, two USB ports.
• Pros: Excellent cooling, multiple fan speeds, ergonomic design.
• Cons: Not suitable for larger laptops.

4. Targus Lap Chill Mat – Best for Lap Use

• Features: Two fans, rubberized grip, four-port USB hub.
• Pros: Simple, effective, comfortable for lap use.
• Cons: No height adjustment.

5. Havit HV-F2056 – Best Budget Option

• Features: Three 120mm fans, blue LEDs, two USB passthrough ports.
• Pros: Affordable, quiet operation, USB passthrough.
• Cons: Limited to three fans.

6. Klim Tempest – Best Portable Cooler

• Features: Single 4,000 RPM fan, temperature sensor, 13 power levels.
• Pros: Extremely portable, powerful fan, temperature control.
• Cons: Limited compatibility (requires side vents).

7. Klim Ultimate – Best RGB Cooling Pad

• Features: 200mm fan, adjustable fan speed, customizable RGB lighting.
• Pros: Powerful cooling, quiet operation, impressive RGB effects.
• Cons: Cannot adjust RGB brightness.

8. Miggoing Laptop Table – Best Cooling Stand

• Features: Dual USB-powered fans, adjustable height, sturdy aluminum tray.
• Pros: Versatile, sturdy, comfortable for various positions.
• Cons: Adjustment can be awkward.

9. Cooler Master NotePal X3 – Best for Larger Laptops

• Features: Large 200mm fan with blue LED, adjustable height, front vent.
• Pros: Suitable for up to 17-inch laptops, stylish design.
• Cons: Large size.

UK Availability:

Selection Methodology:

Our selection process involved testing various cooling pads, consulting expert reviews, and analyzing user feedback. We prioritized real-world performance and user experience.

FAQs:

• Do laptop cooling pads really work? Yes, they can prevent overheating and extend laptop lifespan, but effectiveness varies depending on the pad's design and fan power.

• Do they improve performance? They can, especially if your laptop experiences thermal throttling. Monitor your CPU/GPU temperatures to determine if a cooling pad would benefit you. 3DMark stress tests can be helpful.

• How effective are they? Temperature reduction varies depending on the pad and laptop, but the best models can lower temperatures by 5-10° Celsius or more.