Top Laptop Cooling Pads: Effective Coolers Reviewed

The best gaming laptops are equipped with high-powered components, and with such power comes significant heat. Ignoring this can cause your system to throttle to prevent overheating, which in turn reduces its performance during gaming sessions. If you're experiencing high temperatures, a laptop cooling pad is a straightforward solution to keep your system running at peak performance.

TL;DR – These Are the Best 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 AmazonLaptop cooling solutions come in various forms, from oversized pads with customizable RGB lighting to compact side-attaching blowers. While most are budget-friendly, the top-tier models often feature advanced functionalities like temperature sensors and multiple fans. No matter your preference, one of our nine selections will meet your cooling needs. Check where to purchase them in the UK.

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

Best Overall Laptop Cooling Pad

Our Top Pick### IETSGT300

4Experience powerful cooling with two high-speed blower motors and intake vents equipped with dust filters.See it at AmazonProduct SpecificationsFans 2 x 4,500 RPM blowersSize15.75" x 13.7" x 1.97"PROSDual blower fans for effective coolingFilters to prevent dust build-up in your laptopCustomizable RGBWide compatibilityCONSLarge and bulkyLimited RGB customizationThe top laptop cooler comes from a brand you might not know, but don't let that deter you. As someone who needs a reliable cooling solution, I've personally used this cooler to keep various gaming laptops cool under demanding conditions. It's bulky, but its design and effectiveness make it well worth the space.

Ask any HVAC expert, and they'll tell you: The key to efficient cooling is a well-sealed system. This principle applies to laptop coolers, often overlooked by many. The GT300 features a rubber gasket around its rim that seals around the base of your laptop, ensuring that all the cold air is directed to your heat-generating components without escaping from the sides.

Instead of typical fans, it employs two high-speed blower motors that rapidly draw in cool air from the outside. At their maximum speed of 4,500 RPM, they make a significant difference in temperatures, as many Amazon reviewers have confirmed. The intake vents are also fitted with dust filters, which help maintain your laptop's cleanliness and cooling efficiency over time.

The GT300 offers additional features worth highlighting. It has two USB ports on the back, so you can power it via a USB power adapter (not included, though a USB cable is) and plug it into an outlet, freeing up a laptop port for another peripheral. It's angle adjustable, doubling as a laptop stand, and includes RGB lighting, though other options on our list offer more impressive RGB effects. Nonetheless, you can choose from a variety of colors and effects.

Its design requires your laptop to have bottom vents for optimal performance, so MacBooks might not be the best fit. However, most gaming laptops will work well, and thanks to the rubber gasket, it supports laptops ranging from 14" to 17" in size.

2. Thermaltake Massive 20 RGB

Best Laptop Cooling Pad Runner Up

### Thermaltake Massive 20 RGB

3The Thermaltake Massive 20 RGB is the ultimate cooling solution for your gaming laptop. Its large central fan will keep your device cool during extended gaming sessions.See it at AmazonSee it at WalmartProduct SpecificationsFans 1 x 200mmSize18.54” x 13.96” x 1.83"PROSPowerful airflowAdjustable heightCONSA bit clunkyDue to their compact design, laptops often struggle with cooling, and the Thermaltake Massive 20 RGB is an excellent solution. This cooling pad efficiently expels hot air from your device with a substantial 200mm fan positioned behind a sturdy steel mesh. Unlike most laptop fans, this one operates quietly while reaching up to 800RPM and delivering up to 64 CFM of airflow. The fan speed is adjustable via a convenient knob on the cooling pad, allowing you to choose between maximum cooling or silence.

Ergonomics are also considered, with three adjustable height levels (3°, 9°, or 13°), which means the cooling pad can double as a laptop stand. These angles enhance viewing and typing comfort while improving airflow underneath. Be prepared for its substantial size, weighing 3.35 pounds and measuring 18.54 x 13.96 x 1.83 inches, but it's designed to support even larger laptops, up to 19 inches.

With RGB in its name, Thermaltake adds a touch of flair with colorful edge lighting. It offers various modes such as static, pulsing, blinking, and wave effects. Changing between modes and selecting colors is straightforward using buttons on the control panel.

3. TopMate C5 Laptop Cooler

Best High-Airflow Laptop Cooling Pad

### TopMate C5 Laptop Cooler

2The TopMate C5 Laptop Cooler is packed with five fans to ensure your gaming laptop stays cool, even during the most intense gaming sessions.See it at AmazonProduct SpecificationsFans5Size14.57" x 11.8" x 1.4"PROSLots of fansTwo USB portsCONSNot suitable for larger laptopsNeed maximum airflow? The TopMate C5, with its five fans—a 140mm central fan and four surrounding 70mm fans—delivers. These fans work in tandem with a metal mesh surface to direct cool air to your laptop's base, keeping temperatures in check. You can adjust the speed with a small LCD control panel that offers various cooling modes and displays wind speed.

Beyond its cooling prowess, the TopMate C5 includes additional features like five height adjustments for ergonomic positioning. It accommodates laptops up to 15.6 inches, and you can even use it to cool gaming consoles. It also features two USB 2.0 ports, one for power and one for connecting peripherals.

4. Targus Lap Chill Mat

Best Laptop Cooling Pad for Your Lap

### Targus Lap Chill Mat

2The Targus Lap Chill Mat is an excellent choice if you need a cooling pad that keeps your laptop cool without drawing too much attention.See it at AmazonSee it at WalmartSee it at TargetProduct SpecificationsFans2Size15" x 11.75" x 1"PROSSimple but effectiveRubberized gripCONSNo height adjustmentThe Targus Lap Chill Mat has been keeping laptops and laps cool for over a decade, embodying the "if it ain't broke, don't fix it" philosophy. Its lightweight design and neoprene bottom make it comfortable for extended lap use. The rubberized grip and notches on the stand's surface prevent your laptop from sliding on uneven surfaces.

For heat dissipation, it features a mesh surface and a hollow chamber that allows fresh air to flow beneath the laptop while hot air escapes. Two built-in fans enhance airflow near the back edge, where the CPU and GPU are typically located. Additionally, a four-port USB hub and velcro straps for cable management add to its convenience.

5. Havit HV-F2056

Best Budget Laptop Cooling Pad

### HavitHV-F2056

1The Havit HV-F2056 is a cost-effective cooling pad that keeps your laptop cool without breaking the bank. It also features two USB passthroughs.See it at AmazonProduct SpecificationsFans 3 x 120mmSize14.96" x 11.02" x 1.18"PROSAffordableUSB passthrough portsCONSLimited to 3 fansFor budget-conscious gamers, the Havit HV-F2056 offers a great solution. With three 120mm fans arranged to efficiently cool your laptop's sensitive components, it's an affordable yet effective choice. The fans come with blue LED lighting, though more advanced RGB options are available on pricier models.

Additionally, it includes two USB passthrough ports, ensuring you don't sacrifice connectivity for cooling. With a low price tag of $39 (often discounted further) and quiet operation, it's a solid choice for budget buyers.

6. Klim Tempest

Best Portable Laptop Cooler

### Klim Tempest

2This 4,000 RPM fan attaches directly to your laptop for portable cooling. See it at AmazonProduct SpecificationsFans1Size3.23" x 1.57" x 3.94"PROSExtremely portableHigh RPMCONSWill only work on some laptopsCooling pads are typically not portable, making them challenging to take on the go. The Klim Tempest solves this issue with its compact design that clamps onto the side of your laptop over a vent. A rubber gasket creates a seal, and its powerful 4,000 RPM fan efficiently removes hot air.

The Tempest's built-in temperature sensor monitors the exhaust air, allowing you to manually adjust power across 13 levels or set a target temperature for automatic operation. While its small size (3" x 2" x 4") makes it bag-friendly, it's only compatible with laptops that have side vents.

7. Klim Ultimate

Best RGB Laptop Cooling Pad

### Klim Ultimate

1For an RGB-enhanced gaming laptop cooling pad, the Klim Ultimate is an excellent choice.See it at AmazonProduct SpecificationsFans1 x 200mmSize16.73" x 12.4" x 1.69"PROSRGBs galore!Adjustable fan speedCONSCan't adjust RGB brightnessIf you've scored a great gaming laptop deal, the Klim Ultimate is designed to keep your high-performance, heat-generating machine cool, preventing FPS drops and performance issues in the best PC games. Its metal grid panel facilitates superior heat dissipation, and the 200mm fan behind it provides near-instant cooling at speeds up to 750RPM. Despite its power, it operates quietly at just 23dB. Klim reports temperature drops between 41°F and 68°F.

The Klim Ultimate can support gaming laptops from 11 to 17.3 inches, accommodating most models. Despite its robust build, it remains relatively compact at 16.73 x 12.4 x 1.69 inches and weighs just over two pounds. It offers multiple inclination levels and a stopper to prevent laptop slippage, ensuring ergonomic use.

Designed for gaming, it features RGB lighting around the entire rim with five effects and seven colors for customization. The rear control panel allows easy adjustment of lighting and fan speed, though brightness cannot be altered.

8. Miggoing Laptop Table

Best Laptop Cooling Stand

### Miggoing Laptop Table

0The Miggoing Laptop Table doubles as a comfortable work surface and a cooling pad, keeping your laptop cool while enhancing your work environment.See it at AmazonProduct SpecificationsFans2Size16.5" x 10" x 18.9"PROSVersatileSturdyCONSAdjustment can be awkwardMost cooling pads are suited for lap or desk use, but the Miggoing Laptop Table offers a higher elevation option. Its adjustable segments can be set from low to a height of 18.9 inches, ideal for use on couches, beds, or desks, effectively turning them into a standing desk.

For cooling, it uses dual USB-powered fans and ventilation slots to circulate air and prevent overheating. The sturdy aluminum tray can hold devices up to 33 pounds, and includes a mouse plate for added convenience.

9. Cooler Master NotePal X3

Best Laptop Cooling Pad for Larger Laptops

### Cooler Master NotePal X3

0This cooling pad is perfect for larger laptops up to 17 inches, featuring a large 200mm blue LED fan.See it at AmazonProduct SpecificationsFans1 x 200mmSize15.7” x 12.2” x 2.8"PROSFront ventStylish designCONSQuite largeIf you're looking for a high-quality, stylish cooling pad, the Cooler Master NotePal X3 is a great choice. Its large 200mm fan is ideal for gaming laptops that tend to overheat. Though it's on the larger side, it can support laptops up to 17 inches.

All controls are conveniently located on the side, including USB ports, a fan speed dial, and switches for the fan and stunning blue LED. The front vent adds a cooling breeze for your hands, and two height adjustments offer added versatility.

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 AmazonHow We Chose the Best Laptop Cooling Pads

At IGN, we're dedicated to covering gaming laptops and understand the heat they generate. We know that some cooling pads may look good but fail to effectively lower temperatures. To identify the best laptop cooling pads, we started with those we've personally tested and proven effective over time.

We then considered insights from other expert sources and user reviews to get a comprehensive view of each product's performance across various laptop types. This thorough approach has led us to compile a list of the top cooling pads available today, ensuring you get the best of the best.

FAQs

Do laptop cooling pads really work?

Cooling pads can indeed prevent your laptop from overheating, extending its lifespan. They're particularly beneficial if you use your laptop for extended periods. However, effectiveness varies based on the pad's design and fan strength. A poorly sealed pad or weak fans can diminish cooling potential.

Do laptop cooling pads improve performance?

They can improve performance if your laptop is prone to thermal throttling, which is common but not universal. To check for throttling, use system monitoring software to track CPU and GPU performance over time. If performance decreases, a cooling pad could help. 3DMark, available on Steam, is another tool for stress testing and analyzing performance.

How well do laptop cooling pads work?

The effectiveness of a cooling pad depends on the model and your laptop's design. The best pads can reduce temperatures by 5° to over 10° Celsius, significantly enhancing cooling efficiency.