Top Laptop Cooling Pads: Effective Coolers Reviewed
The best gaming laptops are known for their high-powered components, which can generate significant heat. Excessive heat can cause your system to throttle, reducing performance during gameplay. To combat this, using a laptop cooling pad is a simple and effective solution to maintain optimal performance by keeping your laptop cool.
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 AmazonCooling solutions for laptops come in various forms, from oversized cooling pads with customizable RGB lighting to compact blowers that attach to the side of your laptop. While many options are budget-friendly, the top-tier models often include advanced features such as temperature sensors and multiple fans. No matter your preference, one of our nine picks will meet your cooling needs – and we've included where to find them in the UK.
Additional contributions by Danielle Abraham, Kegan Mooney, and Georgie Peru
AnswerSee Results1. IETS GT300 -------------Best Overall Laptop Cooling Pad
Our Top Pick### IETSGT300
4Experience powerful cooling with two high-speed blower motors and intake vents featuring 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 coolingDust filters to prevent build-up in your laptopCustomizable RGB lightingWide compatibilityCONSLarge and bulkyLimited RGB customizationThe IETS GT300 stands out as the best laptop cooler on the market, even if the brand might not be familiar to everyone. As a reliable solution for keeping gaming laptops cool under demanding conditions, this cooler has proven its worth. Despite its bulkier design, its effectiveness and thoughtful features make it a worthwhile investment.
Effective cooling depends on a well-sealed system, similar to how HVAC technicians ensure homes are sealed for efficient air conditioning. The GT300 features a rubber gasket around its rim to create a tight seal with your laptop, ensuring that all the cold air is directed at the heat-generating components without escaping.
Instead of typical fans, the GT300 employs two high-speed blower motors that draw in cool air rapidly. Operating at up to 4,500 RPM, these blowers significantly reduce laptop temperatures, as confirmed by numerous Amazon reviewers. The inclusion of dust filters on the intake vents further ensures your laptop remains clean and cool over time.
The GT300 also offers practical features like two USB ports on the back, allowing you to power it externally with a USB adapter (not included, but a cable is provided) to save a laptop port for other peripherals. It's angle adjustable, doubling as a laptop stand, and comes with RGB lighting, although other options on our list might offer more customization.
This cooler is best suited for laptops with bottom vents, making it less ideal for MacBooks. However, it supports a wide range of sizes from 14" to 17", thanks to its versatile rubber gasket mounting system.
Thermaltake Massive 20 RGB
Best Laptop Cooling Pad Runner Up
### Thermaltake Massive 20 RGB
3The Thermaltake Massive 20 RGB offers robust cooling for your gaming laptop, ideal for extended gaming sessions with its powerful fan setup.See it at AmazonSee it at WalmartProduct SpecificationsFans 1 x 200mmSize18.54” x 13.96” x 1.83"PROSPowerful airflowAdjustable heightCONSSlightly bulkyDespite their portability, laptops often struggle with cooling, and the Thermaltake Massive 20 RGB addresses this issue effectively. Its large 200mm fan, positioned behind a sturdy steel mesh, pushes hot air away from your device. Operating quietly at up to 800 RPM, it delivers up to 64 CFM of airflow, with an adjustable speed knob for customized cooling or silence.
The cooling pad also doubles as an ergonomic stand with three height adjustments (3°, 9°, or 13°), enhancing both cooling and comfort. While slightly bulky at 3.35 pounds and 18.54 x 13.96 x 1.83 inches, it supports laptops up to 19 inches.
The RGB lighting around the edge adds a stylish touch, with various modes and color options easily controlled via buttons on the panel.
TopMate C5 Laptop Cooler
Best High-Airflow Laptop Cooling Pad
### TopMate C5 Laptop Cooler
2The TopMate C5 is equipped with five fans to ensure your gaming laptop stays cool during intense sessions.See it at AmazonProduct SpecificationsFans5Size14.57" x 11.8" x 1.4"PROSLots of fansTwo USB portsCONSNot suitable for larger laptopsIf you need maximum airflow, the TopMate C5, with its five fans (one 140mm and four 70mm), is an excellent choice. The metal mesh surface enhances cooling by allowing cool air to reach the laptop's base. You can adjust the cooling modes through a small LCD control panel that also displays wind speed.
Beyond its cooling prowess, the TopMate C5 offers five height adjustments for ergonomic positioning, suitable for laptops up to 15.6 inches, and even gaming consoles. Two USB 2.0 ports provide added convenience, one for power and one for peripherals.
Targus Lap Chill Mat
Best Laptop Cooling Pad for Your Lap
### Targus Lap Chill Mat
2The Targus Lap Chill Mat provides reliable cooling for laptops, designed to be comfortable on your lap without drawing much attention.See it at AmazonSee it at WalmartSee it at TargetProduct SpecificationsFans2Size15" x 11.75" x 1"PROSSimple yet effectiveRubberized grip for stabilityCONSNo height adjustmentThe Targus Lap Chill Mat is a testament to the effectiveness of a straightforward design, having kept laptops and laps cool for over a decade. Its lightweight construction and neoprene bottom make it comfortable for extended use. A rubberized grip and notches ensure the laptop stays in place on your lap.
The cooling mechanism features a mesh surface and hollow chamber for efficient air circulation, with two fans directing fresh air towards the CPU and GPU. A four-port USB hub adds convenience, and velcro straps help manage cables.
Havit HV-F2056
Best Budget Laptop Cooling Pad
### HavitHV-F2056
1The Havit HV-F2056 is an affordable yet effective cooling pad for gaming laptops, complete with two USB passthrough ports.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 three 120mm fans in a configuration that efficiently cools your laptop. While it lacks RGB, the blue LED fans add a touch of style. With two USB passthrough ports and a low price point (often under $39), it's a solid choice for effective cooling without breaking the bank.
Klim Tempest
Best Portable Laptop Cooler
### Klim Tempest
2A compact 4,000 RPM fan that attaches directly to your laptop for portable cooling. See it at AmazonProduct SpecificationsFans1Size3.23" x 1.57" x 3.94"PROSExtremely portableHigh RPM fanCONSCompatibility limited to laptops with side ventsCooling pads can be cumbersome to carry, but the Klim Tempest offers a portable solution. This device clamps onto your laptop's side vent, using a rubber gasket to create a seal and a powerful 4,000 RPM fan to extract hot air.
The Tempest's built-in temperature sensor allows you to set 13 power levels or maintain your ideal temperature, activating only when necessary. Though compact at 3" x 2" x 4", it's only suitable for laptops with side vents.
Klim Ultimate
Best RGB Laptop Cooling Pad
### Klim Ultimate
1The Klim Ultimate combines powerful cooling with vibrant RGB lighting, perfect for gaming laptops.See it at AmazonProduct SpecificationsFans1 x 200mmSize16.73" x 12.4" x 1.69"PROSStriking RGB lightingAdjustable fan speedCONSRGB brightness not adjustableIf you've snagged a great gaming laptop deal, the Klim Ultimate is designed to keep it cool, preventing performance drops during the best PC games. Its metal grid panel and 200mm fan provide effective cooling up to 750 RPM while remaining quiet at 23 dB. Users have reported temperature drops between 41°F and 68°F.
Built to handle bulky gaming laptops from 11 to 17.3 inches, the Klim Ultimate is compact and lightweight at just over two pounds. Multiple inclination levels enhance ergonomics, and the RGB lighting around the rim offers five effects and seven colors, controlled via a rear panel. Although the brightness of the lights can't be adjusted, the fan speed can be customized to suit your needs.
Miggoing Laptop Table
Best Laptop Cooling Stand
### Miggoing Laptop Table
0The Miggoing Laptop Table doubles as a cooling pad and a versatile table for comfortable use on a couch or in bed.See it at AmazonProduct SpecificationsFans2Size16.5" x 10" x 18.9"PROSVersatile and sturdyCONSAdjustment can be awkwardMost cooling pads are designed for lap or low desk use, but the Miggoing Laptop Table offers adjustable height up to 18.9 inches, perfect for couches, beds, or as a standing desk.
It features dual USB-powered fans and ventilation slots to keep your laptop cool, housed in a sturdy aluminum tray that supports up to 33 pounds. An included mouse plate adds convenience for your mouse.
Cooler Master NotePal X3
Best Laptop Cooling Pad for Larger Laptops
### Cooler Master NotePal X3
0Designed for larger laptops up to 17 inches, this cooling pad features a large 200mm blue LED fan for effective cooling.See it at AmazonProduct SpecificationsFans1 x 200mmSize15.7” x 12.2” x 2.8"PROSFront vent for additional coolingStylish designCONSQuite largeThe Cooler Master NotePal X3 combines high performance with an attractive design, ideal for gaming laptops. Its 200mm fan and large size make it perfect for laptops up to 17 inches.
Controls are conveniently located on the side, including USB ports, a fan speed dial, and LED switches. The blue LED adds a stylish touch, while the front vent provides a cooling breeze for your hands. 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 passionate about gaming laptops and understand the importance of effective cooling. We've tested numerous cooling pads to identify those that truly make a difference in lowering temperatures. Our selection process also includes insights from expert reviews and user feedback to ensure our recommendations are comprehensive and reliable.
With this approach, we've curated a list of the top laptop cooling pads that deliver on performance and value.
FAQs
Do laptop cooling pads really work?
Laptop cooling pads can indeed prevent overheating, potentially extending your laptop's lifespan. They're especially beneficial for prolonged use. However, their effectiveness varies based on design and fan power. A tight seal and strong fans are key to maximizing cooling potential.
Do laptop cooling pads improve performance?
Cooling pads can boost performance if your laptop is subject to thermal throttling, which is common but not universal. To check for throttling, use system monitoring software or run stress tests like 3DMark to track performance over time.
How well do laptop cooling pads work?
The effectiveness of a cooling pad depends on both the pad itself and your laptop's design. Top cooling pads can reduce temperatures by 5° to over 10° Celsius, depending on the model and usage conditions.