Top Laptop Cooling Pads: Effective Coolers Reviewed

The best gaming laptops are equipped with high-powered components, and with great power comes great heat. Ignoring this heat can lead to your system throttling to prevent overheating, which in turn reduces its performance during games. If you're struggling with high temperatures, a laptop cooling pad is an effective solution to maintain your system's 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 AmazonCooling solutions for laptops come in various forms and sizes. You can opt for an oversized cooling pad with customizable RGB lighting or a compact blower that attaches to your laptop's side. While most cooling pads are affordable, the top-tier models often include advanced features like temperature sensors and multiple fans. No matter your preference, one of our nine picks is sure to 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

Best Overall Laptop Cooling Pad

Our Top Pick### IETSGT300

4Experience robust cooling with two high-speed blower motors and dust-filtered intake vents.See it at AmazonProduct SpecificationsFans 2 x 4,500 RPM blowersSize15.75" x 13.7" x 1.97"PROSDual blower fans for efficient coolingDust filters to prevent laptop buildupCustomizable RGB lightingWide compatibilityCONSLarge and somewhat bulkyLimited RGB customization optionsThe best laptop cooler comes from a brand that may not be well-known, but don't let that deter you. As someone who requires a reliable cooling solution, I've trusted this cooler to keep my various gaming laptops cool under demanding conditions. Its bulkiness is offset by its effective design and performance, making it a worthwhile investment.

Ask any HVAC technician, and they'll emphasize the importance of sealing your home for efficient cooling. The same principle applies to laptop coolers, yet it's often overlooked. The GT300 features a rubber gasket around its rim that seals against the base of your laptop, ensuring all the cold air is directed at your heat-generating components, not lost at the edges.

Instead of typical fans, it employs two high-speed blower motors that rapidly draw in cool air from the outside. These run at an impressive 4,500 RPM at their highest setting, and as confirmed by numerous Amazon reviewers, there's a noticeable difference in temperatures. The intake vents are equipped with dust filters, helping to keep your laptop clean and cool over time.

The GT300 also boasts additional features. It includes two USB ports on the back, allowing you to power it without occupying your laptop's ports, which can be used for other peripherals. You can connect it to an outlet with a USB power adapter (not included, but a USB cable is provided). It's also angle adjustable, serving as a laptop stand, and features RGB lighting, though other options on our list might offer more variety. Still, you can select from a range of colors and effects.

Its design necessitates bottom vents on your laptop for optimal performance, making it less suitable for MacBooks. 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 blasts cold air to 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 height optionsCONSSomewhat bulkyGiven their compact, portable nature, laptops often face cooling challenges, and the Thermaltake Massive 20 RGB offers a powerful solution. This cooling pad effectively dissipates heat from your device with a robust 200mm fan behind a sturdy steel mesh surface. Unlike most laptop fans, this one operates quietly while reaching up to 800RPM and delivering up to 64 CFM of airflow. You can adjust the fan speed with a convenient knob directly on the pad, allowing you to choose between maximum cooling or silence.

Ergonomics are not forgotten, with three height adjustment options at 3°, 9°, or 13°, enabling the pad to double as a laptop stand. These angles enhance airflow underneath your device, improving cooling. Be prepared for its bulkiness, though, weighing 3.35 pounds and measuring 18.54 x 13.96 x 1.83 inches, but it's designed to support larger devices up to 19 inches.

With RGB in its name, Thermaltake doesn't skimp on lighting. The pad's edge features colorful RGB lighting with various modes, from static and pulsing to blinking and wave. Switching between modes is simple with a button on the control panel, and another button lets you select your preferred colors.

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"PROSAbundant fan coverageTwo USB portsCONSNot ideal for larger laptopsIf you need maximum airflow, a cooling pad with multiple fans is the answer. The TopMate C5 comes equipped with five fans: a 140mm fan in the center and four 70mm fans surrounding it. Together with a metal mesh surface, these fans push cool air against your laptop's base, managing your thermals effectively. You can choose from several cooling modes via a small LCD control panel, which also displays wind speed.

Beyond its impressive cooling capabilities, the TopMate C5 offers 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. Convenience is enhanced with two USB 2.0 ports: one for powering the pad and another for your laptop's 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 want 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 yet effective designRubberized grip for stabilityCONSNo height adjustmentThe Targus Lap Chill Mat embodies the principle of "if it ain’t broke, don’t fix it," having kept laptops and laps cool for over a decade. Its lightweight design and neoprene bottom cushion make it comfortable for extended use on your lap. To prevent your laptop from sliding, it features a rubberized grip and notches on the surface.

For heat management, the pad's mesh surface and hollow chamber allow fresh air to circulate beneath your laptop, while hot air escapes easily. Two built-in fans enhance airflow near the back edge, where the CPU and GPU are typically located, ensuring these critical components stay cool. A handy four-port USB hub simplifies connecting additional peripherals, and velcro straps keep cables organized.

5. Havit HV-F2056

Best Budget Laptop Cooling Pad

### HavitHV-F2056

1The Havit HV-F2056 is an affordable laptop 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"PROSAffordable price pointUSB passthrough portsCONSLimited to three fansIf you're looking for an economical way to cool your gaming laptop, the Havit HV-F2056 is an excellent choice. While it only has three 120mm fans, their configuration efficiently directs cool air to your laptop's most sensitive areas. The fans feature blue LEDs, though RGB lighting is reserved for more premium models.

With two USB passthrough ports, you don't have to sacrifice connectivity for cooling. At a budget-friendly price of $39 (often less on sale), and with quiet operation, there's little to dislike about this option.

6. Klim Tempest

Best Portable Laptop Cooler

### Klim Tempest

2A 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 are typically difficult to transport, but the Klim Tempest offers a portable solution. Instead of a full pad, this device clamps onto your laptop's side over a vent. It uses a rubber gasket to create a seal, and its powerful 4,000 RPM fan extracts hot air from your laptop.

The Tempest includes a temperature sensor that monitors the exhaust air's heat. You can manually adjust its power across 13 levels or set your ideal temperature, and it will activate only when necessary.

While this cooler is powerful and compact enough to fit in a bag at only 3" x 2" x 4", it's not compatible with every laptop. It requires a side vent to function, so laptops with only bottom or rear vents will need a full-size cooling pad.

7. Klim Ultimate

Best RGB Laptop Cooling Pad

### Klim Ultimate

1If you're in the market for an RGB gaming laptop cooling pad, the Klim Ultimate is the perfect choice.See it at AmazonProduct SpecificationsFans1 x 200mmSize16.73" x 12.4" x 1.69"PROSAbundant RGB lightingAdjustable fan speedCONSNo RGB brightness adjustmentIf you've scored a great gaming laptop deal, the Klim Ultimate is designed to keep your high-performance machine cool, preventing FPS drops and performance slowdowns in the best PC games. Its sturdy metal grid panel enhances heat dissipation, and the 200mm fan behind it provides rapid cooling. With speeds up to 750RPM, it remains whisper-quiet at only 23dB. Klim reports temperature drops between 41°F and 68°F.

The Klim Ultimate is built to support bulkier gaming laptops between 11 and 17.3 inches, and despite its robust design, 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 for ergonomic use, with a stopper to prevent your laptop from sliding.

Designed for gaming laptops, it features RGB lighting around its entire rim, with five lighting effects and seven colors for customization. The control panel on the rear simplifies lighting and fan speed adjustments, though brightness cannot be altered. The fan speed can be tailored to your needs, not always requiring the maximum 750RPM.

8. Miggoing Laptop Table

Best Laptop Cooling Stand

### Miggoing Laptop Table

0The Miggoing Laptop Table serves dual purposes: it's a comfortable laptop table for working on your couch and a cooling pad to keep your laptop cool.See it at AmazonProduct SpecificationsFans2Size16.5" x 10" x 18.9"PROSVersatile designSturdy constructionCONSAdjustment can be awkwardMost cooling pads are ideal for lap or low desk use, but the Miggoing Laptop Table offers a higher elevation option while cooling. Its adjustable segments allow for heights up to 18.9 inches, making it perfect for use on couches, in bed, or as a standing desk.

For cooling, it features dual USB-powered fans and ventilation slots to keep air flowing past your laptop, preventing overheating. The sturdy aluminum tray can support devices up to 33 pounds, and a mouse plate adds convenience by providing a surface for your mouse.

9. Cooler Master NotePal X3

Best Laptop Cooling Pad for Larger Laptops

### Cooler Master NotePal X3

0Designed for laptops up to 17 inches, this cooling pad features a large 200mm blue LED fan.See it at AmazonProduct SpecificationsFans1 x 200mmSize15.7” x 12.2” x 2.8"PROSFront vent for hand coolingStylish designCONSQuite largeIf you're after a high-quality laptop cooler that's as visually appealing as it is effective, the Cooler Master NotePal X3 is a top contender. Its large 200mm fan is ideal for cooling gaming laptops prone to heating up, despite its larger size, it supports up to 17-inch laptops.

All controls are conveniently located on the side, including USB ports, a fan speed dial, and LED switches. The blue LED adds a stylish touch that gamers will appreciate, while the front vent provides a gentle breeze to keep your hands cool. It also offers two height adjustments for 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

Gaming laptops are central to our coverage at IGN, and we're well-versed in their tendency to overheat. We know that some cooling pads may look impressive but fail to effectively reduce temperatures. To compile our list of the best laptop cooling pads, we first considered those we've personally tested and found reliable over time.

We then consulted other expert sources, focusing on both professional reviews and real-world user feedback. Since no single reviewer can test every laptop model, user reviews offer a broader perspective on what works and what doesn't.

With all these factors in mind, we've curated a list of the top laptop cooling pads available today, ensuring you get the best of the best.

FAQs

Do laptop cooling pads really work?

Laptop cooling pads can indeed prevent your device from overheating, which can extend its lifespan. If you frequently use your laptop for extended periods, investing in a cooling pad is wise. However, effectiveness varies; consider the pad's mounting method and fan power. A poor seal or weak fans can diminish cooling potential.

Do laptop cooling pads improve performance?

They can, but it's not guaranteed. Cooling pads can enhance performance if your laptop experiences thermal throttling, which is common but not universal. To check for thermal throttling, use system monitoring software to track CPU and GPU performance over time. If performance decreases, a cooling pad might help. Another useful tool is 3DMark, available on Steam, which provides stress tests and performance graphs.

How well do laptop cooling pads work?

The effectiveness of a cooling pad depends on the model and your laptop's design, making it hard to provide a definitive answer. However, the best cooling pads can lower temperatures by 5° to over 10° Celsius.