Top Laptop Cooling Pads: Effective Solutions Revealed

The best gaming laptops are equipped with powerful components that can generate significant heat. Unchecked, this heat can cause your system to throttle, reducing performance during gaming. If you're struggling with high temperatures, a laptop cooling pad can help 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 AmazonLaptop cooling solutions vary widely, from large, feature-rich pads with customizable RGB lighting to compact blowers that attach to your laptop's side. While most are budget-friendly, the top models often come with advanced features like temperature sensors and multiple fans. No matter your preference, one of our nine recommendations is sure to meet your cooling needs. You can also find these products 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. This cooling pad is perfect for keeping your gaming laptop cool during intense sessions.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 laptop build-upCustomizable RGB lightingWide compatibilityCONSLarge and bulkyLimited RGB customization optionsThe IETS GT300 may come from a lesser-known brand, but it's a top performer in the world of laptop cooling. As someone who demands reliable cooling for gaming laptops, I've found the GT300 to be exceptionally effective, even under demanding conditions. Its bulkier design is a trade-off for its superior cooling capabilities.

Effective cooling hinges on sealing, much like in HVAC systems. The GT300 features a rubber gasket that seals around your laptop, ensuring all the cool air is directed to the heat-generating components without escaping.

Instead of typical fans, it uses two high-speed blower motors that draw in cool air at 4,500 RPM at maximum speed. This has been confirmed by numerous Amazon reviewers to significantly reduce temperatures. The intake vents are also fitted with dust filters, promoting long-term cleanliness and cooling efficiency.

Beyond its cooling prowess, the GT300 offers practical features like two USB ports on the back, allowing you to power it externally if needed. It's adjustable to serve as a laptop stand and includes customizable RGB lighting, though less extensive than some competitors.

It's designed to work best with laptops that have bottom vents, making it less ideal for MacBooks. However, most gaming laptops between 14" and 17" will benefit from its cooling capabilities.

2. Thermaltake Massive 20 RGB

Best Laptop Cooling Pad Runner Up

### Thermaltake Massive 20 RGB

3The Thermaltake Massive 20 RGB is a powerful cooling solution designed to keep your gaming laptop cool during extended gaming sessions. Its large 200mm fan ensures efficient cooling with minimal noise.See it at AmazonSee it at WalmartProduct SpecificationsFans 1 x 200mmSize18.54” x 13.96” x 1.83"PROSPowerful airflowAdjustable height settingsCONSClunky designLaptops often struggle with heat dissipation due to their compact design, but the Thermaltake Massive 20 RGB addresses this issue effectively. Its 200mm fan, set behind a durable steel mesh, pushes hot air away from your device, maintaining quiet operation at up to 800RPM and 64 CFM of airflow. The fan speed is adjustable via a convenient knob on the cooling pad, allowing you to balance cooling and noise levels.

Ergonomically, it offers three height adjustments (3°, 9°, or 13°), doubling as a laptop stand to enhance viewing and typing comfort. The angled design also promotes additional airflow underneath the laptop. While it's a bit bulky at 3.35 pounds and 18.54 x 13.96 x 1.83 inches, it's built to support larger devices, including up to 19-inch laptops.

The RGB lighting adds a stylish touch, with various modes and color options easily controlled via buttons on the pad.

3. TopMate C5 Laptop Cooler

Best High-Airflow Laptop Cooling Pad

### TopMate C5 Laptop Cooler

2The TopMate C5 is packed with five fans to ensure your gaming laptop stays cool, even during the most intense gaming sessions. It's perfect for those who need maximum airflow.See it at AmazonProduct SpecificationsFans5Size14.57" x 11.8" x 1.4"PROSHigh number of fans for superior airflowTwo USB ports for added convenienceCONSNot suitable for larger laptopsIf you're after maximum airflow, the TopMate C5 is your go-to with its five fans, including a central 140mm fan and four surrounding 70mm fans. This setup, combined with a metal mesh surface, ensures efficient cooling. The cooling modes are adjustable via an LCD control panel that also displays wind speed.

In addition to its cooling power, the TopMate C5 offers five height adjustments for ergonomic positioning, fitting laptops up to 15.6 inches. It also includes 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 ideal for those seeking a cooling pad that's comfortable on your lap and effective at keeping 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 has been a reliable choice for over a decade, offering comfort and cooling for your lap. Its lightweight design and neoprene bottom provide cushioning, while a rubberized grip and notches keep your laptop securely in place.

It features a mesh surface and a hollow chamber to facilitate airflow, with two fans positioned to cool the CPU and GPU areas. A four-port USB hub adds convenience, and velcro straps help manage cables.

5. Havit HV-F2056

Best Budget Laptop Cooling Pad

### HavitHV-F2056

1The Havit HV-F2056 offers an affordable solution to keep your gaming laptop cool, complete with two USB passthrough ports to maintain connectivity.See it at AmazonProduct SpecificationsFans 3 x 120mmSize14.96" x 11.02" x 1.18"PROSAffordable price pointUSB passthrough ports for connectivityCONSLimited to three fansFor budget-conscious gamers, the Havit HV-F2056 is an excellent choice. Its three 120mm fans are strategically placed to cool your laptop effectively, and the blue LED lighting adds a touch of style. With two USB passthrough ports and a quiet operation, it's a solid option at a low price point.

6. Klim Tempest

Best Portable Laptop Cooler

### Klim Tempest

2The Klim Tempest offers portable cooling with a 4,000 RPM fan that attaches directly to your laptop, making it perfect for on-the-go use. See it at AmazonProduct SpecificationsFans1Size3.23" x 1.57" x 3.94"PROSExtremely portableHigh RPM fan for effective coolingCONSCompatibility limited to laptops with side ventsCooling pads can be cumbersome to carry, but the Klim Tempest solves this with its compact design. It clamps onto your laptop's side vent, using a rubber gasket to create a seal and a powerful 4,000 RPM fan to expel hot air.

The Tempest includes a temperature sensor that monitors the exhaust air, allowing you to manually adjust power across 13 levels or set an ideal temperature for automatic operation. Its small size (3" x 2" x 4") makes it easy to pack, though it's only compatible with laptops featuring side vents.

7. Klim Ultimate

Best RGB Laptop Cooling Pad

### Klim Ultimate

1The Klim Ultimate is the go-to choice for gamers looking for an RGB-enhanced cooling pad that keeps their gaming laptop cool and stylish. See it at AmazonProduct SpecificationsFans1 x 200mmSize16.73" x 12.4" x 1.69"PROSStunning RGB lightingAdjustable fan speedCONSNo brightness control for RGB lightingIf you've scored a great gaming laptop deal, the Klim Ultimate is designed to keep your high-performance machine running smoothly. Its metal grid panel and 200mm fan provide excellent heat dissipation, with speeds up to 750RPM and a quiet operation at 23dB. Klim reports temperature drops between 41°F and 68°F.

Built to handle larger gaming laptops (11 to 17.3 inches), the Klim Ultimate is compact yet sturdy, weighing just over two pounds. It offers multiple inclination levels for ergonomic use and features RGB lighting with five effects and seven colors, all adjustable via a rear control panel. While the RGB brightness can't be adjusted, the fan speed can be tailored to your needs.

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, perfect for use on a couch or in bed. See it at AmazonProduct SpecificationsFans2Size16.5" x 10" x 18.9"PROSVersatile useSturdy aluminum constructionCONSAdjustment can be awkwardTraditional cooling pads are great for lap or desk use, but the Miggoing Laptop Table offers a higher elevation option. It can be adjusted from a low position to 18.9 inches high, ideal for use on couches, in bed, or as a standing desk.

It features dual USB-powered fans and ventilation slots to keep your laptop cool, all within a sturdy aluminum tray that can support up to 33 pounds. A mouse plate adds convenience for a complete setup.

9. Cooler Master NotePal X3

Best Laptop Cooling Pad for Larger Laptops

### Cooler Master NotePal X3

0The Cooler Master NotePal X3 is designed for larger laptops up to 17 inches, featuring 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 design with blue LEDCONSQuite largeFor those seeking a stylish yet effective cooling solution for larger laptops, the Cooler Master NotePal X3 is an excellent choice. Its 200mm fan is perfect for gaming laptops, and the blue LED adds a visual appeal. The front vent helps keep your hands cool, and two height adjustments offer 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 deeply familiar with gaming laptops and their tendency to overheat. We understand what causes this heat and have tested numerous cooling pads to identify those that truly make a difference. Our selection process includes our own testing, insights from professional reviews, and real-world user feedback to ensure we recommend only the most effective solutions.

FAQs

Do laptop cooling pads really work?

Yes, cooling pads can effectively prevent your laptop from overheating, potentially extending its lifespan. They're particularly beneficial for prolonged use, though their effectiveness varies based on design and fan power. A good seal and strong fans are crucial for optimal performance.

Do laptop cooling pads improve performance?

They can, especially if your laptop is prone to thermal throttling. Monitoring software like 3DMark can help you determine if your system is throttling, and a cooling pad might help maintain or improve performance in such cases.

How well do laptop cooling pads work?

The effectiveness of a cooling pad depends on both the pad and your laptop's design. Top cooling pads can reduce temperatures by 5° to 10° Celsius, significantly enhancing your laptop's performance and comfort during use.