The Best Laptop Cooling Pads: These Coolers Actually Work

The best gaming laptops are equipped with high-powered components, and with great power comes great heat. Ignoring this can cause your system to throttle to prevent overheating, which in turn reduces performance during gaming sessions. If you're struggling with high temperatures, a laptop cooling pad can be an effective solution to keep your system running smoothly and at full capacity.

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 large, stylish pads with customizable RGB lighting to compact blowers that attach to the side of your laptop. While many are affordable, the top-tier options often offer advanced features like temperature sensors and multiple fans. No matter your preference, one of our nine picks is sure to meet your cooling needs. Check out where to get 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 intake vents equipped with dust filters, ensuring your gaming laptop stays cool and clean 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 build-up in your laptopCustomizable RGB lightingWide compatibilityCONSLarge and bulkyLimited RGB customization optionsThe top choice for a laptop cooler comes from IETS, a brand that might not be on everyone's radar yet. As someone who demands reliable cooling for gaming laptops, the GT300 has proven itself time and again. It's larger than most, but its effectiveness and thoughtful design justify the size.

Ask any HVAC expert, and they'll stress the importance of sealing your cooling system. The same principle applies to laptop coolers, and the GT300 doesn't disappoint. It features a rubber gasket around its rim that seals against your laptop's base, ensuring that all the cool air goes directly to your heat-generating components without escaping.

Instead of typical fans, it employs two high-speed blower motors that draw cool air in from the outside at an impressive 4,500 RPM at max speed. Many Amazon reviewers have noted a significant drop in temperatures. The intake vents are fitted with dust filters, helping to keep your laptop clean and cool over time.

The GT300 also boasts practical features like two USB ports on the back, allowing you to power it via a USB adapter (not included, but a USB cable is) and freeing up your laptop's ports for other peripherals. Its adjustable angle serves as a laptop stand, and while the RGB lighting is modest compared to other options, it still offers a range of colors and effects.

It's worth noting that this cooler is best suited for laptops with bottom vents, making it less ideal for MacBooks. However, it's compatible with most gaming laptops ranging from 14" to 17".

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, featuring a powerful 200mm fan that ensures sustained performance during marathon gaming sessions.See it at AmazonSee it at WalmartProduct SpecificationsFans 1 x 200mmSize18.54” x 13.96” x 1.83"PROSPowerful airflowAdjustable height settingsCONSSlightly clunkyLaptops, despite their portability, often struggle with heat dissipation, and the Thermaltake Massive 20 RGB is here to solve that issue. It's equipped with a massive 200mm fan behind a durable steel mesh, effectively pushing hot air away from your device. This fan operates quietly at up to 800RPM and delivers up to 64 CFM of airflow, with adjustable speeds controlled by a handy knob on the pad itself.

Ergonomics are not overlooked, with three adjustable height levels (3°, 9°, or 13°) that also serve as a laptop stand, enhancing airflow beneath the device. The pad is a bit on the heavy side at 3.35 pounds and measures 18.54 x 13.96 x 1.83 inches, but it's designed to support larger laptops up to 19 inches.

The RGB lighting around its edge adds a stylish touch, with various modes including static, pulsing, blinking, and wave effects, all easily controlled via buttons on the panel.

3. TopMate C5 Laptop Cooler

Best High-Airflow Laptop Cooling Pad

### TopMate C5 Laptop Cooler

2Packed with five fans, the TopMate C5 ensures your gaming laptop stays cool, even during the most demanding games.See it at AmazonProduct SpecificationsFans5Size14.57" x 11.8" x 1.4"PROSMultiple fans for maximum airflowTwo USB ports for connectivityCONSNot ideal for larger laptopsIf you need intense airflow, the TopMate C5 is your go-to, featuring five fans including a central 140mm fan and four surrounding 70mm fans. This setup, combined with a metal mesh surface, effectively cools your laptop from the bottom. The tiny LCD control panel allows you to adjust cooling modes and check wind speed.

In addition to its cooling prowess, 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 for powering the cooler and connecting additional 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 solution that's comfortable on your lap and effective at cooling your laptop without drawing too much attention.See it at AmazonSee it at WalmartSee it at TargetProduct SpecificationsFans2Size15" x 11.75" x 1"PROSSimple yet effective designComfortable neoprene cushioningCONSNo height adjustmentThe Targus Lap Chill Mat has been a reliable choice for over a decade, offering a straightforward cooling solution that's comfortable on your lap. Its lightweight design and neoprene bottom cushion ensure comfort during extended use, while a rubberized grip and notches keep your laptop securely in place.

The cooling mechanism involves a mesh surface and a hollow chamber that allows fresh air to flow beneath the laptop, with two fans pumping air near the back where the CPU and GPU are typically located. 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 yet effective cooling solution for your gaming laptop, 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 portsCONSLimited to three fansFor budget-conscious gamers, the Havit HV-F2056 provides a cost-effective way to keep your laptop cool. With three 120mm fans arranged to direct cool air to critical areas, it offers efficient cooling at a low price of around $39, often available for less. The blue LED fans add a visual flair, though RGB lighting is reserved for higher-end models.

It includes two USB passthrough ports, ensuring you don't sacrifice connectivity for cooling, and operates quietly, making it a well-rounded choice.

6. Klim Tempest

Best Portable Laptop Cooler

### Klim Tempest

2A high-speed 4,000 RPM fan that easily attaches to your laptop, offering portable cooling wherever you go.See it at AmazonProduct SpecificationsFans1Size3.23" x 1.57" x 3.94"PROSExtremely portableHigh RPM for effective coolingCONSCompatibility limited to laptops with side ventsCooling pads can be cumbersome to carry, but the Klim Tempest offers a compact 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.

Its built-in temperature sensor monitors the exhaust air, allowing you to manually adjust its power across 13 levels or set it to activate based on your desired temperature. While highly portable at 3" x 2" x 4", it's only compatible with laptops that have side vents.

7. Klim Ultimate

Best RGB Laptop Cooling Pad

### Klim Ultimate

1The Klim Ultimate stands out with its extensive RGB lighting options, making it the perfect choice for gamers who want both performance and style in a cooling pad.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 snagged a great gaming laptop deal, the Klim Ultimate ensures it stays cool, preventing performance drops in the best PC games. Its metal grid panel enhances heat dissipation, while a 200mm fan behind it offers instant cooling at up to 750RPM, all while staying quiet at 23dB. Klim reports temperature drops between 41°F and 68°F.

Designed to handle larger gaming laptops from 11 to 17.3 inches, it's robust yet compact at just over two pounds and 16.73 x 12.4 x 1.69 inches. Multiple inclination levels and a stopper prevent the laptop from sliding, ensuring ergonomic comfort.

The RGB lighting around the rim offers five effects and seven colors, customizable via a rear control panel without the need for software. However, the brightness cannot be adjusted. The control panel also allows you to adjust fan speed as needed.

8. Miggoing Laptop Table

Best Laptop Cooling Stand

### Miggoing Laptop Table

0The Miggoing Laptop Table doubles as a cooling pad and a versatile laptop stand, perfect for comfortable use on a couch or in bed while keeping your device cool.See it at AmazonProduct SpecificationsFans2Size16.5" x 10" x 18.9"PROSVersatile use as table and coolerSturdy aluminum constructionCONSHeight adjustment can be awkwardTraditional cooling pads are great for lap or desk use, but if you need something to elevate your laptop while cooling, the Miggoing Laptop Table is ideal. It adjusts from a low profile to 18.9 inches high, suitable for use on couches, in bed, or as a standing desk.

The dual USB-powered fans and ventilation slots help keep your laptop cool, while the sturdy aluminum tray supports up to 33 pounds. A mouse plate adds convenience for extended use.

9. Cooler Master NotePal X3

Best Laptop Cooling Pad for Larger Laptops

### Cooler Master NotePal X3

0Designed for laptops up to 17 inches, the Cooler Master NotePal X3 features a large 200mm blue LED fan for effective cooling and a stylish design that gamers will appreciate.See it at AmazonProduct SpecificationsFans1 x 200mmSize15.7” x 12.2” x 2.8"PROSFront vent for additional coolingStylish design with blue LEDCONSSizeable footprintThe Cooler Master NotePal X3 is ideal for those seeking a high-performance cooling pad with a sleek look. Its 200mm fan is perfect for larger gaming laptops, and despite its size, it can accommodate up to 17-inch devices.

All controls, including USB ports, fan speed dial, and LED switch, are conveniently located on the side. The blue LED adds a gaming aesthetic, while the front vent provides a gentle 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 understand the heat challenges posed by gaming laptops. We've tested numerous cooling pads to ensure our recommendations are based on proven performance over time. In addition to our own testing, we've consulted expert reviews and user feedback to gain a comprehensive understanding of what works best across various laptop models.

Our list represents the cream of the crop, offering the best cooling solutions available today. We've done the research, so you can trust these are the best options for keeping your gaming laptop cool.

FAQs

Do laptop cooling pads really work?

Cooling pads can indeed help prevent your laptop from overheating, extending its lifespan. They're particularly beneficial if you use your laptop for extended periods. However, the effectiveness varies based on the pad's design and fan power. A poor seal or weak fans can significantly reduce their cooling potential.

Do laptop cooling pads improve performance?

They can improve performance by preventing thermal throttling, which is common in many laptops. To determine if your system is throttling, use system monitoring software to track CPU and GPU performance over time. A decline in performance suggests throttling, which a cooling pad can help mitigate. Tools like 3DMark, available on Steam, can also stress test your system and show performance changes 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-tier cooling pads can reduce temperatures by 5° to 10° Celsius, but results can vary.