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. If left unchecked, 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 is an effective 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 AmazonCooling solutions for laptops come in various forms, from oversized pads with customizable RGB lighting to compact blowers that attach to the side of your laptop. While most are affordable, the top-tier options 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 powerful cooling with two high-speed blower motors and intake vents equipped with dust filters. This cooling pad is a game-changer for keeping your gaming laptop cool under demanding conditions. Its design may be bulky, but the effectiveness and thoughtful features make it a worthwhile investment.

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 RGB lightingWide compatibilityCONSLarge and bulkyLimited RGB customization optionsThe IETS GT300 stands out as the best overall laptop cooling pad, even if the brand might be unfamiliar. Its effectiveness in cooling different gaming laptops is unmatched, thanks to its innovative design. The rubber gasket around the rim ensures a tight seal, directing all the cold air to your laptop's heat-generating components without any leakage.

The GT300 uses two high-speed blower motors that efficiently draw in cool air from the outside, running at an impressive 4,500 RPM at maximum speed. This results in a noticeable temperature drop, as confirmed by many Amazon reviewers. The inclusion of dust filters on the intake vents helps maintain your laptop's cleanliness and cooling efficiency over time.

Additional features include two USB ports on the back, allowing you to power the pad via a USB adapter (not included) and free up a laptop port for other peripherals. The pad is also angle adjustable, doubling as a laptop stand, and offers customizable RGB lighting, though with limited options compared to other models.

It's important to note that the GT300 works best with laptops that have bottom vents, making it less suitable for MacBooks. However, it supports a wide range of gaming laptops from 14" to 17" sizes, thanks to its effective mounting system.

2. Thermaltake Massive 20 RGB

Best Laptop Cooling Pad Runner Up

### Thermaltake Massive 20 RGB

3The Thermaltake Massive 20 RGB is your go-to solution for intense gaming sessions, featuring a powerful 200mm fan that efficiently cools your laptop.

See it at AmazonSee it at WalmartProduct SpecificationsFans 1 x 200mmSize18.54” x 13.96” x 1.83"PROSPowerful airflowAdjustable height settingsCONSSlightly clunky designLaptops often struggle with cooling due to their compact design, but 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, maintaining cool temperatures even during extended gaming sessions. The fan operates quietly at up to 800RPM and delivers up to 64 CFM of airflow, with adjustable speed settings for optimal cooling or silence.

The pad also serves as an ergonomic laptop stand with three height adjustments (3°, 9°, or 13°), enhancing both cooling and comfort. While it's a bit clunky at 3.35 pounds and 18.54 x 13.96 x 1.83 inches, it's designed to support larger laptops up to 19 inches.

RGB lighting adds a stylish touch, with various modes and color options controlled via a simple button 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.

See it at AmazonProduct SpecificationsFans5Size14.57" x 11.8" x 1.4"PROSLots of fans for maximum airflowTwo USB ports for convenienceCONSNot suitable for larger laptopsIf you need maximum airflow, the TopMate C5 is the answer. It features five fans – a central 140mm fan and four surrounding 70mm fans – to keep your laptop's thermals in check. The metal mesh surface enhances airflow, and you can adjust the fan speed via an LCD control panel that also displays wind speed.

In addition to its cooling prowess, the TopMate C5 offers five height adjustments for ergonomic positioning and supports 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 perfect for those who need a cooling pad that's comfortable on your lap and effective at keeping your laptop cool.

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.

The pad's mesh surface and hollow chamber facilitate air circulation, 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 excellent cooling at a budget-friendly price, complete with two USB passthrough ports.

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 is an ideal choice. It features three 120mm fans arranged to efficiently cool your laptop, with blue LED lighting adding a touch of style. At a low price point (often on sale for even less), it's a cost-effective solution that operates quietly.

6. 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 ventsFor gamers on the go, the Klim Tempest is a compact solution that clamps onto your laptop's side vent. Its rubber gasket ensures a tight seal, and the 4,000 RPM fan efficiently expels hot air. A built-in temperature sensor allows for manual or automatic fan control across 13 levels.

While highly portable, the Tempest is only compatible with laptops that have side vents.

7. Klim Ultimate

Best RGB Laptop Cooling Pad

### Klim Ultimate

1The Klim Ultimate is the perfect choice for gamers looking for an RGB-enhanced cooling pad that keeps their laptop cool.

See it at AmazonProduct SpecificationsFans1 x 200mmSize16.73" x 12.4" x 1.69"PROSRGB lighting with multiple effectsAdjustable fan speedCONSNo RGB brightness adjustmentIf you've scored a great gaming laptop deal, the Klim Ultimate is designed to keep it running smoothly. Its 200mm fan and metal grid panel provide excellent heat dissipation, with speeds up to 750RPM and a quiet operation at 23dB. Users have reported temperature drops between 41°F and 68°F.

The pad supports laptops from 11 to 17.3 inches and offers multiple inclination levels for ergonomic use. RGB lighting around the rim offers five effects and seven colors, controlled via a rear panel. While you can't adjust the brightness, the fan speed is easily customizable.

8. Miggoing Laptop Table

Best Laptop Cooling Stand

### Miggoing Laptop Table

0The Miggoing Laptop Table doubles as a comfortable work surface and an effective cooling pad for your laptop.

See it at AmazonProduct SpecificationsFans2Size16.5" x 10" x 18.9"PROSVersatile useSturdy aluminum constructionCONSAdjustment can be awkwardThe Miggoing Laptop Table is ideal for those who need a higher working surface while keeping their laptop cool. Its adjustable height reaches up to 18.9 inches, making it perfect for use on couches, in bed, or as a standing desk.

Dual USB-powered fans and ventilation slots help maintain cool temperatures, while the sturdy aluminum tray supports devices up to 33 pounds. A mouse plate adds convenience for comfortable use.

9. 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.

See it at AmazonProduct SpecificationsFans1 x 200mmSize15.7” x 12.2” x 2.8"PROSFront vent for hand coolingStylish design with blue LEDCONSQuite largeThe Cooler Master NotePal X3 is a high-quality option for larger gaming laptops. Its 200mm fan efficiently cools your device, and the blue LED adds a stylish touch. Side controls include USB ports, fan speed dial, and LED switches, with two height adjustments for 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 faced by gaming laptops. We've tested numerous cooling pads to identify those that truly make a difference. Our selection process also includes insights from professional reviews and real-world user feedback to ensure our recommendations are comprehensive and reliable.

FAQs

Do laptop cooling pads really work?

Yes, cooling pads can effectively prevent your laptop from overheating, extending its lifespan. They are particularly beneficial for long gaming sessions. The effectiveness depends on the pad's design and fan power, so choosing one with a good seal and strong fans is crucial.

Do laptop cooling pads improve performance?

They can improve performance by preventing thermal throttling, which is common in gaming laptops. To check if your laptop is throttling, use system monitoring software or tools like 3DMark to analyze performance over time.

How well do laptop cooling pads work?

The effectiveness varies based on the cooling pad and laptop design. High-quality pads can reduce temperatures by 5° to 10° Celsius, significantly enhancing your gaming experience.