The Best Laptop Cooling Pads: These Coolers Actually Work

The best gaming laptops are powerhouses, designed to handle the most demanding games. However, with great power comes significant heat. If left unmanaged, this heat can cause your system to throttle, reducing performance during gameplay. If you're grappling with high temperatures, a laptop cooling pad is a straightforward solution to maintain optimal 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 directly to your device. While most are budget-friendly, the best options often feature advanced technologies like temperature sensors and multiple fans. Whether you need robust cooling or something more portable, our selection of nine top picks has you covered – 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, ensuring your gaming laptop stays cool and clean. 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 customizationThe IETS GT300, from a lesser-known brand, stands out as the best overall laptop cooler. As someone who relies on a reliable cooling solution, this cooler has consistently kept my gaming laptops cool, even under demanding conditions. Despite its bulkiness, its well-designed and efficient cooling capabilities make it a worthwhile choice.

Efficient cooling hinges on sealing, much like in HVAC systems. The GT300 features a rubber gasket around its rim, ensuring that all cool air is directed to the heat-generating components of your laptop, without any leakage.

Utilizing high-speed blower motors, the GT300 rapidly draws in cool air, operating at an impressive 4,500 RPM at maximum speed. This has been confirmed by numerous Amazon reviewers who've noted significant temperature reductions. Additionally, the intake vents are equipped with dust filters, helping to maintain your laptop's cleanliness and cooling efficiency over time.

The GT300 also boasts additional features like two USB ports on the back, allowing you to power it externally with a USB power adapter (not included, but a USB cable is provided) to free up your laptop's ports. It's angle adjustable, functioning also as a laptop stand, and includes RGB lighting, though less customizable than some competitors. It offers various colors and effects to enhance your setup.

It's important to note that the GT300 is best suited for laptops with bottom vents, making it less ideal for MacBooks. However, it's compatible with most gaming laptops, supporting devices from 14" to 17" thanks to its rubber gasket mounting system.

2. Thermaltake Massive 20 RGB

Best Laptop Cooling Pad Runner Up

### Thermaltake Massive 20 RGB

3The Thermaltake Massive 20 RGB is a robust cooling solution for gaming laptops, featuring a large 200mm fan 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 heightCONSA bit clunkyLaptops, despite their portability, often struggle with cooling. The Thermaltake Massive 20 RGB addresses this issue with a massive 200mm fan behind a sturdy steel mesh, efficiently dissipating heat. Unlike typical laptop fans, this one operates quietly at up to 800RPM, delivering up to 64 CFM of airflow. You can adjust the fan speed with a convenient knob directly on the cooling pad, choosing between maximum cooling and minimal noise.

This cooling pad doubles as a laptop stand with three height adjustments (3°, 9°, or 13°), enhancing both cooling and ergonomics. When raised, it allows for increased airflow underneath. However, be prepared for its clunky design, 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.

Featuring RGB lighting along its edge, the Thermaltake Massive 20 RGB offers various lighting modes, from static to wave effects. You can easily switch between modes and colors using buttons on the control panel.

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 remains cool, even during the most intense gaming 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 is your go-to, featuring a central 140mm fan and four surrounding 70mm fans. This configuration, combined with a metal mesh surface, efficiently pushes cool air against your laptop's base. You can adjust the fans' speed via an LCD control panel that also displays wind speed.

Beyond 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 added convenience—one for power and one for 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 for those seeking a cooling pad that's comfortable to use on your lap without drawing too much attention. See it at AmazonSee it at WalmartSee it at TargetProduct SpecificationsFans2Size15" x 11.75" x 1"PROSSimple yet effectiveRubberized gripCONSNo height adjustmentThe Targus Lap Chill Mat is a testament to the "if it ain’t broke, don’t fix it" philosophy, having kept laptops and laps cool for over a decade. Its lightweight design and neoprene bottom cushion make it perfect for lap use, while a rubberized grip and notches keep your laptop secure.

For cooling, it features a mesh surface and a hollow chamber to facilitate air circulation, with two fans near the laptop's CPU and GPU for optimal heat dissipation. It also includes a four-port USB hub for easy peripheral connection, with velcro straps to 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"PROSAffordableUSB passthrough portsCONSLimited to 3 fansFor those looking to cool their gaming laptop without breaking the bank, the Havit HV-F2056 is a great option. With three 120mm fans, it efficiently cools your laptop's critical areas, enhanced by blue LED lighting (though RGB is reserved for pricier models).

The Havit HV-F2056 includes two USB passthrough ports, ensuring you don't sacrifice connectivity for cooling. With a price tag often below $39 and quiet operation, it's a solid choice for budget-conscious gamers.

6. Klim Tempest

Best Portable Laptop Cooler

### Klim Tempest

2A high-speed 4,000 RPM fan that easily attaches to your laptop for portable cooling. See it at AmazonProduct SpecificationsFans1Size3.23" x 1.57" x 3.94"PROSExtremely portableHigh RPMCONSWill only work on some laptopsFor those needing cooling on the go, the Klim Tempest is ideal. This compact device clamps onto your laptop's side vent, using a rubber gasket for a seal and a powerful 4,000 RPM fan to extract hot air.

The Tempest includes a temperature sensor to monitor the air it exhausts, allowing for manual adjustment across 13 power levels or automatic operation based on a set temperature. However, it's only compatible with laptops featuring side vents.

7. Klim Ultimate

Best RGB Laptop Cooling Pad

### Klim Ultimate

1If you're after an RGB-enhanced cooling solution for your gaming laptop, the Klim Ultimate is the top choice. See it at AmazonProduct SpecificationsFans1 x 200mmSize16.73" x 12.4" x 1.69"PROSRGB lightingAdjustable fan speedCONSCan't adjust RGB brightnessSecured a great gaming laptop deal? The Klim Ultimate is designed to keep high-performance gaming laptops cool, ensuring no drops in FPS during the best PC games. Its metal grid panel enhances heat dissipation, and the 200mm fan behind it provides near-instant cooling, reaching up to 750RPM while remaining quiet at 23dB. Klim reports temperature drops between 41°F and 68°F.

The Klim Ultimate supports laptops from 11 to 17.3 inches, making it versatile for most gaming laptops. Despite its robust design, it remains compact at 16.73 x 12.4 x 1.69 inches and just over two pounds. It offers multiple inclination levels and a stopper to prevent laptop slippage, ensuring ergonomic comfort.

With RGB lighting around the rim, the Klim Ultimate offers five lighting effects and seven colors for customization. Controls for lighting and fan speed are conveniently located on the rear panel, although brightness adjustments for the RGB lights are not available.

8. Miggoing Laptop Table

Best Laptop Cooling Stand

### Miggoing Laptop Table

0The Miggoing Laptop Table doubles as a cooling pad and a comfortable table for working on your couch, keeping your laptop cool and your work environment comfortable. See it at AmazonProduct SpecificationsFans2Size16.5" x 10" x 18.9"PROSVersatileSturdyCONSAdjustment can be awkwardMost cooling pads are designed for lap or low desk use, but the Miggoing Laptop Table offers height adjustability up to 18.9 inches, perfect for use on couches, in bed, or as a standing desk.

It features dual USB-powered fans and ventilation slots to circulate air, preventing overheating. The sturdy aluminum tray can hold devices up to 33 pounds and includes a mouse plate for added convenience.

9. Cooler Master NotePal X3

Best Laptop Cooling Pad for Larger Laptops

### Cooler Master NotePal X3

0Ideal 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 ventStylish designCONSQuite largeThe Cooler Master NotePal X3 is perfect for those seeking a high-quality, stylish laptop cooler. Its large 200mm fan efficiently cools gaming laptops, supporting up to 17-inch devices despite its size.

All controls are conveniently located on the side, including USB ports, fan speed dial, and LED switches. The blue LED adds a stylish touch, while the front vent keeps 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. We understand their heat generation and have firsthand experience with what works and what doesn't. To identify the best laptop cooling pads, we started with those we've tested ourselves, forming a list of proven performers.

We then consulted other expert sources, focusing on user reviews to gain a broader perspective on real-world effectiveness across various laptop types. Combining our testing, expert insights, and user feedback, we've compiled a list of the top cooling pads available today, ensuring you get the best of the best.

FAQs

Do laptop cooling pads really work?

Laptop cooling pads can effectively prevent overheating, extending your laptop's lifespan. They are particularly beneficial for prolonged use. However, the effectiveness varies; it's crucial to assess the pad's fan power and how well it seals against the laptop.

Do laptop cooling pads improve performance?

They can improve performance if your laptop is prone to thermal throttling. To check for throttling, use system monitoring software to track CPU and GPU performance over time. If performance decreases, a cooling pad could help. Tools like 3DMark, available on Steam, can also help identify performance issues.

How well do laptop cooling pads work?

The effectiveness of a cooling pad depends on the model and your laptop's design. The best pads can lower temperatures by 5° to over 10° Celsius, providing significant relief for heat-sensitive devices.