Top 9 Laptop Cooling Pads to Keep Your Gaming Rig Cool

High-performance gaming laptops generate significant heat. To prevent thermal throttling and maintain peak performance, a laptop cooling pad is essential. This guide reviews nine top-rated options, catering to various needs and budgets.

TL;DR – Best Laptop Cooling Pads:

IETS GT300 (Our Top Pick)

See it at Amazon Thermaltake Massive 20 RGB

See it at AmazonSee it at Walmart TopMate C5 Laptop Cooler

See it at Amazon Targus Lap Chill Mat

See it at AmazonSee it at WalmartSee it at Target Havit HV-F2056

See it at Amazon Klim Tempest

See it at Amazon Klim Ultimate

See it at Amazon Miggoing Laptop Table

See it at Amazon Cooler Master NotePal X3

See it at Amazon

Cooling solutions vary widely, from large, RGB-illuminated pads to compact, side-mounted blowers. Price points also differ, with premium models offering features like temperature sensors and multiple fans.

• Contributors: Danielle Abraham, Kegan Mooney, Georgie Peru

What Matters When Choosing a Laptop Cooling Pad?

Detailed Reviews:

1. IETS GT300 – Best Overall

• Key Features: Dual high-speed blower fans (4,500 RPM), dust filters, customizable RGB, wide compatibility.
• Pros: Effective cooling, dust protection, adjustable angle.
• Cons: Bulky, limited RGB customization.

2. Thermaltake Massive 20 RGB – Best Runner Up

• Key Features: Massive 200mm fan, adjustable height, RGB lighting.
• Pros: Powerful airflow, ergonomic design.
• Cons: Clunky.

3. TopMate C5 Laptop Cooler – Best High-Airflow

• Key Features: Five fans (one 140mm, four 70mm), multiple cooling modes, two USB ports.
• Pros: Excellent cooling, adjustable height.
• Cons: Not suitable for larger laptops.

4. Targus Lap Chill Mat – Best for Lap Use

• Key Features: Simple design, rubberized grip, two fans, four-port USB hub.
• Pros: Effective, comfortable for lap use.
• Cons: No height adjustment.

5. Havit HV-F2056 – Best Budget Option

• Key Features: Three 120mm fans, blue LEDs, two USB passthrough ports.
• Pros: Affordable, quiet operation.
• Cons: Limited to three fans.

6. Klim Tempest – Best Portable Cooler

• Key Features: 4,000 RPM fan, temperature sensor, portable design.
• Pros: Extremely portable, powerful cooling.
• Cons: Limited laptop compatibility.

7. Klim Ultimate – Best RGB Cooling Pad

• Key Features: 200mm fan, adjustable fan speed, extensive RGB lighting.
• Pros: Powerful cooling, customizable RGB.
• Cons: RGB brightness not adjustable.

8. Miggoing Laptop Table – Best Cooling Stand

• Key Features: Adjustable height, dual fans, sturdy design.
• Pros: Versatile, comfortable for various positions.
• Cons: Awkward adjustment.

9. Cooler Master NotePal X3 – Best for Larger Laptops

• Key Features: Large 200mm fan with blue LED, adjustable height, supports up to 17-inch laptops.
• Pros: Stylish design, effective cooling.
• Cons: Large size.

UK Availability: [Images of UK retailer listings are included here, mirroring the original format.]

Selection Methodology: This review incorporates personal testing, expert reviews, and extensive user feedback to provide a comprehensive and unbiased assessment.

FAQs:

• Do laptop cooling pads work? Yes, they can prevent overheating and extend lifespan, but effectiveness varies based on design and fan power.
• Do they improve performance? Potentially, by mitigating thermal throttling. System monitoring software can help determine if your system is throttling.
• How effective are they? Temperature reductions can range from 5° to 10° Celsius or more, depending on the pad and laptop.