The best gaming laptops are equipped with high-performance components that generate significant heat. Excessive heat can lead to system throttling, which reduces performance during gameplay. To combat this, a laptop cooling pad can be an essential accessory to 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 AmazonCooling solutions for laptops vary widely, from large, customizable RGB pads to compact blowers that attach to the side. While most are affordable, the top models often include advanced features like temperature sensors and multiple fans. No matter your preference, one of our nine picks will perfectly suit your cooling needs. You can find these options in the UK as well.
Additional contributions by Danielle Abraham, Kegan Mooney, and Georgie Peru
AnswerSee Results1. IETS GT300 -------------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. 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 RGBWide compatibilityCONSLarge and bulkyLimited RGB customizationThe IETS GT300, despite being from a lesser-known brand, stands out as the best laptop cooler. It's been my go-to solution for keeping various gaming laptops cool under demanding conditions. Its larger size is justified by its excellent design and cooling efficiency.
Effective cooling is not just about fans; it's also about sealing. The GT300 features a rubber gasket that creates a seal around your laptop, ensuring all cool air is directed to the heat-generating components.
The cooler uses two high-speed blower motors that operate at up to 4,500 RPM, significantly reducing temperatures as confirmed by many Amazon reviewers. The intake vents are fitted with dust filters, which help maintain your laptop's cleanliness and cooling efficiency over time.
Additional features include two USB ports on the back, allowing you to power the cooler with a USB adapter if preferred, and angle adjustment for ergonomic use as a laptop stand. While the RGB lighting is less customizable than some options, it still offers a variety of colors and effects.
Note that this cooler works best with laptops that have bottom vents, making it less suitable for MacBooks. It supports laptops ranging from 14" to 17" in size.
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 large fan that ensures cool operation 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 little clunkyLaptops often struggle with cooling due to their compact design, and the Thermaltake Massive 20 RGB addresses this issue effectively. It features a massive 200mm fan behind a steel mesh, pushing away hot air quietly at up to 800RPM and 64 CFM of airflow. The fan speed is adjustable via a knob on the cooling pad, allowing you to choose between maximum cooling and silence.
The pad also serves as an ergonomic laptop stand with three height settings (3°, 9°, or 13°), enhancing both cooling and comfort. While it's a bit bulky at 3.35 pounds and 18.54 x 13.96 x 1.83 inches, it's designed to support larger devices up to 19 inches.
Its RGB lighting along the edge adds a stylish touch, with multiple modes and colors that can be easily adjusted using the control panel.
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 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 with its five fans (one 140mm and four 70mm) is your best bet. The metal mesh surface enhances air circulation, keeping your laptop's thermals under control. You can adjust the cooling modes and monitor wind speed via the LCD control panel.
Beyond cooling, it offers five height adjustments for ergonomic positioning and supports laptops up to 15.6 inches. It also includes two USB 2.0 ports for powering the cooler and connecting peripherals.
Targus Lap Chill Mat
Best Laptop Cooling Pad for Your Lap
### Targus Lap Chill Mat
2The Targus Lap Chill Mat offers effective cooling without drawing too much attention, perfect for using on your lap. See it at AmazonSee it at WalmartSee it at TargetProduct SpecificationsFans2Size15" x 11.75" x 1"PROSSimple but effectiveRubberized gripCONSNo height adjustmentThe Targus Lap Chill Mat has been a reliable choice for over a decade. Its lightweight and neoprene base make it comfortable for extended use on your lap, while a rubberized grip keeps your laptop secure.
The mesh surface and hollow chamber allow for efficient airflow, with two fans near the laptop's CPU and GPU. A four-port USB hub adds convenience, and velcro straps keep cables organized.
Havit HV-F2056
Best Budget Laptop Cooling Pad
### HavitHV-F2056
1The Havit HV-F2056 offers budget-friendly cooling with three fans and two USB passthroughs. See it at AmazonProduct SpecificationsFans 3 x 120mmSize14.96" x 11.02" x 1.18"PROSAffordableUSB passthrough portsCONSLimited to 3 fansFor budget-conscious gamers, the Havit HV-F2056 is an excellent choice. It features three 120mm fans that efficiently cool your laptop, accompanied by blue LED lighting. At a low price point (often on sale for less than $39), it's quiet and effective.
Klim Tempest
Best Portable Laptop Cooler
### Klim Tempest
2A 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 RPMCONSWill only work on some laptopsThe Klim Tempest offers a compact solution for on-the-go cooling. It clamps onto your laptop's side vent, using a rubber gasket to create a seal and a 4,000 RPM fan to extract hot air.
Its built-in temperature sensor allows for 13 power levels or automatic operation based on your ideal temperature. While portable, it's only compatible with laptops that have side vents.
Klim Ultimate
Best RGB Laptop Cooling Pad
### Klim Ultimate
1The Klim Ultimate is the go-to choice for an RGB gaming laptop cooling pad. See it at AmazonProduct SpecificationsFans1 x 200mmSize16.73" x 12.4" x 1.69"PROSRGBs galore!Adjustable fan speedCONSCan't adjust RGB brightnessThe Klim Ultimate is designed to keep high-performance gaming laptops cool, preventing FPS drops and performance slowdowns. Its 200mm fan, set behind a metal grid panel, ensures efficient cooling at up to 750RPM and a quiet 23dB. Temperatures can drop significantly, as reported by Klim.
It supports laptops from 11 to 17.3 inches, and its compact design weighs just over two pounds. Multiple inclination levels and a stopper enhance ergonomics, while RGB lighting offers five effects and seven colors for customization.
Miggoing Laptop Table
Best Laptop Cooling Stand
### Miggoing Laptop Table
0The Miggoing Laptop Table serves as both a comfortable work surface and an effective cooling pad. See it at AmazonProduct SpecificationsFans2Size16.5" x 10" x 18.9"PROSVersatileSturdyCONSAdjustment is a little awkwardThe Miggoing Laptop Table is ideal for elevating your laptop while keeping it cool. Its adjustable height reaches 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 promote airflow, housed in a sturdy aluminum tray that supports up to 33 pounds. A mouse plate adds further convenience.
Cooler Master NotePal X3
Best Laptop Cooling Pad for Larger Laptops
### Cooler Master NotePal X3
0This cooling pad, suitable for laptops up to 17 inches, features a large 200mm blue LED fan. See it at AmazonProduct SpecificationsFans1 x 200mmSize15.7” x 12.2” x 2.8"PROSFront ventStylish designCONSQuite largeThe Cooler Master NotePal X3 combines performance with style, perfect for larger gaming laptops. Its 200mm fan and blue LED lighting add a gamer's touch, while the front vent cools your hands. It supports up to 17-inch laptops 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, gaming laptops are a key focus of our coverage. We understand the heat they generate and what causes it. We've tested numerous cooling pads and combined our findings with expert reviews and user testimonials to ensure our recommendations are both effective and reliable.
FAQs
Do laptop cooling pads really work?
Yes, cooling pads can prevent your laptop from overheating, potentially extending its lifespan. Their effectiveness depends on the design of both the pad and your laptop. Look for pads with strong seals and powerful fans for the best results.
Do laptop cooling pads improve performance?
They can improve performance if your laptop experiences thermal throttling. Use system monitoring software or tools like 3DMark to check for throttling and see if a cooling pad can help.
How well do laptop cooling pads work?
The effectiveness of cooling pads varies, but the best models can reduce temperatures by 5° to over 10° Celsius, depending on the pad and laptop design.