The best gaming laptops are packed with high-performance components, which generate significant heat. This heat can cause your system to throttle, reducing performance during gameplay. To combat this, using 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 AmazonLaptop cooling solutions vary widely, from large, stylish pads with customizable RGB lighting to compact, efficient blowers that attach directly to your laptop. While most are affordable, the top models often feature advanced options like temperature sensors and multiple fans. No matter your preference, one of our nine recommendations will 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 robust cooling with two high-speed blower motors and dust-filtering intake vents.See it at AmazonProduct SpecificationsFans 2 x 4,500 RPM blowersSize15.75" x 13.7" x 1.97"PROSDual blower fans for superior coolingDust filters to protect your laptopCustomizable RGB lightingWide compatibilityCONSLarge and bulkyLimited RGB customizationThe best laptop cooler may come from an unfamiliar brand, but its performance is unmatched. As a gamer needing a reliable cooling solution, I've trusted this cooler to keep my various gaming laptops cool, even during the most demanding sessions. It's bulkier than some, but its effectiveness and thoughtful design justify the size.

Efficient cooling is about sealing in the cold air, a principle often overlooked in laptop coolers. The GT300 features a rubber gasket that seals around your laptop's base, ensuring all the cool air is directed to the heat-generating components, not lost around the edges.

Instead of typical fans, the GT300 uses two high-speed blower motors that draw in cool air at an impressive 4,500 RPM. Numerous Amazon reviewers have noted a significant temperature drop. The intake vents are equipped with dust filters, which help maintain long-term cooling efficiency.

The GT300 also offers practical features like two USB ports on the back, allowing you to power it without using your laptop's ports. It's angle adjustable, doubling as a laptop stand, and includes customizable RGB lighting, though less extensive than some alternatives. It's ideal for gaming laptops with bottom vents, supporting devices from 14" to 17" in size.

2. Thermaltake Massive 20 RGB

Best Laptop Cooling Pad Runner Up

### Thermaltake Massive 20 RGB

3The Thermaltake Massive 20 RGB is your go-to for intense gaming sessions, with 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 heightCONSA bit clunkyLaptops, despite their portability, often struggle with cooling. The Thermaltake Massive 20 RGB addresses this with its large 200mm fan, encased in a sturdy steel mesh, effectively pushing hot air away from your device. This fan operates quietly at up to 800RPM, delivering up to 64 CFM of airflow, with adjustable speeds controlled by a knob on the pad itself.

Ergonomically designed, this cooling pad also serves as a stand with three height settings (3°, 9°, or 13°), enhancing both cooling and comfort. It's slightly bulky, weighing 3.35 pounds and measuring 18.54 x 13.96 x 1.83 inches, but it's built to support up to 19-inch laptops.

The RGB lighting along its edge adds a stylish touch, with various lighting modes and color options easily adjusted via the control panel.

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 during the most intense sessions.See it at AmazonProduct SpecificationsFans5Size14.57" x 11.8" x 1.4"PROSLots of fansTwo USB portsCONSNot suitable for larger laptopsFor those needing maximum airflow, the TopMate C5's five fans—a central 140mm fan and four 70mm fans—provide comprehensive cooling through a metal mesh surface. You can adjust the fan speed via an LCD control panel, which also displays wind speed.

Beyond its cooling capabilities, the TopMate C5 offers five height adjustments for ergonomic positioning, fitting laptops up to 15.6 inches. It also features two USB 2.0 ports, one for powering the pad and another for your peripherals.

4. 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 lap use.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 has been a reliable choice for over a decade, comfortably resting on your lap thanks to its lightweight design and neoprene cushioning. A rubberized grip and notches keep your laptop secure, even on uneven surfaces.

It features a mesh surface and a hollow chamber for air circulation, with two fans positioned to cool the CPU and GPU areas. Additionally, it includes a four-port USB hub and velcro straps for cable management.

5. Havit HV-F2056

Best Budget Laptop Cooling Pad

### HavitHV-F2056

1The Havit HV-F2056 offers budget-friendly cooling with three 120mm fans and 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 cost-effective cooling, the Havit HV-F2056 is a great choice. It features three 120mm fans with blue LEDs, effectively cooling your laptop without breaking the bank. Priced at around $39 and often on sale, it's both affordable and quiet.

6. Klim Tempest

Best Portable Laptop Cooler

### Klim Tempest

2A compact 4,000 RPM fan that clamps onto your laptop for on-the-go cooling.See it at AmazonProduct SpecificationsFans1Size3.23" x 1.57" x 3.94"PROSExtremely portableHigh RPMCONSOnly compatible with some laptopsTraditional cooling pads can be cumbersome to carry. The Klim Tempest solves this with its small, attachable fan that seals over your laptop's side vent, using a 4,000 RPM fan to expel hot air.

Its built-in temperature sensor allows manual adjustment across 13 levels or automatic cooling when needed. While compact at 3" x 2" x 4", it's only suitable for laptops with side vents.

7. Klim Ultimate

Best RGB Laptop Cooling Pad

### Klim Ultimate

1The Klim Ultimate combines powerful cooling with vibrant RGB lighting, ideal for gaming setups.See it at AmazonProduct SpecificationsFans1 x 200mmSize16.73" x 12.4" x 1.69"PROSRGB lightingAdjustable fan speedCONSCan't adjust RGB brightnessIf you've scored a great gaming laptop deal, the Klim Ultimate ensures your machine stays cool, maintaining performance in the best PC games. Its metal grid panel and 200mm fan at 750RPM offer instant cooling, reducing temperatures by 41°F to 68°F, according to Klim.

Designed for larger gaming laptops, it supports devices from 11 to 17.3 inches, remaining compact at just over two pounds. Multiple inclination levels and a stopper enhance ergonomics, and the RGB lighting around the rim offers five effects and seven colors, controlled via a rear panel.

8. Miggoing Laptop Table

Best Laptop Cooling Stand

### Miggoing Laptop Table

0The Miggoing Laptop Table doubles as a comfortable work surface and effective cooling pad for your laptop.See it at AmazonProduct SpecificationsFans2Size16.5" x 10" x 18.9"PROSVersatileSturdyCONSAdjustment can be awkwardMost cooling pads are designed for desk or lap use, but the Miggoing Laptop Table offers adjustable height up to 18.9 inches, ideal for use on couches, in bed, or as a standing desk.

It features two USB-powered fans and ventilation slots for efficient cooling, within a sturdy aluminum tray that holds devices up to 33 pounds. A mouse plate adds convenience.

9. Cooler Master NotePal X3

Best Laptop Cooling Pad for Larger Laptops

### Cooler Master NotePal X3

0This cooling pad is perfect for larger laptops up to 17 inches, featuring a stylish 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, ideal for larger gaming laptops. Its 200mm fan and blue LED lighting enhance cooling and aesthetics. Side controls manage fan speed and lighting, with 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

At IGN, we understand the heat challenges posed by gaming laptops. We've tested numerous cooling pads and combined our findings with expert reviews and user feedback to compile our list of the best options. This approach ensures we recommend products that are proven to work across various laptop models.

FAQs

Do laptop cooling pads really work?

Yes, cooling pads can effectively prevent overheating, extending your laptop's lifespan. They're particularly beneficial for extended gaming sessions. The effectiveness depends on the pad's design and fan power, so consider these factors when choosing.

Do laptop cooling pads improve performance?

They can if your laptop experiences thermal throttling. Use system monitoring software or tools like 3DMark to determine if your laptop is throttling, and a cooling pad could help enhance performance.

How well do laptop cooling pads work?

The effectiveness varies based on the cooling pad and your laptop's design. The best pads can reduce temperatures by 5° to 10° Celsius, significantly improving performance and comfort.