Targus HeatDefense for Laptops user reviews (notebook cooling pad)

2.5 stars

"Decent in a bind, but fans would be better." on January 7, 2009 by techseller

Pros: Slim, lightweight design allows for extreme portability. It can be slipped into a case, folded, or rolled up, which sets it apart from solid fan-type coolers. It's also reversible, so you can use black or silver side up to match your computer.

Cons: Doesn't do significant cooling of a laptop and can actually make matters worse by blocking existing fans and air holes on your computer.

Summary: I got this product as a birthday gift in October and thought I'd give it a try before assuming that without a fan it would be worthless. At first, it did seem to make a difference in the laptop's temp, but wait a while, get a few applications running, or use it in the fall/winter when the heat is on and you'll find your computer getting blazing hot in a hurry.
This pad works through little crystals that are inside the material. The crystals absorb heat and turn into a gel. The idea is that the heat would be spread throughout the material as it progressively gelled all over. Unfortunately, some parts can turn to gel right away (absorbing heat) while others don't, showing that the heat is absorbed, but not distributed around, creating hot spots under your already hot notebook.
I also feel that due to its nature, as it gels, it conforms to your notebook's bottom, thereby sealing off all vents and actually making the machine hotter. I've noticed some incredibly hot temps (far too hot for your lap) while using this pad and will be getting one with fans--something that doesn't absorb the heat, but gets rid of it.