Why You Can Trust CNET APC Convection Cooling Notebook Computer Stand review: APC Convection Cooling Notebook Computer Stand
The APC Convection Cooling Notebook Computer Stand offers decent passive cooling, but isn't as effective as APC's fan-powered version.
- Author of the award-winning, NY Times-reviewed nonfiction book The Tetris Effect; Longtime consumer technology expert for CBS Mornings
The APC Convection Cooling Notebook Computer Stand is essentially identical to the APC Forced Air Cooling Notebook Computer Stand we looked at, with one rather major exception. This one lacks the other model's built-in USB-powered fan. Instead, the top face has a small, fan-like circular design stamped right in the middle, where the fan on APC's other model would be. It's still an effective, portable, laptop desk, but at around $19 (versus $29 for the fan version), we don't see any real reason to skimp on the fan.
APC Convection Cooling Notebook Computer Stand
The Good
The Bad
The Bottom Line
Nearly indistinguishable from the excellent Belkin Laptop Cooling Stand we looked at as part of our recent laptop cooling device roundup, the APC Forced Air Notebook Cooling Stand, $29, offers effective laptop cooling for mid-size and smaller systems.
Measuring 11 inches wide (with deep V-shaped cutouts for airflow on both sides) by 10 inches deep by a little more than one inch high, the unit is suited best for midsize or smaller laptops, and the nonslip rubber pads on the front and rear edges help stop your laptop from sliding around. A small, plastic panel folds out from the bottom of the device, slightly elevating the rear for better ergonomics.
The APC Convection Cooling Notebook Computer Stand is smaller and lighter than other passive coolers, such as the Xpad Laptop Desk, and also feel less sturdy, especially when used with a larger, desktop replacement laptop. Its dull gray design looks most at home with a button-down business laptop.