Lap pad for laptop

Just curious what people use, if anything, as a lap pad to put their laptop on.
My legs get uncomfortably hot with no more than this MBP sitting on my lap.
And I sure don't want this laptop to overheat, so just looking for ideas on what to use as a pad/laptop holder.

I don't use anything, but then I don't use the MBP without a firm, flat surface on which it sits.

Note that Apple does not refer to them as "laptops," but as "notebooks." Given that the heat is vented/diffused/conducted out of the bottom case, so putting the laptop on your lap is NOT a good idea. There have been reports of people seriously overheating from trying to use a notebook on their lap.

Basically, if you do want to use it on your lap, a good flat, firm surface is best. There are purpose-made lap desks, or you can hand make one from thin plywood cut to a comfortable size. In an emergency, a tray, usually turned over so the sides face down, can work. Just as long as it is somewhat heat resistant, flat and firm.

I used to use a piece of 1” thick wood. Something like a shelf.


Bob -

Sent from my iPad using Mac-Forums

Thread moved to better area (Other hardware & peripherals).

- Nick

I put mine on the arm of the sofa or chair if it's not on a table.

badshoehabit said:

I put mine on the arm of the sofa or chair if it's not on a table.

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Yes, I've tried that too, but was afraid of too much movement while typing. Plus, with over-stuffed arm, laptop would get too hot.


Now I am using a piece of wood that was a shelf in old desk that I used to own. Maybe not the best, but better than overheating my lap and/or the notebook itself

Apple does not make 'laptops' but notebooks. Avoids burns.

True, that's why I used the term notebook in my reply to badshoehabit.
In my title, I used the term laptop from habit. Since I'm new to Mac terminology, didn't realize it would cause such discussion of terminology. Will try to edit title

deleted. was a copy

Alaska61, it's not that big of a deal. Basically, no "laptop" should be used in the lap because the heat from the machine can overheat the blood flowing in the legs and raise the entire body temperature above normal. MBPs are especially warm because they use the bottom case as a heat sink and diffuser, so they do get warm on the bottom. Terminology is fun, but in this case, not terribly critical. I think Apple doesn't use the term "laptop" because some lawyer advised them (probably correctly) that sooner or later someone would sue over the term.

MacInWin, thanks

Terminology is fun, but in this case, not terribly critical. I think Apple doesn't use the term "laptop" because some lawyer advised them (probably correctly) that sooner or later someone would sue over the term.

Click to expand...

LOL!!!! No doubt quite true Jake!! Thanks for the laugh. ;-)



- Patrick
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Ikea makes a basic simple lap stand and it's only $6.00cdn

BRADA Laptop support - black - IKEA


- Patrick
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pm-r said:

Ikea makes a basic simple lap stand and it's only $6.00cdn

BRADA Laptop support - black - IKEA


- Patrick
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Click to expand...

Thanks for the link!
Think I'm going to buy it.