The effectiveness of the XPad depends a lot on where the hottest part of your laptop is located - so it varies by laptop. I have had this over many years - 4 different laptops and it is better with some than others. If the hottest part is in the between the four raised rubber parts - then it will be cooler, otherwise, not so much.However, it doesn't really cool. It just makes using the laptop slightly more comfortable. I wouldn't really recommend it. I don't however know of better solutions so keep using this. Maybe time to try the USB powered ones.Oh, the non-slip part is really cool. It is very solid.