Lap trays (or whatever they are called)

Ok, so I've seen the threads on laptop coolers, but can't really find any on those lap tray thingies which make it more comfortable (and secure) to use your laptop while lounging on the floor, couch, etc.

Any links to options or suggestions?

I realize this is more about comfort or choice since this isn't a technical decision like coolers, mice, etc. but just thought I'd ask.

I'm sure there are a couple favorites out there right?

I'm not sure if I'll need a cooler yet since the larger cell batteries typically raise the laptop enough to allow normal cooling to happen.

Any suggestions?

 

Sometimes I use a breakfast tray (or whatever you call those used to serve breakfast on a bed).

 

My wife got a super cheap one somewhere with the little felt beanbag ball inserts and just a cheap plastic tray and it's really light which I love, doesn't cause your lap to heat up, etc. but the tray is so flimsy, otherwise it would be perfect.

 

Here's a couple with decent reviews:
http://www.amazon.com/Belkin-F8N044...2?ie=UTF8&s=electronics&qid=1231230484&sr=8-2
http://www.amazon.com/Tranquilty-Zo..._bbs_sr_3?ie=UTF8&s=hpc&qid=1231230484&sr=8-3

 

The trays with a thick cushion on the bottom (such as this) are very good because they also make the computer a bit higher.

John

 

Thanks for the links David.

I like the design of the Tranquility one more than the other one (seems too cushiony and not enough support) but why they added a light seems odd to me!

It seems it would get in the way of the top of the laptop and frankly not something I'd use, but I'll look to see if they make other ones without the light, otherwise that is basically what I'm looking for.

I find those beanbag type bags on the bottom are more flexible and stay cooler than the thicker cushiony ones, but it's all preference.

 

I use the Lapinator Plus along with the Mousitizer. Works great.

http://www.lapinator.com/lapplus.php

I also use it at the dining table to prop up my laptop a little higher for better viewing.

 

I also use a breakfast tray. I found one without a lip on the edges. It is great because I use my laptop mostly in the recliner and the legs fit right between the armrests.

 

Hey there,

I found this the other day, and created a thread about it..as it looked to be like a very interesting laptop tray/table:

insTand Brand Beanbag/Laptop/Keyboard Table..

Originating thread on this:
http://forum.notebookreview.com/showthread.php?t=337968

At amazon.com - $29.95:
http://www.amazon.com/BEANBAG-LAPTO...AEGC7CUVQ4US8&s=generic&qid=1230957010&sr=1-2

Pic's:



Hope it helps you.


Cin

 

I think IKEA had something in that direction on offer once...

 

Here's one I posted a little over a month ago. I haven't hardly ever sat at my desk ever since I've started using this. It's been sofa and bed all the way. Occasionally I take it to someone else's place and use it on a table standing up or on a coffee table.

http://forum.notebookreview.com/showthread.php?t=324076

 

The lapinator looks interesting but is it heavy and is the padding enough to make it comfortable over time?

I move around too much for a breakfast tray type think and sometimes will sit on the floor, sometimes on the couch, sometimes in bed, etc so need something with just cushion on the bottom and a simple tray.

The insStand beanbag listed above also looks great but the tray seems pretty heft and the reviews on Amazon (not many) were not exactly glowing, but that is pretty much what I am looking for.

I thought this would be so easy. the frustrating part is my local Staples or Frys or Best Buy really doesn't carry many if any of these types of things so I guess you need to just research, read reviews, order, and pray :/

 

An earlier thread shows what I still use. I have an HP dv6000 on an Antec cooler on it right this minute.

 

Ahh the Laplander looks a lot like what I want but that is a pretty massive surface! Is it heavy? I think that is bigger than where I keep my desktop

 

Yeah, looks like you have several choices to choose from!

Good luck, and advise which one you went with...if you would


Cin

 

Cut/Paste from their website:

Dimensions:
23W x 15 3/4D x 2 1/2H
Weight:
2 3/4 pounds
Surface:
Durable, smooth wood surface in Dark or Natural Cherry
Shape:
Large, expansive work surface
Cushion:
Soft, comfortable neoprene cushion rests comfortably on your lap
Elastic Straps:
Two large straps hold papers, pen and eyeglasses in place
Portability:
Handle allows easy portability
Where To Use:
Works well on your lap, in chair, on a sofa, in bed or on the floor
Storage:
N/A
Price:
$48

 

Thanks AKA I saw the dimensions and looked at their other products as well - it's hard for me to tell though if 3 pounds dispersed over my lap means much.

I think this has turned into one of those moments like when you go into 7-11, thinking you will grab some candy real fast but when suddenly faced with so many choices, you freeze up and second guess your initial desire...

I'll go check out my local Fry's, Best Buy, Staples, etc. again to see what I can look at or try hands-on and then maybe extrapolate to the great choices people have provided!

 

I updated the prior post with a picture.

 

Man you got quite the package there on your lap. What cooler is that out of curiosity.

I've not yet chosen my laptop (waiting on the new Dell XPS Studio's at CES this week) but since the extra-cell batteries normally provide some lift, I'm hoping that will be enough.

BTW, I was leaning towards an HP DV5T (can't tell what model you have there) until I found out about the new Dell's. My one hatred of the HP's was the fingerprint magnet finish only now it looks like Dell has moved away from the current XPS finish to a glossy black one as well.

ARrrrrghhh!

 

Indeed I do!

That is an Antec. It was about $15 at Amazon.com.

Add to the setup a Kensington USB FlyLight, too!

 

I need a good laptop cooling pad since I use a laptop in my lap sitting in my recliner in the living room. I have a Vostro 1510 on order and I'm not familiar with the fan or fans on the Vostro 1510 or the way it exhausts.

 

This is taking this thread off-topic, but there are quite a few existing threads on this new topic that should be easily locatable via Search.

 

Well since I'm taking this thread " off topic" which forum should I post my question in if I have no luck finding an answer using this website's search feature?

 

No need to reply, I found hundreds of posts on cooling pads.

 

I use the Targus Lapdesk.

http://www.targus.com/us/product_details.asp?sku=PA243U

It folds in half and can be used as a tilt stand. $20 at Walmart.