Comparison Crown CMLS-940 vs Deepcool U-Pal

In modern models, 1 or 2 fans are installed at a minimum, and in more advanced models this number can reach 4. It makes no sense to bet anymore, because. the area of the cooling system in this case may be larger than the area of the bottom surface of even the largest laptop. The more fans provided, the more intense the heat removal and the higher the efficiency of the cooling system (ceteris paribus, of course). On the other hand, the noise level increases noticeably, and there are “multi-fan” stands, respectively.

The diameter of the fans also plays an important role. The larger the fan, the more advanced it is considered: a large diameter allows you to create an intense airflow at relatively low speeds, which reduces the noise level compared to smaller options. On the other hand, the large size also affects the cost accordingly.

The highest rotational speed of the fans provided in the active cooling system of the stand (see above).

Rotation speed is one of the parameters that directly affects efficiency: the faster the fan, the more powerful airflow it creates and the more heat is removed. At the same time, only fans of the same diameter can be directly compared by speed. In addition, high rotation speed increases the noise level; therefore, comparatively slow but large fans are considered more advanced than small and fast ones with the same performance (see "Airflow").

The maximum airflow that a cooling fan can create; measured in CFM — cubic feet per minute.

The higher the CFM number, the more efficient the fan.

The maximum noise level produced by the stand during operation. This parameter is relevant only for models equipped with active cooling (see above) — in fact, this function is the only source of noise.

The lower this indicator, the more comfortable the use of the stand will be and the better it will be suitable for situations in which silence is important (for example, for working late at night when others are sleeping). At the same time, even in the loudest models, it usually does not exceed 40 dB — this is comparable to the noise of leaves on a tree in a light breeze; and cooling systems in many laptops can make more noise. Therefore, paying close attention to quiet laptop stands is only worth it if you are using an extremely quiet laptop and do not want to lose this advantage.

Presence of a backlighting system in the stand design. Typically, this function is purely decorative: it doesn't affect functionality, but it does give the product a stylish appearance.

The color of the backlighting will be useful for those who want to match the stand with the laptop design or the computer desk decor.

Note that the ability to change the color is usually not provided in this case. So if the specifications list several options — for example, blue / green / red — it means that this model comes in several versions, differing by backlight color.

Connecting to a laptop primarily implies the presence of a USB hub stand — a set of additional USB ports. This feature can be particularly relevant given that USB is the most popular modern standard for connecting peripheral devices, and even one port dedicated to powering the stand can significantly limit a laptop's capability. A hub (splitter) helps rectify the situation. Accordingly, stands may come with a varying number of USB ports and different form factors of connectors.

— USB-A. The classic, widely accepted USB port, which has recently been losing ground to the more advanced USB-C port.

— USB-C. This connector differs from the classic, full-sized USB by its much smaller size and a reversible design that allows the plug to be inserted in either direction.

Peripheral connection shows which additional devices can be connected to the laptop stand if it functions as a USB hub or docking station. Usually, this includes a mouse, keyboard, flash drive, external SSD, card reader, webcam, headphones, or other accessories through USB-A and USB-C ports. It is important to consider not only the number of connectors but also their standard: USB 2.0 is suitable for simple peripherals, while ports with speeds of 5Gbps, 10Gbps are better for external drives.

Dimensions of the stand when folded. First of all, the convenience of transportation depends on this: if you plan to carry the product along with a laptop, you should pay attention to ensuring that the bag (case, backpack ...) has the right amount of space.

Note that the height of many models in the folded state is rather small, so manufacturers may not indicate it in the characteristics, limited only by the length and width.

The size of the surface intended for the direct placement of a laptop. This parameter allows you to fairly accurately assess how the stand is suitable for your device — after all, even laptops with the same diagonal can vary slightly in length / width.