It was enough to make my thighs tingle, but not enough to burn through my jeans. My first experience resting the macbook on my lap had me wondering if this feeling was normal. If you’re the type that surfs questionable videos on the couch in your boxer shorts, then you might find the macbook a little toasty.

For the fearless Mac user, it seems there is a technique to cool down your Mac by editing system extensions (modifying .kext files) that can lower the temperature significantly. Now, since I have no idea what a .kext file is, I think it is in my best interest to avoid tackling the tutorial as I may end up with a new website called My Melted Mac.

At the very least, it is probably a good idea to monitor your mac temperature, and I use a great little free program called CoreDuoTemp. Aside from having a neat widget available and a stand alone statistics monitor, there is a convenient option to have the current temperature show in your menubar at all times (as shown below):

The iBreeze is a dual fan-cooled, USB-powered, clear acrylic desk stand for your notebook. It is powered by the computer’s USB port, and provides a passthrough port, so you don’t lose the use of that USB port when using the iBreeze. The iBreeze is built to provide quiet cooling, as well as improved ergonomics (by providing a nicely raised angle for using the keyboard).

With my CoreDuoTemp monitor working away in the menubar, I did notice a small, but not significant, temp drop with the iBreeze fans running, and it made the bottom of the notebook much cooler to touch. The company claims to see a -5 to -15 F difference using the iBreeze, and results will vary depending on how hard your mac is working.

The only (small) issue I have with the product is the dangling cable if I choose not to use the fans. Luckily, it’s possible to tuck the cable up under the stand if you don’t want it in the way while you’re not using it or moving it.

In conclusion, I ended up with a product that:

1. Looks good (clear and not so noticeable on your desk)
2. Allows you to view notebook screen at eye level.
3. Adds comfort and removes heat while using your notebook on your lap.
4. Has an option to turn on/off an external cooling device.

Definitely worth $24.99 You can buy one at Mac-Pro.com

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