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I have never been a big believer in laptop coolers because I don't really see the need for them when used with a regular laptop. That said, when paired up with a desktop replacement system they make more sense as the cooler can lift the laptop from the desk and angle the screen and keyboard to suit individual demands.
Our testing has highlighted that the Alienware M18X doesn't benefit from either cooler in regards to lowering system temperatures. This is because that particular laptop has a very high end cooling solution which shifts a massive volume of air through various fans and vents at the rear of the chassis.
However, when we use a laptop with an enclosed underside chassis, such as the unibody Apple MacBook Pro 17 inch, both coolers help to reduce chassis temperatures between 2c and 9c. Noticeable benefits all round.
Acoustically, both coolers are quiet, although the Thermaltake Massive23 GT can be heard when the fan is cranked to the maximum level. The Cooler Master NotePal U Stand, with the dual 100mm fans produces more airflow while emitting less noise. It is basically silent.
So which to buy?
The ThermalTake Massive23 GT didn't impress at all. When I removed it from the box I immediately cringed at the bright, gaudy colour scheme and poor quality plastic surrounds.
This cooler doesn't feel built to last at all and I was very unhappy with the overall design. They should have used a higher quality fan to make it silent, even at the highest performance settings. With a 200mm unit, they really have no excuses.
Thermaltake can be a frustrating company from my own viewpoint, because they can often release products which fall just short of greatness due to substandard materials or silly mistakes. The Massive23 GT unfortunately falls short of the mark in all areas.
The Massive23 GT is not one of their better products because I found very few redeeming features. The build quality is really quite abysmal and unforgivable. We also don't understand the naming convention because the Massive23 GT is actually quite small.
Pros:
- Under £30.
- 2 port hub.
- variable fan speed.
Cons:
- Terrible build quality.
- Ugly.
- 200mm fan isn't as quiet as it should be.
- Isn't ‘massive' at all.
The Thermaltake Massive23 GT can be bought for £29 inc vat from Koolit.
Kitguru says: One to avoid. Thermaltake could do much better … a poor product.
The Cooler Master NotePal U Stand was a breath of fresh air after my experiences with the Massive23 GT cooler. It is heavier and stronger, thanks to the use of aluminum, rather than cheap, cost cutting plastics. When I removed it from the box I was struck by the beautiful design, elegant lines and subtle touches throughout.
The position adjustable, removable fan system is both an inspired and original idea which we have never seen implemented before. If you have a machine with an unpleasant hot spot, then the dual fans can be moved to counter the emitted heat in specific areas.
Cooler Master are using two silent, yet high performing 100mm fans which supply plenty of air above.
The height adjustment mechanism is well designed and very strong, bringing peace of mind if you are using a larger, heavy machine.
Pros:
- Very well built.
- Looks great.
- 3 port hub.
- movable fan system is an inspired idea.
- fans are quality units.
Cons:
- Terrible product name.
The Cooler Master NotePal U Stand is not yet available in the United Kingdom, but will retail for around £37 inc vat.
Kitguru says: A fantastic product which should be right at the top of the list if you have a large, ‘desktop replacement' laptop.
