17" compatible laptop coolers - which one(s) DO actually provide cooling?

I'm looking for a laptop cooler/stand that actually does what its supposed to do (i.e. effective cooling) and does NOT wake the dead with its fan noise.

Prioritised requirements:

1. Effective and "real" cooling
1. Low noise at all speeds
2. Controllable speed including on/off
3. Positive grip for laptop when in place
4. Non-slip feet to prevent cooler going walkabout
5. USB-powered with USB hub

Possibilities tracked down to-date:

a) Cooler Master NotePal ErgoStand: NotePal ErgoStand Webpage
b) Zalman ZM-NS2000: ZM-NS2000 Webpage

Local pricing of these two is not going demand a mortgage (local equivalent of ~$38.00 for NotePal and ~$42.00 for ZM-NS2000)

I couldn't find a review of the Zalman but there's a rather glowing review of the CM NotePal:



Logic says that, given glowing review and lower price and all else seemingly level, the NotePal should be the better option, but.... I've been impressed with Zalman equipment - better than average build quality...

But, there may be others and this is where you folk can help...

 

I have this cooler and for the most part you've done a great review. As to the coolers operation over time, its been adequate. While the fan won't "wake the dead" you can hear its low frequency hum with the speed knob turned half way in a quiet room. At low speed its virtually silent. On high, its intrusive so I would only use that if I were rendering (CPU 100%). Even so, its still about 1/2 the volume of my laptop's own internal fans when they kick in.

In any event, I didn't get it for its cooling capability, rather, I got it mostly to raise and tilt my laptop which heretofore has been stellar even with my heavy 17" Precision.

One more thing, the 3 USB port are pretty much a joke since its limited to the capacity of the sole port you plug it in to. In addition to the fan, I can charge a mouse or a phone. But I wouldn't go more than that. It is hoped that that capacity would be increased with the external plug, but so far I have not tried this configuration. I highly recommend this cooler.

 

Hi Krane,

Am I correct in assuming that you refer to the Cooler Master and not the Zalman?
Also, to avoid undeserved credit (or blame... ), the review was lifted from YouTube via Google and I had absolutely nothing to do with its production as I am still to buy my first cooler for a laptop... (honesty/best policy/etc)

I'd sort of narrowed down the selection to two locally-available coolers that fulfilled the requirements and did not require a mortgage to buy...
Was looking for some unbiased and honest feedback - which you've provided - my thanks!!

Dave

 

For my sager Im using an Antec Notbook S cooler. Cheap and works as well as props the laptop to a perfect angle IMHO. Also its portable for those road warriors such as myself.