Is the Zalman NC1000 really that much better than the Cooler Master U1/X2?

First, I apologize for starting a new thread on notebook coolers when there is a massive one stickied. I have spent quite a bit of time searching through that thread as well as others and there is a great deal of good information in there, but I still have a question for you guys.

The warranty on my M1330 has expired and it’s running hot again, so I’m looking to get a cooling pad for it. From searching through the sticky, it’s clear that the Zalman NC1000 is the go-to recommendation for M1330 users, but I didn’t see as much discussion on the Cooler Master U1 and/or X2. Before I pull the trigger on the Zalman, is it really worth the extra $20?

 

personally i always find zalman products over rated but I modified my laptop and cooler to work better. I put desktop fans in it and plugged in a spliced AC adapter. If you are using it always on a desk I would recommend that approch. Also have you replaces the thermal compound? If not replace that and just go out and buy IC diamond. I would get IC Diamond because its non conductive which is a lot safer.

 

In the end it really depends on your cooling layout.

Firstly I recommend you clean out your fan. Even with a cooler a clogged fan will still keep temperatures up.

As for the cooler in your I wouldn't go with the Zalman. I would say that it would cool better but if your hesitant about spending more then you may be setting yourself up for disappointment.

You dont want to get the U1, you would want the U2. The U1 is really designed for netbooks and with the amount of vents on your M1330 the more vents you get air through the better.

I would avoid the X2 because it fits larger 15.4" notebooks better and there is a dead space in the middle. With your notebook being so small the dead space would affect it.