Learning from the past has allowed Cooler Master to improve upon an already successful design. The NotePal X2 is a next generation cooler modeled after the NotePal X1. Like the X1 this new model (R9-NBC-4WAK-GP) uses a unique body shape and a large central fan as the heart of its design. In addition to looking stylish the 'X' shape of the cooler actually contributes to cooling performance. In this review Benchmark Reviews analyzes the performance of the NotePal X2 as well as the role played the unique body composition.

Given the performance and efficiency of large fan coolers we should anticipate seeing more products adopt this design. One such product is the Thermaltake Massive23 CS gaming laptop cooler (manufacturer model CLN0008). The Massive23 CS builds around one large central fan to provide all cooling needs. But good cooling requires more than just a big fan. Benchmark Reviews has tested similar products and unveiled some of those factors. In this review we can see some of those factors at play by testing the performance of the CLN0008.

Convection is when moving air transfers heat to or from a surface. This is the method used by most laptop coolers to keep your CPU, GPU and other critical components from overheating. There are three major factors to effective cooling (or heating), namely temperature difference, surface area, and air flow. Any differences in these factors will lead to differences in performance, even for the same cooler. The Benchmark Reviews team tries hard to provide you with fair and repeatable testing. The Antec Notebook Cooler 200 uses all three factors to achieve effective cooling with minimal power. Our tests show which of those factors makes the biggest difference. We also consider ergonomics, looks and quality.

Desktop computers are making a resurgence, and have exploited the compact nature of newer technology to provide the best of both worlds. Netbooks are the popular item for travelers, but they don't get the job done for full time workers and students. Notebooks are nice, and meet halfway, but have their own limits too. Behold the nettop. It's a compact desktop computer with a notebook profile. In this article, Benchmark Reviews tests the MSI Wind Top AE2010-02SUS All-In-One touch screen desktop computer against an Intel Atom-equipped ASUS Eee PC netbook, Core 2 Duo notebook, and NVIDIA ION desktop system.

NVIDIA Recently unveiled their ION platform, which combines a GeForce 9400m GPU to the Intel Atom mobile processor. The synergistic effect of GeForce and Atom processors have combined to deliver true high-definition performance beyond any mobile platform before it, allowing more range from 'Netbook' and 'Nettop' products. A dual-core 1.6GHz Intel Atom N330 CPU and NVIDIA GeForce 9400M GPU are packaged onto a Mini-ITX DDR2 AMCP7A-ION motherboard to create the ASRock ION, and ultra-efficient Nettop system. Delivering an compact HTPC or desktop computer alternative with native HDMI high-definition playback capability and powerful computing power isn't easy, and Benchmark Reviews discovers how well the ASRock Nettop ION 330 performs against mobile competitors using the Windows 7 Operating System.

Just over a year ago, Asus launched its Eee PC series of notebooks, prompting quick competition and innovation throughout the market. Today Benchmark Reviews looks at one of the newest additions to the Eee family, the Eee PC 1000H 160GB. Like the Eee PC 900 series, the 1000H is based on the Intel Atom platform, and features the Atom N270 processor. However, instead of an 8.9", the 1000H boasts a 10.2" screen as well as a 160GB hard drive. Perhaps the biggest improvement, though, is the use of a 6-cell battery. In this review, we'll take a closer at the Asus Eee 1000H netbook and find out how it compares to more conventional laptops.

ASUS has created a huge wave in the sub-notebook & portable Internet device markets with their Eee PC. Sub-notebooks are normally wonderfully exotic looking hardware for delightfully high prices. Well, exotic until one looks at the specs. The MacBook air is a great example - it looks like a killer machine until one looks at the combination of the lackluster specs and a price that makes even the most enthusiastic Mac fan blush. As for portable Internet devices, the Nokia N series is the first that comes to mind. Granted, they are really fantastic machines with excellent screens and software, but I am a bit old school I suppose. I still want a real keyboard. The Nokia N810 is close, but like my HTC TyTN, the keyboard is good for casual data entry and not suitable for long sessions of messaging, IRC or typing out documents or spreadsheets. The Nokia and other portable devices tend to also be pretty light on specifications, unless one is willing to pay the obscene price that OQO wants for their sub-sub-notebook.

Anyone who owns a laptop knows how hot they can get. To help remedy that problem manufacturers are now coming out with some well made and thought out solutions. The NZXT Cryo LX Aluminum Notebook Cooler is touted as the first notebook cooler to feature triple 120mm adjustable fans and a full 3mm aluminum frame. But will it do the job? The NZXT Cryo LX Aluminum Notebook Cooler is one of many new coolers on the market, and Benchmark Reviews tests to see if it sets itself apart from the crowd.