I have used both kinds and prefer the matrix type. They seem to stay on better and I don't have to worry about piercing a gel pac which could lead to overdose. Since I live in South Texas, I was having trouble with the patches staying on even with a tegaderm adhesive over it....I couldn't go outside without sweating it off so my dr. approved a higher dose (150 mcg)...taking it off after 48 hrs so I could go outside for a while without it. This has been working well for me and I don't have to feel like I'm imprisoned in my home!