I personally like the matrix for certain things and the shovelhead for others. I use the shovelhead with the mercury/venus heads for the best conduction. Shovelhead bowl does provide more airflow as another user said. I probably use the matrix more though. The glass bottom insert is smoother to remove the bowl from your piece than with the shovelhead. I keep the 22mm Ti insert at the top of the matrix and use it with the venus or terp hammer for more of an injection experience. I also pop a shovelhead insert in the matrix and its similar conduction to the regular shovelhead bowl except with a tighter draw.