Fluval surface skimmer

[Slyguy00]

So I know most people on here dont really like canister filters because they are a "nitrate factory", but for those of you that do use a canister filter, does anybody use the surface skimmer attachment? And if so does it work? I clean my filter very regularly so that isnt an issue. But between the cost of a HOB skimmer, and my lack of room it looks like sorta a good option. Input appreciated. Thanks