Alienware Alpha R2 Review – Is this the mini gaming PC you’ve been waiting for? The Alienware Alpha R2 is a small, sleek gaming PC that packs a punch. With its powerful hardware and stylish design, the Alpha R2 is perfect for gamers who want a desktop that doesn’t take up too much space. In this article, we will answer some of the most common questions about the Alpha R2 and provide a full product review. So, if you’re thinking about buying this little powerhouse, keep reading!
The Alpha R2 is a mini gaming PC that packs powerful hardware in its small form factor. It comes with 6th generation Intel processors and high-end NVIDIA or AMD graphics cards, making it one of the most capable gaming PCs you can buy at this price range.
Competing graphical demands and streaming capabilities take no strain in this exceptional rig – everything runs smoothly and effortlessly as expected from a device designed for gaming. Aside from gaming, the Alpha R2 is more than capable of tackling everyday tasks like video editing or streaming videos; plus, it still manages to remain incredibly lightweight allowing easy transport wherever you may go. You can switch between gaming and desktop mode during the boot.
What makes this device so special is that despite its ultra-small size, Alienware have managed to cram enough power into this portable powerhouse for it to help users achieve their endeavors no matter what they may be.
Price-wise, it’s pretty average for what it offers. It’s not overly expensive, yet it’s more than capable of meeting most gamers’ needs. The exact price will obviously depend on the configuration you choose. All versions come with a 1-year warranty, which is standard for PCs of this type.
Table of Contents
Manual for Alienware Alpha R2
Pros and Cons of Alienware Alpha R2
While it may look sleek and sexy on the outside – with a unique build and cutting-edge customizations – inside there’s a raging set of components that can get very loud under load. Not only that, but those same components may already be too outdated to run some of the most modern games on the market, limiting your playtime severely. Also, no matter how hard you push it, the Alpha R2 might just heat up like an oven in an attempt to keep up with everything you’re asking of it… so don’t expect any miracles when cranking up graphics settings! Still, if you want to get yourself a device to enter the world of gaming and you don’t want to break the bank, the Alpha R2 is a solid choice.Alienware in General
Alienware is a brand of gaming and high-performance laptops, desktops and accessories developed by Dell Technologies. The company has been around since 1996 where it focused initially on high-performance PC’s and graphics cards that catered to the hardcore gaming market. In recent years, they have broadened their product range to include more traditional laptop and desktop PCs, as well as a host of other gaming related products and services.
At the heart of Alienware’s success lies not only its commitment to producing powerful computers for demanding gamers but also the user experience that comes with owning an Alienware product. As part of this user experience, Alienware offers several tiers of hardware configurations for both laptops and desktops so that gamers can configure their system to fit their individual needs and budget. The Alienware Alpha R2 mini gaming PC is one such product that offers a great balance between power and portability, making it the perfect choice for gamers who are looking for a compact gaming solution.
In the next few articles, we’ll take a look at what makes the Alienware Alpha R2 such an impressive machine and break down its components, features, performance, and more. Stay tuned for our epic guide to the Alienware Alpha R2 mini gaming PC! [1],[2],[3],[4],[5]
Design
Design is a critical component of any gaming appliance, as it can define the overall user experience. Quality design can make or break a product’s success in the market. Here are some important aspects of quality design for gaming hardware. The Alienware Alpha R2 has been designed with this in mind, featuring sleek lines and bold curves that create an attractive and stylish machine.
One thing you will notice about the design, is that it resembles the design of Xbox and PS consoles. Alienware designed the Alpha R2 with a console-esque look and feel, intended to make it more familiar to gamers who may be accustomed to using gaming consoles. This gives the Alpha R2 an edge in terms of both comfort and usability.
Another important aspect of design is build quality. The Alpha R2 has been built with high-end components that can handle heavy gameplay without any issues or slowdown. Additionally, its internals have been designed for maximum heat dissipation, so as to prevent overheating while playing games. This makes sure that your gaming experience is stable and free from frame rate drops or sudden crashes caused by heat buildup inside the machine.
This mini gaming PC is also compatible with multiple peripherals, including the Alienware Command Center and game controllers. This means that even if you don’t have gaming consoles, you can still enjoy a good gaming experience with the Alpha R2.
Finally, it’s worth mentioning that this PC looks great too. Its black and blue color scheme gives it an aggressive look that gamers love, and its handful of LED lighting effects complete the overall design aesthetic.
However, one negative thing about the design is that fans can get really loud when running games. This is something to be aware of if you like playing in a quiet environment. This mini PC also can run very hot despite the venting design. This is also something to keep in mind if you plan on playing games for long periods of time. [1],[2],[3],[4],[5]
Software
Software is an important component of any PC, as it can determine how well a computer performs. The Alienware Alpha R2 comes with Windows 10 Home pre-installed, which provides users with the latest features and security updates. This ensures that your system will remain stable and secure while you game or work.
The console also supports the Steam operating system, which allows users to purchase and install a variety of games. This gives you access to a huge library of different titles, ranging from popular triple-A releases to indie favorites.
For those who are looking for an even more immersive gaming experience, the Alienware Alpha R2 is compatible with virtual reality headsets such as Oculus Rift and HTC Vive. This means that you’ll be able to enjoy a whole new level of gameplay with the latest games.
The Alpha R2 also includes Alienware’s own software, which allows users to customize the system’s performance, lighting effects, and more. This makes it easy for gamers to adjust the settings of their machine in order to get the best possible gaming experience.
Finally, it’s worth mentioning that this mini PC is capable of streaming media content directly from any compatible device. This means that you can easily stream movies, shows and music right onto your TV or monitor without having to install extra hardware. [1],[2],[3],[4],[5]
Set-Up
Those who are looking to buy the Alienware Alpha R2 will be pleased to know that setting up this mini PC is a breeze. After it has been unboxed, users simply have to plug in the power cord and connect it to their monitor or television using an HDMI cable.
Once you boot the PC, you will get to choose between Console Mode and Desktop Mode, both of which are designed for different purposes. Console Mode offers a simple and straightforward interface that gives you access to games in seconds and helps set-up everything you need for gaming, while Desktop mode provides you with a more traditional Windows 10 experience.
Once the Mode has been selected, users will be prompted to connect to their home network in order to access the internet. This is done by entering your Wi-Fi SSID and password.
Alienware Alpha R2 also features a unique HiveMind interface, which makes it incredibly easy to use. The HiveMind interface is a new and revolutionary way to control your Alienware Alpha R2 mini gaming PC. It allows you to access all of the features and functions of your device from one central hub – no more fiddling around with multiple menus or trying to remember where everything is located. The HiveMind interface puts it all at your fingertips, allowing you to quickly and easily customize settings, launch apps, play games, manage media files, and more.
The HiveMind interface is composed of several elements: an intuitive menu system that displays all available options in a single view; customizable shortcut keys for quick access to frequently used items; and an animated controller overlay that allows you to use a gamepad or keyboard/mouse to control your device. [1],[2],[3],[4],[5]
Performance in Games
Now, you may be wondering how well the Alienware Alpha R2 performs in games. Here you should keep the release date of this mini PC in mind. Despite being released back in 2016, the Alpha R2 packs plenty of power for modern gaming.
In terms of graphical performance, this mini PC is capable of running games at 1080p on high settings. It also supports up to 4K resolutions and most importantly, is equipped with an NVIDIA GeForce GTX 960 graphics card that can handle even the most demanding titles without any issues.
However not all games support 4K resolution, so it’s worth checking the requirements of each title before buying.
It’s also worth noting that the GTX 960 can’t tackle the modern AAA titles on high-ultra settings, so you may need to lower the graphical quality for a smoother experience. Nevertheless, most gamers will be able to enjoy a good gaming experience with this mini PC.
While it’s on part with consoles like PS4, the desktop alternatives blow the Alpha R2 out of the water in terms of raw performance. Similarly, it’s worth mentioning that the Alpha R2 isn’t designed for power users who demand fast speed and multitasking capabilities from their system. [1],[2],[3],[4],[5]
Sound
Sound has always been an integral part of gaming, as it adds so much to the overall experience. Even something as simple as background music can make a game more immersive and enjoyable. With today’s sophisticated gaming systems, sound is even more important for creating a realistic and engaging environment.
Immersive 3D audio can make the player feel like they are really inside the game world. A good audio setup can help to create a believable virtual environment and make it easier for players to become deeply invested in their gaming experience.
Sound also plays a key role in providing important auditory cues, such as feedback from actions taken within the game, or sound effects when an enemy appears. Without these cues, gameplay would be much more difficult, as players wouldn’t have any indication of what is happening around them.
Alienware Alpha R2 has you covered when it comes to sound. It features Intel HD Audio that brings powerful, realistic audio to your gaming experience. The system also comes with a set of high quality speakers and subwoofer to ensure that you get the best possible audio experience.
For optional S/PDIF output and advanced sound processing, you can opt for the Realtek ALC3234 audio codec. This will allow you to connect the Alpha R2 to external devices such as headphones, speakers and other audio components, giving you even more options for customizing your sound setup.
One thing you need to be aware of however, is that Alienware Alpha R2 doesn’t have an audio jack so it can’t be connected to audio appliances directly. You will need to connect your headphones to a compatible audio adapter or via Bluetooth. [1],[2],[3],[4],[5]
Ports
When it comes to gaming appliances, having access to a wide range of ports is critical. Without the right ports, you won’t be able to connect all your gaming peripherals and accessories. And Alienware Alpha doesn’t disappoint.
The Alienware Alpha R2 has plenty of ports to meet all your gaming needs. Most of the ports are located at the very back of the PC. The device comes with two USB 3.0 ports, an HDMI output, and a DisplayPort output. In addition to these more standard ports, the Alpha R2 also has a gigabit Ethernet port and an S/PDIF digital optical audio output.
Graphic amplifier ports are also included, allowing you to connect an Alienware Graphics Amplifier and upgrade the Alpha R2 with even more powerful graphics cards. The ports are easy to access and make connecting all your gaming peripherals a snap.
Overall, the Alienware Alpha R2 offers plenty of ports that should meet all your gaming needs with ease. Whether you need to plug in extra controllers or keyboards, the Alpha R2 should have you covered. [1],[2],[3],[4],[5]
Price
Price is one of the most important factors when it comes to buying a gaming PC, and the Alienware Alpha R2 is no exception. The base model of the Alpha R2 usually starts at $600 and goes up from there depending on what type of processor, RAM, and graphics card you choose.
If you’re looking for top-of-the-line performance, then be prepared to pay upwards of $1,000 or more for the higher-end configurations. However, even with these higher prices, the Alpha R2 is still one of the most affordable mini gaming PCs on the market today.
Compared to other pre-built gaming PCs in its price range, Alienware Alpha R2 offers superior performance with its 6th generation Intel processors and high-end NVIDIA or AMD graphics cards. So if you’re looking for the best bang for your buck, Alienware Alpha R2 is definitely worth considering. [1],[2],[3],[4],[5]
Warranty
Warranty is an important consideration when buying a gaming PC. It provides peace of mind in case something goes wrong with the system, and can help to protect your investment over time.
Alienware Alpha R2 comes with a standard 1-year limited warranty which covers defects in materials and workmanship, but doesn’t provide any coverage for accidental damage or misuse.
One thing to keep in mind is that Alienware’s warranty service may not be available in all countries, so it’s worth checking before you buy if this is something that is important to you. That said, most customers have reported positive experiences with Alienware’s customer service, so you should be in good hands if you ever need to use the warranty. [1],[2],[3],[4],[5]
Alienware Alpha R2 Summary
The Alpha R2 is a mini gaming PC that packs powerful hardware in its small form factor. It comes with 6th generation Intel processors and high-end NVIDIA or AMD graphics cards, making it one of the most capable gaming PCs you can buy at this price range. SteamOS gives you all the advantages of quick access to a gigantic game library on top of stellar performance. No matter what type of games you want to enjoy, you’ll be able to find something for everyone here. Plus, the HiveMind interface is intuitive and customizable; letting you customize your setup exactly how you desire.
Competing graphical demands and streaming capabilities take no strain in this exceptional rig – everything runs smoothly and effortlessly as expected from a device designed for gaming. Aside from gaming, the Alpha R2 is more than capable of tackling everyday tasks like video editing or streaming videos; plus, it still manages to remain incredibly lightweight allowing easy transport wherever you may go. You can switch between gaming and desktop mode during the boot.
What makes this device so special is that despite its ultra-small size, Alienware have managed to cram enough power into this portable powerhouse for it to help users achieve their endeavors no matter what they may be.
Price-wise, it’s pretty average for what it offers. It’s not overly expensive, yet it’s more than capable of meeting most gamers’ needs. The exact price will obviously depend on the configuration you choose. All versions come with a 1-year warranty, which is standard for PCs of this type.
FAQ
What GPU does Alienware Alpha have?
The Alienware Alpha R2 comes equipped with a NVIDIA GeForce GTX 960 graphics card. This is a powerful GPU, capable of running a plentiful of AAA games at high detail settings and resolutions. It supports up to 4K resolution and can handle virtual reality (VR) gaming as well. The GPU also supports DirectX 12, so you can take advantage of the full range of graphical effects in the most modern games.
AMD Radeon R9 M470X is another option available in the Alienware Alpha R2, which is slightly less powerful than the GTX 960.
Is the Alienware Alpha R2 good for gaming?
Yes, the Alienware Alpha R2 is well-suited for gaming. The system comes with a 6th gen Intel Core processor, 16GB of DDR4 RAM, and a NVIDIA GTX 960 graphics card that can handle most AAA titles of recent years at medium settings. The pre-installed Windows 10 operating system makes installation and setup easy as well. Additionally, the Alienware Alpha R2 also offers support for virtual reality so you can get the most out of modern gaming experiences.
The design of the Alpha R2 also lends itself to gaming – its sleek chassis is designed for maximum airflow and cooling, ensuring your components won’t overheat during intensive gaming sessions. Furthermore, the miniscule size means it won’t take up much space in your home, making it a great choice for gamers who want the power of desktop gaming without having to sacrifice valuable desk real estate.
All in all, the Alienware Alpha R2 can deliver great performance for modern games and is an excellent choice for gamers looking for a powerful yet compact machine.
Is the Alienware Alpha good?
The Alienware Alpha R2 is a decent gaming option that offers good performance and convenience. It has a 6th gen Intel Core processor, up to 16GB of RAM as well as an NVIDIA GTX 960 GPU with 4GB of dedicated video memory that can handle gaming at medium to high settings. The Alpha also features an HDMI port for connecting it to your TV or monitor and Ethernet which allows you to connect with ease.
The design is sleek, with a small form factor that takes up minimal space on any desk or workstation. The Alienware Alpha R2 comes pre-installed with Windows 10 Home and Steam OS, giving you a variety of gaming options.
Overall, the Alienware Alpha R2 is a good gaming option that offers decent performance and convenience without being too expensive. It’s worth considering if you’re in the market for an affordable mini PC that can handle gaming at medium to high settings.
What is Alienware Alpha R2?
The Alienware Alpha R2 is a mini gaming PC designed to bring PC gaming into the living room. It is powered by the 6th generation Intel Core i7 processor and features up to 16GB of DDR4 RAM, as well as an NVIDIA GeForce GTX 960 graphics card with 4GBs of dedicated video memory. The system also includes a slot for a M.2 hard drive, two USB 3.0 ports, one HDMI port and one mini DisplayPort. Additionally, it comes with ethernet and Bluetooth connectivity for connecting additional peripherals or accessories.
All this powerful hardware is housed in a sleek and stylish chassis, giving the Alpha R2 a distinct look that makes it stand out from other mini gaming PCs. The design also ensures that the system runs quietly and efficiently, making it ideal for those who want to game without being too loud or disruptive.
Do they still make Alienware Alpha?
Unfortunately no, Alienware has discontinued the Alpha line of mini gaming PCs, with their last model, the Alpha R2, being released in 2016. The Alpha series was a unique product that brought PC gaming to a whole new level of convenience and portability. While it may be gone, many gamers still have fond memories of this groundbreaking device.
However, the competition in the gaming industry has become much more fierce in recent years, with increasingly powerful and affordable options available. Steam machines just weren’t selling as well as Alienware had predicted, and since the Alpha series was based on a similar concept, it didn’t make sense for them to continue production. Alienware is now focusing their efforts on creating even more powerful gaming PCs and laptops that offer the latest technologies and features.
Related Video: Alienware Alpha R2 | Mini Gaming PC | Review
Conclusion
In the world of desktop PC monsters and game console giants, you certainly don’t lack variety of choice. But if you’re looking for something unique that can bring out the beast in your gaming lifestyle, look no further than the Alienware Alpha R2. It offers powerful performance, combined with flexibility and portability, all packed into a mini-gaming PC package. The Alpha R2 provides better overall graphics performance and visual fidelity than any other console currently available on the market, while still offering full access to Steam’s library of games. And it’s also easily expandable by simply plugging in an external GPU or additional storage devices.
While it’s small, it offers a pretty decent power for a mini-PC; and its performance is comparable to traditional mid-range gaming PCs. The Alpha R2 comes with a lot of customization options and controller support. You can use this little guy as both a desktop computer and a console, depending on your needs. It’s also quite affordable compared to other gaming PCs, with prices starting at around $599 USD.
Just keep in mind that its GPU is quite outdated as far as modern gaming PCs go, and that you won’t be able to get the best performance for the recent titles. The fans are also pretty loud, but if you’re looking for something in a smaller form factor, that’s to be expected.
All in all, Alienware Alpha R2 is a solid choice for entry gamers who are looking for something powerful yet portable. If you can afford it, then this is definitely worth considering as your next desktop PC purchase!
References:
- https://www.dell.com/support/manuals/en-us/alienware-steam-r2-console/alienware-alpha2-setupandspecifications/back?guid=guid-cf170393-b323-46be-aad7-0f3558aa48b6 lang=en-us
- https://www.tomsguide.com/us/alienware-alpha-r2,review-3759.html
- https://www.eurogamer.net/digitalfoundry-2016-alienware-alpha-r2-review
- https://www.pcworld.com/article/415662/alienware-alpha-r2-review-a-tiny-pc-gets-meaner-faster-and-louder.html
- https://www.digitaltrends.com/computing/alienware-alpha-r2-review/