Are you in the market for a new gaming laptop? If so, you may be considering the Alienware M17x. This powerful machine has everything that a gamer could want, from an impressive graphics card to a fast processor. In this guide, we will answer some of the most common questions about the Alienware M17x, as well as provide a full product review. So, if you are on the fence about whether or not to buy this laptop, read on!
Now that we’ve gone into detail about the design, hardware and price of the Alienware M17x, let’s take a look at some of the pros that come with this laptop. This powerful laptop brings together the latest in technology and design, combining a thin profile and unique sci-fi style with powerful gaming performance.
Table of Contents
Manual for Alienware M17x
As we can see, the Alienware M17x is a gaming laptop for serious gamers who don’t mind spending a hefty amount of money. It has an eye-catching slim design and powerful components under the hood, but it comes with some drawbacks that you need to be aware of if considering this machine. The M17x is not particularly practical due to its thinness and relatively large form factor. It can also be quite loud when running CPU- or GPU-intensive tasks, due to the powerful components it has. Furthermore, its battery life is limited – you won’t get more than a few hours of intensive use out of it on a single charge. Lastly, the high starting price limits its accessibility to only those with deep pockets. For what it offers, there are much more wallet-friendly alternatives out there—even from Alienware itself. Ultimately, the M17x sits at a reasonable level of excellence for seasoned gamers only—if you’re equipped with thick skin and deep pockets, you can consider this machine.
Alienware in General
Alienware is a subsidiary of Dell that specializes in boutique gaming PCs and components. Founded in 1996, Alienware has pioneered the market for high-end gaming PCs with its line of powerful desktop gaming systems. These machines come loaded with cutting edge hardware, including Intel and AMD processors, Nvidia GeForce graphics cards, large storage options like NVMe SSDs or standard HDDs, and more. Alienware also produces a range of gaming laptops with Intel and AMD CPUs, discrete GPUs from NVIDIA and AMD Radeon graphics, and several different display configurations.
Aside from their popular PC builds, Alienware manufactures an array of other products for gamers. The company offers specialized peripherals such as keyboards, mice, and headsets, as well as the Alienware X-Series console for gamers who prefer a living room gaming experience. The Alienware Command Center software suite allows users to customize their lighting, monitor system performance, and tweak settings for maximum performance.
Alienware M17x is a series of gaming laptops. It was first released in 2009 and has gone through several iterations, each featuring updated components and giving users the power to play the latest games. The laptop is designed for gaming on the go — with its lightweight frame, long battery life, and powerful hardware — making it an ideal choice for gamers who need a machine that can handle high-end gaming and still be portable enough to take wherever they go.
The most recent version of the Alienware M17x is the R2. This version features a 12th Gen Intel® Core™ processor, up to 64GB of RAM, and a variety of graphics cards from both NVIDIA. The laptop also comes with several storage options, including SSDs configurations, up to 4GBs.
The exact specs will depend on the configuration, but you can expect to get a powerful machine that can handle any modern game with ease. The laptop is also equipped with several ports and connections, allowing users to connect external devices such as monitors and gaming controllers.
In the next few sections we will be taking an in-depth look at the Alienware M17x, exploring its features, specs, design and more. We’ll also be discussing some of the pros and cons to help you decide if it is a good fit for your needs. [1],[2],[3],[4],[5]
Design
The importance of design in a laptop is hard to overstate. After all, it’s the first thing you’ll see when you open the lid. The more aesthetically pleasing a laptop looks and feels, the more likely it is to be noticed and attract attention. Moreover, the look and feel of your laptop can directly influence how comfortable it is to use.
The Alienware M17x is a large laptop, measuring roughly 17.3 inches from corner to corner. One feature you will notice right away, is its sleek look that stands out from the crowd. The M17x also features Alienware’s signature lighting displays — the lights on the keyboard and around the screen can be customized for different color effects or to show off your own style. You can even change the color of the logo on the lid.
The newer M17x models are slimmer and lighter than the original, at a price of a place of a second discrete GPU. The weight of the laptop varies depending on configuration, but the base model weighs in at around 9.6 pounds. This makes it light enough to carry around without too much strain. Additionally with a G-Sync support built-in, you can enjoy smooth and lag-free gaming visuals. [2],[3],[4],[5],[6]
Keyboard
The full-size keyboard on the Alienware M17x laptop is a pleasure to use. The keys are spaced out perfectly, with plenty of room for positioning your fingers comfortably. The keys offer generous travel and feedback, making them perfect for long gaming sessions or typing up an essay.
The M17x also has a spacious touchpad, with discrete mouse buttons that offer a satisfying click. The touchpad is well-calibrated, and allows you to scroll, zoom in and out and adjust the brightness of your screen quickly. What’s more, the touchpad comes with multi touch gestures, allowing you to control windows and media players with ease.
Unfortunately, the laptop comes without a fingerprint reader, which makes it a bit less convenient to log in. However, the laptop has a Windows Hello camera that allows you to log in with your face, so it isn’t a total loss. [5],[6]
Cooling
When it comes to a laptop, cooling is one of the most important factors. The Alienware M17x is well equipped to handle the heat generated by its powerful components. It features cooling vents, which help keep the laptop running at optimal temperatures even under intense gaming sessions.
However, while gaming the temperatures of the underside of the laptop can get quite hot. This can make it uncomfortable to use on your lap for long periods of time.
Design
When it comes to laptops, the display is an essential factor in determining your overall gaming experience. A laptop’s display affects how you see your games, movies and pictures. A higher resolution will make colors appear brighter and more vivid while a lower resolution will cause text or images to look jagged or pixelated. Additionally, larger displays allow for bigger image sizes which makes them great for productivity tasks such as designing, editing videos or managing projects with multiple windows open at once. For gamers, larger displays means that they can enjoy their games without having to squint too much when looking at smaller screens.
The display on the Alienware M17x is a 17.3-inch LED screen with full HD resolution and anti-glare coating. The most common resolution is 1920 x 1080p and it makes this laptop perfect for watching movies or playing games in HD, while the anti-glare coating helps to reduce eye strain during long gaming sessions.
A 2560 x 1440 resolution model is also available, giving users an even higher level of detail and sharper images. This can be especially beneficial when editing photos or videos as you’ll be able to see much more detail in each image.
Unfortunately, the anti-glare coating isn’t perfect, and reflections may kick in at times. However, the colors are vivid and the contrast is good, making it very eye-catching. The viewing angles are also excellent, meaning that if you have multiple people looking at the screen they can all see clearly without any distortion.
Audio
When it comes to laptops, audio is an important factor that should not be overlooked. Having high-quality sound can make all the difference in a laptop’s usability, whether you’re using it for gaming, watching movies, or just listening to music. Audio quality also plays an important role in ensuring the overall user experience of your laptop is good and enjoyable.
The audio on the Alienware M17x is surprisingly good considering its size. The laptop features a Dolby Atmos sound system, a high-end audio technology used in both home and professional theaters. The sound is crystal clear with great bass, making it perfect for gaming. Additionally, the laptop speakers are loud enough to fill a room without distortion even at higher volumes.
Overall, the sound quality of the Alienware M17x is quite good and comparable to that of much larger laptops or desktop systems.
Ports
Ports are an essential part of a laptop’s hardware. They allow users to connect their laptop to various other devices, such as monitors, external storage devices, and printers.
Having the right ports in a laptop can be critical for many tasks. For instance, people who need to use multiple monitors or external hard drives will require additional ports on their laptop. Additionally, creating presentations or documents often requires porting files from external devices like digital cameras or USB sticks. The right ports make it easy to do this quickly and easily.
All the ports on Alienware M17x laptops are located on the bottom of the laptop. This allows for easy access when the laptop is in use. It also helps with cable management, as the extra cables don’t have to be stretched over the laptop’s frame.
The USB ports on the Alienware M17x include a USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-C port, two USB 3.2 Gen 1 ports, and one Thunderbolt 4 port, all with power delivery. This allows users to connect a variety of devices, such as external hard drives and monitors.
The M17x also includes a HDMI 2.1 port which supports up to 4K resolution at 120Hz. This is ideal for connecting the laptop to a larger monitor or TV, as well as streaming video content.
Many people will be excited to know that this laptop also includes a SD card slot, allowing users to quickly transfer photos and videos from their camera’s memory card.
As we mentioned, the laptop also has a 720p webcam that is compatible with Windows Hello, so users can take advantage of facial recognition for secure sign in. [2],[3],[4]
Gaming performance
Now let’s talk about the gaming performance of this laptop. The Alienware M17x R2 comes equipped with a 12th gen Intel Core processor and up to 64GB of RAM, making it more than capable of running modern games without any problems. But of course when it comes to gaming you should consider the graphics card first and foremost, as this is something that will ultimately determine how well a laptop can handle games.
The M17x comes with an NVIDIA GeForce RTX 30 series graphics card, which is at the top of its class.
You can find models starting with 3060, 3070 and going all the way to 3080 Ti. The higher end models offer increased performance, allowing for even better gaming experience. The laptop can easily support resolutions up to 4K with a refresh rate of 60Hz. This means you can enjoy your games in stunning detail and smooth motion.
But can the Alienware M17x CPU handle the power of the graphics card? Absolutely. The laptop comes with 14-core Intel Core processors, which are more than capable of handling any graphics card thrown at them.
You will surely be able to enjoy both recent and upcoming AAA titles in 60FPS on high settings with no issues. With the Alienware M17x, you are guaranteed of having a great gaming experience. [1],[6]
Battery life
When it comes to laptops, battery life is one of the most important features and a determining factor in whether you purchase a laptop or not. Battery life affects how long we can use our device before needing to charge it again, and if we’re away from an outlet for a while, then this could be enough to render the laptop unusable.
The Alienware M17x has a 87Wh battery, which is quite large for a laptop of this size and should be able to last for a reasonable amount of time in normal everyday usage scenarios. However you will need to be mindful when playing games as that can take up both the processor and graphics performance and drain your battery quickly.
While surfing the web and doing simple tasks, the battery can last for up to 6 hours on a single charge. But when it comes to gaming, the battery will last for about 1-3 hours depending on the game.
It’s also worth noting that this laptop has fast charging technology so you don’t have to wait too long for it to charge back up again.
Bloatware
Many people are concerned about bloatware when buying a laptop and in the case of the Alienware M17x, there is none. The laptop comes “bloatware” free as it only has Windows 11 pre-installed. The other software is Alienware command center which helps you customize your laptop, as well as a few other tools that allow users to control certain functions on the laptop.
Apart from these few tools, there is no other pre-installed software and thus no bloatware. The laptop may come with some optional software such as Microsoft Office 365 but it’s completely up to you whether or not you want to install them. [2]
Warranty
Alienware M17x laptops come with a standard 1-year limited hardware warranty and 90 days of phone support. The 1-year warranty covers parts and labor, though some exceptions may apply. You can extend the coverage for additional years by purchasing an AlienCare extended service or accident protection plan.
If you’re worried about accidental damage to your laptop from drops, spills, or other incidents, then you may want to consider buying an accident protection plan. These plans provide extra coverage in case of unforeseen events that could cause damage to your laptop. They also come with features like remote diagnostics and data recovery services to help keep your laptop running smoothly in case of any issues. [2],[5]
Price
When it comes to choosing a laptop, price is a major factor in making the decision. The exact price will depend on the configuration of the laptop, with different processors, RAM and storage capacity adding to the final cost.
The Alienware M17x laptops start at around $2,600 for a basic model but can go up to over $6,000 for one with higher specs. While that may seem expensive compared to other gaming laptops in the same price range, it’s worth noting that you’re getting a powerful machine with excellent performance and reliable build quality for your money.
Consider what exactly you want to use the laptop for, and if you need the optional power and features that the Alienware M17x offers. If so, then it may be worth investing in this laptop for its superior performance and long-term reliability. [1]
FAQ
When did the Alienware M17x come out?
The Alienware M17x was first released in 2009 as part of the new Alienware notebook line. It was designed to offer gamers a sleek, powerful laptop that could be used for gaming and everyday tasks such as web browsing and watching movies.
Since then, Alienware has released several new versions of the M17x, each with improved specs and features. The latest version, released in 2022, is equipped with a 12th gen Intel Core processor, NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3060-3080 graphics, and up to 64GB of RAM. It also includes several unique features such as Alienware’s Graphics Amplifier technology, which allows users to connect an external GPU for improved graphics performance.
Is Alienware x17 good for gaming?
Yes, the Alienware M17x is an excellent choice for gaming. It features powerful hardware components, including Intel Core processors and a high-performance graphics card, to provide an immersive gaming experience. Additionally, its 17-inch screen offers a large viewable area that will make any game look great. The laptop also has a slim design that won’t weigh you down while traveling or carrying between LAN events.
Go through the list of available configurations and find one that fits your budget and gaming preferences. With options like discrete NVIDIA graphics cards, up to 64GB of RAM, and multiple storage configurations, you’ll be able to configure the M17x with enough power for even the most demanding games.
Are Alienware laptops good quality?
Yes, Alienware laptops are good quality and offer a range of features that make them attractive to gamers. Alienware M17x laptops are one such example, providing powerful components in a sleek and modern package.
Its impressive display has been praised for its vivid colors and wide viewing angles – perfect for playing games or watching movies. Furthermore, it offers excellent performance when equipped with the right hardware, so you can easily handle graphics-intensive tasks like gaming or video editing. It also has great audio capabilities thanks to the four speakers located near the keyboard. Finally, it boasts plenty of ports to ensure you have room to connect whatever peripherals you need.
Is Alienware x17 the best?
The Alienware M17x is among the best laptops on the market. The most recent model offers a powerful range of features and performance options, including a 12 gen Intel Core processor with turbo boost technology, up to 64GB of DDR4 RAM, a variety of powerful graphics card with Ray Tracing capabilities that can tackle the most graphically intensive games and video editing tasks, along with full HD resolution and a fast display refresh rate.
For gamers, the Alienware M17x provides an excellent gaming experience thanks to its high-end hardware and customisable design option. The laptop includes Alienware Command Center software, which allows you to customize the lighting effects of your laptop and control fan speed for optimal heat management when playing intensive games. Additionally, it offers up to 4TB of storage space with support for SSD drives which only adds to the overall performance of the laptop.
Related Video: Alienware M17x Gaming Notebook Review- HotHardware
Conclusion
Alienware M17x laptop series have secured a loyal fan base due to its outstanding performance, pleasing design and reliable hardware. It is one of the top-performing gaming laptops in the market with features like superior graphics quality, good sound system, impressive battery life and great portability. The laptop is perfect for serious gamers looking for a powerful machine that can handle all their gaming needs without compromising on performance. Despite its expensive price tag, it offers excellent value for money when compared to other gaming laptops in its category.
You can choose between a variety of configurations to fit your budget. The Alienware M17x laptop series is a great choice for those who want to experience the best of gaming without compromising on performance or portability. A 12th gen Intel processor, dedicated graphics card and advanced cooling system makes it an ideal choice for the power user. With so much to offer, Alienware M17x is a no brainer when it comes to gaming laptops. If you’re in the market for a powerful gaming laptop that won’t cost you an arm and a leg, then look no further than Alienware M17x!
We hope this review has been helpful in your hunt for the perfect gaming machine. Whether you are looking for raw power or just something to play casual games on, the Alienware M17x should serve you well for years to come!
References:
- https://www.dell.com/en-us/shop/dell-laptops/alienware-x17-r2-gaming-laptop/spd/alienware-x17-r2-laptop/wnr2x17cto10s
- https://www.laptopmag.com/reviews/laptops/alienware-m17x-2011
- https://www.cnet.com/reviews/alienware-m17x-review/
- https://www.ign.com/articles/alienware-x17-r2-review
- https://www.pcmag.com/reviews/alienware-x17-r2
- https://www.notebookcheck.net/Alienware-M17x-R4-Notebook-Review.75292.0.html