Jan 21 2011 - The Alienware M17x R.3 is an updated version of the popular 17.3-inch gaming laptop, and this year's model is slimmer, lighter, and fast with a new 2nd generation Intel Core i7 quad-core processor. The M17x R.3 sports an AMD Radeon HD 6870M graphics card, which albeit isn't as fast as the upcoming 6970M, but still offers excellent frame rates for the price. A multitude of upgrades are also available, such as a 1080p 3D display. While the hard drive is a bit small at 320GB, the premium design elements and updated hardware make even this base configuration an excellent buy.
Pros
- Excellent Display
- Fast Sandy Bridge Processor
- Nice Soft Touch Finish
Cons
- Lack of Memory
- Small Hard Drive
Description
- Intel Core i7-2630QM 2.0GHz (2.8GHz Turbo Mode) with 6MB of Cache
- 4GB DDR3 1333MHz Memory
- 17.3-inch 1600x900 WLED Display
- AMD Radeon HD 6870M 1GB GDDR5 Graphics Card
- 320GB 7200RPM Hard Drive
- 802.11 g/n Wireless
- Dual Layer DVD Burner
- Windows 7 Home Premium 64-Bit
- 16.14" x 11.96" x 1.77" @ 9.4 Pounds
Review - Alienware M17x R.3 (Base Configuration) Gaming Laptop
Alienware M17x R.3 shown in Nebula Red.
Image Courtesy DellThe updated Alienware M17x R.3 has arrived with a new Sandy Bridge processor and graphics card. In the past, the Alienware M17x was brought down by its exaggerated price and heavy weight. However, this updated M17x model is a turn in the right direction. Starting at $1,499, the Alienware M17x R.3 is much lighter than the M17x, starting at 9.4 pounds compared to 11.7 pounds. It also is thinner. And while the base $1,499 configuration doesn't have full 1080p resolution or 3D capability, graphics still look outstanding on the 1600x900 screen. For this review, I'll tackle the standard model versus the 3D version of the M17x R.3.
It's worth noting that the Alienware M17x R.3 features the soft touch finish that was first seen in the Alienware M11x. This is a nice design element and has a great feel. You can choose either red or black for the outside case color for added personalization.
The 17.3-inch gaming notebook utilizes 2nd Generation Intel Core i7 processors ranging from the Core i7-2630QM up to the Core i7-2820QM. While the top-tier Core i7-2820QM CPU does run at 2.3GHz with 8MB of cache, it isn't a necessary upgrade for mainstream users due to the $350 cost. The standard 2630QM is a fast processor that is suitable for most gamers.
It is unfortunate that only 4GB of DDR3 memory is included in the $1,499 Alienware M17x. At this point in time, the price on Dell's website to upgrade to 8GB is an astounding $250. If you're not a hard-core gamer, you can most likely get by with 4GB of RAM. However, the system may have a difficult time handling programs in the distant future. It's a shame the price of upgrading the memory is so ridiculous, considering this system is geared for high performance gamers.
Graphics are courtesy of an AMD Radeon HD 6870M 1GB GDDR5 video card. This card is great for overclocking and offers excellent gameplay. You'll find popular games, such as Starcraft II, to be smooth even on higher settings. However, be aware this card is considered more of a mainstream model than a high performance powerhouse. If you're looking for top benchmarks, you'll probably want to wait for the 6970M option. And odds are, you'll want to upgrade the display, as well, to take advantage of the high-end graphics.
While the hard drive is fast on this model, 320GB of space is a bit small now that storage capacity is relatively inexpensive. It's worth noting how much hard drive space you currently use, as you'll want to give yourself a buffer of additional room for larger games and programs you may want to run in the future.
As with most other notebooks on the market today, the Alienware M17x R.3 offers 802.11 g/n wireless and a dual layer DVD drive. Note a Blu-ray drive isn't included in the base configuration. Microsoft Windows 7 Home Premium 64-bit is also loaded on this system.
In conclusion, the Alienware M17x R.3 is a great desktop replacement especially if you're on a budget. At $1,499 there is wiggle room to add a few options if you so choose without going overboard. However, upgrading the memory certainly is not an affordable option. Even with 4GB of RAM, the Alienware M17x R.3's powerful Sandy Bridge quad-core processor and large 17.3-inch display offer excellent value for the price.