Alienware Area 51m R2 vs X17: The Ultimate Gaming Laptop Showdown
What To Know
- The Area 51m R2 features a sleek, angular design with a magnesium alloy chassis, while the X17 sports a more understated, minimalist aesthetic with an aluminum chassis.
- 3-inch FHD (1920 x 1080) display with a refresh rate of up to 360Hz, while the X17 features a slightly smaller 17-inch QHD (2560 x 1440) display with a refresh rate of up to 360Hz.
- The Area 51m R2 offers up to an Intel Core i9-11900K and an NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3080, while the X17 offers up to an Intel Core i9-11980HK and an NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3080 Ti.
In the realm of high-performance gaming laptops, Alienware has established itself as a formidable force. With its latest offerings, the Area 51m R2 and X17, the company has once again raised the bar. In this comprehensive guide, we will delve into the depths of these two gaming behemoths, exploring their strengths, weaknesses, and ultimately determining which one reigns supreme.
Design and Build Quality
Both the Area 51m R2 and X17 boast exceptional build quality, utilizing durable materials that exude premium craftsmanship. The Area 51m R2 features a sleek, angular design with a magnesium alloy chassis, while the X17 sports a more understated, minimalist aesthetic with an aluminum chassis. Both laptops offer customizable RGB lighting, allowing you to personalize your gaming experience.
Display and Performance
The Area 51m R2 and X17 both come equipped with stunning displays. The Area 51m R2 offers a 17.3-inch FHD (1920 x 1080) display with a refresh rate of up to 360Hz, while the X17 features a slightly smaller 17-inch QHD (2560 x 1440) display with a refresh rate of up to 360Hz. Both displays deliver vibrant colors, deep blacks, and exceptional viewing angles.
In terms of performance, both laptops are powered by the latest Intel Core i9 processors and NVIDIA GeForce RTX 30 series graphics cards. The Area 51m R2 offers up to an Intel Core i9-11900K and an NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3080, while the X17 offers up to an Intel Core i9-11980HK and an NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3080 Ti. Both laptops provide exceptional gaming performance, handling even the most demanding titles with ease.
Cooling and Thermals
Gaming laptops tend to generate a lot of heat, and effective cooling is crucial for maintaining optimal performance. The Area 51m R2 employs a unique dual-fan design with a rear-mounted air intake and a top-mounted air exhaust. The X17, on the other hand, utilizes a more traditional single-fan design with a bottom-mounted air intake and a rear-mounted air exhaust. Both laptops offer excellent cooling capabilities, ensuring that your components remain cool and perform at their best.
Battery Life and Portability
Battery life is often a compromise in gaming laptops, but the Area 51m R2 and X17 both offer respectable battery life. The Area 51m R2 can last up to 8 hours on a single charge, while the X17 can last up to 10 hours. However, it’s important to note that these estimates may vary depending on usage and performance settings.
In terms of portability, both laptops are relatively large and heavy. The Area 51m R2 weighs in at 8.5 pounds, while the X17 weighs 5.3 pounds. While the X17 is more portable, it’s still not a laptop you’ll want to carry around all day.
Ports and Expandability
Both the Area 51m R2 and X17 offer a wide range of ports and expansion options. The Area 51m R2 features two Thunderbolt 4 ports, three USB 3.2 Gen 1 Type-A ports, one HDMI 2.1 port, one mini-DisplayPort, and one RJ-45 Ethernet port. The X17 offers two Thunderbolt 4 ports, two USB 3.2 Gen 1 Type-A ports, one HDMI 2.1 port, one microSD card reader, and one RJ-45 Ethernet port.
Price and Availability
The Area 51m R2 starts at $2,449, while the X17 starts at $2,099. Both laptops are available for purchase from Alienware’s website and authorized retailers.
Which One Should You Choose?
Ultimately, the choice between the Alienware Area 51m R2 and X17 depends on your specific needs and preferences. If you prioritize ultimate performance and upgradability, the Area 51m R2 is the clear choice. However, if you value portability and a more understated design, the X17 may be a better fit.
The Bottom Line: Alienware Area 51m R2 vs X17 – The Verdict
Both the Alienware Area 51m R2 and X17 are exceptional gaming laptops that offer unparalleled performance and features. The Area 51m R2 stands out with its superior upgradability and cooling capabilities, while the X17 offers a more compact and portable design. Ultimately, the best choice for you will depend on your specific needs and preferences.
What You Need to Know
1. Which laptop has the better display?
Both laptops offer excellent displays, but the X17’s QHD display provides slightly better color accuracy and viewing angles.
2. Which laptop has the longer battery life?
The X17 offers slightly longer battery life than the Area 51m R2, with an estimated battery life of up to 10 hours compared to 8 hours.
3. Which laptop is more portable?
The X17 is more portable than the Area 51m R2, weighing in at 5.3 pounds compared to 8.5 pounds.
