Alienware X17 vs Area 51m R2: Which Gaming Laptop Offers the Best Value for Your Money?
What To Know
- In contrast, the Area 51m R2 exudes a more rugged and utilitarian vibe, with a thicker body and a plastic and magnesium alloy construction.
- In terms of graphics, the X17 supports NVIDIA’s RTX 3080 mobile graphics card, while the Area 51m R2 can be equipped with the RTX 3080 or even the more powerful RTX 3090.
- The X17’s 97Wh battery provides up to 10 hours of battery life on a single charge, while the Area 51m R2’s 90Wh battery lasts for up to 8 hours.
When it comes to high-performance gaming laptops, Alienware is a name that stands out. Two of their top contenders are the Alienware X17 and the Area 51m R2. Both laptops boast impressive specs and cutting-edge designs, but which one is the ultimate choice for gamers? In this comprehensive comparison, we’ll delve into the key differences between the Alienware X17 and Area 51m R2, helping you make an informed decision.
Design and Build Quality
The Alienware X17 and Area 51m R2 offer distinct design philosophies. The X17 features a sleek and sophisticated aesthetic, with a thin profile and a premium metal chassis. In contrast, the Area 51m R2 exudes a more rugged and utilitarian vibe, with a thicker body and a plastic and magnesium alloy construction. Both laptops are well-built and durable, but the X17’s premium materials and slimmer profile give it an edge in terms of portability and style.
Display
The Alienware X17 and Area 51m R2 offer a range of display options. The X17’s 17.3-inch display comes in configurations with a 144Hz refresh rate and 3ms response time, or a 360Hz refresh rate and 1ms response time. The Area 51m R2’s 17.3-inch display offers a 144Hz refresh rate and 7ms response time, or a 300Hz refresh rate and 3ms response time. For gamers who prioritize high refresh rates and fast response times, the X17’s display options provide a superior experience.
Performance
Both the Alienware X17 and Area 51m R2 are equipped with powerful hardware, but there are some key differences. The X17 is powered by Intel’s 11th-generation Core i9 processors, while the Area 51m R2 offers a choice between Intel’s 10th-generation Core i9 processors and AMD’s Ryzen 5000 series processors. In terms of graphics, the X17 supports NVIDIA‘s RTX 3080 mobile graphics card, while the Area 51m R2 can be equipped with the RTX 3080 or even the more powerful RTX 3090. For those demanding the highest possible performance, the Area 51m R2 with the RTX 3090 provides the edge.
Upgradability
One of the key advantages of the Area 51m R2 is its exceptional upgradability. Unlike most gaming laptops, which have components soldered to the motherboard, the Area 51m R2 features a modular design that allows for easy upgrades. The CPU, GPU, RAM, and storage can all be swapped out, giving users the flexibility to customize and future-proof their laptop. The Alienware X17, on the other hand, offers more limited upgradability options, with only the RAM and storage being user-upgradeable.
Connectivity and Ports
The Alienware X17 and Area 51m R2 offer a comprehensive range of connectivity options. Both laptops feature multiple USB 3.2 Gen 1 and Gen 2 ports, as well as Thunderbolt 4 ports. The X17 also includes an HDMI 2.1 port, while the Area 51m R2 has an additional Mini DisplayPort. Both laptops support Wi-Fi 6E and Bluetooth 5.2 for wireless connectivity.
Battery Life
Gaming laptops are not typically known for their impressive battery life, but the Alienware X17 and Area 51m R2 offer decent performance in this area. The X17’s 97Wh battery provides up to 10 hours of battery life on a single charge, while the Area 51m R2’s 90Wh battery lasts for up to 8 hours. However, it’s important to note that battery life can vary significantly depending on usage and settings.
Which Laptop is Right for You?
The choice between the Alienware X17 and Area 51m R2 ultimately depends on your individual needs and preferences. If you prioritize portability, style, and high refresh rate displays, the Alienware X17 is an excellent choice. For gamers who demand the highest possible performance and upgradability, the Area 51m R2 is the clear winner.
Verdict: The Ultimate Gaming Laptop
Both the Alienware X17 and Area 51m R2 are exceptional gaming laptops that offer impressive performance, stunning displays, and robust connectivity options. The X17 excels in portability and style, while the Area 51m R2 provides unparalleled upgradability and performance. Ultimately, the best choice for you depends on your individual priorities and budget.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Which laptop has a better display?
A: The Alienware X17 offers display options with higher refresh rates and faster response times, providing a superior gaming experience for fast-paced titles.
Q: Can I upgrade the CPU and GPU in the Alienware X17?
A: No, the CPU and GPU in the Alienware X17 are soldered to the motherboard and cannot be upgraded.
Q: Which laptop is heavier?
A: The Area 51m R2 is heavier than the Alienware X17, due to its thicker chassis and more robust construction.
Q: Does the Area 51m R2 have a webcam?
A: Yes, the Area 51m R2 features a 720p webcam with Windows Hello support.
Q: Which laptop has better battery life?
A: The Alienware X17 has a slightly better battery life than the Area 51m R2, thanks to its more efficient components and slimmer profile.
