
In contrast, we had a 2.53GHz Intel Core 2 Quad Extreme QX9300, along with 8GB of DDR3 RAM, and dual Nvidia GeForce GTX280M graphics card, which moves the M17x to the top of our laptop performance list. The specs for that system are somewhat less impressive, with a 2.4GHz Intel Core 2 Duo P8600, a single Nvidia GeForce GTX 260M GPU, 4GB of RAM, a 250GB 7,200rpm hard drive, a DVD burner, and a lower-resolution 1,440x900 screen. While our review unit was configured with nearly every high-end option available and cost almost $5,000, the M17x actually starts at a much more reasonable $1,799.
Alienware laptop m17x r3 skin Pc#
Multiple audio-outs mean you can easily hook up a set of big PC speakers, which is a plus for high-intensity gaming. No shortage of ports and connections here, including a rarely seen mini-Firewire port and three separate video output options, including DisplayPort. There's also a strip of touch-sensitive controls above the keyboard (also with an adjustable backlit color), but their response was a little slow for us, and there was a confusing lack of onscreen confirmation for some of the commands. Alienware explains that for its core gamer audience, the traditional keys provide more space between the individual letters, which is better for first-person shooters, which make heavy use of the WASD keys. The keyboard has a more traditional tapered key design, rather than the wider, flat keys many laptop makers are partial to these days. The previous version's flush touch pad-previously demarcated only by a backlit outline-has been improved, with a very subtle texture, so your finger can more easily tell when it's actually on the touch pad (even if most gamers will plug in an external mouse).

Alienware laptop m17x r3 skin software#
The same software package also provides a fairly comprehensive power control suite, which offers more detailed options than the basic Windows Vista power settings, as well as security controls, including facial recognition log-in software. You can now set the color for the backlit keyboard in four separate zones, meaning you can create a rainbowlike design across the keys. The anodized aluminum case feels heavy and substantial-but also means you won't be taking it on too many trips outside the house (unless you like lugging around almost 15 pounds of computer equipment).Īlienware's Fusion FX lighting and settings control system returns-even more over-the-top than ever.


The front edge has also gotten an overhaul, with an angled automotive-inspired grille that helps the overall look from being too slablike. This new version continues the march toward modern minimalist design, with fewer distracting flourishes on the keyboard tray, and a slick edge-to-edge glass overlay on the display. The previous M17x made a few steps in the right direction, de-emphasizing the brand's iconic glowing alien head design and offering a smart matte black finish. We've always gotten down on Alienware for its dorm-room-chic design sensibilities, which seemed more like adolescent sci-fi fantasies than anything someone who could actually drop five grand on a laptop would be interested in.
