Alienware m17 R3 review
The Alienware Alienware m17 R3 ranks as the #755 laptops globally, achieving a LibraScore of 63. Across all metrics, this product stands out most for its #383-ranked performance among 26 laptops. Consider the Acer Predator Helios 500 or Acer Spin 7, which offer higher scores while staying in the same price range.
Is it Worth it?
The Alienware M17 R3 is a powerhouse gaming laptop with exceptional speed, making it one of the fastest on the market. Its sleek design is undeniably impressive, but at a steep price tag over $2,500 for lower specs. The main drawback lies in its excessive heat output and noisy fans, which can be distracting. While the 4K display seems luxurious, it's not worth the added expense, consuming too many resources and reducing performance. The Tobii eye tracker is a gimmick, offering limited utility. Ultimately, this laptop is ideal for serious gamers willing to overlook its downsides. For others, its price may outweigh its benefits.
Build
The Alienware M17 R3 boasts an impressive build quality. The device's aluminum alloy chassis exudes a premium feel, while the angular design is both striking and functional. Despite its thin profile, the laptop maintains a robust construction that withstood everyday use. However, its 4K display is a mixed bag - while visuals are crisp, the increased resource demands often led to slower performance. The laptop's temperature management could also be improved, as it tends to heat up during intense usage. Overall, the M17 R3's build quality is impressive, but falls short in certain aspects. For a superior build, Alienware m17 R4 could be the right choice.
Display
The display on the Alienware M17 R3 is a point of contention for me. I opted for the 4K screen, but in hindsight, it was a mistake. The sharpness is only noticeable when viewed up close, and the high resolution demands too many resources, leading to slower performance and lower frame rates. Furthermore, the screen is maxed out at 60Hz, limiting the potential for triple-digit frame rates. I would recommend opting for the FHD with 300Hz display instead, as it offers a smoother gaming experience without the added cost and resource requirements of 4K. A better alternative might be Alienware m17 R4, featuring a next-level display.
Performance
The Alienware M17 R3's performance is its strongest suit. As one of the fastest gaming laptops on the market, it delivers top-notch speeds and fluid gameplay. With a powerful processor and high-end graphics card, it handles demanding games like Shadow Tomb Raider with ease, making it an excellent choice for gamers. However, I regret choosing the 4K display over the FHD option with a 300Hz refresh rate, as it compromises performance and frame rates. Nonetheless, this laptop's speed is its most impressive feature. You may find Alienware m15 R3 a better fit, thanks to its superior performance.
Battery and Charging
The battery life of the Alienware M17 R3 is somewhat underwhelming, with approximately 4-5 hours of use on a single charge in moderate settings. The laptop charges relatively quickly via USB-C, taking around an hour to reach full capacity. However, owners may find themselves needing to top up more frequently due to the power-hungry 4K display and demanding CPU.
Connectivity
The Alienware M17 R3 boasts an impressive array of connectivity options, including USB-A, USB-C, HDMI, and DisplayPort. The laptop also features Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth 5, ensuring seamless connections to peripherals and online networks. A Killer E3100 Ethernet controller provides a reliable wired connection option. Alienware m17 R4 might be a smarter choice, offering an upgraded connectivity.
Features
The Alienware M17 R3 boasts impressive features, including a 4K OLED display, 300Hz FHD option, and up to 64GB RAM. The laptop's design is sleek, with a compact footprint considering its performance capabilities. A Tobii eye tracker allows for interactive gaming experiences, and multiple storage options are available. However, the high cost and heat generation may be drawbacks for some users. For an improved features, Acer Predator Helios 500 is worth considering.
Support and Maintenance
The Alienware M17 R3 boasts impressive speed, with some of the fastest gaming capabilities on the market. However, its thin design makes it prone to overheating, which can lead to fan noise and performance issues. Regular maintenance is essential to prevent these problems, including ensuring adequate airflow around the laptop. Additionally, support from Alienware's team may be necessary for troubleshooting and resolving any technical concerns that arise.
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