Alienware m17 R5 review
The Alienware Alienware m17 R5 ranks as the #390 laptops globally, achieving a LibraScore of 73. Across all metrics, this product stands out most for its #15-ranked connectivity among 23 laptops. Consider the Alienware x15 R1 or Acer Swift Go 16, which offer higher scores while staying in the same price range.
Is it Worth it?
The Alienware M17 R5 is a powerful gaming laptop with impressive specs. With AMD Ryzen 9 6900HX CPU and Radeon RX 6850M XT GPU options, it delivers strong performance in games. The addition of a 4K display at an affordable price point ($2,250) makes it a compelling buy. While the build quality is excellent, some may find the laptop's size and weight to be a drawback. Overall, if you're in the market for a high-performance gaming laptop with a strong GPU and decent CPU, the M17 R5 is worth considering. Its value proposition is attractive, especially when compared to similarly equipped Intel-based laptops.
Build
The Alienware m17 R5 boasts a slim and stylish design, weighing in at 7.3 lbs (3.3 kg). The tanky build quality is undeniable, with a sturdy metal cover that's easy to remove for upgrade or maintenance purposes. Two M.2 SSD slots and a heat sink cover are thoughtfully provided for additional storage needs. The device features rigid stand-offs to prevent flexing of the bottom cover, ensuring a premium feel throughout. Overall, the build quality is exceptional, making this laptop a great investment for those seeking high-performance gaming capabilities. Get your hands on Alienware m16 R2 if you're looking for better build.
Display
The Alienware M17 R5's display is a highlight of the laptop. You have your choice of three full HD options: 165Hz, 360Hz, and a mind-boggling 480Hz. The 4K 120Hz display is also available, which is great for gaming and content creation. All IPS displays offer fast response times and vibrant colors. The 4K display option is particularly impressive, with crisp and detailed visuals. However, it's worth noting that the 4K display can be quite power-hungry, which may impact battery life. Overall, the M17 R5's display options cater to different needs and preferences, making it a versatile choice for gamers and content creators alike. Consider discovering the power of Alienware m15 R3, featuring the latest advancements in display.
Performance
The Alienware m17 R5's performance is commendable, particularly with the Ryzen 9 6900HX processor. Thermal performance is also impressive, with CPU temperatures peaking at around 99-100°C in gaming tests. The top-of-the-line Radeon RX 6850M XT GPU delivers strong frame rates, rivaling an RTX 3080 in some games. However, power consumption remains high, and the laptop's thermal design makes it less loud than Intel-based models. Performance is robust overall, making this a solid choice for gamers seeking a capable system without breaking the bank. You might prefer Alienware x15 R1, designed with an upgraded performance for a better experience.
Battery and Charging
The Alienware M17 R5 boasts a high-capacity battery with an impressive 97Wh power reserve. However, its thermal performance takes priority over battery life, resulting in average runtime that's just above 3 hours under heavy load. Charging the laptop to full capacity takes around 2-3 hours via AC power, while USB-C charging is noticeably faster. Overall, this gaming behemoth prioritizes performance over battery efficiency, making it unsuitable for those seeking a portable powerhouse.
Connectivity
The Alienware m17 R5 boasts impressive connectivity options. You get two USB-A ports, one USB-C port (though not Thunderbolt-compatible), an Ethernet jack with 2.5GB bandwidth, and Wi-Fi 6E for seamless online interactions. HDMI 2.1 and DisplayPort 1.4 are also available via the USB-C port or separately. The laptop's metal body provides a sturdy foundation for its extensive connectivity options, making it ideal for those who need to stay connected on-the-go. A better alternative might be Alienware m16 R1, featuring a next-level connectivity.
Features
The Alienware M17 R5 boasts a range of features, including a 17.3" display with up to 480Hz refresh rate, AMD Ryzen 6000 CPUs, and Nvidia RTX Graphics options. It also features USB-C ports, Wi-Fi 6E, and a high-capacity battery. You may find Alienware 16 Aurora a better fit, thanks to its superior features.
Support and Maintenance
The Alienware M17 R5 offers extensive support and maintenance options, with Alienware Command Center providing detailed system monitoring and customization capabilities. The laptop also features a robust build quality, with a metal cover that's easy to access for upgrading or replacing components. Additionally, the warranty and repair services are comprehensive, ensuring peace of mind for users.
Pros
1. The laptop has a top-of-the-line AMD GPU, Radeon RX 6850 M with 12 GB of ram
2. It offers good processor options, including Ryzen 9 6900 HX and Ryzen 7 6800h
3. The laptop can be configured with Nvidia GPUs as well, up to RTX 3080 TI
4. The build quality is excellent, with a solid metal body and rigid stand-offs
5. The battery life is not the best, but it's expected given the powerful hardware
6. The price point of $2250 for a comparably equipped laptop is very competitive
Cons
1. The Ryzen processor may not be as efficient as Intel in terms of power consumption
2. The GPU performance may vary depending on the game, and some games are more optimized for AMD than others
3. The thermal performance can get loud when pushing the system to its limits
4. There's limited customization options for power plans and settings in Alienware Command Center
5. The choice of different parts may not be as extensive as other laptops
6. The laptop is not designed for thin-and-light portability, so it may not be suitable for users who need a portable gaming solution
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