Alienware x16 R2 review
The Alienware Alienware x16 R2 ranks as the #81 laptops globally, achieving a LibraScore of 80. Across all metrics, this product stands out most for its #19-ranked features among 18 laptops. Consider the Acer Predator Triton 17X or Acer Predator Helios 16, which offer higher scores while staying in the same price range.
Is it Worth it?
The Alienware X16 R2 is a visually stunning laptop with excellent speakers. However, its performance falls short due to a dim 300-nit screen and subpar CPU performance. While gaming has been solid, there are better options available at this price point. The heat emitted from the sides during heavy gaming sessions was also a disappointment. Considering the hefty price tag, I wouldn't recommend it unless you're set on the Alienware brand. In that case, the M18 would be a more worthwhile option.
Build
The Alienware x16 R2's build is impressive, with a sturdy and sleek design that exudes high-quality craftsmanship. The laptop's magnesium alloy construction provides excellent durability, while the subtle lighting accents add a touch of sophistication. However, the 300-nit screen's dimness is disappointing, especially compared to its peers. The keyboard and touchpad are comfortable and responsive, but some may find the palm rest's temperature buildup during intense gaming sessions a nuisance. Overall, the x16 R2's build is solid, but not without minor drawbacks that detract from an otherwise excellent user experience. You might want to check out Alienware 16 Area-51, featuring an upgraded build for a superior experience.
Display
The display on the Alienware x16 R2 is a letdown. With a claimed brightness of 300 nits, it falls short of its peers, making it dimmer in bright environments. This compromises overall visual experience and gaming performance. The screen's color accuracy and viewing angles are decent, but not exceptional. Considering the laptop's hefty price tag, one would expect a higher-quality display. Overall, the x16 R2's display is merely average, failing to impress. Take a look at Alienware 16 Area-51 - its improved display sets a new standard.
Performance
The Alienware X16 R2's performance is marred by lackluster CPU performance. The Core i9-12900H processor struggles with single-core performance and short multi-core workloads, being beaten by the Core i7 in the new XPS 16. Gaming performance with the RTX 4080 is decent, but temperatures on the palmrest and keyboard remain excellent. However, heat emanating from the sides of the laptop during heavy gaming sessions can be a concern. Overall, while the X16 R2 performs adequately for gaming, its CPU performance falls short of expectations at this price point. If you're after top-notch performance, consider Alienware 16X Aurora.
Battery and Charging
The battery life of the Alienware x16 R2 is decent but not exceptional, lasting around 6 hours and 34 minutes in our test. On the bright side, the laptop has excellent 100W PD support through both USB-C ports, making it easy to top up on-the-go. However, GPU performance was limited to 55W in battery mode, which may impact gaming experience. Overall, while not outstanding, the battery life is sufficient for casual use and light gaming sessions.
Connectivity
The Alienware x16 R2's connectivity options are standard for its class. It features dual USB-C ports with 100W PD support, making it ideal for heavy users. The laptop also has an SD card reader and a headphone jack. Connectivity-wise, the x16 R2 is on par with other gaming laptops in this segment. Give Alienware 16 Area-51 a try—it’s designed to provide an unparalleled connectivity.
Features
The Alienware x16 R2 boasts excellent speakers and solid gaming performance. Its features include a powerful RTX 48 GPU, advanced Optimus, and a Gsync panel. The laptop also has a range of customizable lighting options and various profiles for quiet or high-performance gaming through the Alienware Command Center software. Get your hands on Acer Swift Edge if you're looking for better features.
Support and Maintenance
The Alienware x16 R2 has a robust PSU with a 36W GaN unit, ensuring high-performance configurations are always supported. However, concerns arise from the inverted motherboard design, making it difficult to repaste, potentially affecting CPU performance. The laptop's lackluster battery life and dim screen also raise questions about overall support and maintenance.
Pros
1. I absolutely love the look and feel of this laptop
2. The speakers are truly excellent
3. Gaming has been really solid
4. Temperatures on the palmrest and the keyboard remained excellent through even the heaviest gaming sessions
5. Alienware Command Center has many profiles to allow you to choose between quiet gaming right up to the F1 Max fans mode
6. Battery life is great, no issue there
7. 100 wat PD support through both of the USBC ports and on our testing it was absolutely excellent
8. The 36 wat Gan PSU is a new addition this year and performs well
Cons
1. The screen's brightness (300 nit) is dimmer than all of its peers
2. CPU performance is very lackluster
3. There are just much better options available at this price point for gaming
4. Heat pumps out of the sides when heavily gaming, which considering that it's its sole reason for existing was quite disappointing
5. Anyware Command Center software is one of my least favorite pieces of software for controlling any laptop out there
6. Battery life test was pretty poor in our usual test of streaming YouTube over wi-fi at 200 nits of brightness (6 hours and 34 minutes)
7. The laptop's heat output did annoy me when heavily gaming directly on the laptop
8. There are better options available if you don't care about the size, such as the Alienware M18
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