Alienware x17 R2vsAlienware m17 R5

We compare these two popular phones to help you decide which one fits your needs and budget better.

Alienware
Alienware x17 R2
x17 R2

Quick Stats

The Alienware x17 R2 boasts top-notch performance with a 12th gen CPU and up to a 3080 Ti GPU.
The Alienware x17 R2's build quality is marred by questionable decisions, such as removing the RGB trackpad.
The Alienware x17 R2's lack of a higher resolution display is its most notable and disappointing feature.
The Alienware x17 R2 boasts impressive features including 12th gen CPUs and NVIDIA GeForce RTX graphics options.
Alienware
Alienware m17 R5
m17 R5

Quick Stats

The Alienware m17 R5 delivers strong performance, particularly with its Ryzen processor and Radeon GPU capabilities overall.
The Alienware m17 R5 boasts exceptional build quality, ensuring a premium feel and durability overall throughout its tanky design.
The Alienware M17 R5's display offers multiple high-refresh-rate options, including 480Hz and 4K at 120Hz.
The Alienware M17 R5 offers advanced features like up to 480Hz refresh rate and Nvidia RTX Graphics options.
Key Differences

No significant specification differences found between these devices.

Rank
Alienware x17 R2
#391
Alienware m17 R5
Winner
#390
Scores by Category
Rankings
Connectivity
Alienware x17 R2
#16
Alienware m17 R5
#15
Winner
Display
Alienware x17 R2
#588
Alienware m17 R5
#587
Winner
Performance
Alienware x17 R2
#182
Alienware m17 R5
#181
Winner
Build
Alienware x17 R2
#429
Alienware m17 R5
#428
Winner
Features
Alienware x17 R2
#211
Alienware m17 R5
#210
Winner

Note: Lower rank number indicates a better position in category.

Specifications Comparison
Specification
Alienware Alienware x17 R2
Alienware Alienware m17 R5
up to 64GB
up to 64GB
up to 16000GB SSD + up to 8000GB HDD
up to 4000GB SSD
Intel Core i9-12900HK
AMD Ryzen 9 6900HX
NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3080 Ti (Laptop, 175W)
NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3050 Ti (Laptop)

Note: Highlighted specifications show differences between the two devices.

Pros and Cons

Alienware x17 R2

Strengths

The Alienware x17 R2 has a powerful 12th gen CPU that provides amazing performance for both work and play.
It comes with DDR5 memory, which offers improved speed and efficiency.
The option to choose between a 3070 or 3080ti graphics card gives users flexibility in terms of gaming performance.
The laptop's battery life is impressive, lasting around 4 hours and 50 minutes on balanced mode with RGB on at 200 nits of brightness.
The advanced Optimus technology used in the screens ensures that both the 165Hz and 360Hz options have similar battery life.
The USB-C charging feature allows users to charge the laptop using a USB-C power pack, monitor, or dock, which is convenient for working on-the-go.
Dell has redesigned the 330 watt power brick to make it more compact and lighter, making it a nice addition to the laptop package.

Weaknesses

The prices of this year's Alienware laptops are incredibly expensive, with the x17 R2 starting at $3600 for an i9 with 3080ti.
If you're only interested in gaming and don't need the latest CPU, it may be worth looking into last year's model (x17 R1) for a bargain.
Dell has removed the RGB trackpad from this year's model, which is a feature that many customers loved.
The lack of QHD option on the x17 R2 is surprising, especially considering that other competitors offer it in 2022.
The prices are not just high for Alienware but also for most brands due to global supply and demand issues.
The $3600 price tag for an i9 with 3080ti may be a stretch for many budgets, making the x17 R1 a more attractive option.
Overall, while the x17 R2 has some great features, its high price and lack of QHD option make it a less appealing choice for those on a budget.

Alienware m17 R5

Strengths

The laptop has a top-of-the-line AMD GPU, Radeon RX 6850 M with 12 GB of ram
It offers good processor options, including Ryzen 9 6900 HX and Ryzen 7 6800h
The laptop can be configured with Nvidia GPUs as well, up to RTX 3080 TI
The build quality is excellent, with a solid metal body and rigid stand-offs
The battery life is not the best, but it's expected given the powerful hardware
The price point of $2250 for a comparably equipped laptop is very competitive

Weaknesses

The Ryzen processor may not be as efficient as Intel in terms of power consumption
The GPU performance may vary depending on the game, and some games are more optimized for AMD than others
The thermal performance can get loud when pushing the system to its limits
There's limited customization options for power plans and settings in Alienware Command Center
The choice of different parts may not be as extensive as other laptops
The laptop is not designed for thin-and-light portability, so it may not be suitable for users who need a portable gaming solution
Read Full Reviews

Alienware x17 R2

The Alienware x17 R2 is an impressive gaming laptop that builds upon the success of its predecessor. Featuring a powerful 12th-gen CPU and up to a GeForce RTX 3080 Ti GPU, this machine delivers exceptional performance. However, with a hefty price tag to match, it may not be worth it for casual gamers. For those seeking a high-end laptop for work and play, the x17 R2 is an excellent choice, but others might consider last year's model or other options.

Alienware m17 R5

The Alienware M17 R5 is the latest addition to their lineup of gaming laptops. With the AMD Ryzen series at its core, this device offers a range of configurations, including AMD Graphics and Nvidia RTX Graphics options. Weighing in at 7.3 lbs, it's still relatively slim and stylish, boasting a 17.3-inch display and powerful processor capabilities that make it a compelling choice for gaming enthusiasts.

Need help choosing?

Read our detailed reviews to understand which device is better for your specific needs and budget.

Read Alienware x17 R2 ReviewRead Alienware m17 R5 Review

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