What to know
- The Area 51m offers a 360Hz panel with NVIDIA G-Sync, while the X17 has a 144Hz or 360Hz option with AMD FreeSync Premium.
- However, the Area 51m has a more extensive array of ports, including a dedicated mini-DisplayPort and a full-size SD card reader.
- The Area 51m has a dual-fan design with vapor chambers, while the X17 uses a single-fan design with a vapor chamber and liquid metal thermal compound.
In the realm of gaming laptops, Alienware reigns supreme. The Area 51m and X17 are two of their most popular offerings, each boasting exceptional performance and cutting-edge features. But which one is right for you? In this comprehensive comparison, we delve into the key differences between the Alienware Area 51m and X17 to help you make an informed decision.
Performance and Graphics
The Area 51m and X17 are both powered by the latest Intel Core i9 processors, ensuring lightning-fast performance for gaming and multitasking. However, the Area 51m has a slight edge in raw power due to its upgradable desktop-grade graphics cards. It supports NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3080 and 3090 GPUs, while the X17 is limited to the mobile RTX 3080 Ti.
Design and Portability
The Area 51m is a behemoth of a laptop, weighing in at over 8 pounds. Its thick chassis houses a powerful cooling system and upgradable components. In contrast, the X17 is more portable at around 6 pounds. It has a sleek and lightweight design with a thin profile.
Display and Sound
Both the Area 51m and X17 feature stunning 17.3-inch displays with high refresh rates and vibrant colors. The Area 51m offers a 360Hz panel with NVIDIA G-Sync, while the X17 has a 144Hz or 360Hz option with AMD FreeSync Premium. The Area 51m has a more immersive audio experience with Dolby Atmos speakers, while the X17 has Waves Nx 3D audio.
Connectivity and Expandability
The Area 51m and X17 both offer a wide range of connectivity options, including Thunderbolt 4, USB 3.2 Gen 2, and HDMI 2.1. However, the Area 51m has a more extensive array of ports, including a dedicated mini-DisplayPort and a full-size SD card reader. The Area 51m also boasts a unique “Alienware Graphics Amplifier” port, which allows you to connect an external GPU for even greater graphics performance.
Battery Life and Thermal Management
The Area 51m has a larger battery capacity than the X17, but its high-performance components and desktop-grade GPU result in shorter battery life. The X17 has a more efficient design and a smaller battery, but it offers longer battery life for everyday tasks.
Both laptops have advanced cooling systems to dissipate heat effectively. The Area 51m has a dual-fan design with vapor chambers, while the X17 uses a single-fan design with a vapor chamber and liquid metal thermal compound.
Price and Availability
The Alienware Area 51m is more expensive than the X17 due to its upgradable components and desktop-grade graphics card. The base configuration of the Area 51m starts at around $2,000, while the X17 starts at around $1,500.
Both laptops are available from Alienware’s website and authorized retailers.
The Verdict: Which One Should You Choose?
The Alienware Area 51m is the ultimate choice for gamers who demand the highest possible performance and upgradability. Its desktop-grade graphics card and powerful cooling system make it ideal for the most demanding games and creative applications.
The Alienware X17 is a more portable and affordable option that still offers excellent performance and features. It’s a great choice for gamers who prioritize portability and battery life without sacrificing too much performance.
Ultimately, the best choice between the Alienware Area 51m and X17 depends on your individual needs and budget.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Which laptop has a better keyboard?
A: Both laptops have excellent keyboards with per-key RGB lighting. The Area 51m has a slightly more tactile feel, while the X17’s keyboard is quieter.
Q: Can I upgrade the RAM and storage in both laptops?
A: Yes, both the Area 51m and X17 allow you to upgrade the RAM and storage. The Area 51m has more upgrade options, including the ability to upgrade the CPU.
Q: Which laptop has a better webcam?
A: The X17 has a better webcam with a higher resolution and wider field of view. The Area 51m’s webcam is adequate but not as good as the X17’s.