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Alienware
Alienware
from Wikipedia

Alienware Corporation is an American computer hardware subsidiary brand of Dell. Their product range is dedicated to gaming computers and accessories and can be identified by their alien-themed designs.[4] Alienware was founded in 1996 by Nelson Gonzalez and Alex Aguila.[5][6] The development of the company is also associated with Frank Azor,[7] Arthur Lewis,[8][9] Joe Balerdi,[10] and Michael S. Dell (CEO). The company's corporate headquarters is located in The Hammocks, Miami, Florida.[11]

Key Information

History

[edit]

Founding

[edit]

Alienware was established in 1996 as Saikai of Miami, Inc. by Nelson Gonzalez and Alex Aguila, two childhood friends. It assembled desktops, notebooks, workstations, and PC gaming consoles.[12][13][14][15] According to employees, the name "Alienware" was chosen because of the founders' fondness for the hit television series The X-Files, which also inspired the science-fiction themed names of product lines such as Area-51, Hangar 18, and Aurora.[16] In 1997, the corporation changed its name to Alienware.

Acquisition by Dell

[edit]

Dell had considered buying Alienware as early as 2002, but did not go through with the purchase until March 2006.[17][18] As a subsidiary of Dell, Alienware retains control of its design and marketing while benefiting from Dell's purchasing power, economies of scale, and supply chain, which lowered its operating costs.[18]

Initially, Dell maintained its competing XPS line of gaming PCs, often selling computers with similar specifications, which may have hurt Alienware's market share within its market segment.[19][20] Due to corporate restructuring in the spring of 2008, the XPS brand was scaled down, and the desktop line was eliminated, leaving only XPS notebooks,[20] but XPS desktop models had returned by the end of the year.[21] Product development of gaming PCs was consolidated with Dell's gaming division, with Alienware becoming Dell's premier gaming brand.[22][23] On June 2, 2009, The M17x was introduced as the first Alienware/Dell branded system. This launch also expanded Alienware's global reach from six to 35 countries while supporting 17 different languages.[24]

Products (after acquisition by Dell)

[edit]

Windows OS-based consoles

[edit]

Alienware announced that it would be releasing a series of video game consoles starting in 2014, aiming to compete with Sony's PlayStation 4, Nintendo's Wii U, and Microsoft's Xbox One.[25] The first version in this series, the Alpha, ran Windows 8.1.[26] The operating system and ability to play PC games is what separates the Alpha from the eighth generation of video game consoles. At the Electronic Entertainment Expo 2016 (E3 2016), Alienware announced the second rendition of the Alpha, the Alpha R2. The R2 adds 6th generation Intel processors, a choice of either AMD's Radeon R9 M470X or Nvidia's GeForce 960 graphics cards, and support for Alienware's proprietary Graphics Amplifier. It also ships with Windows 10.[27]

Graphics Amplifier

[edit]

The Graphics Amplifier allows an Alienware laptop to run most full length (or smaller, non-hybrid) desktop GPUs.[28] A proprietary PCIe 3.0 ×4 cable is used instead of the Thunderbolt 3 cable used on most other eGPUs.[29]

Laptops

[edit]

18 inch

[edit]
  • M18x (discontinued) – Introduced in 2011, it is considered a replacement for the original M17x design, but with a bigger chassis, a screen up to 18.4 inches (47 cm), dual MXM 3.0B GPU support, special keyboard macros, and up to 32 GB of DDR3-1600 MHz RAM. Shipped with Intel Sandy Bridge processors and the option of single or dual AMD Radeon 6870M/6970M/6990M Radeon HD 6000 series GPU(s), single or dual Nvidia GeForce 500 series GPU(s). Factory CPU overclocking was also an available option.
  • M18x-R2 (discontinued) – 2012 revision of the M18x; originally shipped with Intel Sandy Bridge processors, later shipped with updated with Intel Ivy Bridge processors, single or dual Nvidia GeForce 600 series GPU(s), single or dual AMD Radeon HD 7970M Radeon HD 7000 series GPU(s), up to 32 GB of DDR3-1600 MHz, and optional factory overclock.
  • Alienware 18 (discontinued) – 2013 refresh of the M18x; updated with Intel Haswell Processors, single or dual Nvidia GeForce 700 series GPU(s), single or dual AMD Radeon R9 M290X GPU(s), and up to 32 GB of DDR3L-1600 MHz RAM, and 1 TB RAID 0 SSDs along with facelift with new design. Marketed as "Alienware 18" but listed in some countries as "M18XR3 Viking".[30]
  • Alienware 18 R2 (2014) (discontinued) – 2014 Updated version of the Alienware 18 or "M18x R3"; updated with Intel Haswell micro architecture processors, single or dual Nvidia GeForce 800 series GPU(s), up to 32 GB of DDR3-1600 MHz, and optional overclock.
  • Alienware 18 R3 (2015) (discontinued) – 2015 version was a limited re-release of the previous Alienware 18, with updated dual Nvidia GeForce 900 series GPUs and up to 32 GB of DDR3L-1600 MHz.
  • Alienware m18 (2023) – The new version of the Alienware m series featuring 18-inch display, 13th-gen Intel Core / Ryzen 7000 series CPU and Nvidia GeForce RTX 40 Series Laptop GPU.[31]
  • Alienware 18 Area-51 (2025) - The Area-51 line returns with an 18-inch QHD+ (2560 x 1600p) screen, Intel Core Ultra 9 275HX CPU with 24 cores, and NVIDIA GeForce RTX 50 Series Laptop GPU.[32]

17 inch

[edit]
  • M17x (discontinued) – Introduced in 2009, it is the first laptop released by Alienware after the company was bought by Dell. The name and some of the design is based on the Alienware 17-inch laptop, the Alienware M17.
  • M17x-R2 (discontinued) – 2010 revision of the M17x, adding support for Intel i5 and i7 processors, dual MXM 3.0B graphic cards.
  • M17x-R3 (discontinued) – 2011 revision of the M17x, changes from aluminium chassis to a simplified plastic design, 3D Ready through a 120 Hz screen. Removes Dual-GPU capability.
  • M17x-R4 (discontinued) – 2012 revision of the M17x, updated with Windows 8, Intel Ivybridge Processors and Nvidia GeForce 600 series or the AMD Radeon HD 7970M.
  • Alienware 17 (discontinued) – 2013 refresh of the M17x, updated with Intel Haswell Processors and Nvidia GeForce 700 series GPUs or the AMD R9 M290X with new facelift and body design. Marketed as "Alienware 17" but listed in some countries and order details as "M17XR5 Ranger". Updated with Nvidia GeForce 800 series in 2014
  • Alienware 17 R2 (discontinued) – 2015 revision of the Alienware 17, updated with Nvidia GeForce 900 series. Features FHD matte display or FHD touch display. A port on the rear for graphics amplifier. This model introduced BGA mounted CPU and GPU, removing the ability to replace the CPU or GPU without changing the entire motherboard.
  • Alienware 17 R3 (discontinued) – 2015 refresh of the Alienware 17, Windows 10 available. Features FHD overclocking display. Ultra HD IGZO display also available, as well as a Nvidia GeForce 900 series with 4 GB GDDR5 and 8 GB GDDR5 option.
  • Alienware 17 R4 (discontinued) – 2016 Alienware 17 (2016), Windows 10. Features 6th / 7th generation Intel CPU, Tobii eye tracking, Ultra HD display also available, as well as a Nvidia GeForce 1000 series with up to 8 GB GDDR5.
  • Alienware 17 R5 (discontinued) – 2018 Alienware 17 (2018), Windows 10. Features Tobii eye tracking, Ultra HD display also available, as well as a Nvidia GeForce 1000 series with up to 8 GB GDDR5, 8th / 9th generation of Intel processors.
  • Alienware M17 (discontinued) – 2018 Thin and light gaming laptop for 17" category. Comes with 8th Gen Intel CPU up to Core i9-8950HK, RTX 2070 Max-Q, 16 GB of RAM and 17.3 inches (44 cm) 1080p display with optional 4K upgrade.[33]
  • Alienware Area-51m (discontinued) – 2019 desktop replacement gaming laptop with a desktop CPU, up to Intel Core i9-9900K (from i7 8700 to i9 9900K), 128 GB of upgradeable memory, upgradeable GPU (ships with GTX 1080 but will be upgraded to RTX 2080) and overclockable as well. Also features two power adapters and new Legend design language for Alienware.[34][35]
  • Alienware M17 R2 (discontinued) – 2019 Thin and light gaming laptop for 17" category, replace the M17 after 6 months of announcing. Comes with 9th Gen Intel CPU up to Core i9-9980HK, up to RTX 2080 Max-Q, 16 GB of RAM and 17.3 inches (44 cm) 1080p display with optional 4K upgrade. The Alienware m17 R2 will be based on the same design language and chassis material as the beefier 17.3-inch Area-51M.[36]
  • Alienware Area-51m R2 (discontinued) – 2020 Alienware took the world's first fully upgradable gaming laptop and added the latest 10th-gen Intel processors and an optional 4K screen — a first for the Area-51 lineup.[37][38]
  • Alienware M17 R3 (discontinued) – 2020 Thin and light gaming laptop for the 17" category. Comes with 10th generation Intel CPU up to Core i9-10980HK, up to Nvidia GeForce RTX 2080 Super 8 GB GDDR6, 32 GB of RAM and 17.3-inch (44 cm) 3840 × 2160 60 Hz 25 ms 500 cd/m2 100% Adobe RGB color gamut display with Tobii Eye tracking technology.
  • Alienware M17 R4 (discontinued) – 2021 Thin and light gaming laptop for the 17" category. Equipped with 10th generation Intel CPU up to Core i9-10980HK, up to Nvidia GeForce RTX 3080 16 GB GDDR6 Graphics Card, 32 GB DDR4 RAM at 2933 MHz, 17.3-inch (44 cm) 3840 × 2160 60 fps.[39] The RTX 3080 also includes support for ray tracing and DLSS.[40]
  • Alienware X17 R1 (discontinued) – 2021 Thin and light gaming laptop for the 17" category. Equipped with 11th generation Intel CPU up to Core i9-11900H, up to Nvidia GeForce RTX 3080 16 GB GDDR6 Graphics Card, 32 GB DDR4 RAM at 3466 MHz, 17.3-inch (44 cm) 3840 × 2160 60 fps. Thinnest 17-inch Alienware laptop so far.[41]
  • Alienware M17 R5 – 2022 Thin and light gaming laptop for the 17" category. Equipped with 6th generation AMD CPU up to Ryzen 9 6900HX, up to Nvidia GeForce RTX 3080Ti 16 GB GDDR6 Graphics Card, 32 GB DDR5 RAM at 4800 MHz, 17.3-inch (44 cm) 3840 × 2160 60 fps.
  • Alienware X17 R2 – 2022 Thin and light gaming laptop for the 17" category. Equipped with 12th-generation Intel CPU up to Core i9-12900H, up to Nvidia GeForce RTX 3080Ti 16 GB GDDR6 Graphics Card, 32 GB DDR5 RAM at 4800 MHz, 17.3-inch (44 cm) 3840 × 2160 60 fps. Thinnest 17-inch Alienware laptop so far.[42][43]

16 inch

[edit]
  • Alienware m16 (2023) – The new version of the Alienware m series featuring 16-inch display, 13th-gen Intel Core / Ryzen 7000 series CPU and Nvidia GeForce RTX 40 Series Laptop GPU.[44]

15 inch

[edit]
Alienware M15x
  • M15x (discontinued) – 2009 With 1st generation Intel i3/i5/i7 and Nvidia GeForce 200 series.
  • Alienware 15 (discontinued) – 2015 revision of the M15x, updated with Intel Haswell Processors and Nvidia GeForce 900 series. Features FHD matte display or UHD touch display. Features a port on the rear for graphics amplifier.
  • Alienware 15 R2 (discontinued) – 2015 refresh of the Alienware 15, updated with Intel Skylake processors and using the same NVIDIA graphics chipsets. Uses same FHD and 4K UHD screens and graphics amplifier port on the rear.
  • Alienware 15 R3 (discontinued) – 2016 Alienware 15 (2016), Windows 10. 6th / 7th gen Intel CPU, 1080p standard display and Ultra HD 4K display and 120 Hz TN+WVA Anti-Glare 400 nit NVIDIA G-SYNC Enabled Display also available, as well as a Nvidia GeForce 1000 series with up to 8 GB GDDR5.
  • Alienware 15 R4 (discontinued) – Early 2018 Alienware 15 (2018), Windows 10. Features Tobii eye tracking, Ultra HD Display also available, as well as a Nvidia GeForce 1000 series with up to 8 GB GDDR5, 8th / 9th gen Intel CPU (i7 8750H or i9 8950HK)
  • Alienware M15 (discontinued) – 2018 thin and light gaming laptop. 1080p standard display and Ultra HD 4K display and 144 Hz IPS 1080p display also available, as well as a Nvidia GeForce 1000 series with up to a GTX 2070 Max-Q design.
  • Alienware M15 R2 (discontinued) – 2019 thin and light gaming laptop. 1080p standard display and 60 Hz Ultra HD 4K display, 144 Hz IPS 1080p, and 240 Hz IPS 1080p display also available, as well as a Nvidia GeForce 20 series with up to a RTX 2080 Max-Q, 9th gen Intel CPU.
  • Alienware M15 R3 (discontinued) – 2020 thin and light gaming laptop. 1080p standard display and 60 Hz Ultra HD 4K display, 144 Hz IPS 1080p, and 240 Hz IPS 1080p display also available, as well as a Nvidia GeForce 20 series with up to a RTX 2080 Super Max-Q, 10th gen Intel CPU.
  • Alienware M15 R4 (discontinued) – Early 2021 thin and light gaming laptop. 1920 × 1080 standard display and 60 Hz 3840 × 2160 display, 144 Hz IPS 1920 × 1080, and 300 Hz IPS display also available, as well as a Nvidia GeForce 30 series with up to a RTX 3080 mobile and Intel 10th generation CPU. Features Tobii eye tracking with 3840 × 2160 variant.[45]
  • Alienware M15 R5 (discontinued) – 2021 thin and light gaming laptop. 1920 × 1080 standard display and 60 Hz 3840 × 2160 display, 144 Hz IPS 1920 × 1080, and 300 Hz IPS display also available, as well as a Nvidia GeForce 30 series with up to a RTX 3080 mobile and AMD Ryzen 5th generation CPU. Features Tobii eye tracking with 3840 × 2160 variant.
  • Alienware M15 R6 (discontinued) – 2021 thin and light gaming laptop. 1920 × 1080 standard display and 60 Hz 3840 × 2160 display, 144 Hz IPS 1920 × 1080, and 300 Hz IPS display also available, as well as a Nvidia GeForce 30 series with up to a RTX 3080 mobile and Intel 11th generation CPU. Features Tobii eye tracking with 3840 × 2160 variant.
  • Alienware X15 R1 (discontinued) – 2021 thin and light gaming laptop, updated with Intel 11th gen Alder Lake processors and Nvidia RTX 30 series GPUs. Thinnest 15-inch Alienware laptop so far.
  • Alienware M15 R7 – 2022 thin and light gaming laptop. 1920 × 1080 standard display and 60 Hz 3840 × 2160 display, 144 Hz IPS 1920 × 1080, and 300 Hz IPS display also available, as well as a Nvidia GeForce 30 series with up to a RTX 3080 mobile and Intel 12th generation CPU. Features Tobii eye tracking with 3840 × 2160 variant.[46][47][48]
  • Alienware X15 R2 – 2022 refresh of the X15 R1, updated with Intel 12th gen Alder Lake processors and Nvidia RTX 30 series GPUs. Thinnest 15-inch Alienware laptop so far.

14 inch

[edit]
Alienware M14x
  • M14x (discontinued) – Introduced in 2011 as a replacement for the M15x, with Nvidia GeForce 500 series and support for Intel i5 and i7 processors.
  • M14x-R2 (discontinued) – 2012 revision of the M14x, updated with Intel Ivy Bridge processors and Nvidia GeForce 600 series and Blu-ray slot drive.
  • Alienware 14 (discontinued) – 2013 refresh of the M14x, updated with Intel Haswell Processors and Nvidia GeForce 700 series and Blu-ray slot drive with new facelift and body design. It also features an IPS display. Marketed as "Alienware 14" but listed in some countries and order details as "M14XR3".
  • Alienware X14 – 2022 refresh of the 14, updated with Intel 12th-gen Alder Lake processors and Nvidia RTX 30 series GPUs.

13 inch

[edit]
  • Alienware 13 (discontinued) – Introduced in 2014 as a replacement for the M11x, with Nvidia GeForce GTX 860M and ULV Intel Haswell and Broadwell i5 or i7 processors. Features HD or FHD matte displays or QHD touch display. Alienware's thinnest gaming laptop to date. Updated with Nvidia GeForce GTX 960M in 2015. A port on the rear for graphics amplifier.
  • Alienware 13 R2 (discontinued) – 2015 refresh of the Alienware 13 featuring ULV Intel Skylake processors. It retains the same Nvidia GeForce GTX 960M from the previous generation.
  • Alienware 13 R3 – Refreshed 2016 Alienware 13 featuring either a 13.3 inches (34 cm) FHD (1920 × 1080) IPS Anti-Glare 300 nit display or a 13.3-inch QHD (2560 × 1440) OLED Anti-Glare 400 cd/m2 Display with Touch Technology. It is equipped with a Nvidia GeForce 1000 series GTX 1060 with 6 GB GDDR5. This generation also saw the use of the H-series quad-core CPUs as opposed to the ULV CPUs.

11.6 inch

[edit]
Alienware M11x
  • M11x (discontinued) – First introduced in early 2010, it was the smallest-size gaming laptop from Alienware. It was equipped with 1 GB DDR3 RAM and a Penryn dual-core processor, with a Pentium SU4100 at the entry-level and a Core 2 Duo SU7300 at the top. Driving the 11.6 inches (29 cm) screen were two video processors, a GMA 4500MHD integrated and a discrete Nvidia GeForce GT 335M.
  • M11x-R2 (discontinued) – The late 2010 revision, it used ULV Intel Arrandale Core i5 and i7 processors. The revision also added a rubberized "soft-touch" exterior to the design. The same GT 335M was used for video; however, NVIDIA's Optimus technology had been added to automatically switch between it and the still-used GMA 4500MHD.
  • M11x-R3 (discontinued) – The 2011 revision, it added support for the second generation of Intel's Mobility series Core i3, i5, and i7 processors. It also provided a 500 GB 7200 RPM HDD. It included the Nvidia GeForce GT 540M and integrated Intel HD Graphics 3000. A second revision of the motherboard design used on the R3 series came in Q4 2011, although on a limited amount of laptops. This version used the Nvidia GeForce GT 550M.

In 2012, Alienware announced that they would discontinue the M11x model due to decreasing consumer interest in small form factor gaming laptops.[49] The company went on to offer refreshed models for the rest of their laptop range: the M14x, M17x, and M18x.[50]

Specifications

[edit]
Model Display Processor Chipset Graphics RAM Storage Networking Audio Battery Operating system
11 Inch
M11x

(Early 2010)

11.6"
  • (1366x768)
  • Intel Pentium Dual-Core (SU4100)
  • Intel Core 2 Duo (SU7300)

(Soldered)

GS45
  • GT335M (1GB)

(Soldered)

2GB, 4GB, and 8GB

(2x DDR3 So-DIMM)

  • 1x 2.5" SATA
Realtek ALC665
  • 63Wh Lithium-Ion (8 cell)
M11x-R2

(Late 2010)

11.6"
  • (1366x768)
1st Gen Intel Core i ULV
  • i3-U330
  • i5-U470
  • i5-U520
  • i7-U640
  • i7-U680

(Soldered)

QS57
  • GT335M (1GB)

(Soldered)

2GB, 4GB, and 8GB

(2x DDR3 So-DIMM)

  • 1x 2.5" SATA
  • 63Wh Lithium-Ion (8 cell)
M11x-R3

(2011)

11.6"
  • (1366x768)
2nd Gen Intel Core i ULV
  • i3-2357M
  • i5-2467M
  • i5-2537M
  • i7-2617M
  • i7-2637M

(Soldered)

QS67
  • GT540M (1GB or 2GB)

(Soldered)

2GB, 4GB, and 8GB

(2x DDR3 So-DIMM)

  • 1x 2.5" SATA
  • 63Wh Lithium-Ion (8 cell)
13 Inch
Alienware 13 13.3"
  • (1366x768)
  • (1920x1080)
  • (2560x1440 touch)
  • (3200x1800 touch)
4th/5th Gen Intel Core i5

5th Gen Intel Core i7

(Soldered)

  • GTX 860M (2GB)
  • GTX 960M (2GB)

(Soldered)

8GB, 12GB, and 16GB

(2x DDR3L So-DIMM)

Realtek ALC3234 w/ Creative Sound Blaster X-Fi MB3
  • 51Wh Lithium-Polymer (4 cell)
  • 62Wh Lithium-Polymer (4 cell)
Alienware 13 R2 13.3"
  • (1366x768)
  • (1920x1080)
  • (3200x1800 touch)
6th Gen Intel Core i5/i7

(Soldered)

  • GTX 960M (2GB)

(Soldered)

8GB, 12GB, and 16GB

(2x DDR3L So-DIMM)

Realtek ALC3234 w/ Creative Sound Blaster X-Fi MB3
  • 51Wh Lithium-Polymer (4 cell)
  • 62Wh Lithium-Polymer (4 cell)
Alienware 13 R3 13.3"
  • (1366x768)
  • (1920x1080)
  • (2560x1440 touch)
6th Gen Intel Core i5/i7
  • i5-6300HQ
  • i7-6700HQ

7th Gen Intel Core i5/i7

  • i5-7300HQ
  • i7-7700HQ

(Soldered)

HM170

HM175

  • GTX 1050M (2GB)
  • GTX 1050 Ti Mobile (4GB)
  • GTX 1060M (6GB)

(Soldered)

8GB, 16GB, and 32GB

(2x DDR4 So-DIMM)

  • 2x M.2 2280 (3.0)
Realtek ALC3266
  • 76Wh Lithium-Polymer (4 cell)
14 Inch
M14x

(2011)

14"
  • (1366x768)
  • (1600x900)
2nd Gen Intel Core i5/i7

(Socket G2)

HM67
  • GT 555M (1.5GB/3GB)

(Soldered)

2GB, 4GB, and 8GB

(2x DDR3 So-DIMM)

  • 1x 2.5" SATA
  • 1x SATA Slim ODD
Realtek ALC665-GR
  • 63Wh Lithium-Ion (8 cell)
M14x-R2

(2012)

14"
  • (1366x768)
  • (1600x900)
2nd Gen Intel Core i5

3rd Gen Intel Core i5/i7

(Socket G2)

HM77
  • GT 650M (1GB/2GB)

(Soldered)

2GB, 4GB, and 8GB

(2x DDR3 So-DIMM)

  • 1x mSATA
  • 1x 2.5" SATA
  • 1x SATA Slim ODD
Creative Sound Blaster Recon3Di High-Definition 5.1
  • 63Wh Lithium-Ion (8 cell)
Alienware 14

(2013)

14"
  • (1366x768)
  • (1920x1080)
4th Gen Intel Core i5/i7

(Socket G3)

HM87
  • GT 750M (1GB)
  • GTX 675M (2GB)

(Soldered)

8GB, 12GB, and 16GB

(2x DDR3L So-DIMM)

  • 1x mSATA
  • 1x 2.5" SATA
  • 1x SATA Slim ODD
Realtek ALC3661
  • 69Wh Lithium-Ion (6 cell)
Alienware x14

(2022)

14"
  • (1920x1080)
12th Gen Intel Core i5/i7
  • i5-12500H
  • i7-12700H

(Soldered)

(SOC)
  • RTX 3050M (4GB)
  • RTX 3050 Ti Mobile (4GB)
  • RTX 3060M (6GB)

(Soldered)

  • 16GB LP-DDR5 4800MHz (RTX 3050)
  • 16GB/32GB LP-DDR5 5200MHz (RTX 3050)

(Soldered)

  • 1x M.2 2230 (3.0)
  • 1x M.2 2280 (4.0)
Killer AX1690i

AX211

Realtek ALC3281-CG
  • 80.5Wh Lithium-Ion (6 cell)
15 Inch
M15x

(2009)

15.6"
  • (1600x900)
  • (1920x1080)
1st Gen Intel Core i3/i5/i7

(Socket G1)

PM55 (MXM 3.0B) 2GB, 4GB, and 8GB

(2x DDR3 So-DIMM)

  • 1x 2.5" SATA
  • 1x SATA Slim ODD
IDT 92HD83
  • 57Wh Lithium-Ion (6 cell)
  • 86Wh Lithium-Ion (9 cell)
Alienware 15

(2015)

15.6"
  • (1920x1080)
  • (3840x2160 Touch)
4th Gen Intel Core i5/i7

(Soldered)

HM87
  • GTX 965M (2GB)
  • GTX 970M (3GB)
  • GTX 980M (4GB)
  • R9 M295X (4GB)

(Soldered)

8GB, 12GB, and 16GB

(2x DDR3L So-DIMM)

  • 1x 2.5" SATA
  • 2x M.2 2280 (3.0)
Creative Sound Core3D-EX w/Creative Sound Blaster X-Fi MB3
  • 92Wh Lithium-Ion (8 cell)
Alienware 15 R2

(2015)

15.6"
  • (1920x1080)
  • (3840x2160 Touch)
6th Gen Intel Core i5/i7

(Soldered)

HM170
  • GTX 970M (3GB)
  • GTX 980M (4GB)

(Soldered)

8GB - 32GB

2133Mhz (2x DDR4 So-DIMM)

  • 1x 2.5" SATA
  • 2x M.2 2280 (3.0)
Creative Sound Core 3D w/SBX Pro Studio
  • 92Wh Lithium-Ion (8 cell)
Alienware 15 R3

(2016)

15.6"
  • (1920x1080@60Hz)
  • (1920x1080@120Hz)
  • (3840x2160@60Hz)
6th Gen Intel Core i5/i7
  • i5-6300HQ
  • i7-6700HQ
  • i7-6820HK

7th Gen Intel Core i7

  • i7-7700HQ
  • i7-7820HK

(Soldered)

CM236

CM238

  • RX 470 (6GB)
  • GTX 1060M (6GB)
  • GTX 1070M (8GB)
  • GTX 1080M (8GB)

(Soldered)

8GB - 32GB

2666Mhz (2x DDR4 So-DIMM)

  • 1x M.2 2242 (3.0)
  • 2x M.2 2280 (3.0)
  • 1x 2.5" SATA
Realtek ALC3266
  • 68Wh Lithium-Ion (4 cell)
  • 99Wh Lithium-Ion (6 cell)
Alienware 15 R4

(2018)

15.6"
  • (1920x1080@60Hz)
  • (1920x1080@120Hz)
  • (3840x2160@60Hz)
8th Gen Intel Core i5/i7/i9
  • i5-8300H
  • i7-8750H
  • i9-8950HK

(Soldered)

CM246
  • RX 570 (6GB)
  • GTX 1060M (6GB)
  • GTX 1070M (8GB)
  • GTX 1080 Max-Q (8GB)

(Soldered)

8GB - 64GB

2666Mhz (2x DDR4 So-DIMM)

  • 1x M.2 2242 (3.0)
  • 2x M.2 2280 (3.0)
  • 1x 2.5" SATA
Realtek ALC3266
  • 68Wh Lithium-Ion (4 cell)
  • 99Wh Lithium-Ion (6 cell)
Alienware M15

(2018)

15.6"
  • (1920x1080)
  • (3840x2160)
8th Gen Intel Core i5/i7/i9

9th Gen Intel Core i7

(Soldered)

HM370
  • GTX 1050 Ti Mobile (4GB)
  • GTX 1060M (6GB)
  • GTX 1070 Max-Q (8GB)
  • GTX 1660 Ti Mobile (6GB)
  • RTX 2060M (6GB)
  • RTX 2070 Max-Q (8GB)
  • RTX 2080 Max-Q (8GB)

(Soldered)

8GB, 16GB, and 32GB

(2x DDR4 So-DIMM)

  • 2x M.2 2280 (3.0)
  • 1x 2.5" SATA (Optional)
Realtek ALC3281-CG
  • 60Wh Lithium-Ion (4 cell)
  • 90Wh Lithium-Ion (6 cell)
Alienware M15 R2

(2019)

Alienware M15 R3

(2020)

Alienware M15 R4

(Early 2021)

Alienware M15 R5

(Mid 2021)

Alienware M15 R6

(Mid 2021)

Alienware M15 R7

(2022)

Alienware x15

(2021)

Alienware x15 R2

(2022)

16 Inch
Alienware m16

(2023)

17 Inch
Alienware M17x

(2009)

17.3"
  • (1440x900)
  • (1920x1200)
Intel Core 2 Duo/Quad

(Socket P)

Nvidia GeForce 9400M G (2x MXM 3.0B) 4GB, 6GB, and 8GB

(2x DDR3 So-DIMM)

  • 2x 2.5" SATA
  • 1x SATA Slim ODD
IDT 92HD73
  • 86Wh Lithium-Ion (9 cell)
Alienware M17x-R2

(2010)

17.3"
  • (1440x900)
  • (1920x1200)
1st Gen Intel Core i5/i7

(Socket G1)

PM55 (2x MXM 3.0B) 4GB, 6GB, and 8GB

(2x DDR3 So-DIMM)

  • 2x 2.5" SATA
  • 1x SATA Slim ODD
IDT 92HD73
  • 86Wh Lithium-Ion (9 cell)
Alienware M17x-R3

(2011)

17.3"
  • (1600x900)
  • (1920x1080)
  • (1920x1080@120Hz 3D)
2nd Gen Intel Core i5/i7

(Socket G2)

HM67
  • GTX 460M (1.5GB)
  • HD 6870M (1GB)
  • HD 6970M (2GB)

(MXM 3.0B)

8GB, 12GB, 16GB, 24GB, and 32GB

(4x DDR3 So-DIMM)

  • 2x 2.5" SATA
  • 1x mSATA
  • 1x SATA Slim ODD
IDT 92HD73
  • 90Wh Lithium-Ion (9 cell)
Alienware M17x-R4

(2012)

17.3"
  • (1600x900)
  • (1920x1080)
  • (1920x1080@120Hz 3D)
2nd/3rd Gen Intel Core i5/i7

(Socket G2)

HM77
  • GTX 660M (1GB)
  • GTX 675M (2GB)
  • GTX 680M (2GB)
  • HD 7970M (2GB)

(MXM 3.0B)

8GB, 12GB, 16GB, 24GB, and 32GB

(4x DDR3 So-DIMM)

  • 2x 2.5" SATA
  • 1x mSATA
  • 1x SATA Slim ODD
Intel High-Definition 5.1
  • 90Wh Lithium-Ion (9 cell)
Alienware 17 (M17x-R5)

(2013)

17.3"
  • (1600x900)
  • (1920x1080)
  • (1920x1080@120Hz 3D)
4th Gen Intel Core i5/i7

(Socket G3)

HM87
  • GTX 765M
  • GTX 770M
  • GTX 780M

(MXM 3.0B)

8GB, 12GB, 16GB, 24GB, and 32GB

(4x DDR3L So-DIMM)

  • 2x 2.5" SATA
  • 1x mSATA
  • 1x SATA Slim ODD
Realtek ALC3661
  • 86Wh Lithium-Ion (8 cell)
Alienware 17 R2

(2015)

17.3"
  • (1920x1080)
  • (3840x2160 Touch)
4th Gen Intel Core i5/i7

(Soldered)

HM87
  • GTX 965M (2GB)
  • GTX 970M (3GB)
  • GTX 980M (4GB)
  • R9 M295X (4GB)

(Soldered)

8GB, 12GB, and 16GB

(2x DDR3L So-DIMM)

  • 1x 2.5" SATA
  • 2x M.2 2280 (3.0)
Creative Sound Core3D-EX w/Creative Sound Blaster X-Fi MB3
  • 92Wh Lithium-Ion (8 cell)
Alienware 17 R3

(2015)

17.3"
  • (1920x1080)
  • (3840x2160)
6th Gen Intel Core i5/i7

(Soldered)

HM170
  • GTX 970M (3GB)
  • GTX 980M (4GB)

(Soldered)

8GB - 32GB

2133Mhz (2x DDR4 So-DIMM)

  • 1x 2.5" SATA
  • 2x M.2 2280 (3.0)
Creative Sound Core 3D w/SBX Pro Studio
  • 92Wh Lithium-Ion (8 cell)
Alienware 17 R4

(2016)

17.3"
  • (1920x1080@60Hz)
  • (2560x1440@120Hz)
  • (3840x2160@60Hz)
6th Gen Intel Core i5/i7
  • i5-6300HQ
  • i7-6700HQ
  • i7-6820HK

7th Gen Intel Core i7

  • i7-7700HQ
  • i7-7820HK

(Soldered)

CM236

CM238

  • RX 470 (6GB)
  • GTX 1060M (6GB)
  • GTX 1070M (8GB)
  • GTX 1080M (8GB)

(Soldered)

8GB - 32GB

2666Mhz (2x DDR4 So-DIMM)

  • 1x M.2 2242 (3.0)
  • 2x M.2 2280 (3.0)
  • 1x 2.5" SATA
Realtek ALC3266
  • 68Wh Lithium-Ion (4 cell)
  • 99Wh Lithium-Ion (6 cell)
Alienware 17 R5

(2018)

17.3"
  • (1920x1080)
  • (2560x1440)
  • (3840x2160)
8th Gen Intel Core i5/i7/i9
  • i5-8300H
  • i7-8750H
  • i9-8950HK

(Soldered)

CM246
  • RX 570 (6GB)
  • GTX 1060M (6GB)
  • GTX 1070M (8GB)
  • GTX 1080 Max-Q (8GB)

(Soldered)

8GB - 64GB

2666Mhz (2x DDR4 So-DIMM)

  • 1x M.2 2242 (3.0)
  • 2x M.2 2280 (3.0)
  • 1x 2.5" SATA
Realtek ALC3266
  • 68Wh Lithium-Ion (4 cell)
  • 99Wh Lithium-Ion (6 cell)
Alienware M17

(2018)

17.3"
  • (1920x1080)
  • (3840x2160)
8th Gen Intel Core i5/i7/i9

9th Gen Intel Core i7

(Soldered)

HM370
  • GTX 1050 Ti Mobile (4GB)
  • GTX 1060M (6GB)
  • GTX 1070 Max-Q (8GB)
  • GTX 1660 Ti Mobile (6GB)
  • RTX 2060M (6GB)
  • RTX 2070 Max-Q (8GB)
  • RTX 2080 Max-Q (8GB)

(Soldered)

8GB - 32GB

2666Mhz (2x DDR4 So-DIMM)

  • 2x M.2 2280 (3.0)
  • 1x 2.5" SATA (Optional)
Realtek ALC3281-CG
  • 60Wh Lithium-Ion (4 cell)
  • 90Wh Lithium-Ion (6 cell)
Alienware M17 R2

(2019)

17.3"
  • (1920x1080@60Hz)
  • (1920x1080@144Hz)
9th Gen Intel Core i5/i7/i9

(Soldered)

HM370
  • GTX 1650M (4GB)
  • GTX 1660 Ti Mobile (6GB)
  • RTX 2060M (6GB)
  • RTX 2070 Max-Q (8GB)
  • RTX 2080 Max-Q (8GB)

(Soldered)

  • 8GB DDR4 2666Mhz
  • 16GB DDR4 2666Mhz

(Soldered)

  • 2x M.2 2280 (3.0)
Realtek ALC3281-CG
  • 90Wh Lithium-Ion (6 cell)
Alienware M17 R3

(2020)

17.3"
  • (1920x1080@144Hz)
  • (1920x1080@300Hz)
  • (3840x2160@60Hz)
10th Gen Intel Core i5/i7/i9
  • i5-10300H
  • i7-10750H
  • i9-10980HK

(Soldered)

HM470
  • GTX 1650 Ti Mobile (4GB)
  • GTX 1660 Ti Mobile (6GB)
  • RTX 2060M (6GB)
  • RTX 2070M (8GB)
  • RTX 2070 Super Mobile (8GB)
  • RTX 2080 Super Mobile (8GB)
  • RX 5500M (4GB)

(Soldered)

  • 8GB DDR4 2666Mhz
  • 16GB DDR4 2666Mhz
  • 32GB DDR4 2666Mhz

(Soldered)

  • 2x M.2 2280 (3.0)
  • 1x M.2 2230 (3.0)
Realtek ALC3281-CG
  • 56Wh Lithium-Ion (4 cell)
  • 86Wh Lithium-Ion (6 cell)
Alienware M17 R4

(2021)

Alienware M17 R5

(2022)

Alienware X17

(2021)

Alienware X17 R2

(2022)

Alienware Area 51m

(2019)

17.3"
  • (1920x1080@60Hz)
  • (1920x1080@144Hz)
8th/9th Gen Intel Core i7/i9

(Socket LGA1151)

Z390
  • GTX 1660 Ti Mobile (6GB)
  • RTX 2060M (6GB)
  • RTX 2070M (8GB)
  • RTX 2080M (8GB)

(DGFF)

8GB - 64GB

2400Mhz (2933Mhz XMP) (4x DDR4 So-DIMM)

  • 2x M.2 2280 (3.0)
  • 1x 2.5" SATA
Realtek ALC3282-CG
  • 90Wh Lithium-Ion (6 cell)
Alienware Area 51m R2

(2020)

17.3"
  • (1920x1080@144Hz)
  • (1920x1080@300Hz)
  • (3840x2160@60Hz)
10th Gen Intel Core i7/i9

(Socket LGA1200)

Z490
  • GTX 1660 Ti Mobile (6GB)
  • RTX 2060M (6GB)
  • RTX 2070 Super Mobile (8GB)
  • RTX 2080 Super Mobile (8GB)
  • RX 5700M (8GB)

(DGFF)

8GB - 64GB

2933Mhz (3200Mhz XMP) (2x DDR4 So-DIMM)

  • 1x M.2 2230 (3.0)
  • 1x M.2 2280 (3.0)
  • 2x M.2 2280 (3.0)/1x 2.5" SATA
Realtek ALC3282-CG
  • 90Wh Lithium-Ion (6 cell)

Desktops

[edit]

Aurora

  • Aurora R1 (discontinued) – This model was based on the Intel's X58 platform (LGA 1366 Socket). It shared identical hardware with the Aurora ALX R1. The Aurora R1 is equipped with 1st Gen Intel Core i7 and i7 Extreme processors. In order of model number: 920, 930, 940, 950, 960, 965, 975 (quad core), 980X, 990X (six core). Sealed liquid cooling units for the processors came factory installed. The R1 used triple channel memory and had dedicated graphics card options from AMD's HD 5000 series line as well as Nvidia GeForce 400 series and Nvidia GeForce 500 series line. Power supply options included 525 W, 875 W, and 1000 W output power. Both SLI and CrossFireX were supported.
  • Aurora R2 (discontinued) – This was the second revision of the Aurora, and the first Alienware desktop to be sold in retail chains such as Best Buy. It was based on Intel's P55 platform (LGA 1156 Socket). Processors include the Core i5 and i7 (first generation Lynnfield quad core only). In order of model number: i5-750, i5-760, i7-860, i7-870, i7-875 and i7-880. Sealed liquid cooling units for the processors came factory installed. The R2 used dual channel memory and had dedicated graphics card options including AMD Radeon HD 5000 series, Nvidia GeForce 400 series and Nvidia GeForce 500 series. Power supply options were 525 W or 875 W. Both SLI and CrossFireX were supported.
  • Aurora R3 (discontinued) – This was the third revision of the Aurora. It was based on Intel's P67 platform (LGA 1155 Socket). Processors included Core i5 and i7 processors only (second generation quad core Sandy Bridge). In order of model number: i5-2300, i5-2400, i5-2500, i5-2500K, i7-2600, i7-2600K. Sealed liquid cooling units for the processors came factory installed. The R3 used dual channel memory and had dedicated graphics card options including AMD Radeon HD 5000 series and Radeon HD 5000 series as well as Nvidia GeForce 400 series and Nvidia GeForce 500 series. Power supply options were 525 W and 875 W. Both SLI and CrossFireX were supported.
  • Aurora R4 (discontinued) – This is the fourth revision of the Aurora. It is based on Intel's X79 platform (LGA 2011 socket). This model shares identical hardware with the Aurora ALX (R4). Processors include Core i7 processors only (third generation quad core and hexacore Sandy Bridge Extreme). In order of model number: i7-3820, i7-3930K (six core) and i7-3960X (six core). Sealed liquid cooling units for the processors came factory installed. The R4 is the first to use quad channel memory and has Dedicated graphics card options including AMD Radeon HD 6000 series and Radeon HD 7000 series as well as Nvidia GeForce 500 series. Nvidia GeForce 600 series were added later in the year. Power supply options were 525 W and 875 W. Both SLI and CrossFireX were supported. The optional ALX chassis offered thermal controlled venting, tool-less/wireless hard drive bays, internal theater lighting and an extra array of external LEDs. Coupled with the TactX keyboard and mouse it offered up to 25 billion lighting color combinations.
  • Aurora R5 (discontinued) – The fifth revision of the Aurora was announced on June 13, 2016, and was available to purchase June 14, 2016. The updated Aurora was given a facelift and ergonomic handle on the top of the case and is the first of its kind to offer tool-less upgrades to graphics cards, hard drives, and memory. The Aurora was being marketed as being VR ready out of the box, even so far as being HTC Vive Optimized and Oculus Certified. The base model was released with an MSRP of US$799.99 and adding all the extra hardware can cost the consumer up to US$4,189.99. The processor options are Intel based; i3-6100, i5-6400, i5-6600K, i7-6700, and i7-6700K. The Aurora R5 was released during the transitioning phase between the GeForce 900 series and GeForce 10 series graphics cards, and the list was extensive; GTX 950 with 2 GB GDDR5, GTX 960 with 2 GB GDDR5, GTX 970 with 4 GB GDDR5, GTX 980 with 4 GB GDDR5, and the GTX 980 Ti with 6 GB GDDR5, all of which could also be put in SLI. Alienware, however, would only allow one GTX 1070 with 8 GB GDDR5 or one GTX 1080 with 8 GB GDDR5X to be installed at launch. Consumers were also allowed to purchase but one GPU from AMD, the Radeon R9 370 with 4 GB GDDR5 (CrossFire R9 370 was optional). PSU choices were 460 W or 850 W, or a liquid cooled 850 W PSU. Hard drive and SSD options ranged from 1 TB and 256 GB, respectively to 2 TB and 1 TB, respectively. RAM was available at launch between 8–64 GB of DDR4 all clocked at 2133 MHz.[51]
  • Aurora R6 (discontinued) – The sixth revision was announced on February 22, 2017. According to Windows Central, "The Aurora R6 is only a mild refresh over the previous generation R5, with the main attraction being the new 7th Generation Kaby Lake processors from Intel."[citation needed] There are dozens of factory-built combinations possible. Four processors to choose from i5-7400, i5-7600k, i7-7700, i7-7700k. Video cards offered include AMD RX 460, 470, 480, Nvidia GeForce GTX 1050 Ti, 1060, 1070, 1080, 1080 Ti (11 GB), Titan X (12 GB), Dual RX 460 (Crossfire Enabled), Dual GTX 1070 (SLI Enabled), Dual GTX 1080 (SLI Enabled), Dual GTX 1080 Ti (SLI Enabled), Dual GTX Titan X (SLI Enabled). Memory options start at 8 GB and max out at 64 GB. Factory-installed storage can be a single drive (7200 RPM drive or PCIe SSD) or dual drive including both. Standard PSU or one with liquid cooling in 450 W or 850 W is offered in Aurora R6.
  • Aurora R7 (discontinued) – The Aurora R7 included 8th Gen Intel Cores.[52][better source needed]
  • Aurora R8 (discontinued) – The Aurora R8 included 9th Gen Intel Cores.[53]
  • Aurora R9 (discontinued) – The Aurora R9 was first made available to purchase August 20, 2019. It comes in both Lunar Light and Dark Side of the Moon color options.[54]
  • Aurora R10 – The Aurora R10 features AMD's Ryzen CPUs.[55]
  • Aurora R11 (discontinued) – The Aurora is similar to the R10 but with Intel CPUs. The R11 was released on May 13, 2020.[56]
  • Aurora R12 (discontinued) – The Aurora R12 Was available to purchase on March 19, 2021. It had the Intel 11th Gen Cores.[57]
  • Aurora R13 – The Aurora R13 became available to purchase on October 27, 2021. It brought in several new features and specifications, including more decoration, a bigger chassis for more airflow, and higher available specs. The R13 has several options for design available, including a clear side panel on the left side of the machine, letting you view all the RGB inside, along with an added bar at the top of the panel inside, featuring the word "Alienware", in RGB. The R13 also made available the RTX 3070, 3070 Ti, 3080, 3080 Ti, and 3090, leading to increased performance, and bringing in the newer 12th gen Alder Lake intel core i9. This system also brought the CryoTech cooling option, which was influenced from an Alienware employees rant about the Intel chip's heat problem, influencing the engineers to make a solution. (Default color is Static Blue)
  • Aurora R14 – The Aurora R14 is nearly identical to the R13, with the only difference being that the R14 is for AMD processors, not Intel processors. (Default color is Static Red)
  • Aurora R15 – The Aurora R15 was released on November 10, 2022. This was a more incremental release, as the major changes are upgrades of components (such as the upgrade to 13th generation Intel Core processors, and 40 series Nvidia GeForce RTX GPUs.) Additionally, half of the side panel was replaced with venting to improve airflow. Another version of the R15 was released that resembles the R14, as the Intel Core processors are swapped with AMD Ryzen processors.

Aurora ALX

  • ALX (R1) (discontinued) – This model is based on the Intel's X58 platform (LGA 1366 socket). This model shared the identical hardware with the Aurora R1. The ALX R1 is equipped with 1st generation Intel Core i7 and i7 Extreme processors. In order of model number: 920, 930, 940, 950, 960, 965, 975 (quad core), 980X, 990X (six core). Sealed liquid cooling units for the processors came factory installed. The R1 used triple channel memory and had graphics card options from AMD's Radeon HD 5000 series, Nvidia's GeForce 400 series and Nvidia's GeForce 500 series line. Power supply options included 525 W or 875 W. Power supply and motherboard supports both SLI and CrossFireX. The ALX (X58 platform) was offered from the beginning alongside the Aurora R1, R2 and R3. It offered thermal controlled venting, toolless/wireless hard drive bays, internal theater lighting and an extra array of external LEDs. Coupled with the TactX keyboard and mouse it offered up to 25 billion lighting color combinations.

Area-51

Area-51 ALX R1
  • Area-51 R1 (discontinued) – This model is based on the Intel X58 platform (LGA 1366 socket). This model shares identical hardware with the Area 51 ALX. The Area-51 R1 is equipped with 1st Gen Intel Core i7 and i7 Extreme processors. In order of model number: 920, 930, 940, 950, 960, 975 (quad core), 980X, 990X (six core). The Area 51 used triple channel memory and had graphics card options from AMD's Radeon HD 5000 series, Radeon HD 6000 series and Nvidia's GeForce 400 series and GeForce 500 series. Power Supply options included 1000 W or 1100 W. Power supply and motherboard supports both SLI and CrossFireX. The Area 51 was offered from the beginning alongside the Aurora R1, R2, R3 and the Aurora ALX (R1). It offered thermal-controlled active venting, tool-less hard drive bays, internal theater lighting and an array of external LEDs. Area-51 was offered in either semi-gloss black or lunar shadow (silver) finishes, with a non-motorized front push-panel. Command Center software and AlienFX features are offered via a discrete master I/O daughterboard.
  • Area-51 ALX R1 (discontinued) – Alienware's most expensive desktop to date ($5000–$7000 US fully equipped), ALX offered every available option as the standard model (see above); ALX is distinguished from the standard model by its matte black anodized aluminium chassis, and motorized front panel powered by a dedicated ALX-specific master I/O daughterboard.
  • Area-51 R2 (discontinued) – unveiled late August 2014 – available October 2014; newly redesigned Triad chassis; Intel x99 Chipset, support for socket LGA 2011-3 Intel Haswell-E processors; 2133 MHz DDR4 memory; up to 1500 W power supply; support for 3-way/4-way SLI graphics; liquid cooling and the return of Command Center 4.0 with AlienFX/overclocking features via front I/O daughterboard.
  • Area-51 R3 (discontinued)
  • Area-51 R4 (discontinued) – The fourth revision of the Area-51 was announced at the E3 2017 trade event. The base model was released with an MSRP of US$1899.99 and adding all the extra hardware can cost the consumer up to US$6,659.99. The Area 51 R4 is based on the Intel X299 chipset and the processor options include Intel based; Core i7-7800X, Core i7-7820X, Core i9-7900X Core i9-7920X, Core i9-7960X and Core i9-7980XE. Memory options include 8 GB, 16 GB, 32 GB or 64 GB DDR4 2400 MHz memory or 8 GB, 16 GB or 32 GB of HyperX DDR4 2933 MHz memory (64 GB kits sold separately). The Area-51 R4 was configurable with Nvidia GeForce 10 series, AMD RX Vega series or AMD Radeon 500 series graphics cards. Video cards offered include AMD RX 580, RX Vega 64, Nvidia GeForce GTX 1050 Ti, 1060, 1070, 1080, 1080 Ti (11 GB), liquid cooled 1080 (8 GB), Dual GTX 1070 (SLI Enabled), Dual GTX 1070 Ti (SLI Enabled), Dual GTX 1080 (SLI Enabled), Dual GTX 1080 Ti (SLI Enabled), triple AMD Radeon RX 570 or RX 580. Available PSU choices were 850 W or 1500 W. Storage options ranged from a 2 TB hard drive, 128 GB M.2 SATA, or 256 GB to 1 TB M.2 PCIe SSD.

Area-51 Threadripper Edition

  • Area-51 R4 (discontinued) – The fourth revision of the Area-51 was announced at E3 2017, and the first Area-51 model to be sold with AMD Ryzen Threadripper processors. The base model was released with an MSRP of US$2399.99 and adding all the extra hardware can cost the consumer up to US$5,799.99. The Area 51 R4 Threadripper Edition is based on the AMD X399 chipset and the processor options include Ryzen Threadripper 1900X, 1920X and 1950X. Memory options include 8 GB, 16 GB, 32 GB or 64 GB DDR4 2400 MHz memory or 8 GB, 16 GB, 32 GB or 64 GB of HyperX DDR4 2933 MHz memory. The Area-51 R4 was configurable with Nvidia GeForce 10 series or AMD RX 580 graphics cards, which include; GTX 1060 6 GB, GTX 1070 8 GB, GTX 1070 Ti 8 GB, GTX 1080 8 GB, GTX 1080 Ti 11 GB, or an AMD RX 580 8 GB. Available PSU choices were 850 W or 1500 W. Storage options ranged from a 2 TB hard drive, 128 GB M.2 SATA, or 256 GB to 1 TB M.2 PCIe SSD.

X51

  • R1 (discontinued) – A console-like small form factor PC that used an external power supply and Mini-ITX motherboard. This model is equipped with a choice of 2nd or 3rd Gen Intel Core processors and Nvidia GeForce 500 or 600 series GPUs. Full-size reference (blower) design GPUs (two-slot) could be used as long as the TDP was within specification. The maximum amount of RAM was dual-channel 16GB DDR3 SDRAM running at 1600Mhz.
  • R2 (discontinued) – R2 power board increased external power supply capacity up to 330W (330W PSU build to order option only, 240W PSU was still standard). This model also introduced options for 4th Gen Intel Core processors and Nvidia GeForce 700 series or AMD Radeon 200 series GPUs.
  • R3 (discontinued) – This model is equipped with 6th Gen Intel Core processors and Nvidia GeForce 900 series GPUs. Adding a dedicated port on the back for the graphics amplifier. It also included the (build to order) option of OEM CPU water cooling for the first time in the X51.

Video game console hybrids

[edit]

Alienware Alpha

  • Alienware Alpha (discontinued) – A PC/console hybrid introduced in 2014. Also known as a Steam Machine, shipping with a version of the (at the time) Debian-based SteamOS. Windows could also be installed after purchase. It contains a custom-built Nvidia GeForce GTX 860M; a Core i3, i5, or i7 Intel Processor, depending on what model is purchased, up to 8 GB of RAM; and between 500 GB and 2 TB of hard drive space.
  • Alienware Alpha R2 (discontinued) – Alienware's update to the small form factor released on June 13, 2016. It contains (depending on customer choice) an AMD Radeon R9 M470X GPU with 2 GB GDDR5 memory or an NVIDIA GeForce GTX 960 GPU with 4 GB GDDR5. The processor line chosen this rendition are 6th generation Intel processors; the i3-6100T, i5-6400T, or i7-6700T. The RAM from factory comes in either 1 stick of 8 GB or 16 GB configurations of DDR4 memory clocked at 2133 MHz, and the system comes with one SO-DIMM slot. Hard-drive options have been expanded to include a HDD, SSD, or both. The HDD comes in one size, 1 TB at 7200 RPM, whilst the SSD is available in the M.2 mini-PCIe standard ranging in sizes between 256 GB to 1 TB. The new console also has a Graphics Amplifier slot with all models except the AMD Radeon R9 M470X equipped variant. The console ships with Windows 10.[58]

Headsets

[edit]
  • Alienware AW988 (2017) • 7.1 virtual surround sound via USB and AWCC. • Weight: 380 g • Wireless connectivity • Wired connectivity (USB and jack) • Customizable RGB lighting • Detachable noise-canceling microphone
  • Alienware AW510H (2019) • 7.1 virtual surround sound via USB and AWCC. • Weight: 370 g • Wired connectivity (USB and jack) • Comfort-focused design with memory foam earpads • Target Market: Customers looking for satisfactory performance.
  • Alienware AW310H (2019) • Wired connectivity (Only supports jack) • Weight: 350 g • 50 mm high-resolution drivers • Flip-up boom microphone • Lightweight and durable construction • Only connects via 3.5 mm jack, making it a stereo-only headset. • Target Market: Customers looking for confort and an economic model.
  • AW920H (2022) • Weight: 300 g • Dolby Atmos® Virtual Surround Sound • Wireless connectivity. • Wired connectivity (USB and jack) • Customizable RGB lighting • Headset touch controls
  • AW720H (2023) • Wireless connectivity. • Wired connectivity (USB and jack) • Weight: 348 g • This headset has mostly the same features as AW920H but instead of having a touch control system there are buttons.
  • AW520H (2023) • Weight: 337 g • Wired connectivity (USB and jack) • This headset has mostly the same features as AW720H, except the AW520H has no wireless capability.

Monitors

[edit]
  • AW3821DW
  • AW3423DW
  • AW3423DWF
  • AW2721D
  • AW2723DF
  • AW2524H
  • AW2523HF
  • AW2725DF
  • AW3225QF

Alienware monitors use a standard naming convention system for their product names.

  • First two characters: Represents that it is an Alienware monitor, typically AW.
  • Characters three and four: Represents the screen size.
  • Characters five and six: Represents the release year.

The ending characters represent a mix of features, as follows.

  • H=1080p resolution
  • D=1440p resolution
  • Q=4K resolution
  • W=Ultrawide
  • G=NVIDIA G-Sync support
  • F=AMD FreeSync support

See also

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References

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Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia
from Grokipedia
Alienware is an American computer hardware brand specializing in high-performance gaming desktops, laptops, monitors, and peripherals, known for its futuristic designs and premium components targeted at gamers. Founded in 1996 in Miami, Florida, by childhood friends Nelson Gonzalez and Alex Aguila, the company began as a boutique builder of custom PCs using off-the-shelf parts to cater to the growing demand for powerful gaming machines. Initially operating under the name Saikai of Miami, Inc., Alienware quickly gained a reputation for its bold, alien-themed aesthetics and robust systems, achieving $112 million in sales by 2004. In March 2006, Dell announced its acquisition of Alienware for an undisclosed amount, with the deal finalized on May 8, 2006, allowing Alienware to operate as a wholly owned subsidiary while maintaining its distinct brand identity and product roadmap. Post-acquisition, Alienware continued and expanded its product lineup—including laptops (which it had offered since 2002 with models like the Area-51m), advanced monitors with high refresh rates, and accessories like keyboards and mice—all emphasizing cutting-edge features such as NVIDIA RTX graphics and Intel Core processors. The brand has become synonymous with elite gaming experiences, offering tiered support services including Alienware Care and the premium Alienware Elite Care, introduced in 2025, providing comprehensive 24/7 assistance, gaming optimizations, and integration with the Alienware Arena community for exclusive content and tournaments.

History

Founding

Alienware was established in 1996 by childhood friends Nelson Gonzalez and Alex Aguila in , Florida, initially under the name Saikai of Miami, Inc. The duo, passionate about gaming and , started the venture in a garage with modest funding—each contributing $5,000 in personal investment and accruing $13,000 in to assemble custom PCs tailored for gamers. This bootstrapped approach allowed them to target a niche audience seeking superior hardware beyond mainstream offerings, focusing on desktops equipped with cutting-edge components like advanced processors and graphics cards. In 1997, the company rebranded to Alienware, a name derived from combining "alien" and "hardware" to evoke extraterrestrial themes, directly inspired by the popular television series . This shift marked the adoption of a distinctive science-fiction aesthetic in branding and , including product lines named Area-51 and Aurora, along with futuristic casings featuring the iconic alien-head logo, neon accents, and aggressive styling to appeal to the burgeoning high-end gaming community. The rebranding positioned Alienware as a premium builder in a market dominated by generic PCs, emphasizing visual flair and performance to differentiate from competitors. Frank Azor, who joined as employee number four and is often regarded as a co-founder, played a pivotal role in the early years by driving product development and innovative marketing strategies. Starting as an , Azor helped refine the company's custom-build process and promoted the sci-fi identity through targeted campaigns that highlighted overclocked systems and liquid cooling solutions, fostering a cult-like following among gamers. Under this leadership, Alienware experienced significant growth, expanding from desktops to high-performance laptops while maintaining a focus on configurations. Systems typically averaged around $4,500 in , reflecting the premium components and customization that set them apart from standard consumer PCs costing about $600. By , the company had scaled to approximately $172 million in annual sales, shipping around 60,000 units per year with a of about 500 employees. However, pre-acquisition challenges persisted, including widespread skepticism about the viability of a niche gaming PC maker—"a lot of people thought we were nuts," as Gonzalez later recalled—and intense competition from mainstream manufacturers like and Gateway. Custom assembly demands resulted in production delays exceeding one month per order, straining operations and scalability in a fast-evolving market. These hurdles, coupled with the need for greater resources to compete globally, ultimately positioned the 2006 acquisition by as a stabilizing force for continued expansion.

Acquisition by Dell

On March 22, 2006, Dell Inc. announced its agreement to acquire Alienware Corporation, a Miami-based manufacturer of high-performance gaming PCs, with the deal completed on May 8, 2006, for an undisclosed amount. This acquisition marked Dell's strategic entry into the premium gaming segment, a high-growth, high-margin area of the PC market where Alienware had established strong enthusiast appeal through its distinctive designs and performance focus. For Alienware, which had faced constraints during its independent years—stemming from founding-era challenges in scaling production—the partnership provided access to Dell's extensive manufacturing and distribution resources, enabling faster growth without diluting its core expertise. Post-acquisition, Alienware operated as a wholly owned , retaining its independent brand identity, management team, and headquarters in to preserve its creative autonomy and enthusiast-driven culture. committed to maintaining Alienware's separate product development, marketing, and sales operations, ensuring no immediate integration that could compromise its specialized focus on high-end gaming hardware. In the short term, the acquisition facilitated enhanced funding through Dell's resources, supporting Alienware's innovation in gaming technologies while avoiding any dilution of product performance standards. This bolstered global expansion efforts, as Alienware leveraged Dell's international to reach broader markets more efficiently. Early synergies emerged from integrating Dell's , which reduced production costs and shortened delivery times for customers, yet Alienware upheld its model to reflect the high-end value of its systems. By 2018, these foundations had propelled Alienware to a $3 billion under , underscoring the acquisition's enduring impact on scaling without sacrificing quality. Following Azor's departure to as Chief Architect of Gaming Solutions in June 2019, Alienware continued to innovate, introducing advanced QD-OLED monitors and maintaining its position in the premium gaming market. In January 2025, at CES, the company revived its iconic Area-51 desktop and laptop lines, featuring Ultra processors and graphics, marking a significant in its product evolution.

Design Philosophy

Visual Identity

Alienware's visual identity draws heavily from extraterrestrial and science-fiction themes, embodying a sense of otherworldly and aggression tailored to gaming enthusiasts. The brand's name itself evokes narratives, while its iconic , introduced in , features a stylized alien head with an elongated, angular form, wide forehead, and narrow chin, set against a black oval background with a silver stripe for a futuristic, mysterious appeal. This emblem, imagined as how inhabitants perceive extraterrestrials, immediately positioned Alienware as a bold departure from conventional PC , emphasizing intrigue and high-performance mystique. The evolved to maintain consistency while refining its futuristic edge. From to 2016, the design simplified by removing the background, centering the head with white eyes, and pairing it with geometric uppercase "Alienware" lettering alongside the slogan "High-performance gaming systems" in thin text, enhancing the industrial, technical vibe. By 2016, the current iteration further streamlined the alien head with reduced eye sockets and a thin, widely spaced font featuring pointed "L" and "E" letters, preserving the angular, sci-fi motif across product lines and marketing materials. Chassis designs have progressed from angular, industrial forms in early models to more aggressive yet streamlined profiles, reflecting the brand's thematic evolution. Pre-2009 systems, like the 2006 Aurora series, utilized robust, boxy enclosures with metallic accents for a raw, mechanical look, often incorporating or aluminum elements for durability and a premium feel. A major overhaul at the 2009 introduced sleeker, more sculpted chassis for desktops, such as the updated Area-51 and Aurora series, featuring elements like anodized aluminum and . This aggressive aesthetic was later applied to laptops, as seen in the 2013 Alienware 14, 17, and 18 series, blending sharp edges with ergonomic curves to evoke spacecraft armor. Post-acquisition refinements in the 2010s maintained this aggressive aesthetic, prioritizing visual impact alongside structural integrity. Iconic color schemes center on a predominantly black base, accented by vibrant neon hues like green, blue, and purple to amplify the and interstellar motifs. This palette, evident in finishes and branding, creates a stark, immersive contrast that highlights the brand's alien heritage. Customizable RGB LED lighting, introduced via the AlienFX system in the early , allows users to program up to 16.8 million colors across zones like keyboards and edges, transforming devices into dynamic light shows that sync with for enhanced thematic immersion. Packaging and marketing visuals reinforce this extraterrestrial branding through holographic effects, metallic finishes, and artwork depicting interstellar warfare or scenarios. Boxes often feature glossy, iridescent surfaces with alien head motifs and neon accents, to reveal products in protective, themed cradles that extend the sci-fi . Recent campaigns, such as the "Parallel Realities" series developed with VML, employ glitch effects and blended real-world/gaming visuals—like a traversing digital terrains or the Duck in virtual missions—to portray Alienware as a gateway to alternate dimensions, fostering emotional connection through disruptive, curiosity-sparking imagery. Brand consistency persists across eras, culminating in the revival of the Area-51 line, which blends retro-futuristic cues with modern aggression. The desktop chassis revives the original's triangular profile with tapered edges for aerodynamic sleekness, illuminated vents glowing via RGB integration, and a panel revealing internal components, all in anodized aluminum for a premium, spacecraft-like sheen. Similarly, the Area-51 laptops incorporate zero-hinge designs with fluid contours, tapered wrist rests for comfort, and per-key AlienFX RGB lighting on keyboards and touchpads, available in colors like Liquid Teal to echo neon accents while nodding to classic angular forms. These elements subtly enhance airflow visibility without compromising the iconic, otherworldly aesthetic.

Functional Design Elements

Alienware desktops, particularly in the Aurora series, employ modular architectures designed to simplify hardware upgrades and . Models such as the Aurora R7 feature tool-less side panels that can be removed effortlessly to access internal components like graphics cards and storage drives, promoting user-friendly customization without requiring specialized tools. Similarly, the Aurora R9 introduces a PSU swing-arm mechanism that facilitates tool-less installation of graphics cards while maintaining a compact form factor, enhancing overall accessibility for enthusiasts. Later iterations, like the Aurora R13, include side and optional magnetic back panels for even quicker component swaps, underscoring Alienware's commitment to modular design for sustained performance. Ergonomic considerations in Alienware laptops prioritize user interaction during extended gaming sessions. Keyboards incorporate per-key RGB backlighting for customizable visibility and Cherry MX ultra-low profile mechanical switches, offering responsive actuation and a lifespan of up to 50 million keystrokes. These keyboards also provide 100% anti-ghosting and N-key rollover (NKRO) to prevent input errors in fast-paced scenarios, alongside fully programmable keys that support macro creation for streamlined command execution. Build materials in Alienware laptops emphasize durability and thermal management to support portability without compromising robustness. Vapor chamber cooling plates are integrated to efficiently distribute heat across key components, while reinforced hinges on models like the m18 R2 ensure stable lid operation and resistance to wear during frequent opening and closing. Port layouts are strategically configured to cater to gamers' connectivity needs, with multiple Thunderbolt 4 ports enabling high-bandwidth data transfer, external display support, and peripheral chaining on laptops such as the x14 and m18. HDMI 2.1 ports facilitate seamless connection to 4K/120Hz monitors, and desktops like the Aurora R12 include front I/O panels with USB 3.2 Gen 1 ports, a USB-C port, and audio jacks for immediate access without navigating to the rear. These arrangements, often accented by subtle RGB lighting, minimize setup disruptions during gameplay. For accessibility, Alienware laptops position the webcam at the top center of the display, providing an elevated vantage that aligns with eye level for more natural angles in streaming and video conferencing applications. This placement, combined with resolution and IR support for facial recognition, enhances for content creators without requiring external adjustments.

Products

Desktops

Alienware's desktop lineup has evolved significantly since the company's inception, beginning with high-performance systems tailored for gamers in the late . The original Area-51 desktop, launched in 1998, featured processors and was designed as a premium gaming rig emphasizing and custom components. By 2025, Alienware desktops have advanced to support modern features like ray tracing and AI-accelerated workloads, powered by 50-series GPUs and Ultra processors that enable real-time rendering and tasks in gaming and . The Aurora series represents Alienware's mid-to-high-end tower desktops, introduced in 2009 as a more accessible alternative to flagship models. These systems accommodate or CPUs alongside or GPUs, with configurations optimized for to 4K gaming. The series has seen iterative updates, culminating in the Aurora R16 model released in late 2023 and refreshed for 2025 with Ultra processors such as the Ultra 7 265KF (up to 5.5 GHz turbo) and Ultra 9 285K, paired with GPUs up to the RTX 5080. Liquid cooling options, including 240mm radiators, are available for enhanced thermal management in high-performance builds, allowing sustained operation under demanding loads. In contrast, the Area-51 series serves as Alienware's flagship full-tower desktops, originally pioneering extreme gaming hardware and revived at CES 2025 after a hiatus since 2017. The 2025 iteration features Ultra 9 285K processors (24 cores, up to 5.7 GHz) and, as of November 2025, also supports 9000 X3D CPUs such as the 9 9950X3D; it supports up to RTX 5090 GPUs, delivering exceptional performance for 4K ray-traced gaming and AI-driven applications like DLSS frame generation. Its modular, tool-less design facilitates easy component swaps and extreme , using standard components with a conversion kit for compatibility. Cooling emphasizes liquid variants, such as 360mm or 420mm AIO systems, paired with power supplies up to 1500W Platinum-rated to handle high-wattage setups exceeding 1000W total draw. Alienware offers pre-built configurations across both series, prioritizing liquid-cooled variants for superior in intensive scenarios. Entry-level Aurora builds start at around $1,500, targeting mainstream gamers, while custom Area-51 systems can exceed $5,000, appealing to competitive players and enthusiasts seeking maximum configurability.

Laptops

Alienware's laptop lineup emphasizes high-performance portable gaming, balancing powerful hardware with increasing portability in recent models. The m-series and x-series represent the core offerings, with the former targeting maximum power in larger form factors and the latter prioritizing slim designs for mobility without fully compromising on performance. The m-series, exemplified by the 2024 m18 R2, features 18-inch models equipped with Intel Core i9-14900HX processors, NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4090 GPUs, up to 64GB of DDR5 RAM, and display options of QHD+ at 165Hz or FHD+ at 480Hz refresh rates for demanding gaming and workstation tasks. It includes a per-key RGB backlit Cherry MX mechanical keyboard and AlienFX customizable RGB lighting on the chassis, alien head logo, keyboard, touchpad area, and rear vents/logo, which illuminate when the laptop is open and powered on. These laptops support up to 97Wh batteries with bypass charging to preserve battery health during extended plugged-in sessions, though full performance is optimized for AC power use due to thermal constraints. Ports include dual Thunderbolt 4 connections, maintaining expandability in a chassis measuring about 1.2 inches thick. In contrast, the x-series and smaller 16-inch or 14-inch variants focus on slimmer profiles under 0.8 inches thick, such as the x16 R2 at 0.73 inches, retaining robust ports like dual 4/5 and up to 96Wh batteries. The CES 2025-announced Alienware 16 Area-51 is a thicker high-performance model at 1.12 inches, integrating Ultra 9 275HX processors, 50-series GPUs up to RTX 5080, 240Hz screens, and MUX switching via Advanced Optimus for direct GPU rendering and improved efficiency. Shared cooling technologies, including Cryo-tech vapor chamber systems, help manage heat in these compact designs. At CES 2026, Alienware teased a new ultra-slim gaming laptop line, featuring 14- and 16-inch models approximately 17mm thick, designed to deliver high performance in an exceptionally portable form factor. Positioned as a "covert" option to compete with slim laptops from Razer and Asus ROG Zephyrus, these models emphasize unmatched mobility and are planned for launch later in 2026. Battery life and present key trade-offs across the lineup, with up to 97Wh capacities enabling around 2-4 hours of light use but dropping significantly under load, underscoring the need for plugged-in operation to unlock peak GPU and CPU performance without throttling. from the bulky, over 1-inch-thick models of the to 2025's sub-0.8-inch profiles reflects a shift toward portability, driven by advancements in component efficiency and . Priced from approximately $1,200 for entry-level configurations to $4,000 for top-tier builds, Alienware laptops primarily target mobile professionals and seeking desktop-like experiences .

Monitors

Alienware's gaming monitors emphasize cutting-edge display technologies tailored for high-frame-rate gaming, with a focus on vibrant colors, low latency, and adaptive to enhance visual performance when paired with its PCs. The lineup spans QD-OLED panels for premium immersion and IPS/VA options for balanced competitive and versatile use, all featuring robust build quality and user-centric . Alienware entered the dedicated monitor market in 2017 with the AW2518HF, its inaugural 24.5-inch FHD IPS gaming display boasting a 240Hz and support, marking a shift from bundled third-party screens in earlier PC bundles post-Dell acquisition. This foundation evolved through innovations like the 2019 AW5520QF, the world's first 55-inch 4K gaming monitor at 120Hz, and the landmark 2022 AW3423DW, the first QD-OLED gaming monitor with a 34-inch ultrawide WQHD panel, 175Hz , 0.1ms response time, and FreeSync Premium Pro. By 2025, CES announcements introduced six new models, advancing to higher resolutions, refresh rates up to 320Hz, and enhanced HDR capabilities, solidifying Alienware's role in pushing display boundaries for and cinematic experiences. The QD-OLED lineup highlights Alienware's commitment to superior contrast and color accuracy, exemplified by the 2025 AW2725Q—a 27-inch 4K panel with 240Hz , HDR, 0.03ms gray-to-gray response time, which significantly reduces ghosting and motion blur in fast-paced gaming scenarios due to the near-instantaneous pixel response of QD-OLED technology, and an industry-leading 166 pixels-per-inch density for sharp, immersive visuals in titles like fast-paced shooters and open-world adventures. Complementing this, the AW3225QF, a 32-inch 4K curved QD-OLED panel with 240Hz refresh rate, offers strong immersion via its 1700R curve and large size, vibrant colors covering 99% gamut, peak HDR performance with support and 1000 nits peak brightness, and is highly rated (4.6/5 from over 1900 reviews) as one of the best gaming companions. The AW3425DW updates the pioneering AW3423DW with a 34-inch ultrawide WQHD curved display at 240Hz, VESA DisplayHDR True Black 400 certification, and compatibility, delivering infinite contrast ratios ideal for panoramic gaming without bezel distractions. Additional QD-OLED variants, such as the AW2725D 27-inch QHD model at 280Hz, target precision with minimal motion blur and vivid quantum-dot-enhanced colors covering over 99% gamut. IPS and VA models provide accessible entry points with strong performance for competitive play, including the 2025 AW2525HM—a 25-inch FHD fast IPS monitor at 320Hz with 1ms response time for ultra-responsive aiming in FPS games—and the AW3225DM, a 32-inch QHD curved VA panel at 180Hz offering HDR400 and 95% coverage for broader content consumption. Prior high-refresh examples, such as the 2024 AW2725DF—a 27-inch (26.7-inch viewable) QD-OLED gaming monitor with 2560 x 1440 (QHD) resolution, up to 360 Hz refresh rate (native via DisplayPort; 144 Hz via HDMI), 0.03 ms gray-to-gray response time, 250 cd/m² typical brightness (SDR), up to 1000 cd/m² peak brightness (HDR), 1.5 million:1 contrast ratio, 99.3% DCI-P3 color gamut, VESA DisplayHDR True Black 400 certification, AMD FreeSync Premium Pro and VESA AdaptiveSync support, connectivity including 2× DisplayPort 1.4, 1× HDMI 2.1, and USB 3.2 Gen 1 hub ports, an adjustable stand, AlienFX RGB lighting, and burn-in prevention technologies—further illustrate Alienware's focus on , though 2025 emphasizes balanced resolutions; these panels prioritize wide viewing angles (up to 178 degrees on IPS) and rapid pixel response to reduce ghosting. All models integrate AMD FreeSync Premium Pro and compatibility for tear-free gameplay across GPU ecosystems, alongside ergonomic stands supporting height, tilt, swivel, and pivot adjustments for prolonged sessions. Pricing for Alienware monitors typically ranges from $250 to $1,500, with 2025 entries like the AW2525HM at ~$249.99 and the AW2725Q at $899.99, enabling seamless integration with Alienware desktops and laptops to optimize system-wide through shared software like Alienware for unified and settings control.

Peripherals and Accessories

Alienware offers a range of peripherals and accessories designed to complement its gaming hardware, focusing on wireless connectivity, customizable , and ergonomic features for extended use. These products emphasize low-latency and integration with Alienware's , targeting gamers seeking seamless input and audio experiences. The Alienware Tri-Mode Wireless Gaming Headset AW920H, released in 2022, features 40mm Hi-Res certified drivers for high-fidelity audio, supporting for immersive spatial sound. It offers tri-mode connectivity via 2.4GHz wireless, 5.2, and 3.5mm wired, with battery life up to 30 hours on 2.4GHz and 55 hours on at 50% volume without LEDs. The headset includes active noise cancellation, a detachable boom with AI noise reduction, and AlienFX RGB lighting on the earcups, weighing 300g for comfort during long sessions. The Alienware Tri-Mode Wireless Gaming Headset AW725H, released in 2024, features 40mm drivers for high-fidelity audio, supporting for immersive spatial sound. It offers tri-mode connectivity via 2.4GHz wireless (via dongle), 5.3, and 3.5mm wired, requiring users to switch between 2.4GHz and Bluetooth modes rather than using both simultaneously. Battery life is up to 30 hours on 2.4GHz and 75 hours on with RGB lighting off. The headset includes AI noise-cancelling microphone and memory foam ear cushions with fabric covering, weighing approximately 348g for comfort during extended sessions. Alienware's keyboards and mice prioritize precision and customization for competitive play. The Alienware Pro Gaming Keyboard, a 75% form factor model launched in , uses hot-swappable Alienware Linear Mechanical Switches for low-latency response, per-key RGB lighting via AlienFX, and PBT double-shot keycaps for durability. It supports 2.4GHz , 5.1, and wired connectivity, with up to 72 hours of battery life at 50% RGB brightness and full anti-ghosting with N-key rollover at a 1000Hz polling rate. The Alienware Tri-Mode Gaming AW720M features a 26,000 DPI optical sensor with 650 IPS tracking and 50G acceleration, seven programmable buttons, and customizable weights for balance adjustment. It provides up to 140 hours of battery life in mode and supports 1000Hz polling for low latency. Other accessories include gaming chairs introduced in the late , such as the Alienware S5000 launched in , which features racing-style with adjustable support, 4D armrests, and PU leather accented by subtle RGB elements. The lineup expanded in the with models like the S5800 Ergonomic Gaming Chair, incorporating VertaAir mesh for breathability and pressure relief. For laptop users, the Alienware Amplifier, an external released in and discontinued in , enables expansion via a proprietary port, supporting full-length desktop GPUs, up to 375W power delivery, and four ports to enhance graphics performance on compatible Alienware laptops. These accessories are compatible with Alienware desktops and laptops for unified setups. All Alienware peripherals integrate with the Alienware software, allowing users to synchronize AlienFX RGB lighting across devices, create unified profiles for macros and performance settings, and monitor battery status. This ecosystem enables one-click adjustments for lighting zones and game-specific configurations directly from the application. In recent developments, Alienware expanded its esports-focused peripherals in 2024 with the Pro series, co-developed with over 100 professional gamers from teams like , emphasizing tournament-grade durability and lightweight 60g construction on the mouse for enhanced endurance in competitive environments, with the mouse supporting up to 8000Hz wired polling. These updates align with Alienware's 2025 initiatives, including sponsorship of collegiate events like the Alienware Collegiate Clash, promoting peripherals built for high-stakes play.

Technological Innovations

Cooling and Performance Technologies

Alienware's cooling technologies have evolved significantly since the company's founding in , when early desktop systems relied on basic axial fans for thermal management, often leading to higher noise levels and limited sustained under heavy loads. By the 2025 models, such as the Area-51 desktop, Alienware incorporates advanced multi-fan arrays with optimized designs, including a 360 mm CPU liquid cooler and a setup with two 180 mm front fans and two 140 mm bottom fans, that reduce noise during intensive gaming sessions compared to earlier air-cooled configurations. A cornerstone of Alienware's performance enhancements is the Cryo-Tech cooling system, first introduced in with the Alienware 15 and 17 laptops, which integrated vapor chambers and copper heat pipes to improve heat dissipation by approximately 10% over previous generations. This system was further refined in 2021 with the addition of Element 31, a interface material composed of an encapsulated gallium-silicone compound, which enhances thermal conductivity and reduces resistance by up to 25%. High-performance configurations in Alienware systems support through tools like the Alienware OC Controls application, which allows users to monitor and adjust CPU, GPU, and memory profiles, alongside compatibility with Extreme Tuning Utility (XTU) for fine-tuned boosts. Power delivery is bolstered by high-wattage PSUs, such as the 1500W Platinum-rated unit available in the 2025 Area-51 desktop, enabling stable operation of power-hungry components without thermal bottlenecks. For flagship models, Alienware integrates direct liquid cooling loops for GPUs, as seen in the Aurora series with RTX graphics, achieving significant temperature reductions relative to traditional , which helps maintain peak clock speeds during extended sessions. These advancements ensure sustained performance, exemplified by 2025 systems equipped with RTX 50-series GPUs that deliver consistent 4K gaming at 144Hz refresh rates without thermal throttling in demanding titles. Complementing these hardware advancements, Alienware's QD-OLED display technology in their monitors achieves an ultra-low 0.03 ms gray-to-gray response time, significantly reducing ghosting and motion blur to ensure smooth visuals during high-performance gaming.

Software and Ecosystem Integrations

Alienware (AWCC) serves as the central software application for managing and customizing features on Alienware systems, enabling users to synchronize RGB , configure performance profiles such as overclock, quiet, and balanced modes, and apply game-specific optimizations. Introduced in the early , AWCC has evolved to provide an intuitive interface for controlling hardware elements like effects and thermal settings directly from a unified dashboard. The latest iteration, AWCC 6.0, released in 2024, introduces enhanced capabilities including a redesigned adaptive , an overlay for in-game monitoring, and automated adjustments to performance presets and lighting based on detected games or workloads. These updates, available through 2025, focus on seamless integration with , allowing for quick access to system monitoring and preset switching without interrupting gameplay. Within the AWCC ecosystem, AlienFX handles dynamic RGB lighting synchronization across compatible components, enabling users to create custom themes or reactive effects tied to system activity. AlienTouch, available on select Alienware laptops, optimizes trackpad gestures and sensitivity for enhanced input control during gaming sessions. For broader compatibility, AWCC supports integration with third-party peripherals through their respective software, such as Razer Synapse for lighting synchronization on external devices, and includes optimizations for VR setups by adjusting performance modes to maintain frame rates. AWCC also facilitates profile management for cross-device consistency, allowing users to save and apply configurations that adapt to hardware like cooling systems for balanced operation.

Marketing and Community Engagement

Sponsorships and Partnerships

Alienware has engaged in several key esports sponsorships to enhance its presence in competitive gaming. Since 2011, the brand has maintained a long-term partnership with , providing custom gaming rigs for their players in titles such as and , which includes dedicated training facilities equipped with Alienware hardware. In October 2025, Alienware joined and for the Team Liquid World Tour, supporting a series of global esports events. In addition, Alienware serves as the official PC and monitor partner for ' , including the League Championship Series (LCS) in and the League of Legends EMEA Championship (LEC) in Europe since 2019, supplying systems to participating teams like for tournaments. The company has also been a prominent supporter of major esports events. Alienware became the official OEM, PC, and monitor partner for all ESL One tournaments powered by starting in 2018, extending to on-site demonstrations and hardware provisioning at these global competitions. Following the 2020 merger of ESL and under ESL Gaming, this role encompasses DreamHack festivals and opens, where Alienware provides equipment for LAN events and player setups dating back to early integrations around 2010. In April 2025, Alienware partnered with BLAST as the official PC provider for the BLAST.tv Austin Major, held from June 19–22 in . In technological collaborations, Alienware works closely with on RTX series launches, developing custom-branded GPUs such as the RTX 3080 integrated into Aurora desktops and laptops since 2020, and co-promoting newer iterations like the RTX 50-series in 2025 products. Similarly, partnerships with feature co-marketing efforts, including the showcase of Core Ultra 200HX-series processors in Alienware's Area-51 laptops and desktops at CES 2025, highlighting joint advancements in mobile gaming performance. Alienware supports influencer programs through deals with prominent gaming creators, such as collaborations with for branded content streams and giveaways featuring Alienware peripherals in competitive gaming scenarios. These initiatives have bolstered Alienware's visibility and market position in competitive gaming since Dell's 2006 acquisition, with partnerships driving higher consideration rates—as of 2023, 10% among British esports followers versus 6% among general gamers—and contributing to Dell's 14.6% share in the gaming PC market by late 2023.

Online Community and Events

Alienware Arena serves as the central online portal for the brand's community, offering forums for discussions, downloads of exclusive content, news updates, and a rewards program where users earn Alien Points (ARP) through daily quests, community events, and account integrations to redeem for merchandise, game codes, and . The platform also provides access to giveaways, closed betas, and in-game items, fostering engagement among PC gamers and hardware enthusiasts. In recent years, it has distributed over 1.7 million keys valued at more than $4.6 million, highlighting its role in delivering free gaming perks. The brand engages users through annual live streams and events at major trade shows like CES, where Alienware hosted announcements for the revived Area-51 lineup in 2025, including desktop and laptop unveilings with on-site demonstrations and interactions. These gatherings often feature fan Q&A sessions via , allowing direct feedback on products and features. In 2025, Alienware launched the Collegiate Clash (AWCC25), a North American collegiate tournament featuring 20 teams competing in titles like , with Alienware providing hardware and establishing gaming lounges at partner universities such as UCLA. Alienware has also participated in , though specific 2025 user meets focused more on broader industry showcases rather than dedicated community sessions. Alienware maintains an active presence on social platforms including Twitch for live game streams, for tutorials and behind-the-scenes content like cooling technology explorations, and Reddit's unofficial r/Alienware subreddit for user discussions on hardware and gaming. These channels support community feedback loops, such as beta testing announcements and modding showcases, enabling users to contribute to software refinements. Community-driven initiatives include custom PC build contests, such as the 2016 Alienware Case Mod-Off and the 2020 collaboration with modders creating themed hardware like futuristic chairs and motorcycles. Beta programs have historically involved users testing updates to software like the , which manages performance, lighting, and , with early versions crowdsourced for feedback as far back as 2010. The has evolved from early forum-based interactions in the to integrated real-time platforms in the 2020s, exemplified by the official Alienware server launched for gaming discussions, tech support, and ARP-earning polls, now boasting over 27,000 members. This shift supports faster engagement, including event recaps and user-driven content sharing.

Customer Support Services

In January 2025, Alienware introduced Alienware Elite Care, followed by Alienware Care in February 2025, as new support tiers for desktops and laptops. Alienware Care provides premium support features including 24/7 phone, chat, and online assistance for hardware and software issues, on-site repairs typically within 1-2 business days, international coverage, file backup help, AI-driven proactive diagnostics, predictive hardware failure alerts, and SupportAssist monitoring. Alienware Elite Care encompasses all Alienware Care features plus specialized gaming support such as 24/7 access to gaming experts, end-to-end assistance with game installation, configuration, optimization, game-ready drivers, gaming gear support (e.g., VR headsets from Dell), troubleshooting for performance issues, accidental damage coverage (limited to one incident per year), extended battery service for laptops (years 2-4), parental controls setup, and automated optimizations.

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