Although Alienware has been round for 30 years, the corporate hasn’t actually made an inexpensive, entry-level gaming laptop computer. However that modifications right this moment with the succinctly named Alienware 15, and based mostly on the rising value of seemingly each gadget, it could not have come at a greater time.
Let’s begin with the fundamentals. The Alienware 15 will probably be obtainable with each AMD and Intel CPUs, beginning at $1,299 for a config with a Ryzen 5 220 processor, 16GB of RAM, 512GB M.2 SSD and an NVIDIA RTX 4050 GPU. For those who go for a system with a Core 5 210H chip and the identical reminiscence, graphics and storage, anticipate to pay $1,349. (Notice: There will probably be a variant with an RTX 3050 GPU in sure areas, however not in North America.) The laptop computer additionally includes a 15.3-inch LCD show with respectable brightness (300 nits), a 1,920 x 1,200 decision (16:10) and a comparatively speedy 165Hz refresh price. You additionally get a surprisingly extensive assortment of ports together with two USB-C, two USB-A (all of them are least Gen 3.1), HDMI 2.1, 3.5mm audio and even an onboard Ethernet jack. So simply going by its core elements, the Alienware 15 is off to begin.
Sam Rutherford for Engadget
That mentioned, I’ve had an opportunity to take a look at a pre-production mannequin and whereas I can not benchmark it fairly but because it’s nonetheless working unfinished software program, there’s rather a lot to love about Alienware’s first correct price range gaming laptop computer. Along with a brand new nova black paint scheme, this mannequin includes a extra toned-down, understated design that I actually like. As an alternative of a lightweight up emblem on its lid with built-in RGB LEDs, Alienware opted for a easy iridescent sticker that permits this factor to be a bit extra incognito in case you ever have to carry it out in public. Refined touches like a pronounced V-rail make it straightforward to open the lid, whereas the shortage of a thermal shelf like you get on its more expensive siblings leads to a extra moveable compact design that measures lower than an inch thick at any level (0.81 inches within the entrance and 0.9 inches within the again). All advised, the Alienware 15 brings some welcome subtlety from an organization identified for much out designs, so it needs to be even higher at pulling double responsibility as a gaming rig and a transportable productiveness machine.
Sam Rutherford for Engadget
Not like a whole lot of trendy gaming laptops, Alienware additionally included a full numpad, which provides much more instruments to its arsenal of productiveness options. And since the 15 nonetheless has a Stealth key, you may disable all of its lighting whereas activating its Quiet efficiency mode with a single contact, which might be nice for a school pupil who simply desires to take notes with out attracting a ton of consideration. One other good element is that whereas the config I previewed includes a single 16GB stick of DDR5 RAM, there is a second open SO-DIMM slot inside, so it will be very straightforward so as to add extra down the road.
Up to now, the Alienware 15’s two small shortcomings are that it does not have any form of onboard microSD card reader and that its built-in webcam is fairly mediocre. Its decision tops out at 720p at simply 30 fps, so it isn’t excellent for anybody who must look their finest on video calls. Initially, I used to be additionally a bit involved with its show topping out at 300 nits of brightness, however I’ve discovered that except you are sitting outdoors in direct daylight, visibility typically is not a difficulty.
Sam Rutherford for Engadget
Regardless, beginning at below $1,300 for the bottom mannequin with an AMD CPU, the Alienware 15 has rather a lot to supply for a really cheap value. For comparability, its flagship sibling — the 16-inch Area 51 — prices round $1,000 extra. In the meantime, Alienware’s center youngster — the refreshed Aurora 16x — goes for a minimum of $2,000, so at a minimal, you are an additional $700 there. In a time when the value of seemingly each piece of gaming {hardware} is getting dearer, together with consoles like the Switch 2, it is simply very nice to see Alienware increasing its portfolio with its first actually inexpensive gaming pocket book. And if you happen to do have a bit of wiggle room in your price range, you may at all times improve a few of its elements like its GPU, which might go as much as an RTX 5060.
The Alienware 15 is accessible right this moment on Dell.com.
