AW R4 replacement

So Dell is finally replacing my AW R4 after months of replacing parts, the new systems config they sent me is below, I asked for an Nvidia card since i've had so many issues with the 7970M and they told me that "since AMD is the original purchase item I cannot change the brand unless it was not available at all." I guess i should be happy the system is newer anyways. what do you guys think?


Dell Outlet Alienware 17 R1

Processor: Intel Core 4th Generation i7-4710MQ Processor (6MB Cache, up to 3.5GHz w/ Turbo Boost)

8GB Dual Channel DDR3L at 1600MHz

1 TB SATA Hard Drive (5400 RPM)

Slot-Load Dual Layer Blu-ray Combo (BR-ROM, DVD+/-RW, CD-RW)

AMD Radeon R9 M290X with 4GB GDDR5

17.3 inch (439.42 mm) WLED FHD (1920 x 1080) Anti-Glare Display

Windows 7 Professional

8-cell Lithium Ion (86 wHr) Battery

Anodized Aluminum

Integrated High Definition Audio

Intel Dual Band Wireless-AC 7260 + Bluetooth 4.0

English Keyboard

 

It's not a bad deal, question is how do you feel about it? Good thing is at least they offered you the R1 as opposed to the R2 so you have plenty of room for upgrades in the future.

The R1 is a fantastic bit of kit, I don't think it has the wow factor looks wise compared to the R4 but it's heart is in the right place.

I've often wondered if I found myself in a situation where Dell had to replace my laptop, as the R2 is just a downgrade in every way.

 

I was telling myself the same thing, since the new R2 have the CPU and GPU soldered. The R1 could be a blessing, I accepted it because my laptop currently is barely usable because of the horrible washed out screen. I just hope the laptop comes in good conditions because I know it's from their outlet store.

 

I've actually had that exact machine (I "borrowed" it from Best Buy to try it out).

It's a good laptop. The only issue I had with it is the R9 M290X runs quite loud - you'll definitely hear it. However, the system runs remarkably cool.

I'd be happy with that. I currently own a used R1 I bought off somebody. I upgraded the RAM, added a SSD, I'm going to replace the screen, and I have a GTX 970m incoming.

I've also owned the R2 (which I then sold). The only advantage the R2 had was the screen - that LG IPS panel is quite nice.

If you feel up to it, sell the M290X and buy a better/cooler card. You at least have that option.

 

I see, I actually asked for an Nvidia card but they didn't want to offer me one. I feel like I could of pushed harder for one but I'm desperately in need of a laptop since my R4 screen is washed out really bad, I can't see any videos or play any games or do anything on it so I just accepted it. My R4 has a 7970M which is what the R9 M290X practically is but hearing that it runs loud doesn't make me feel any better. I would definitely sell it and get the GTX 970M but I still have warranty on the machine.

 

I didn't want to make a new thread but I just received the replacement, How do I go about switching the SSD? Since the replacement only came with a normal HDD. Do I just put the SSD in the new computer or do I have format it and re install everything?

 

You can use cloning software, or just re-install everything on the SSD after you put it in the laptop. Since it's a new laptop, I would do just that. Install the SSD, then do a clean install of Windows.

 

The R9 290MX won't run hot.. Just make sure you repaste with some proper paste.. Not too hard to do it.. Honestly my 7970M ran quite cool even with stock paste...

 

Honestly your looking at upgrades across the board except for some design changes. Your getting newer faster hardware but the R1 isn't quite as nice aesthetically IMO as I had an R4 before as well. I prefer the keyboard on the R4 and the alienhead power button but I do like the new LED that wraps around the system so it will be your personal opinion as to which one you like more. I loved my 7970m in my R4 that machine was always whisper quite, where as my R1 has much more fan noise but it seems the fan tables for this are....questionable.

 

I had a similar situation except alienware screwed me out of my 1080P screen for my replacement, but whatever. I HATE the R1, it was a massive downgrade compared to the R4 aside from the aluminum chassis. It runs HOT. The fans are ALWAYS kicking in. Also, never use XTU because you might unknowingly brick your system. The ports are fewer. Locked bios. DDR3L only memory. The charging port location sucks. The battery is no longer easily accessible. I would push as hard as possible to get a R4 with the GTX 680M. I would HAPPILY trade my Alienware 17 for a R4, any day of the week.