Getting replacement M17x, screen resolution concerns

So after many problems with my M17xR2, dell called today and told me they were going to give me a replacement! They said it would either be "the same exact or better."

Now, what im hoping is that they will give me a newer revision of the M17x, but I have a few concerns and questions.

Is it likely that dell will give me a newer revision, or are they more then likely going to give me a refurbished laptop?

Also, if they do give me a newer revision, is that better? What are the video card options? Are the R3 and the R4 more upgradeable then my R2? Right now I have Dual 5870s in my R2 and I hope it will be possible to upgrade with a newer revision. Can the newer revisions hold better video cards? What are some of the advantages in case I get one?

My biggest concern is actually the screen resolution. On the alienware site for the M17x (and even the M18x) it shows the screen size as only having a 1920x1080 resolution. I dont understand this, how can the resolution be smaller but the screen size is the same? If they try to give me this screen, should I not accept it? Is it even possible to get the 1920x1200 like I have now? Why is it not available?

 

I just found out that the R3 does not support dual GPUs. What would be equivalent to my dual 5870's in a single GPU R3? Also, is the R4 dual gpu? I want to know what im dealing with so when the dell technician tells me what my replacement is, I will know if I am actually getting an equivalent/better laptop.

Can anyone help please?

 

Now if I remember, i think a 6970 is as good as 2 5870's. Not sure. But anyways, they don't have that anymore. it's the 7970, which is miles faster than the dual 5870s. But anyways, there have been users on this forum that have been able to convince Dell to give them a M18x, since that's the only model that supports dual video cards since thats what you originally had and a move to R3 or R4 is a step down. R4 is also a single card only laptop. And that screen is also 1920x1080. There are no more 1920x1200 laptops from alienware.

 

You should get m18x.
Single gpu is not equal or better.. Yes the 7970 card is faster then your current dual setup but its still 1 card.
Also r2 is metal enclosure, R3/R4 not.. The m18x has same metal enclosure as R2.

So there you have it R2 > M18x!
Do you have rgb screen on r2? not available so also for that upgrade to m18x.

 

The drop to 1080p from 1200p is barely noticeable. We're talking a 3ppi decrease or 9 pixels per inch squared less pixel density for an R4.

An M18x is the closest in configuration to your R2. The problem with that through is that it's an extra inch of screen yet the same resolution. The difference isn't massive, but it would be noticeable - 11ppi decrease or 121 pixels per inch squared less pixel density over your 17" panel @ 1200p.

Despite the lower quality of materials used in the construction and the lack of dual gpus, an M17x R4 might still be the better option is your seriously bothered about retaining screen sharpness.

 

The thing is, I DO have the RGB display on my R2, and I saw pictures of ones without it. I really am concerned about this. I really love my display and dont want to accept anything less. Since the R2 is old, should I not accept anything if they dont give me another R2 with the RGB display on it? What if they give me a better processor/GPU on a R3/R4? I dont think its worth it.

Honestly I can run all my games fine and I love my RGB display. Is it unfair of me to decline another offer if it doesnt have the RGB? Would they still have those in stock? I really dont want to give it up. Would it still be possible for them to get it for me? If they say they dont have it, what should I do?? Should I demand some better parts (GPU, etc) instead?

Also, why is the R4 better with screen sharpness? Doesnt that not have the RGB and the lower resolution? Why is it sharper?

Please help! They might call soon and I need to know what to tell them!

 

M17xR2 is now M18xR2
M15x is now M17xR4
He is saying that since you will get a 18,4" screen now, it might be less sharp. Sadly the RBG screen is not an option anymore and you can't get that.

 

Alienware only used RGBLED in the M17xR2, no other laptops. And they only have 1080P screens now. The M17xR4 has more shaprness because it has the pixels in a more dense state. 17" screen vs the same number of pixels in an 18" screen. Your best bet is the M18x and you likely get an M18x R1 with 6970s or better. Which is still an upgrade. The M18x R1/2 and M17x R3/4 have WLED screens. People say the screen quality isn't as bad. I should know later today when I get my R4 and sit it next to my R2. The only way you'll get the RGB is if they have some in stock for a replacement, or you get an M17x R2 refurb.

 

But how much of a difference is there between the RGB and the WLED? Ive seen pictures and it looks like night and day.

 

Oh, and if they dont have an R2 with RGB screen, can I haggle with them to give me better parts instead or is that pushing it too far?

Im just scared im gonna boot up the PC and going to be way disappointed in how it looks. If I can play my games already at med-high settings, I'd want to wait til they release another RGB and buy it down the road.

 

Tainted, the move to 1080p like majik said above is barely noticeable...they just don't make the 1200p screen anymore. If you want newer hardware, your screen will be downgraded.

Just get a modern machine with a 7970m (or two) and you will be good to go. A single 7970m is an upgrade to your xfire 5870's. if you can score 2 of them in a m18x, even better.

 

Alright. I think ive decided. If they offer me a M18x or another R2 w/ RGB screen I'll take it. But if they try to give me an R3 or R4 im gonna say no. It's not worth it to me. Thanks guys.

Also, DR60SE, I would appreciate it if you could let me know about that comparison you said you were going to do later today. That'd be great.

 

Let us know how you get on.

 

I would accept an R4 with a 7970M down to the 6990M comparable performance without the reliance on crossfire.