Typing on the M17x r3

Ok, so I am looking at purchasing an alienware m17x r3! As much as I will enjoy gaming on this beast of a machine, I am going to need it to type college work/essays and do a ton of c++/java programming on.
So what I really need to know is... how is the keyboard? Easy to type on?

Owners thoughts would be greatly appreciated!

 

I have my R3 now for a week. I was scared because ppl were talking about keyboard flex. When i got mine thats what i was checking for during the install. To get flex i have to press so hard my fingers start turning white from pressure. and after getting used to having a numpad (i had a Macbookpro b4 so it was a diff keyboard) its a joy to type. I LOVE this keyboard you might have to turn the AlienFX on dim lights tho if you have sensitive eyes.

In short. Its awesome and you'll love typing on it.

 

Kb is good. Flex here n there, which isn't surprising for a 2011 computer. It still doesn't compare with my dinolaptop though. But better than anything else I've tried at the store (with exception to G73 and Macs).

 

Something else, is there a "|" (vertical bar) symbol on the keyboard? I only ask because I do a lot of c++ programming and it would make it difficult if there wasn't one.

 

Yes, there is absolutely a "|" on the keyboard...I just used it to type that!

Also, do they no longer teach you to type without looking at the keyboard? The backlights never bother be because I type without looking...

 

Yup. I have my lights turned off all the time. It's actually not that helpful in the dark, because I don't have the computer on my lap, so while it's on the desk I see the kb at an angle and all the lights make it hard to locate the correct keys. Best solution: turn on your desk lamp lolz. Also, the screen is so bright that it'll illuminate basically anything within 2 feet of you lolz.

 

Thanks for the reply And in all typing classes that I have ever taken they have emphasized not looking at the keys.

 

I, too, purchased an Alienware M17x R3 with the intentions of programming and schoolwork in addition to gaming, and let me tell you, you will not regret it. The soft touch finish is very comforting on the wrists and you can type for hours. The screen size and resolution (If you get it at 1920x1080) is more than adequate for programming; in fact, I like to split-screen my code on one side and have a browser on the other for any information I need.

I don't have any keyboard flex at all and if I do, I'm not pressing at the right areas then! I'm assuming with this next line that you'll be bringing this laptop to school with you on a regular basis so know this - it's very portable with a computer book, give or take a book or two depending on the bag you have. I personally prefer looking on the web for ebooks or websites dedicated to programming languages so I could avoid adding another X pounds to my bag. The brightness could be an issue to your teacher if you use it in class along with the keyboard lights, so don't forget to disable the lights and dim the brightness to play it safe!

 

Thats great news! I actually just placed my order about an hour ago haha. So the screen has adequate space for having a browser and GUI open? I did take your advice and got the 1920x1080.

 

Congrats and welcome to the forum. Closing now since you decided to purchase. Followup q's in the owners lounge please.

Thanks.