M17x Rx or M18x

Okay, thanks Mr. Fox. Thing is, though, since my budget is $2300, I would have to buy the M18x with a single 560M, whereas, if I opt for the the M17x, I will get the 580M (they have a a special promotion in which you get 8 GB RAM, the 580M, and a two year warranty for $2000 and in total you save $350). So... the M17x is sounding like a much better deal. I know the perfect thing for me would be an Aurora, but I need a laptop because I hate being stuck in my bedroom just in order to use my computer. Bummer.

P.S. This forum needs a facepalm smiley.

 

Check the market here. People are always selling the 17 and 18. You will find a great deal if you are patient.

 

No, I would prefer to buy from Dell only. I don't trust humans enough to risk the transaction.

 

If the most your budget allows is the M17x R3, it's still a phenomenal machine. I doubt you will be disappointed with it. The M18x is definitely worth the extra money, but that is totally meaningless if your budget will not accommodate it. I would choose the M17x R3 over any other single-GPU mobile gaming system currently being marketed by Dell/Alienware or its competitors.

Another option (which will not work for you since you don't trust human beings, LOL) is to grab a nice second-hand R2 from a member of this Community. They come up for sale in the NBR Market now and then. The R2 is getting a little but long in the tooth, but I think it's an awesome beast, too. I still love mine. The R2 is dual-GPU and has an anodized aluminum chassis just like the M18x. Many of them are equipped with a 1200p RGB LED display that is superior to the M17x R3 and M18x display. You might save a few hundred bucks and have enough to purchase an extended warranty with a little change to spare. It is also upgradeable to newer AMD GPUs: [Guide] Installing AMD Radeon 6970M in your M17x-R2.

 

How does the 560GTX SLi compare to a single 580GTX?

If i get the M18X I'll be getting the 560GTX SLi but if I get the M17X it will be with the single 580GTX.

 

I understand your concerns, but the community here is just too awesome to 'try to get over' on you. Plus, if you use Paypal, your purchase is covered. And if warranty is an issue, Dell/AW warranty will transfer to the new owner with a brief phone call. I'm telling you-it's a win, win if you buy from someone here. Just saying. Check the feedback thread. Rarely, if ever does someone get ripped off. It's just common courtesy and morally right to do good to other. People here understand that and this community provides all kind of help and assitance for free.

Just ask you to consider.

 

So Iv had sort of a bad string of luck with my M17x R3 experience and after a replacement, and then having a tech come by to replace components in a computer that wasn't even a month old I finally had enough.

A few weeks later I know have the option to either get a replacement M17x R3 or if I want to switch to an M18 thats on the table too. So Dell is definitely trying to make it right.

For my the only reason to take the M18 is if I can get it configured with dual video cards. There seems to be 3 video card options for this lappy. Single 560m, faul 580m's, and crossfire 6990s. If they wanted to shoot me a 560m that would be a downgrade for me from the 580m I currently have so I don't think id be accepting that.

My big question is how much bigger and heavier is the M18 over the M17x. I really like the size of the M17x and if the computer just worked I would be really satisfied. However its been hard to tell from the pictures I have found of exactly how much larger and heavier the M18 is. Id be looking to hear from people who have had experience with both. For me it really does come down to what video card and proc they offer since I wont be taking any downgrades.

Thanks!

 

I say, always see an opportunity in everything. Look - you're probably going to get a computer that's worth a lot more than what you paid for! And then you will be happy that you M17x broke down. Anyway, can you tell me the quality of the case on the R3? That's the itsy bitsy little thing that keeps me from just buying it. I am a huge fan of high quality materials. I almost bought a MacBook Pro but I hate OS X, so...
So, how would the quality of materials on the Alienware compare to that on the MacBook Pro? Obviously the trackpad is going to be inferior, but what about the keyboard? Is it nice to type on? Any flex? Thanks. Hope you get a new computer.

 

It's kind of hard to explain, you know. The reason I have never ever bought a used product is because it is so exciting when you are the first to open something! Unwrapping it and everything - I think that's the highlight of the whole laptop experience - unwrapping something brand new, feeling it, being the first to type on the never-before used keyboard - it's just... exciting!!! You know what I'm talking about.

 

I will be sure to get the M17x with the 580M (my dream card!!! ). Never in the past two or three months did I think I would have a computer with a GTX 580M!!! The only reason I actually wanted the M18x was for watching movies - it would be awesome. But, oh well, I don't watch movies a lot anyway.

 

Oh, by the way, does anybody here know if the 3D screen is worth it (on the M17x). I play Microsoft Flight Simulator X and that should be absolutely AMAZING in 3D. And the GTX 580M is more than enough to handle a 3D game. But, if it's a sort of work-in-progress and has some glitches I don't want it. If it works perfectly... sure... but does it?

 

Wait... I just checked the Alienware website and it says that the Alienware M17x has an anodized aluminum case: Alienware M17x With Optional 3D Laptop Screen Details | Dell.

And everyone here is telling me it has a plastic case???

Did these computers just get updated?

 

Can anyone confirm this? I was also under the impression that the M17X had the plastic case, if it indeed comes in the anodized aluminum case I might just have to go with the M17X.

 

Exactly, right? That was the one teeny thing that kept me from just buying it. If indeed it does use aluminum like the MacBook Pro I see no reason why I shouldn't buy it - I just used to not like Alienware because I thought they had cheap and flashy cases. I didn't know they were so sophisticated. Anyway, it says that on their website - I guess it's proof enough, right?

 

The two m17x machines that I have had over the last month have not been anodized aluminum. The only part that seems anodized is the bezel where the media keys are. However the rest of the case bare the skeleton was definitely plastic.

 

The M17x R2 has an anodized aluminum chassis and dual GPU as does the M18x.

The M17x R3 has a plastic chassis with rubberized "soft touch" finish and single GPU. Due to higher specs and newer components the R3 generally matches or exceeds the performance of the R2 even though it has only one GPU.

The M18x smokes both the R2 and R3 in terms of performance.

 

The fan ports in the back are made of metal, found that out when a piece broke off. The rubber finish on the rest of the laptop isn't that bad though, but i haven't seen an m17x-R2 or M18x to compare it to yet

 

The IBM ThinkPad has used a similar exterior finish applied over an alloy chassis for years and it is generally durable. And, it also looks really nice as long as it is not damaged or peeling. The palmrest surface on the M18x has the same coating and it's nice to the touch as well. Whether that is equally cosmetically appealing would be a matter of personal preference. I find the anodized aluminum chassis more aesthetically pleasing and more durable than rubberized coating over plastic and that is only my personal preference. Many other folks may agree or disagree. It is awesome that Alienware offers us a variety of specs and prices to choose from, in a line up of powerful machines that maintain that notorious Alienware look and feel.

 

I did a video review of my old m17x r2 and my new m18x that was given to me as a replacement. This will probably help most people decide between the two dual GPU laptops from alienware....I dont see the m17x r3 as a good comparison to the m18x and my fully max spec m17x r2 was probably faster than an r3 anyway.

http://youtu.be/bnih62fXQA0 Part 1


http://youtu.be/VrguKVnmBn8 Part 2

Hope this can be helpful

 

Just thought I would update this as I received a replacement computer today. Dell ended up sending me the M18x. All I can say is the case quality is a tremendous difference. The top of the monitor is aluminum on this one as are the side bezels and of course the skeleton.

The palm rests are the same as the M17x R3 which I actually like because the soft touch is nice.

Will have to play with it more a bit later and see all the rest.

 

I am going to buy a new Alienware on Monday (hopeing they have Cyber Monday sales). I have about 3,000 to spend.

The question is this... should I get an M18X or an M17X.

A few things to keep in mind with responses....

1. Due to a problem with my eyes I am unable to see 3D images... so the 17x 3D screen does nothing for me.

2. I play new games.

3. Hows sturdy is the frame of the m17x?

 

Having had both m17x r3 in 3D and the m18x, aside from the weight the m18x is a far better gaming rig. It is truly able to give a high end desk top a run for it's money. It is much more solid and a better gaming platform..it handles blu-ray movies nicely and the sound is high end. For 3k you can get a killer system new or refurb with no problem. Enjoy in which ever you chose.

 

m18x has better quality build overall. in terms of raw performance, m18x tops m17x, the only downside is the mobility, but let's face it man, having an inch of different between these two matters? if one of them has dual gpu set up

here is a external review i found in youtube.

Alienware m18x vs. m17x r2 - Part 1 - YouTube

 

I have both machines to compare right now, since dell sent me an 18x replacement for my 17x R3.

As I have gotten to spend more time with both I have found both have pros and cons.

In terms of build quality I'm pretty sure no one will argue that the aluminum construction of the 18x is sturdier and in some cases better feeling than that of the 17x. That's not to say that the 17x feels cheaper or anything. I was a bit surprised when I got the two to compare at how different they were. That being said the all plastic construction is what lets the 17x be so much lighter, and there is definitely a weight difference.

In terms of size there is quite a noticeable difference all around. The 18x is quite noticeably chunkier in every dimension. This is especially evident when you sit the two together and see how much lower the 17x sits when compared to the 18x. Not to mention the power brick is twice as thick as the 17x one.

One advantage I see the 17x having is the internal layout. Its very easy to flip the computer upside down and take out basically any of the essential components like the video card, HDD's, proc, and ram. With the 18x in order to get to vital components like the video card, and proc you essentially have to take the entire thing apart.

Its pretty clear that both computers are geared toward very specific needs. The 18x is clearly meant to spend most of its life sitting on your desktop, and occasionally being brought from location to location. The 17x on the other hand is a nice balance of still portable enough to not be a hassle yet contain a power house of components.

In terms of raw performance I think the only category the 18x wins in is video cards, because well it has two. You can configure the 18x with desktop level processors, however iv seen people on these forums sticking the same processors into the 17x (with modified bios I believe).

For me the 580m in the 17x R3 has handled everything I have thrown at it, and I'v been able to OC mine a good bit for even more performance.

To sum it all up you will have to ask yourself do you want a desktop replacement or a really powerful still portable laptop? Hopefully I can get some pics up at some point to show the size difference.

 

Finally, an informative, well-presented comparison. +rep

 

I agree... very nice and objective job on the comparison, Riftwire. +1 Rep

The "portability" factor is subjective. Not everyone feels the same about it. I take my M18x with me everywhere I go as a frequent business traveler. The size and weight are irrelevant to me. It's totally worth it having suck a wicked beast at my side on the road. For anyone not used to that lifestyle, it could seem like an issue to them.

I am eager to see your photos. Feel free to post links/thumbs to large hi-def photos or use spoilers in your post.

 

Another thing to also consider is if you plan to use Eyefinity and multiple monitors or if you wanted to drive a very high resolution monitor like 2560x1600, having that dual card option might be nice...

 

Thanks for the rep guys =) I will be sure to get photos up this week and you can count on some HD ones too!

Btw I totally agree Mr. Fox portability is completely subjective. I feel the only way for a user to get a really good idea of what they would be comfortable with is to handle both of them. Unfortunately that is easier said than done. I do believe you can go to BB to handle at least the 17x?

 

Hero name:
M18X

Weapon of use:
Frame Rates

Comments:
Obliterates villains like no tomorrow.

 

Anodized Aluminum armor?

 

and also that

 

Quick questionnaire about Alienware.

In terms of best performance for the dollar, what's the best deal currently offered by Alienware?

Now what's the best M17x setup for what you would have to pay?

Is the M18x worth it's cost if you were to max it out for the hardware? (I.E. no warranty extensions, using Windows 7 Professional)

Is the M17x worth it's cost maxed out, hardware-wise? (I.E. no warranty extensions, using Windows 7 Professional)

If I were to consider breaking my personal rule of never buying an Alienware, by buying an Alienware, what would be the greatest performance-per-dollar I would get? What system would be the best to go for? (I would take my Vertex 2 and use that as the OS drive.)

I would like these answers to be user based from people who are on this site. Not based off some site elsewhere.

EDIT: If it matters, I've been eying the M17x a LOT as of late.

 

Well, dont get an alienware! They're not the best bang for buck, they're simply the best!

Dad got an XPS 17 with 2.20ghz i7, 6Gb ram, 1tb HDD, 2Gb GT555M, backlit keyboard, for £765. My alienware with almost the same spec was £1030 for 14".

So XPS top end is def better bang for buck!

 

Well aware they're not the greatest the for the whole bang-for-buck, but coming from my current computer, what would you recommend. I want the best.

Max amount I'd like to spend is $2,500. Like I said, the Vertex 2 would be the OS drive.

 

it all depends on what you need, initially assess the size you want, total mobility, average performance/mobility, good performance/bad mobility. then you can decide whether to go.

m17x has r2 and r3 versions. r3 has 3d. r2 can go to dual gpus. but now they sell r3 i think.

you can get the default gpus or go for 560m/6970m, if you have more bucks then 580m/6990m. its a matter of budget, if you have the cash actually my advise is to upgrade the processor and gpus, the ram and hdd you can leave as default config so in the future you can upgrade/replace it yourself.
m18x has dual gpu set up, robust build, good cooling system, and yeah, big.

 

Well judging how my Qosmio isn't terribly mobile itself, I wouldn't particularly care if this computer isn't mobile at all. I never game without it being plugged in.

I've heard the M17x is about the size of an 18" machine anyway just because of it's design and shape. I wouldn't mind sticking to one powerful GPU. I've seen that 580M do some amazing things.

 

Why isn't the m18X available to buy with just one 580M GTX?

 

actually, the size is pretty noticeable, check out this guy's comparison:

Alienware m18x vs. m17x r2 - Part 1 - YouTube

 

I have been offered a replacement system i am trying to decide if i go with the m17x with the following
2860qm 2.5ghz cpu 6gb ram 750 hd 3d full hd monitor and single gtx580m
£2450
0r

m18x with
2760qm cpu 2.4ghz 4gb ram 750 hd blu ray and dual 2gb 6990 crossfire
£2399

surely dual 6990 ati cards with 2.4 ghz cpu will be much faster for gaming than the single 580gtx?

give me some input please i said id let the guy know my choice in the morning to place my order

 

I would probably go for the M18x since 3D is not that important to me. I'd rather go for much faster gaming!

 

yes im considering that i was thinking of 3d movies seeing as dell sent me 6 pairs of 3d glasses. but its really not important.

i wonder what the performance kick of the dual 6990m verses a single 580m is

seriously urring on the 18 but thinking hmm its huge.

more input please ppl the 18x or the 17x???

 

Since you're obviously not worried about mobility, the M17x and M18x aren't really that mobile in any fashion, I say get the M18x. Better GPU setup is easily justified.

 

m17x and m18x have a size difference by a margin.

because still, both of them are big. mobility relies on the hands of the owner

 

oh im not bothered about the size at all i was just thinking more of future proofing it a little more.

i think ill go for the 18x with the dual cards having checked all over tonight i figure the performance boost from dual 6990 cards is about 40% more than a single 580m gtx

ok so no 3d and slighly slower cpu but all my games will look mmmm mmmm so yeah i will go for that.

its a replacement for my lost m1730 anyway and rather a nice free upgrade if you ask me

 

@Rikbikboo - for what it is worth, I would take the M18x without hesitation. It is the flagship product and nothing else holds a candle to it. The R3 is an awesome laptop, but it is not in the same league with performance or construction. In addition to significant performance increase, the M18x has an anodized alloy chassis and larger screen.

I am a frequent traveler and the M18x size and weight is totally a non-issue for me personally.

 

TBH i think i will dell already sent me a m17x in replacement for my xpsm1730 they lost i thought that was a great upgrade but that went wrong and i was offered the 18x today..

think ill definately take the 18x now iv read all the info

 

Good choice!! enjoy your new system

 

Just to update this, as I have been pretty busy myself. I have not forgotten about the pictures!

As far as the laptops go I ended up choosing the 18x. I took a little look at the inside of the lappy as well and you can definitely see the construction differences.

So in the end aluminum construction/SLI did it for me over the 17x R3.

 

Oh man, I'm in the same similar dilemma....

Ive got a m17x r3 3D on order as per my sig but just snapped up a m18x from dell outlet for £1700 with Win 7 Pro, 2960xm CPU, dual 6970m, 4 GB RAM, 320GB Hard drive (I know not great ), Killer 1103 card, BDROM/DVD.

Couple of Q's:

1. Should i cancel the m17r3 or stick with it?

2. Im concerned that the dual 6970 wont cut it for the current BF3 type games and have heard that people with these on order have actually recieved 6990m's. Should i risk it and wait to see if they come with 6990's or request from Dell?

3. Will Dual GPUs give me compatibility issues with current games?

4. Will single 580m cut it with BF3 type current games in 2D or 3D?

5. Is there an option to go with External 3D screen with m18x config?

Oh and m18x was approx £300 more

 

M17x R3 if you travel less!


M18x if you travel the least!