Inspiron 7720 vs Alienware M14x R2 power bricks

Hi All,

As you all know, the inspiron 7720 and Alienware M14x R2 share very similar confirguration- processor, graphics etc.

Inspiron is provided with max 130W adapter. Some models even are provided with 90W. But I notice that the power bricks on Alienware M14x R2 has ratings 200W+. Do you think this is Dell saving money by providing insufficient power to the system? Or why is Alienware giving 200W+ PSU if it not required?

Also I find it amazing that an M14x R2 is much heavier than a 17 inch inspiron. I wonder how long my inspiron will l

 

Where are you reading an M14x gets a 200W+ AC adapter? I just configured an Alienware M14xR2 maxed out specs with a quad core IB processors and it said 150W power brick in the accessories field. Even with a 45W quad core i7 CPU and discreet graphics, most laptops won't go above the 120W adapter or they won't charge properly. Ironically, Dell is a company that ALWAYS gets you the right AC adapter (or at least should ship them with the higher rated ones). Sure sometimes a mistake happens and they ship a unit with the wrong adapter than what it was supposed to ship with, but that's not them being cheap and using a lower rated adapter.

Case in point, my Alienware M17x R2 ships with a Flextronics 240W PSU, and it doesn't use anywhere near that (5870M CF = 100W, i7 Extreme 55W, 2 x SSD, etc).

 

I think I saw it in the Outlet website from where I bought my inspiron. Even if it is 150W, how come Alienware has a stronger power supply for a 14 inch screen which should consume much less power, remaining machine being very similar config??

 

It depends on the specs of the machine, not by screen size. M14x is offered with 45W quad core CPU options and a 45W discreet GPU options. Also Alienwares have tons of customizable LEDs which add a bunch to power consumption and on top of that you need some additional headroom to charge the battery properly.