Alienware 17 R3 - want to upgrade display?

Currently I have an Alienware 17" R3 with a 300 nits FHD (1080p) display and would like to upgrade the display to the newer 4k type. Is this possible to upgrade?

Other sites that sell replacement displays usually say that it must be of the same resolution as the original. Yet if it would be possible, I feel you guys would know. Please advise.

 

Generally if you stick to what was available as a factory option, you'll be fine if you match the part number for the screen panel, cable, and motherboard.

I'll leave others to comment specifically on your model but try your owners lounge

If you can upgrade and the factory option is the B173ZAN panel you wont be disappointed, only downside is its mediocre in terms of refresh/transition so not so great for twitch shooters if every ms matters to you.

 

That's good to know as most replacement screens don't mention the nits or refresh speeds. I've also gotten mixed results from Dell. Their sales dept said it cannot be done, but I read it could be done in their forum section although it would also void any existing warranty (which mine no longer has). So wasn't so sure how to proceed.

Refresh speeds are very important for me so it may be prudent to wait until newer models become available. Yet it would also be nice to know whether it's something worhtwhile to do and how to do it. So anyone with that answer is greatly welcome. Thanks.

 

Go by panel model number (e.g. B173ZAN01.0) they share all the same technical performance specs nits angles connector resolution etc (which you can look up at panelook.com each model has its own page listing detailed specs). However sometimes the laptop the panel is in can affect the measurements in reviews - so try and find one of your model laptop with the panel if exact specs are important to you

Ignore what dell CS reps have to say they used to try and tell me crap like cleaning fan grilles could void warranty and that ram was "not upgradeable" because the original system config on their screen said 32bit OS despite me telling them I'd installed 64bit ~~~

Your choice looks like it's between a high refresh 120Hz TN QHD, or the 60Hz IPS 4K. make sure the cable is matched to what you choose.

There'll never be anything higher than 4K/60 as that nearly maxes the bandwidth of the current gen eDP port already.

 

Thanks for the info. I'll check them out.
I guess the biggest remaining issue resides with the connector? How can I tell what kind of connector I currently have and what will be needed on the newer model?
I found on another post that said the 4K's use a 40-pin connector, is that right?
If mine is different, say a 30-pin, is there a connector part that can be purchased for the upgrade? Also would that cause any video gaming issues because of the adjustment in pin differential?
Again, my monitor is a 17" 300 nits FHD... any guess on the connector it has?