Alienware M17x R4

The Alienware M17x R4 ( $ 2,599 direct ) exudes performance gaming laptop . It epitomizes what the design should look like a gaming laptop , and thanks to a new Ivy Bridge processor and NVIDIA Kepler graphics , it topped the leaderboard on our multimedia benchmark tests , and returned playable frame rates 1920 self- by- 1 , 080 native resolution . It is flashy , violent , over the top , and strange enough , more affordable than rival . For this and more , it earns our nod as Choice winner of the latest editors ' for midrange gaming laptop .

Design and Features
The M17x R4 is bringing in on a chassis that resembles the one used in the Alienware M17X ( $ 2,254 direct , 4.5 stars ) and the larger Alienware M18x ( $ 4,529 direct , 4 stars ) . As with previous models , the M17x R4 is a modern retro style that grabs your attention . Grilles and lighting systems evoke modern reinterpretation of a 1950s hot rod . There are multiple lighting zones , which can be controlled with software.Alienware Alienware Command Center AlienFX 's call it , and you can use it to change the color backlit keyboard , touchpad , Alienware logo on the bottom of the screen , buttons Alien / head power , and the grilles on the front of the system . Advanced theme will round out the color , so you're assured that you'll know which system you are in a darkened room . It was not gentle , but do you really tricky when you're planning to crush your enemies in the game grid ?

17 - inch screen The system is a 1920 -by - 1 , 080 resolution monitor capable of displaying 1080p HD video at native resolution . Both the Blu - ray movies and games in stunning 3D look at the laptop , with clear and bright colors . In particular , older films ' natural film grain is visible , and you can choose the details of the background easily to the big screen . It was like watching a movie in a theater rather than a laptop screen . It is not quite as high - res as the 2,880 -by - 1 , 800 resolution screen with the Apple 15-inch MacBook Pro with Retina Display ( $ 2,254 direct , 4.5 stars ) , but it is nonetheless a good screen . If there is any drawback to the brilliance of this screen , seamless glass panel system is highly reflective . Using the default system wallpaper black , you can see yourself and the items in the room behind you .

Because the chassis M17x R4 is so large , it is reassuring to feel the system is as solid as a chunk of granite . No flexing of the screen or chassis when you pick it up by hand, although hand will have to get the strength to carry the 9.6 - pound laptop . Add a two - pound AC adapter , and you'll need strong shoulders to carry the combination 11.7 - pound in a backpack or messenger bag large . The system is solidly built , but heavy .