M17x Rx or M18x

[Daweism]

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.

[Baloney]

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?

[Riftwire]

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.

[Mr. Fox]

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.

[bigtonyman]

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

[Mr. Fox]

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.

[breakablecookie]

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

[Riftwire]

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.

[csin]

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?

[alienwolf]

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.