Alienware’s m18 R2 is their biggest and most powerful gaming laptop. However, as is typical with Alienware, affordability isn’t a strong suit. In this review, we’ll assess whether the new m18 is worth its price tag and how it stacks up against the competition in the 18-inch gaming laptop market.
Design and Build Quality:
The m18 boasts Alienware’s signature dark metallic moon finish with an anodized aluminum build. True to its brand, it features an RGB light ring on the back. Despite its substantial size, the laptop offers a sleek design with a black soft-touch finish on the interior. While prone to fingerprints, both the lid and keyboard are easy to clean with a microfiber cloth. The overall build quality feels sturdy, with minimal flex in the lid and keyboard.
Size and Weight:
Compared to other 18-inch models like MSI’s Titan 18 and ASUS’s Scar 18, the m18 R2 is wider and deeper. Although slightly thinner, it compensates with added weight, totaling 5kg or 11lb with the 360-watt charger. While the thinner profile may seem advantageous, the larger size necessitates a bigger bag for transport, adding to the overall weight and bulkiness.
Specifications and Performance:
Equipped with an Intel Core i9-14900HX CPU, Nvidia RTX 4090 graphics, 64GB of RAM, and an 18-inch screen, the m18 R2 boasts impressive specs. However, configurations vary in price, with options to upgrade components such as the keyboard. The mechanical keyboard, for instance, adds $50 to the cost and offers a tactile typing experience with customizable per-key RGB backlighting.
Ports and Connectivity:
The m18 offers a variety of ports, including USB 3.2 Gen 1 Type-A and Type-C ports, Thunderbolt 4 Type-C ports, HDMI 2.1 output, Mini DisplayPort 1.4, and an SD card slot. However, the absence of rear port icons makes it challenging to identify ports without turning the laptop around. Additionally, the lack of USB-C charging ports is a notable omission in a premium gaming laptop.
Upgradeability and Internal Components:
The m18 excels in upgradeability, with multiple M.2 slots for SSD expansion. The Wi-Fi 7 card and memory slots are easily accessible for potential upgrades. However, the laptop’s internal layout may limit certain modifications, such as fitting longer 2280 drives.
Thermals and Cooling:
Featuring four fans and a vapor chamber cooler, the m18 utilizes advanced cooling technology to manage thermals. The Alienware Command Center software allows users to adjust performance modes and overclock settings. However, thermal throttling may occur under extreme loads, necessitating additional cooling solutions.
Display and Audio Quality:
The m18 offers a high-resolution panel with vibrant colors, though it falls short of the brightness levels seen in competing laptops. Audio quality from the built-in speakers is mediocre, lacking bass and clarity compared to alternatives like MSI’s Titan 18 and ASUS’s Scar 18.
Gaming Performance:
In gaming tests, the m18 delivers competitive performance across various titles, though it may lag behind some RTX 4090-equipped laptops. Notably, overclocking modes like overdrive and high performance offer significant boosts in frame rates, enhancing the gaming experience.
Battery Life and Pricing:
Despite its sizable battery, the m18 struggles to achieve extended battery life, lasting less than five hours under typical usage. Pricing starts at $1900 USD for base configurations, with fully equipped models reaching $3500 USD. While not the most budget-friendly option, the m18 offers competitive pricing compared to similar offerings from other manufacturers.
Despite its hefty price tag, the Alienware m18 R2 delivers exceptional performance and upgradeability for gamers seeking top-tier hardware. While it may not be the most affordable option, its robust build quality and powerful internals justify the investment for enthusiasts.
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The m18 R2 is Alienware’s most powerful gaming laptop, but how does it compare against other 18 inch laptops? Find out in this review!
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Alienware m18 R2 (2024) Review Timestamps:
0:00 Alienware’s Most Powerful Gaming Laptop
0:16 Design & Build Quality
0:54 Size & Weight
1:25 Laptop Specs
1:42 Mechanical Keyboard!
2:03 RGB Lighting & Touchpad
2:46 Ports & Display Output Connection
4:16 Getting Inside & Internals
5:01 SSD, SD Card & Wi-Fi Speed
5:23 Nice Upgrade Options!
5:46 Speakers & Latencymon
6:06 Battery Life Comparison
6:41 Cooling Design & Performance Modes
7:55 Thermal Testing – Temperatures / Clock Speed / TDP
9:01 Game Performance in Different Modes
9:23 CPU Performance vs Others (On & Off Battery) in Cinebench
10:05 Does it Feel Hot – Keyboard Temperatures
10:39 Is it Loud – Fan Noise
11:17 Screen Options
11:50 Screen Color, Brightness, Contrast & Bleed
12:11 Screen Response Time & Latency
12:58 MUX Switch, Advanced Optimus & G-Sync?
13:16 Camera & Microphone Test
13:28 3x Game Comparison (1080p, 1440p & 4K)
15:15 3DMark & Content Creation
15:34 Advanced BIOS – Lots of Customization
15:53 Linux Support
16:17 Pricing, Availability & Laptop Deals
17:37 Is Alienware m18 R2 Worth It? The Good & Bad
18:37 Which 18” Gaming Laptop to Buy?
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