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The Alienware M17x R3 is sold as a desktop replacement, and as such is a large machine. It is nicely finished in black, with angular panels cut into a very modern design, unlike any other manufacturer on the market.
The design is similar to other models in the Alienware range although this one has received some ‘up to the minute tweaks' to improve the aerodynamics and overall styling. Obviously the glowing Alienware head still holds a centerstage position on the lid.
When compared to earlier models, the grills have been reshaped and adjusted to suit the new, tweaked design. There is also a rubber material shell to protect the chassis.
On the left of the machine there is a Kensington lock and GB lan, HDMI out and VGA as well as mini Displayport, 2x USB 3.0 and 5.1/7.1 audio in/out which includes a S/PDIF socket. On the other side there are two USB 2.0 ports, eSATA/USB hybrid port and a 9 in 1 memory card reader. There is also a dual layer DVD RW drive and an HDMI in port. This HDMI in port is unusual, but its a fantastic idea for hooking up a Playstation 3 for instance.
The rear of the system has very little connectivity, a power connector and several vents to allow for high levels of airflow, which such a powerful system will need.
Underneath is an Alienware plaque which can be etched with the customers name before shipment. Alienware have cleverly designed the airflow system to exhaust air away from the user, making an ‘on the lap' experience, more enjoyable. The onboard sound system is supplied by Klipsch, this is also branded into the underside of the chassis.
