The Alienware m16 R2 signifies a new chapter for Alienware’s gaming laptops, shedding its chunky design in favor of a more conventional, streamlined look. In an era where compact and discreet laptops like the Razer Blade and ASUS ROG Zephyrus G14 are the norm, the m16 R2 offers a compelling blend of performance and style. Here’s an in-depth look at the Alienware m16 R2, its features, and why it might be worth considering despite its higher price tag.
Updated Pricing and Configurations
The Alienware m16 R2 price starts at $1,500, featuring an RTX 4050, 16GB of RAM, and a 512GB SSD. Upgrading to the RTX 4060 costs just an additional $100, significantly boosting performance. The higher-end RTX 4070 configuration is available for $1,900. With these updated prices, the m16 R2 is now more competitive against other 2024 Intel Core Ultra gaming laptops.
Currently, you can purchase the RTX 4060 model for $1,400, a price point that offers excellent value. This price drop, available for nearly two months, enhances the m16 R2’s appeal and merits a revised score of 7 out of 10, along with a Recommended badge.
Specifications and Pricing
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Dimensions | 0.93 x 14.33 x 9.81 inches |
| Weight | 5.75 pounds |
| Processor | Intel Core Ultra 7 155H |
| Graphics | RTX 4060, RTX 4070 |
| RAM | 16GB (2x8GB) GDDR6 |
| Display | 16-inch 2560 x 1600 240Hz 3ms |
| Storage | 1TB SSD |
| Touch | No |
| Ports | 1x USB-C 3.2 Gen 2, 2x USB-A 3.2 Gen 1, 1x USB-C Thunderbolt 4, 1x HDMI 2.1, 1x RJ45 Ethernet, 1x MicroSD card slot, 1x 3.5mm headset jack |
| Wireless | Wi-Fi 6E, Bluetooth 5.1, Optional WWAN |
| Webcam | 1080p at 30 fps |
| Operating System | Windows 11 |
| Battery | 90 watt-hour |
| Price | Starting at $1,449 |
Design
The second generation of the Alienware m16 features a complete redesign, making it slimmer and lighter. The chassis is now 0.94 inches thick, trimming 1.42 pounds off the weight. The design changes include a more conventional hinge, a smaller bottom bezel, and a more centered touchpad with an RGB outline. The “thermal shelf” has been removed, resulting in a more integrated and sleek look.
Improved Ergonomics
The m16 R2 addresses the awkward keyboard positioning of its predecessor. The keyboard now offers ample palm rest space and a larger touchpad, enhancing usability. The 1.8mm key travel provides a satisfying typing experience, complemented by per-key RGB backlighting controlled through the Alienware Command Center.
Ports and Connectivity
Despite the removal of the thermal shelf, the m16 R2 retains a robust port selection. The back ports include power, HDMI 2.1, Thunderbolt 4, and USB-C 3.2 Gen 2. Side ports feature two USB-A 3.2 Gen 1, an RJ45 Ethernet jack, a microSD card slot, and a 3.5mm headphone jack. While the placement of the USB-A ports on the right side might be inconvenient for right-handed users, the overall port configuration is versatile.
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Display
The m16 R2 offers a 2560 x 1600 resolution, 240Hz refresh rate IPS panel with a 3ms response time. It includes Nvidia G-Sync and Advanced Optimus. While competitors offer OLED or mini-LED displays, Alienware sticks with a conventional IPS panel. This choice results in a solid, if somewhat dim, display that could benefit from better color accuracy and brightness.
Performance
The m16 R2 is powered by the new Intel Core Ultra 7 155H, running at 45 watts. This chip, along with the RTX 4060 or 4070 GPU, delivers solid gaming performance. In benchmarks, it outperforms other laptops with similar GPUs, making it a strong contender for gaming and productivity tasks.
Benchmark Performance
| Benchmark | Alienware m16 R2 | Competitor Models |
|---|---|---|
| Geekbench 6 (single/multi) | 2366 / 12707 | Asus ROG Strix 18: 2946 / 17622 |
| Handbrake (seconds) | 63 | Framework Laptop 16: 70 |
| Cinebench R24 (single/multi) | 103 / 1040 | HP Omen 16: 105 / 937 |
| PCMark 10 Complete | 7028 | Asus Zenbook 14: 6348 |
In gaming, the m16 R2 excels, delivering impressive frame rates in demanding titles like Cyberpunk 2077 and Red Dead Redemption 2. However, fan noise can be a distraction during intense gaming sessions.
Expandability and Battery Life
The m16 R2 offers accessible and expandable memory and storage, with an extra M.2 slot for additional storage. Battery life is modest, with around six and a half hours of local video playback, but significantly less during gaming or intensive tasks. Nvidia Advanced Optimus helps manage power consumption efficiently.
Webcam and Speakers
The webcam and speakers on the m16 R2 are average at best. The 1080p webcam struggles in low light, and the speakers lack quality for media consumption. However, the inclusion of an IR camera for Windows Hello facial authentication is a nice touch.