What To Know
- In the realm of high-performance gaming laptops, the Alienware x17 R2 and the ASUS ROG Strix Scar 17 stand as formidable contenders.
- The Strix Scar 17 also features an Intel Core i9-12900HX processor, but it pairs it with up to 64GB of DDR5 RAM and an NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3080 Ti graphics card.
- If you prioritize a premium design, a high refresh rate display, and a satisfying keyboard experience, the Alienware x17 R2 is the better choice.
In the realm of high-performance gaming laptops, the Alienware x17 R2 and the ASUS ROG Strix Scar 17 stand as formidable contenders. Both machines boast cutting-edge hardware, sleek designs, and impressive cooling systems. But which one reigns supreme in the battle for gaming dominance? This comprehensive comparison will delve into their key features, performance, and user experience to help you make an informed decision.
Design and Build Quality
Alienware x17 R2: The x17 R2 exudes an air of sophistication with its sleek chassis and angular lines. Its magnesium alloy construction ensures durability, while the honeycomb design on the lid provides both style and ventilation.
ASUS ROG Strix Scar 17: The Strix Scar 17 boasts an equally stylish design with its sharp angles and cyberpunk-inspired aesthetic. Its aluminum chassis provides a premium feel, and the RGB lighting system adds a touch of flair.
Display
Alienware x17 R2: The x17 R2 offers a stunning 17.3-inch display with a resolution of 2560 x 1440. It supports a refresh rate of up to 360Hz, providing an ultra-smooth gaming experience. The IPS panel delivers vibrant colors and wide viewing angles.
ASUS ROG Strix Scar 17: The Strix Scar 17 features a slightly smaller 17.0-inch display with a resolution of 1920 x 1080. However, it compensates for the lower resolution with a blazing-fast 300Hz refresh rate, ensuring exceptional smoothness in fast-paced games.
Performance
Alienware x17 R2: The x17 R2 is powered by the latest Intel Core i9-12900HX processor, which offers exceptional multi-core performance. Combined with up to 32GB of DDR5 RAM and an NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3080 Ti graphics card, this machine can handle even the most demanding games with ease.
ASUS ROG Strix Scar 17: The Strix Scar 17 also features an Intel Core i9-12900HX processor, but it pairs it with up to 64GB of DDR5 RAM and an NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3080 Ti graphics card. This configuration provides slightly better performance in memory-intensive applications and games.
Cooling
Alienware x17 R2: The x17 R2 employs a unique dual-fan cooling system called Cryo-Tech. It utilizes a vapor chamber and four exhaust vents to dissipate heat effectively, keeping the machine cool even under heavy load.
ASUS ROG Strix Scar 17: The Strix Scar 17 uses a liquid metal thermal compound and a custom vapor chamber to cool its components. It also features a self-cleaning cooling system that prevents dust buildup, ensuring optimal cooling performance over time.
Keyboard and Trackpad
Alienware x17 R2: The x17 R2 boasts a full-sized Cherry MX mechanical keyboard with per-key RGB lighting. It provides a satisfying typing experience with excellent tactile feedback and customizable keystrokes. The large trackpad offers ample space for navigation and supports multi-finger gestures.
ASUS ROG Strix Scar 17: The Strix Scar 17 features an optical-mechanical keyboard with RGB lighting. It offers a responsive and precise typing experience, but it lacks the tactile feedback of mechanical switches. The trackpad is slightly smaller than the x17 R2’s, but it provides a smooth and accurate tracking surface.
Battery Life
Alienware x17 R2: The x17 R2 has a 97Wh battery, which provides decent battery life for a gaming laptop. It can last up to 6 hours on a single charge when performing light tasks.
ASUS ROG Strix Scar 17: The Strix Scar 17 has a smaller 90Wh battery, which results in a slightly shorter battery life. It can last up to 4-5 hours on a single charge when performing light tasks.
Connectivity and Ports
Alienware x17 R2: The x17 R2 offers a wide range of connectivity options, including Wi-Fi 6E, Bluetooth 5.2, Thunderbolt 4, USB-C 3.2 Gen 2, USB-A 3.2 Gen 1, and HDMI 2.1.
ASUS ROG Strix Scar 17: The Strix Scar 17 has a similar selection of ports, including Wi-Fi 6E, Bluetooth 5.2, Thunderbolt 4, USB-C 3.2 Gen 2, USB-A 3.2 Gen 1, and HDMI 2.0.
Final Thoughts: The Verdict
The Alienware x17 R2 and the ASUS ROG Strix Scar 17 are both exceptional gaming laptops that offer exceptional performance, stunning displays, and impressive cooling systems. However, each machine has its own strengths and weaknesses.
If you prioritize a premium design, a high refresh rate display, and a satisfying keyboard experience, the Alienware x17 R2 is the better choice. On the other hand, if you need the best possible performance, a large amount of RAM, and a self-cleaning cooling system, the ASUS ROG Strix Scar 17 is the superior option.
Ultimately, the best choice for you will depend on your specific needs and preferences. Both the x17 R2 and the Strix Scar 17 are top-notch gaming laptops that will deliver an unforgettable gaming experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Which laptop has a better display?
Both laptops offer excellent displays, but the Alienware x17 R2 has a slight edge with its higher resolution and refresh rate.
2. Which laptop has better cooling?
The ASUS ROG Strix Scar 17 has a slight advantage in cooling due to its self-cleaning cooling system.
3. Which laptop has a better keyboard?
The Alienware x17 R2’s Cherry MX mechanical keyboard provides a more satisfying typing experience than the Strix Scar 17’s optical-mechanical keyboard.
4. Which laptop has better battery life?
The Alienware x17 R2 has a longer battery life than the ASUS ROG Strix Scar 17 due to its larger battery capacity.
5. Which laptop is more expensive?
The Alienware x17 R2 is generally more expensive than the ASUS ROG Strix Scar 17, especially at the higher configurations.
