Alienware claims new M17x is universe's most powerful laptop

by Stevie Smith - Jun 1 2009, 15:15

Hailed by specialist hardware maker Alienware as the “Most Powerful Laptop in the Universe,” the new M17x and its anodised aluminium chassis certainly boast aesthetics that secure it top spot when it comes to eye-catching design. But does the M17x quantify Alienware’s claim and appease hardcore gamers in terms of core specification?

Well, it ain’t no slouch, that’s for sure. Specifically, the upper tier M17x comes with an Intel Quad Core Extreme Quadcore processor with a 128MB Cache. It also boasts SLI-equipped graphics capabilities via NVIDIA’s GeForce GTX 280M (Dual 1GB), up to 8GBs of DDR3 RAM at 1333MHz, and a choice of either single or dual data drives of up to 1TB (500GBs x 2) at 7200RPM

Other core features on the M17x include a sexy 17-inch HD UXGA LCD screen (1920 x 1200), a slot-loading dual layer Blu-ray and DVD combination drive, FireWire IEEE 1394a support, four USB 2.0 ports, an eSATA/USB 2.0 combo port, DisplayPort, HDMI and VGA output, an 8-in-1 card reader, and an ExpressCard slot.

With generous but not exactly practical physical attributes of 15.98 x 12.65 x 2.11 inches (at its thickest point), the M17x doesn’t lend itself to portability but does offer enough space for a comfortable full-sized keyboard (backlit), a large touchpad, and even a separated number pad.

Exclusive software bundled with the platform include the Alienware Command Center, which provides access to AlienFX lighting controls for changing the system’s eerie glow, and also AlienSense Facial Recognition for enhanced user security via an onboard Web camera.

Of course, such well-pumped hardware muscle doesn’t come cheap or without potential shoulder injury. Moreover, the M17x will arrive attached to a starting price of $1,799 USD, which secures an Intel Core 2 Duo processor, 4GBs of DDR3, and NVIDIA’s GeForce GTX 260M – and a system starting weight of 11.68 pounds.

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