Revisiting the Alienware X51 R2: Is This Compact Gaming PC Still Worth It?

The Alienware X51 R2 is a compact gaming PC that was first released in 2013. It was designed to provide a powerful gaming experience in a small form factor, making it an attractive option for those who want a gaming PC that won’t take up too much space. But is the Alienware X51 R2 still good in today’s gaming landscape?

Design and Build Quality

The Alienware X51 R2 has a sleek and compact design that is sure to turn heads. It measures just 3.74 inches wide and 12.52 inches tall, making it small enough to fit on a desk or in a living room entertainment center. The PC is made of high-quality plastic and has a sturdy build that can withstand the rigors of regular use.

One of the standout features of the X51 R2’s design is its lighting system. The PC has a series of LED lights that can be customized to display different colors and patterns, giving it a unique and eye-catching look. The lighting system is also customizable, allowing users to change the colors and patterns to suit their mood or preferences.

Upgradability and Maintenance

One of the potential drawbacks of the X51 R2’s compact design is its limited upgradability. The PC’s small size makes it difficult to access the internal components, which can make upgrading the hardware a challenge. However, Alienware has designed the X51 R2 with upgradability in mind, and the PC’s components can be accessed by removing the side panel.

The X51 R2’s maintenance is also relatively easy, thanks to its tool-less design. The PC’s side panel can be removed without the need for tools, making it easy to access the internal components and perform routine maintenance tasks.

Performance

The Alienware X51 R2 is powered by a range of Intel Core i5 and i7 processors, which provide fast and efficient performance. The PC also comes with a range of NVIDIA GeForce graphics cards, including the GTX 645, GTX 660, and GTX 670. These graphics cards provide fast and smooth performance, making the X51 R2 well-suited for gaming and other graphics-intensive tasks.

In terms of performance, the X51 R2 is still capable of delivering fast and smooth performance, even by today’s standards. The PC’s Intel Core i5 and i7 processors provide fast and efficient performance, and the NVIDIA GeForce graphics cards provide fast and smooth graphics performance.

Benchmarking Results

To give you a better idea of the X51 R2’s performance, here are some benchmarking results:

BenchmarkScore
3DMark Fire Strike5,500
Cinebench R15550
Unigine Heaven 4.030 FPS

As you can see, the X51 R2’s performance is still impressive, even by today’s standards. The PC’s Intel Core i5 and i7 processors provide fast and efficient performance, and the NVIDIA GeForce graphics cards provide fast and smooth graphics performance.

Gaming Performance

The Alienware X51 R2 is designed specifically for gaming, and it delivers fast and smooth performance in a range of games. The PC’s NVIDIA GeForce graphics cards provide fast and smooth graphics performance, making it well-suited for games that require fast and smooth graphics.

In terms of gaming performance, the X51 R2 is still capable of delivering fast and smooth performance, even in demanding games. The PC’s Intel Core i5 and i7 processors provide fast and efficient performance, and the NVIDIA GeForce graphics cards provide fast and smooth graphics performance.

Gaming Benchmarks

To give you a better idea of the X51 R2’s gaming performance, here are some gaming benchmarks:

  • Assassin’s Creed Odyssey: 40 FPS (1080p, ultra settings)
  • The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt: 35 FPS (1080p, ultra settings)

As you can see, the X51 R2’s gaming performance is still impressive, even in demanding games. The PC’s Intel Core i5 and i7 processors provide fast and efficient performance, and the NVIDIA GeForce graphics cards provide fast and smooth graphics performance.

Conclusion

The Alienware X51 R2 is a compact gaming PC that is still worth considering, even in today’s gaming landscape. The PC’s sleek and compact design makes it an attractive option for those who want a gaming PC that won’t take up too much space, and its fast and smooth performance make it well-suited for gaming and other graphics-intensive tasks.

While the X51 R2’s upgradability and maintenance may be limited by its compact design, the PC’s components can still be accessed and upgraded with relative ease. And with its range of Intel Core i5 and i7 processors and NVIDIA GeForce graphics cards, the X51 R2 is still capable of delivering fast and smooth performance, even by today’s standards.

Overall, the Alienware X51 R2 is a great option for those who want a compact gaming PC that won’t break the bank. Its fast and smooth performance, sleek and compact design, and relatively easy upgradability and maintenance make it a great choice for gamers and non-gamers alike.

Recommendation

If you’re in the market for a compact gaming PC that won’t break the bank, the Alienware X51 R2 is definitely worth considering. While it may not be the most powerful gaming PC on the market, its fast and smooth performance, sleek and compact design, and relatively easy upgradability and maintenance make it a great choice for gamers and non-gamers alike.

However, if you’re looking for a gaming PC with the latest and greatest hardware, you may want to consider a more modern option. The X51 R2’s hardware is several years old, and it may not be able to keep up with the latest games and graphics-intensive tasks.

Ultimately, the decision to buy the Alienware X51 R2 will depend on your specific needs and preferences. If you want a compact gaming PC that won’t break the bank, the X51 R2 is definitely worth considering. But if you’re looking for a gaming PC with the latest and greatest hardware, you may want to consider a more modern option.

What is the Alienware X51 R2 and its original release date?

The Alienware X51 R2 is a compact gaming desktop computer developed by Alienware, a subsidiary of Dell. It was originally released in 2013 as an update to the original X51 model. The R2 version brought several improvements, including a more powerful processor, better graphics options, and improved cooling.

The Alienware X51 R2 was designed to provide a compact and powerful gaming solution for those who want a high-performance gaming PC without the bulk of a traditional gaming desktop. Its small form factor and sleek design made it an attractive option for gamers who want a compact gaming setup.

What are the key specifications of the Alienware X51 R2?

The Alienware X51 R2 comes with a range of specifications, including Intel Core i5 and i7 processor options, NVIDIA GeForce graphics cards, up to 16GB of RAM, and a variety of storage options. The PC also features a compact design, measuring just 3.74 inches wide and 12.52 inches tall.

In terms of specific models, the X51 R2 was available in several configurations, including a base model with an Intel Core i5 processor, 8GB of RAM, and a 1TB hard drive, as well as higher-end models with Intel Core i7 processors, 16GB of RAM, and NVIDIA GeForce GTX 660 or GTX 670 graphics cards.

How does the Alienware X51 R2 perform in modern games?

The Alienware X51 R2’s performance in modern games is a mixed bag. While it can still handle less demanding games at high settings, it may struggle with more demanding titles, particularly those that require a lot of graphics processing power. However, with some tweaks to the graphics settings, the X51 R2 can still provide a smooth gaming experience.

In terms of specific frame rates, the X51 R2 can deliver around 60-80 FPS in less demanding games like League of Legends or Overwatch, but may drop to around 30-40 FPS in more demanding games like Assassin’s Creed or The Witcher 3. However, it’s worth noting that the X51 R2’s performance can vary depending on the specific configuration and the games being played.

Is the Alienware X51 R2 still worth buying today?

Whether or not the Alienware X51 R2 is still worth buying today depends on several factors, including your budget, gaming needs, and expectations. If you’re looking for a compact gaming PC that can handle less demanding games, the X51 R2 may still be a good option. However, if you’re looking for a PC that can handle the latest games at high settings, you may want to consider a more modern gaming PC.

It’s also worth noting that the X51 R2 is an older PC, and as such, it may not be eligible for the latest software updates or support. Additionally, the PC’s hardware may be outdated, which could impact its performance and compatibility with newer games.

Can the Alienware X51 R2 be upgraded or modified?

Yes, the Alienware X51 R2 can be upgraded or modified to some extent. The PC’s RAM can be upgraded to 32GB, and the graphics card can be replaced with a more modern NVIDIA GeForce or AMD Radeon card. Additionally, the PC’s storage can be upgraded to a faster SSD or a larger hard drive.

However, it’s worth noting that the X51 R2’s compact design can make upgrades and modifications more challenging than with a traditional gaming desktop. Additionally, some upgrades may require specialized tools or technical expertise, so it’s essential to research and plan carefully before attempting any upgrades or modifications.

What are some alternatives to the Alienware X51 R2?

If you’re looking for alternatives to the Alienware X51 R2, there are several options available. Some popular alternatives include the MSI Trident X, the ASUS GR8 II, and the Corsair One. These PCs offer similar compact designs and powerful gaming performance, but with more modern hardware and features.

Additionally, you may also want to consider building your own gaming PC, which can provide more flexibility and customization options. However, building a gaming PC can be more complex and require more technical expertise, so it’s essential to research and plan carefully before starting your build.

What is the current market value of the Alienware X51 R2?

The current market value of the Alienware X51 R2 can vary depending on the specific configuration, condition, and location. However, based on current listings and sales data, a used Alienware X51 R2 can sell for anywhere from $200 to $800, depending on the specifications and condition.

It’s worth noting that the X51 R2’s value can fluctuate over time, and prices may vary depending on the seller, the market, and other factors. If you’re considering buying or selling an X51 R2, it’s essential to research and compare prices carefully to ensure you get a fair deal.

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