Dell Alienware 15 R4 review

Dell Alienware 15 R4 test

The Alienware 15 R4 is a 15.6-inch gaming laptop with a thickness of just 2.5 cm, which can be configured with an Intel Core i7-8750H processor, NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1060 graphics card and Full HD display. In this article, we look at how this model compares to other 15-inch gaming laptops and how effectively it manages the balance between performance and noise and heat generation.

Intel Coffee Lake - a late but significant update

Alienware has belatedly introduced Intel Coffee Lake processors to its lineup, but the change is noticeable. All Alienware 15 R4 configurations, including the base model, feature six-core processors supporting up to twelve threads simultaneously thanks to Hyper-Threading technology. This is a significant jump over the quad-core Kaby Lake processors that powered the previous generation of this model.

Graphics cards in the Alienware 15 R4

However, it's worth noting an important point about the GPU. Alienware offers a version with a GeForce GTX 1080 Max-Q card, which is presented as a full-fledged GeForce GTX 1080. Unfortunately, the performance differences between the two cards are noticeable and can be confusing for less informed users. There are still GTX 1060 and GTX 1070 versions available on the market, and in my case, the hardware under test had a GTX 1060 card.

Processors to choose from - performance or economy?

The Alienware 15 R4 is available in two six-core processor variants: the popular Intel Core i7-8750H and the much more expensive Intel Core i9-8950HK. The latter has an unlocked multiplier, which in theory allows it to be overclocked up to 5.0 GHz.

Ports and connectivity on the Alienware 15 R4 - advantages and shortcomings

Although two USB 3.0 Type-A ports are a rather modest number for a gaming laptop, the total set of ports on the Alienware 15 R4 is adequate for its price. To connect more peripherals, one can use the USB 3.0 Type-C port (on the left) and the Thunderbolt 3 port (on the back), which also supports USB 3.1 and DisplayPort. As for external monitors, the user has a mini-DisplayPort and HDMI 2.0 output. The rear panel also features an RJ45 jack and a power connector. A Noble lock (an alternative to the Kensington lock) and two audio ports (a 3.5mm jack for a headset and microphone) are located on the left side of the device.

The biggest differentiator - the Alienware Graphics Amplifier

The most interesting feature of the ports on the 15 R4 is the connector for the dedicated Alienware Graphics Amplifier. This is an optional docking station that allows you to use a desktop graphics card. While the current performance of the NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1070 card built into the laptop may make the Graphics Amplifier seem superfluous, this solution will make sense in the future, when gaming hardware needs increase significantly

Shortcomings and compromises

The lack of an optical drive in the Alienware 15 R4 is not surprising in an era dominated by platforms such as Steam, especially since installing a DVD or Blu-ray drive would require additional space and could affect the stability of the chassis. However, it is completely incomprehensible to omit a memory card reader, which would have been extremely useful, especially for those involved in multimedia content creation.

Chassis

The latest version of the Alienware gaming system maintains the familiar quality of the brand. This is especially true of the chassis, which is partly made of anodized aluminum and magnesium alloy. Thanks to the metal reinforcements on the lid and bottom of the device, the 15-inch laptop features excellent stability that outperforms most competitors.

The palm rests, which are covered with a rubberized surface, are an element that evokes mixed feelings. On the one hand, they are pleasant to the touch, but on the other, they quickly collect dirt. The thickness of the device is just 2.5 cm, making the Alienware 15 R4 exceptionally slim for its class. The display hinges are another positive aspect - they are sturdy, allow the lid to be opened with one hand and allow the screen to be tilted almost 180 degrees, which is rare in gaming laptops.

The design of the laptop can be called comfortable and elegant. Although some elements have a "gamer-friendly" character, the whole looks noble and minimalist. Alienware's characteristic lighting effects have also found their place. The illumination of the side edges, while it may initially seem like an unnecessary gadget, in practice proves useful in the dark, making it easier to locate ports and the mouse. Backlighting of the keyboard and touchpad is another convenience that enhances the use of the laptop.

Access to the interior:

The first step to accessing components is to remove the service flap. This is relatively easy, as the lid is held on by only seven screws, which, once removed, must be gently levered. This solution is more user-friendly than on older models, but more advanced disassembly of the case is required to reach all internal components, including the battery.

Upgradability The Alienware 15 R4 offers several upgrade options: Two DDR4-RAM slots - for easy replacement or expansion of RAM. One 2.5-inch slot - for a traditional HDD or SSD. Two M.2 slots (2280) - with support for NVMe/PCIe standards, which allow installation of ultra-fast SSDs. One smaller M.2 slot - also compatible with SSDs, according to the label

Software: Command Center

The central hub for managing the laptop's functions is Command Center, which is divided into four main sections:

• AlienFX - allows you to customize the backlight zones, offering a wide range of colors and effects.
• AlienFusion - is used to manage power saving plans, allowing you to adjust the device's performance.
• AlienTactX - allows configuration of macro keys, which is particularly useful gaming.
• AlienAdrenaline - monitors the status of the optional Graphics Amplifier, which allows you to connect an external graphics card.

Unfortunately, Command Center has its limitations. It lacks manual fan control and a dedicated menu for overclocking the CPU and graphics card. Another issue is that although the hardware is Windows 11 compliant, unfortunately Dell does not support it with drivers. Of course, the card, processor and everything works nicely, but already the backlight setting in the panel is only partial unfortunately. The blocks of the various parts of the keyboard will light up, but only in Windows 10 - a pity.

Keyboard

Dell didn't make any major mistakes in designing the keyboard, although some shortcomings can be noted. A dedicated number block is missing, although the case offers enough space. The keys are matte-black, closely spaced and slightly rubberized, which gives a pleasant typing experience. It's not a typical chiclet layout, but still offers Alienware's signature softness, precision and a tactile pressure point.

The only downside is the non-standard location of the keyboard - it sits very high, resulting in large wrist rests. This is due to the presence of five macro keys on the left side and the lack of a number pad. This configuration forces the central location of the main keys, which takes some getting used to

The backlighting of the keyboard is very extensive - you can customize it in four zones, choosing from dozens of colors, modes and profiles. Fans of personalization will be pleased. As I mentioned, it only works in Windows 10, in Windows 11 something blocks this feature.

Touchpad

The touchpad, which is fully backlit, measures 10 x 5.7 cm. While it works fine, it could use more space, especially vertically - the case has enough clearance to allow for this.

The surface of the touchpad is smooth, providing good precision and adequate gliding properties. It supports multi-touch gestures (2-4 fingers), which are managed by dedicated software from Dell. Most gestures, such as scrolling and zooming, work smoothly and seamlessly.

Dell used a classic touchpad with separate mouse buttons, abandoning the ClickPad solution. The buttons have a soft and quiet pressure point, similar to a keyboard, while still being reliable. The symmetrical placement of the touchpad is also appreciated - it is exactly in the center of the wrist rests.

The only drawback is the too deep recess in which the touchpad is embedded - this is somewhat reminiscent of the solution used on the Acer Predator 15 and may not appeal to everyone.

Dell Alienware 15 R4 gaming performance

The hardware is even made for games, and this shows when playing with productions. Of course, Rolbox or other such games run mega-smoothly, but also GTA IV here reaches the level of high and highest detail graphics without even using the full power of graphics. The refreshed Silent Hill 2 enters on Epic Detail at almost stable 60 frames also without any problem and does not cut. Overall the 6 core processor combined with 32 GB RAM and 1060 graphics really pushes all games to the highest standards. I'd also like to add that The Witcher 3 runs at 108 frames per second on high detail and at 60 frames at Ultra resolution.

Noise

Here the laptop works rather strangely, as in order to give it the right setting of the fans we have to do it manually. At the very beginning they are set to normal and thus the laptop turns them on all the time. You can set them in silent mode then the performance is lower, but if we do not play then the fans are much quieter, for example, office work. In this case, the laptop reaches 10 dB, that is, it still hums. When playing games at maximum performance the laptop reaches 51 dB which is noticeable and, above all, audible. Unfortunately, such is the charm of gaming laptops.

Summary

The Alienware 15 R4 is a slim 15.6-inch gaming laptop with a thickness of just 2.5 cm, offering solid performance thanks to Intel Coffee Lake processors (Core i7-8750H or Core i9-8950HK) and NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1060 graphics card. The hardware stands out for its good build quality - the chassis combines anodized aluminum with magnesium alloy, which ensures stability and durability. With hinges that allow the screen to be tilted almost 180 degrees, as well as solid backlighting on the keyboard and touchpad, the laptop is practical and comfortable to use.

Advantages: Performance: Intel's six-core processors and expansion options (up to 32 GB of RAM, SSD and HDD slots) ensure smooth gameplay even in demanding games such as The Witcher 3 and Silent Hill 2. Ports and expansion: A wide range of ports (Thunderbolt 3, USB 3.0, HDMI 2.0) and optional support for the Alienware Graphics Amplifier station, which allows you to connect an external graphics card. Comfort: Sturdy design, backlighting for easy operation in the dark, and convenient management of functions via Command Center software

Cons: Noise: The fans run loudly at maximum load (51 dB), and their control is limited. Equipment shortcomings: The lack of a memory card reader and optical drive may bother some users. Windows 11 compatibility: Although the hardware works with Windows 11, software features such as full backlight personalization are only available on Windows 10.

The Alienware 15 R4 is an excellent choice gaming those looking for a powerful and robust laptop with future expandability. However, those who value quiet operation and full Windows 11 support may have to compromise.