Unless you're a computer buff, you might not be familiar with Alienware. But if you like a laptop to be prettier than a supermodel and loaded with features, you should get yourself acquainted with their Area 51 model. This is one killer system.
Alienware is a company that's synonymous with quality systems aimed at the gamer who wants the best system money can buy. While they produce stellar desktops, their high performance laptop models are drool-worthy, and come equipped with components such as a Pentium 4 processor up to 3.2 Ghz, DDR3200 RAM, and ATI Mobility Radeon 9600 pro graphics. The system allows users to have the same gaming experience previously only found on powerful desktop systems, and the laptop's graphics card can also be upgraded, if it strikes your fancy. The Widescreen LCD delivers crystal-clear images, and you can even select a color for your new toy – Conspiracy Blue, Saucer Silver, or Cyborg Green.
The tricolour eyes on the lid are an Alienware trademark these days. They shine green when charging or when the laptop is on main power, blue when on the battery and red when in standby or sleeping mode. Software allows you to flash the eyes or turn them off to save a scrap of battery life. Sure, it's gimmicky, but it's still pretty cool to watch.
The body is a lightweight magnesium alloy, with the black "grills" on the top of the chassis made of rubber, or a rubber-like material. Whatever it is, it allows you a better grip while moving it around.
Not that you'd be carrying it around in your arms that much, unless you're looking to tone up your biceps. The Area 51 weighs in at a porky 7.5 lbs without the battery, and has dimensions of (W)13.8" x (D)11.4" x (H)1.6". Not to worry, though, as those smart thinkers at Alienware have thought of everything and throw in a nifty backpack when you purchase your laptop! It has compartments for the laptop, PSU and a mouse, along with tons of spare room for folders, pens, and small children. The shoulder straps also contain more padding than a women's power suit from the 80s, so your back will be nice and protected.
In keeping with the out-of-this-world theme, users receive a package containing all the information needed for their laptop in an official-looking Top Secret Area 51 folder. You'll also receive an ID card which allows you access to Alienware's website where you get personalized support options tied to the product you bought. In addition, since you just forked over quite a bit of green, Alienware throws in a nifty t-shirt, so at least you've got clothing for another day.
The Area 51 laptop starts at US $1,971.00, and that's after a US$100 mail-in rebate. While the system is rather heavy, hot, expensive, and has a mediocre battery life, it more than makes up for it in style. If you've got a hankering for incredible engineering, excellent mobile performance, great features (including 4x DVD+RW and 6 speaker audio) and a solid warranty, fork over the cash. Happy gaming!
For more information on the Alienware Laptop, visit www.Alienware.com
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