(Part 3) Best products from r/Alienware

You could go for this one. It's called the ebags professional slim. I've had it for almost 6 months now and I have no complaints. I have an 15 R3 but if fits very nicely with lots of room to spare! Even though it is a little expensive I honestly think it's worth every penny. its got lots of storage with organization options, a battery garage which you can remove to have even more room in the laptop compartment which is already really roomy, a padded laptop compartment which I really like, and it even has a spot for your mouse. It's also very stylish as well. It has a lot more to offer but the list would become too long lol.


One last thing that I want to mention is that I use this for college and it's honestly great. I know alienware's are on the heavier side of gaming laptops, but this backpack just makes it so comfy to carry around. I also use the backpack for college which I also have room for some folders, my sony headphones case, my textbooks, and all of my school supplies and a little more. also watch the video on their website if you can. The bag itself offers a lot to its user. But if you have any questions about it, please do let me know!

Happy hunting!


On Amazon:
https://www.amazon.com/eBags-Professional-Laptop-Backpack-Solid/dp/B00OKXYUJ0/ref=sr_1_4?ie=UTF8&qid=1518621159&sr=8-4&keywords=ebags%2Bprofessional%2Bslim%2Blaptop&th=1


From their website (which is cheaper!):
https://www.ebags.com/hproduct/ebags/tls-professional-slim-laptop-backpack/249582?productid=10230513&cat=laptop-backpacks&country=US&currency=USD&couponid=94790994&sourceid=ADWPRODUCTH&gclid=Cj0KCQiA2Y_UBRCGARIsALglqQ3stX78lz75cz1qIhUmnp4y-5aS0S0hJQFsXUeAR_FizdXcwHHRu9waAsLSEALw_wcB

Ok, if you don't feel comfortable doing the work, then having someone else do it is best. However, it generally isn't that hard if you take your time.

I use a Craftsman small screwdriver set like that one, and have for years. Yes, there are cheaper tools. But I happen to like these.

There is a guide on how to tear into your machine, available right here.

It will take you step by step what you need to take apart. Click on the Prerequisites for section "removing heat sink assembly." It will show you what all has to be torn down to get to that part, and remove it.

Then, clean the old paste off with a lint free cloth, and decent rubbing alcohol. I avoid 70% at all costs. I prefer my 99.9% stuff, but have used 80% when in a bind. Make sure it dries completely before you continue. Pure stuff dries very quickly, less pure can take some time.

Then apply the new paste as a thin line about the length of a grain of rice. Don't smear it, try to spread it, or anything else UNLESS it is specifically designed for that (liquid metals come to mind). Then, reassemble. Be careful to ensure the heat spreader is attached evenly, with appropriate pressure.

Undervolting allows you to reduce the heat of the chip by running at voltages lower than it was designed for. Ideally, this shouldn't have to be done. Assuming a decent paste job, you won't. If you do find yourself in the position where that needs done, then use Intel XTU to adjust the voltage in small increments, and run Prime 95 in the background to monitor the results. If the machine becomes unstable, or starts throttling, you went too far.

What you need:
Screw drivers

Lint free cloth (some people use coffee filters, or even paper towels)

Alcohol

Paste (I use IC7 Diamond these days. Works very well on my machines. Arctic Silver 5 is still decent stuff, as is Gelid Extreme. There are others, and I am sure someone else will chime in with their favorites)

Clean, static reducing/non static working environment

Do you have any recommendations for ram? I'm not a tech guy but I hear Corsair Vengeance alot.



Corsair Vengeance 2666mhz

Kingston HyperX 2133mhz

Kingston HyperX 2400mhz

Crucial 2133mhz

Crucial 2400mhz

Which one would you say is the best for the r4 from above? Anything better?

Sorry for all the questions. I see you on a lot of threads and being a mod as well I thought you would be knowledgeable.

Thanks in advance.

Personally, I prefer EVGA cards (PNY is a good brand too), but neither of those will work due to having the wrong fans on them. You want reference fans. Those open air fans will push the air into your case (reference will push it out) making your components hot.

IIRC the 1050/TI doesn't have a reference version, but this should work better in the x51's compact case: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01MEFABEL/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_yYLxzb3D55HYN

Technically that's the wrong fan too, but according to users here it works fine. I'd still monitor temps while playing intense games.

I'd actually recommend a 1060 (I'm personally looking to upgrade in the next year or so) but they're still stupidly expensive thanks to mining. Ugh.

Edit: I see your links are at Best Buy, see if they'll price match Amazon if you buy in-store. I've only ever price matched video games so idk how PC parts will work. Worth a shot though.

I really like this Targus Chill Hub $54.99 Sale: $38.24

https://www.amazon.com/Targus-Cooling-Adjustable-Convert-AWE84US/dp/B01JH2IPQC?ref_=Oct_NReleaseC_2243862011_&pf_rd_r=HGMNTN0WHCE9TSTEZRJW&pf_rd_p=586b956f-9baf-5682-89fe-24ebca3505b4&pf_rd_s=merchandised-search-6&pf_rd_t=101&pf_rd_i=2243862011&pf_rd_m=ATVPDKIKX0DER

When I finally replace my cooler pad I'm going to go with something like that \^

The pad I use doesn't adjust and my neck strains tilting down for an extended gaming session, so having such a high raise seems like it would help. The fans are located near the top of the pad, which is where the m15r2's intakes are, there's also a 4-port usb hub build in which is nice if you have a bunch of stuff plugged in, ports are kinda sparse on my a51m (3xusb +1usb C).

Like what? Pretty simple to do. There's a free SATA port on the mobo, so you just need the two cables and the SSD.

You need this power cable: http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B001K9BEZU/ref=oh_details_o05_s00_i00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

An 8" SATA cable like this: http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0010DLN7K/ref=oh_details_o06_s00_i01?ie=UTF8&psc=1

And an SSD.

Here's another description: http://en.community.dell.com/owners-club/alienware/f/3746/t/19450393.aspx

I got this one, a little over £100 but the best bag i have ever had,

far far better than the vindicator.

https://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/product/B002WOBBVO/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o05_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

Man, thanks for the replay, am gonna be ordering as you did a 32 one, and get to see my luck if they worked
! otherwise i will remover than and upgrade furhter 32gb more ! as corona and 3ds are driving me crazy !

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Tho, i would like to ask what do you think of this : https://www.amazon.it/Ballistix-BLS2C16G4S26BFSD-Memoria-PC4-21300-260-Pin/dp/B06XRBS4Y5/ref=sr_1_1?__mk_it_IT=%C3%85M%C3%85%C5%BD%C3%95%C3%91&crid=3OU20A4I4ODNF&keywords=ballistix+16+ddr4+sodimm&qid=1563976383&s=gateway&sprefix=ballestics%2Caps%2C146&sr=8-1

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it has a built in heat-sink ! as its toasting already ! let me know

also on website they say its 100% compatible with alienware based on local device check done by the website of Crucial

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https://www.crucial.com/usa/en/alienware-area-51m/CT14406872

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scroll a bit down to see the statement result of Crucial

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cheers man !

So I may not be the best person to ask because I literally just got mine yesterday but it is a really beautiful laptop and sleek design. I have the i7 2070maxq OLED and decided to go with that model because I've heard that the i9's do have thermal issues.

However, I have not had any issues with mine. Played two games yesterday and frames stayed at 60fps and did not have any throttling issues. I do keep my laptop lifted via [these lifts]<https://www.amazon.com/Smart-Stands-Slip-Free-Elevation-Scratch-Free/dp/B07LB4XGRG/ref=sr_1_12?keywords=laptop+lift&qid=1565182277&s=gateway&smid=A1BIPEU5EMPUCQ&sr=8-12\> which help with airflow but generally I've had no issues.

Sorry to rebirth this thread here,

I have my eye on this card,
https://www.amazon.ca/EVGA-GeForce-GAMING-Support-04G-P4-6251-KR/dp/B01MEFABEL/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1491237824&sr=8-1&keywords=gtx+1050


it isnt specified that it will work according to dell. https://www.dell.com/support/article/ca/en/cabsdt1/SLN296934/alienware-x51-r2-system-specifications?lang=EN

but this alienware forum says this guy was successful.
http://www.alienowners.com/threads/gtx-1050-ti-upgrade-x51-r2.7427/


my gtx 660 is clearly in need of an upgrade. i found out it came out in 2012.

Should I get this card?
Maximum Graphics Card Dimensions

Height: 4.736 inches
Length: 9.5 inches
Width: Dual Slot

Can't seem to find enough info.

I think your best bet is to do some review research if you are inclined to go with those options, as it seems you've been doing. Any of the names you've mentioned all seem like they would be good options.

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What RAM I went with: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01N7K4DV4/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o01_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

I bought this fancy piece of rubber, basically throw it into the laptop bag and it's all good.

https://www.amazon.com/designed-many-Universal-Ergonomic-Lightweight/dp/B00IXVE5OU/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1521760098&sr=8-1&keywords=curb+laptop

Works well and comes in crazy colors if that's your thing. As an added bonus it also serves as a perfect riser for my Ducky Shine 6 :).

Like $18 - good quality too. Love it. https://www.amazon.com/eBags-Stash-Laptop-Backpack-Grey/dp/B01M5B9988/ref=sr_1_31?ie=UTF8&qid=1499395548&sr=8-31&keywords=ebags

Edit: Use the coupon code on the page to reduce the price

It depends on how portable you want to be and how much money you have. I think it would be better to just keep your current laptop and purchase a graphics amplifier and gtx 1070 graphics card which comes out to $590. If you care more about portability then sell your current laptop and buy a 17" which starts at $1500. If you plan to go down this route then I recommend you get the 1070 gpu so it will maintain performance as time passes.

I got this for my computer that sits on carpet under desk, it works great, and wheels allow you to easy move it to get to back of machine.

https://www.amazon.com/VIVO-Computer-ATX-Case-Adjustable-CART-PC01/dp/B074P76TBW/ref=pd_sbs_147_1/137-6345763-4089760?_encoding=UTF8&pd_rd_i=B074P76TBW&pd_rd_r=fbf35f06-aee9-4a3d-a9e3-39bb6b426134&pd_rd_w=vHXFU&pd_rd_wg=h4GCj&pf_rd_p=d66372fe-68a6-48a3-90ec-41d7f64212be&pf_rd_r=P79K0D7DWFX3A51394QE&psc=1&refRID=P79K0D7DWFX3A51394QE

Not so much a mini review but this should give you everything you need to know: Link

If you have the money I would suggest grabbing the Everki Beacon. I personally own the Everki Titan (I travel a bit) and I must say they have fantastic build quality and design, plus they have a lifetime guarantee.

This has been great. Pretty much just a stick of rubber

designed by many, CURB Universal & Portable Ergonomic Laptop Stand, Lightweight Dual Viewing Position, Black https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00IXVE5OU/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_PuK0Cb165J62E

"Arctic Silver" is probably what he's using, which you can buy online here for about 10 bucks.

You'll need to clean the top of the CPU with something like Isopropyl alchohol to remove all the old, crusted paste, and there are a TON of videos online on how to do this.

Ultimately, you're paying this gentleman for his time. It's a quick process but requires taking some things apart and he's probably gauging his time at about $75 / hour here, which is an entirely fair wage for a computer repair person.

Question is, why does your CPU need a repaste? Is it running hot, making you think the Heatsync isn't doing it's job?

I've only ever heard of re-applying your thermal paste if you had to remove / replace your heatsync from your CPU for some reason... Have you done that?

I'd say a samsung 860 evo is fine, they're pretty expensive relative to others but samsung is really good

https://www.amazon.com/Samsung-Inch-Internal-MZ-76E1T0B-AM/dp/B078DPCY3T/ref=pd_lpo_vtph_147_tr_img_2?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1&refRID=F46244EBMGRJBHQHTK8G

I'm not sure what extra cables you need to buy if any, though

Ok thanks so much, you’re a gem. One final question. Will this be appropriate? It seems there’s a newer 960 - is that preferable or should this be more than enough?

https://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/aw/d/B00TGIVZTW/ref=mp_s_a_1_5?ie=UTF8&qid=1518728844&sr=8-5&pi=AC_SX236_SY340_QL65&keywords=samsung+850&dpPl=1&dpID=417M%2B-iF3iL&ref=plSrch

I used this one on my 17R2 and it worked well: (well, good enough)

https://www.amazon.com/Gaming-Laptop-Cooling-Turbine-SGA-4000-KKNF1/dp/B004G603E2/ref=cm_cr_arp_d_product_top?ie=UTF8

Thanks for the tips! This one?

http://www.amazon.com/Samsung-850-EVO-250-MZ-N5E250BW/dp/B00TGIVZTW/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1463806051&sr=8-1&keywords=250gb+850+Evo+M.2+SSD

i am using this one as my second ssd slot and it work nice . I never face any problem because i bought on black friday i got thing near $69 check it out
LINK

thanks for the info. i just found this surfing some similar discussions on notebookreview.com. have you noticed any temp changes with/without the Zalman?

Just an FYI, this kit works: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01BNJL8I4/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o02_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

32GB 2400 CL14 for $143.

No, it won't work. You need something like this.

https://www.amazon.com/EVGA-GeForce-Founders-Graphics-08G-P4-6170-KR/dp/B01I60OGUK?th=1

Would this work?

Is this the 32GB kit that some people are buying - Kingston Hyper-X ?

Is your samsung the same as [this one?]
(https://www.amazon.co.uk/Samsung-250GB-850-EVO-SATA/dp/B00TGIVZTW/ref=sr_1_1?s=computers&ie=UTF8&qid=1465499709&sr=1-1&keywords=samsung+850+evo+m.2)

Don't bother with the 16 GB ram or the 512 GB SSD. It's much cheaper to add them in aftermarket. Dell charges you $100 extra to go from 8 to 16 gigs, but a 32 gig DDR4 kit @2400 mhz is only $140 from Amazon. A single 8 gig stick will set you back only $40.

I personally ordered the 6820HK/1070 stock config, and I'll be adding in ram and hard drive space later.