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Is Bigger WORSE? - Alienware 15 Gaming Review

Linus Tech Tips@LinusTechTips1.1M viewsMay 15, 20178:53
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The Alienware 15 packs a lot of gaming power, but does it pack enough usability to beat the Alienware 13? Visit squarespace.com and use offer code LTT for 10% off

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The Linus Tech Tips review of the Alienware 15 weighs heavy on the scale of performance versus portability, starting with a direct contrast to the smaller Alienware 13. The host notes the 15 is substantially heavier, nearly 50% more than the 13, which immediately frames the trade off between raw power and daily carry comfort. He then walks through the build quality, highlighting a magnesium and reinforced steel chassis that feels premium, with little compromise in construction or materials despite the extra size. The core hardware is laid out in detail, describing configurations from modest to extreme, including a GTX 1070 GPU, a quad-core Core i7, and 16 GB of DDR4 RAM, all of which consistently push framerates past 60 fps in demanding titles and often into the three-digit territory in certain scenarios. Acoustic performance is praised as near silent under typical gaming loads, while the speakers deliver a strong audio experience. The display comparison drives a key separation: the 15 offers strong performance but the OLED panel available on the 13 delivers deeper blacks and excellent color accuracy, though the 15 can rival with a high refresh rate 120 Hz option and G-Sync for smoother gaming. Upgradability surfaces as a practical strength, with accessible SSD slots, RAM, and an easy battery swap, underscoring that Dell did not skimp on future-proofing to fit the extra hardware inside the chassis. In the closing verdict, the reviewer declares the Alienware 15 a compelling choice for gamers who prioritize sheer power and display quality, while acknowledging that the 13 still shines in portability and display depth, making it the better all-around pick for non-gaming use. The video rounds off with affiliate promos and a call to action for purchasing options and Squarespace sponsorship, but the core takeaway remains clear: for hours of gaming on the go, the 15 is a strong winner, whereas for lighter use the 13 retains standout screen advantages and portability.

Topics · hardware · gaming-laptops · product-review · portability

Questions answered

What is the main trade off when choosing the Alienware 15 over the Alienware 13?
The main trade off is higher performance and a higher refresh rate display on the 15 versus better portability and deeper OLED blacks on the 13.
Is the Alienware 15 upgrade friendly?
Yes, it has accessible M.2 slots and RAM, plus a user-replaceable battery, making upgrades easier than many laptops.