Typical price: £1,859
What is it: Desktop replacement laptop with Intel Core 2 Duo processor
What we think: Performs as well as larger, more expensive gaming systems, but battery life is short
What you need to know
Reviewed on: 25 September 2006
Tags: Alienware, Alienware Area-51 m5550, desktop replacement, video card, card reader
We like:
Attractive design; great application performance, thanks to top-of-the-line Core 2 Duo mobile chip and Nvidia graphics; bright display; touch pad on/off button
We don't like:
Lousy battery life; mediocre gaming performance; slightly compact keyboard; screen is very reflective
CNET UK judgement:
The Core 2 Duo-based Alienware Area-51 m5550 can perform as well as larger, more expensive gaming systems, but its short battery life means you won't be very mobile
Full review:
Unlike its higher-end sibling, the Aurora mALX, the silver-and-black Alienware Area-51 m5550 has a subdued look that might blend in to the corporate landscape, were it not for the familiar glowing alien head on the lid. At 3.1kg, the Area-51 m5550 is also designed to be slightly more mobile than the mALX -- though its disappointingly brief battery life is likely to keep users tethered to the wall socket. Continue Reading...
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