I’m a big fan of small form factor PCs. Sure, they’re a pain in the arse to upgrade, but they’re less obtrusive. I’ve got a feeling gamers don’t think the same way, though — maybe Alienware’s X51 can convince them otherwise?
Looking more like a console than a computer, the latest Alienware release is the slim X51. I think I’d prefer a console, but hey, I’m not everyone. So one with some specs.
The system can be had in both Core i3 and i5 options, can be tricked out to a top spec level of 8GB of RAM and 1TB of storage, and comes as standard with a full size NVIDIA GeForce GT 545 graphics card (you can upgrade to the GTX 555). It comes with HDMI 1.4, on-board Wi-Fi, USB 3.0 and digital 7.1 surround sound.
Its party trick? The Alienware logo rotates so it’s always the right way up! And the accent colours can be changed using the Alienware Command Center software! I love gimmicks.
The basic spec costs $US699, for which you could get an Xbox, a heap of games and have cash leftover. But, hey, maybe I’m biased. [Dell]