Dell Alienware m16 R2 (2024)
| Manufacturer | Dell |
|---|---|
| Product family | Alienware |
| Release date | January 2024 |
| Introductory price | USD 1599 to 1850 |
| Discontinued | No |
| Operating system | Windows 11 Home (Can be configured with Windows 11 Pro) |
| CPU | Intel Core Ultra 7 155H Intel Core Ultra 9 185H |
| Memory | 16 (2x8), 32 (2x16), or 64 (2x32) GB DDR5-5600 Mhz |
| Memory slots | 2 user accessible |
| Storage | 1, 2, 4 TB M.2 PCIe NVMe SSD, 8TB RAID0 (2 x 4 TB) |
| Storage slots | 2 user accessible |
| Removable storage | 1 MicroSD card slot |
| Display | Screen size: 16 inch Panel type: IPS Coating: Matte (anti-glare) Resolution: 2560 x 1600 PPI: 188 Aspect ratio: 16:10 Refresh rate: 240 Hz Brightness: 305 to 358.9 Nits Contrast ratio: 1153:1 to 1326:1 sRGB: 100 % DCI-P3: 82.3 % Screen-to-body ratio: |
| Graphics | Intel Iris Xe Graphics Nvidia GeForce RTX 4050 Laptop 6 GB GDDR6 Nvidia GeForce RTX 4060 Laptop 8 GB GDDR6 Nvidia GeForce RTX 4070 Laptop 8 GB GDDR6 |
| Sound | 2 x 2 W stereo speakers Realtek ALC3254 audio codec |
| Camera | Front: 1080p at 30 fps FHD RGB+IR camera |
| Touchpad | Glass, 4.5 inches (11 cm) x 2.75 inches (7.0 cm) |
| Connectivity | Intel BE202 WiFi 7 Bluetooth 5.4 2 x USB 3.2 Gen 1 (Type-A) 1 x USB 3.2 Gen 2 (Type-C, DP 1.4, 15W PD) 1 x USB 3.2 Gen 2 (Type-C, DP 1.4, Thunderbolt 4) 1 x HDMI 2.1 1 x Ethernet (2.5 Gbps) 1 x 3.5mm headphone/microphone jack |
| Power brick | 240W GaN AC adapter |
| Battery | 6-cell Li-Polymer 90 Wh |
| Keyboard | Per-key RGB backlit, single zone RGB backlit |
| Chassis | Color: Dark Metallic Moon Materials: Anodized aluminum Cooling: Dual fan with heat pipes |
| Fingerprint reader | No |
| Facial recognition | Yes |
| Predecessor | Dell Alienware m16 R1 |
| Website | Dell |
All statements attributed to reviews are the reviewer's own opinion. Note that these claims were accurate at the time of publication and may be dated when you are reading this article. Read more.
This section was written by AI and requires review. Remove this after review.
The Dell Alienware m16 R2 (2024) is a gaming laptop that balances portability with performance, featuring Intel's Ultra series processors and Nvidia's RTX 4000 series GPUs. It is designed for gamers and general users who prioritize a smaller form factor without sacrificing too much on performance.[1]
Primary Hardware
This section was written by AI and requires review. Remove this after review.
Processor
The Alienware m16 R2 can be configured with the following processors[1]:
- Intel Core Ultra 7 155H with 16 cores and 22 threads, 24 MB cache, and a max frequency of 4.8 GHz for P-cores.
- Intel Core Ultra 9 185H with 16 cores and 24 threads, 24 MB cache, and a max frequency of 5.1 GHz for P-cores.
The Intel Core Ultra 7 155H provides adequate performance for day-to-day tasks and gaming, although it is about 10 to 15 percent slower than the i7-13700HX in both single- and multi-threaded operations. The Core Ultra 9 185H offers a 6% boost in single-core performance over the Ultra 7 155H, but multicore performance gains are minimal.[2][3]
Benchmarks:
- Cinebench R23:
Graphics
The Alienware m16 R2 is available with the following discrete GPUs[1]:
- Nvidia GeForce RTX 4050 Laptop GPU with 6 GB GDDR6 memory.
- Nvidia GeForce RTX 4060 Laptop GPU with 8 GB GDDR6 memory.
- Nvidia GeForce RTX 4070 Laptop GPU with 8 GB GDDR6 memory.
The RTX 4070 performs about 10 percent faster than the average laptop with the same GPU, although it is a downgrade from the m16 R1 due to the lack of RTX 4080 or 4090 options. The RTX 4060 provides balanced CPU/GPU performance for decent gaming experiences, while the RTX 4050 is suitable for less demanding tasks.[2][4]
Benchmarks:
- 3DMark Fire Strike:
- 3DMark Time Spy:
Memory
The Alienware m16 R2 supports up to 64 GB of DDR5-5600 MHz memory in a dual-channel configuration. Available configurations include 16 GB (2x8), 32 GB (2x16), and 64 GB (2x32) options.[1]
The RAM operates in dual-channel mode, providing adequate performance for gaming and multitasking. The memory timings are competitive for DDR5, and the dual-channel configuration helps improve overall performance.[2]
Benchmarks:
- AIDA64 Memory Copy: ~89414 MB/s[2]
Storage
The Alienware m16 R2 can be configured with 1 TB, 2 TB, 4 TB, or 8 TB RAID0 (2 x 4 TB) M.2 PCIe NVMe SSDs. The system supports two M.2 2280 SSDs, allowing for future upgrades.[1]
The SSD maintains high transfer rates and includes a heat spreader for thermal management. The fast SSD storage ensures quick boot times and application loading.[2]
Benchmarks:
- CrystalDiskMark:
- Read: ~7095 MB/s
- Write: ~5207 MB/s[2]
Co-processors
The Alienware m16 R2 does not include any dedicated co-processors.[2]
Input Devices
This section was written by AI and requires review. Remove this after review.
Keyboard
The Alienware m16 R2 features a chiclet keyboard with membrane-based keys and per-key RGB backlighting. The keyboard has 1.8 mm travel and includes a "Stealth mode" feature tied to the F2 key for quiet operation.[2]
The keyboard is comfortable and clickier than expected compared to other gaming laptops, but lacks mechanical options. The Space and Enter keys are notably louder and sharper than the main QWERTY keys.[2]
Touchpad
The touchpad on the Alienware m16 R2 is slightly larger than on last year's model and includes new RGB lighting around the perimeter. It is made of glass, providing a smooth surface for multi-touch gestures.[4]
The touchpad works reliably enough for basic pointing and clicking, but feedback when clicking continues to be spongy and very shallow for an unsatisfying feel.[2]
Webcam
The Alienware m16 R2 is equipped with a 1080p camera with IR support for Windows Hello face unlock.[1]
The webcam provides decent image quality for video calls but lacks a privacy shutter. The IR feature allows for convenient face unlock functionality.[2]
Microphone
The Alienware m16 R2 includes a dual-array microphone setup.[1]
The microphone quality is adequate for video calls and voice commands, but specific performance metrics are not provided.[2]
Output Devices
This section was written by AI and requires review. Remove this after review.
Display
The Alienware m16 R2 features a 16-inch 2560 x 1600 pixel IPS display with a 240 Hz refresh rate. The display offers good color accuracy and refresh rates, making it suitable for gaming and amateur editing.[1]
The display provides good color accuracy and refresh rates, making it suitable for gaming and amateur editing. However, it lacks HDR support and Windows variable refresh rate. The brightness is adequate for indoor use but may struggle in direct sunlight.[2]
Benchmarks:
- Brightness: Maximum 358.9 cd/m²[2]
- Contrast: 1153:1[2]
- Color accuracy: Average grayscale and color deltaE values of just 2.1 and 1.99, respectively.[2]
Audio
The Alienware m16 R2 is equipped with stereo speakers (2x 2 W) and a Realtek ALC3254 audio codec.[1]
The speakers provide decent sound quality but lack bass, making them less suitable for music or movies. The maximum volume is slightly below average for a laptop of this size.[2]
Connectivity
This section was written by AI and requires review. Remove this after review.
WiFi
The Alienware m16 R2 is equipped with an Intel BE202 Wi-Fi 7 card, providing high-speed connectivity with no issues during testing.[1]
The reception is excellent, with speed tests showing good performance even at a distance from the router.[4]
Benchmarks:
- iperf3 transmit: 1205 MBit/s[2]
Bluetooth
The Alienware m16 R2 includes Bluetooth 5.4 support.[1]
SD Card Reader
The Alienware m16 R2 features a MicroSD card reader.[1]
The switch from full-size SD to MicroSD may be inconvenient for some users, particularly content creators.[2]
USB
The Alienware m16 R2 is equipped with the following USB ports[1]:
- 2 x USB 3.2 Gen 1 Type-A
- 1 x USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-C with DisplayPort 1.4 and 15W Power Delivery
- 1 x USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-C with Thunderbolt 4 and DisplayPort 1.4
The USB ports are well-placed and provide good connectivity options for peripherals and external displays.[4]
Display Outputs
The Alienware m16 R2 includes the following display outputs[1]:
- 1 x HDMI 2.1
- 2 x DisplayPort (via USB-C)
The HDMI 2.1 port allows for high refresh rates and resolutions, making it suitable for gaming and multimedia use.[4]
Case
This section was written by AI and requires review. Remove this after review.
The Alienware m16 R2 features a rigid chassis design with a dark metallic moon finish. The build quality is solid, with an anodized aluminum construction that provides a premium feel.[1]
The case is smaller and lighter than the previous model while maintaining structural integrity. The design includes hexagonal grilles that have become a staple on Alienware laptops.[2]
Maintenance
This section was written by AI and requires review. Remove this after review.
The bottom panel of the Alienware m16 R2 is secured by 8 Phillips screws for easy access. Both memory slots can be upgraded, and the system supports two M.2 2280 SSDs, making it a good option for future upgrades.[2]
Cooling System
This section was written by AI and requires review. Remove this after review.
The Alienware m16 R2 is equipped with a dual fan cooling system with copper heat pipes. The intakes pull air from both the keyboard and the bottom of the laptop, with exhausts at the rear and back sides.[2]
Heat
The laptop can reach high temperatures under load, particularly around the CPU, with maximum temperatures reaching 44.8 °C on the upper side.[2]
Benchmarks:
- Maximum Upper Side: 44.8 °C
- Maximum Bottom: 48 °C[2]
Noise
The fan noise behavior is improved compared to the m16 R1, with quieter operation under load. The maximum noise level recorded during gaming was 62 dB(A).[2]
Benchmarks:
- Load Maximum: 62 dB(A)[2]
Energy Management
This section was written by AI and requires review. Remove this after review.
Power Consumption
The Alienware m16 R2 ships with a 240 W GaN AC adapter. Power consumption is lower than previous models, with efficient performance-per-watt.[2]
Benchmarks:
- Idle: 8.1 W
- Load: 79 W[2]
Battery Life
The Alienware m16 R2 is equipped with a 90 Wh Lithium-Polymer battery. Battery life is improved compared to previous models, lasting up to 8 hours during web browsing.[2]
Benchmarks:
- Idle (without WLAN, min brightness): 12h 38min
- WiFi Websurfing: 8h 03min
- Load (maximum brightness): 1h 00min[2]
Biometrics
This section was written by AI and requires review. Remove this after review.
The Alienware m16 R2 includes an IR sensor for Windows Hello face unlock, but does not have a fingerprint reader.[1]
Software
This section was written by AI and requires review. Remove this after review.
All SKUs ship with Windows 11 Home, with the option to upgrade to Windows 11 Pro. The Alienware Command Center software allows for customization of RGB lighting and performance modes.[1]
Preinstalled Software
The Alienware Command Center has been updated for smoother operation.[2]
Linux Support
Linux support is not specified.
Accessories & Warranty
This section was written by AI and requires review. Remove this after review.
The Alienware m16 R2 comes with a 240 W GaN AC adapter and paperwork. There is a one-year limited manufacturer warranty if purchased in the US.[2]
Reviews Summary
This section was written by AI and requires review. Remove this after review.
Overall Sentiment
The Alienware m16 R2 is considered a worthy successor to its predecessor, offering a balance of portability and performance. It is praised for its solid build quality, improved keyboard and trackpad, and high-speed connectivity. However, it still runs hot under sustained loads and has mediocre speakers and webcam.[4][2][3]
Problems Summary[4][2][3]
- Runs hot under sustained loads.
- Mediocre speakers and webcam.
- Display lacks HDR support.
- Power modes and Advanced Optimus are buggy.
- MicroSD card reader may be inconvenient for some users.
- No fingerprint reader or webcam shutter.
Links
Core Ultra 7 155H, RTX 4060, 16 GB RAM, 1 TB SSD: UltrabookReview
Core Ultra 7 155H, RTX 4070, 16 GB RAM, 1 TB SSD: NotebookCheck
Core Ultra 9 185H, RTX 4070, 32 GB RAM, 1 TB SSD: JarrodsTech
Community Reception
Overall Sentiment
Problems Summary
References
- ↑ 1.00 1.01 1.02 1.03 1.04 1.05 1.06 1.07 1.08 1.09 1.10 1.11 1.12 1.13 1.14 1.15 1.16 "Dell Alienware m16 R2". Dell.
- ↑ 2.00 2.01 2.02 2.03 2.04 2.05 2.06 2.07 2.08 2.09 2.10 2.11 2.12 2.13 2.14 2.15 2.16 2.17 2.18 2.19 2.20 2.21 2.22 2.23 2.24 2.25 2.26 2.27 2.28 2.29 2.30 2.31 2.32 2.33 2.34 2.35 "Alienware m16 R2 laptop review: Big and risky changes". NotebookCheck.
- ↑ 3.0 3.1 3.2 3.3 "Alienware m16 R2 Review". JarrodsTech.
- ↑ 4.0 4.1 4.2 4.3 4.4 4.5 4.6 4.7 4.8 4.9 "Alienware m16 R2 Review". UltrabookReview.