Dell Alienware x14 R1 (2022)
| Manufacturer | Dell |
|---|---|
| Product family | Alienware |
| Release date | January 2022 |
| Introductory price | USD 1500 to 2500 |
| Discontinued | No |
| Operating system | Windows 11 Home (Can be configured with Windows 11 Pro) |
| CPU | Intel Core i5-12500H Intel Core i7-12700H |
| Memory | 16 GB LPDDR5-4800 MHz (RTX 3050/3050 Ti) or 16/32 GB LPDDR5-5200 MHz (RTX 3060) |
| Memory slots | None (soldered) |
| Storage | 256 GB, 512 GB, 1 TB, or 2 TB M.2 NVMe SSD |
| Storage slots | 1 user accessible |
| Removable storage | 1 microSD-card slot |
| Display | Screen size: 14 inch Panel type: IPS Coating: Matte (anti-glare) Resolution: 1920 x 1080 Refresh rate: 144 Hz Brightness: 400 Nits DCI-P3: 100 % Response Time: 3 ms |
| Graphics | Intel Iris Xe Graphics Nvidia GeForce RTX 3050 Laptop 4 GB GDDR6 Nvidia GeForce RTX 3050 Ti Laptop 4 GB GDDR6 Nvidia GeForce RTX 3060 Laptop 6 GB GDDR6 |
| Sound | Stereo speakers |
| Camera | Front: 720p at 30 fps, HD RGBIr camera |
| Touchpad | Microsoft Premium Precision Glass TouchPad with Multi-touch Gesture |
| Connectivity | Intel AX211 WiFi 6E or Intel Killer AX1690i WiFi 6E Bluetooth 5.2 1 x USB 3.2 Gen 1 (Type-A) 1 x USB 3.2 Gen 2 (Type-C, DP 1.4, PD) 2 x Thunderbolt 4 (DP 1.4, PD) 1 x HDMI 2.1 1 x 3.5mm headphone/microphone jack |
| Dimensions | W: 12.66 inches (32.2 cm) D: 10.34 inches (26.3 cm) H: 0.57 inches (1.4 cm) |
| Mass | 3.96 pounds (1.80 kg) |
| Power brick | 130W slim AC adapter |
| Battery | 4 cell Li-Polymer 80 Wh |
| Keyboard | Single zone RGB backlit |
| Chassis | Color: Lunar light Materials: Plastic and metal Cooling: Vapor chamber cooling with two fans |
| Number pad | No |
| Fingerprint reader | No |
| Facial recognition | Yes |
| 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.
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The Dell Alienware x14 R1 (2022) is a high-performance, ultra-thin gaming laptop designed for portability without compromising on power. It features Intel's 12th generation processors and Nvidia's RTX 3000 series GPUs, making it suitable for both gaming and professional tasks.[1]
Primary Hardware
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Processor
The Alienware x14 R1 (2022) can be configured with the following processors[1]:
- Intel Core i5-12500H with 12 cores (4 P-cores + 8 E-cores) and 16 threads, 18 MB cache and a max frequency of 4.5 Ghz.
- Intel Core i7-12700H with 14 cores (6 P-cores + 8 E-cores) and 20 threads, 24 MB cache and max frequency of 4.7 Ghz.
The Intel Core i7-12700H processor in the Alienware x14 R1 shows strong performance in benchmarks, particularly in single-core tasks. However, its performance drops under sustained loads due to thermal throttling. The processor features a hybrid architecture with six performance cores and eight efficiency cores, allowing it to handle up to 20 threads simultaneously.[2] The laptop generally performs well across the board, with respectable scores in most synthetic benchmarks thanks to its Core i7-12700H processor and speedy DDR5 memory. The CPU ran quite hot too—maxing out at 100°C shortly into the benchmarking process, but that didn't appear to cause any noticeable amount of slowdown.[3]
Benchmarks:
Graphics
In addition to the integrated Intel Iris Xe Graphics, the Alienware x14 R1 (2022) ships with the following discrete GPUs[1]:
- Nvidia GeForce RTX 3050 Laptop GPU with 4 GB GDDR6 memory.
- Nvidia GeForce RTX 3050 Ti Laptop GPU with 4 GB GDDR6 memory.
- Nvidia GeForce RTX 3060 Laptop GPU with 6 GB GDDR6 memory.
The Nvidia GeForce RTX 3060 unit delivers a consistent 60fps-plus gaming experience across various titles. The x14 holds up well against competitors, achieving good scores and frame rates, making it suitable for both casual and competitive gaming.[4] The RTX 3060 provides good gaming performance at 1080p but is slower than competitors with higher TGP configurations. It features a TGP of 60W, with the ability to draw an additional 15W from the CPU under load, resulting in a total TGP of 75W. The GPU performs well in most modern games but struggles in more demanding titles.[2]
Benchmarks:
- 3DMark Fire Strike Graphics: 19277 Points[2]
- 3DMark Time Spy Graphics: 7425 Points[2]
- 3DMark Cloud Gate Standard Score: 53689 Points[2]
- Metro: Exodus: 50-60 fps[3]
- Cyberpunk 2077: 50-60 fps[3]
Memory
The Alienware x14 R1 can be configured with the following memory options[1]:
- 16 GB LPDDR5-4800 MHz (for RTX 3050 and RTX 3050 Ti configurations)
- 16 GB or 32 GB LPDDR5-5200 MHz (for RTX 3060 configurations)
The laptop's memory contributes to its overall performance, allowing for smooth multitasking and gaming experiences. The RAM is soldered and cannot be upgraded, which limits future-proofing. The dual-channel configuration provides good performance for gaming and multitasking.[3][2]
Benchmarks:
- AIDA64 Memory Copy: 77803 MB/s[2]
- AIDA64 Memory Read: 76185 MB/s[2]
- AIDA64 Memory Write: 64219 MB/s[2]
- AIDA64 Memory Latency: 111 ns[2]
Storage
The Alienware x14 R1 can ship with 256 GB, 512 GB, 1 TB, or 2 TB M.2 NVMe SSD depending on the seller. The storage is replaceable, allowing for upgrades if needed.
Reviews of the 1 TB SSD note that it offers fast read and write speeds, making it suitable for gaming and productivity tasks.[2][3]
Benchmarks:
Co-processors
The Alienware x14 R1 does not include any dedicated co-processors.[1]
Input Devices
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Keyboard
The Alienware x14 R1 comes with a chiclet-style keyboard with butterfly switches beneath, dedicated volume and mute keys, and single-zone solid-color RGB lighting. The keys have a travel distance of 1.2 mm and support N-key rollover for multiple simultaneous key presses.[1]
The keyboard is functional but less comfortable due to the reduced travel and small palm rests. The keyboard supports N-key rollover for multiple simultaneous key presses and features customizable RGB lighting, although only one zone is illuminated.[2] The keyboard is actually good to use, with individual key sizing that is comfortable for both typing and gaming. The dedicated volume and mute keys have their own lights to indicate whether your mic or speakers are muted.[3]
Touchpad
The Alienware x14 R1 comes with a Microsoft Premium Precision Glass TouchPad with Multi-touch Gesture, measuring 10.8 centimetres (4.3 in) x 5.5 centimetres (2.2 in).[1]
The touchpad is small and may require frequent finger repositioning, but it functions well. It is easy to locate with fingers, but clicking it produces loud noises.[2] The click is satisfying, and there's none of the sponginess found in cheaper gaming laptops, but it's a little on the small side compared to competitors.[3]
Webcam
The Alienware x14 R1 comes with a 720p webcam located in the thin screen bezel. It includes an IR camera for facial recognition via Windows Hello.[1]
The webcam quality is subpar, with poor image clarity even in good lighting. It includes an IR camera for facial recognition via Windows Hello.[2] The quality of the webcam is not explicitly mentioned, but it is part of the design that includes a microphone array and IR camera for facial recognition logins.[3]
Microphone
The Alienware x14 R1 comes with a dual-array microphone.[1]
The microphone quality is adequate for video calls but lacks clarity and depth.[2]
Output Devices
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Display
The Alienware x14 R1 features a 14-inch, FHD 1920 x 1080, 144 Hz, anti-glare, non-touch display with a 3ms response time, 100% DCI-P3 color coverage, and 400 nits brightness.[1]
The display offers good brightness and color accuracy, making it suitable for gaming and content creation. It supports G-Sync and Advanced Optimus technologies, providing smooth gameplay.[2] The picture quality is crisp and bright, making it suitable for gaming and media consumption. The display's color coverage is vibrant, enhancing the overall visual experience.[4]
Benchmarks:
- Maximum Brightness: 434 cd/m²[2]
- Contrast Ratio: 1736:1[2]
- Color Accuracy: ΔE Color 3 | 0.5-29.43 Ø4.96, calibrated: 0.7[2]
- 87.6% AdobeRGB 1998 coverage[2]
- 100% sRGB coverage[2]
- 99.6% Display P3 coverage[2]
Audio
The Alienware x14 R1 comes with stereo speakers.[1]
The speakers are adequate for casual use but lack depth and power, especially during gaming. The sound quality improves when using the Dolby Access app.[2]
Connectivity
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WiFi
The Alienware x14 R1 is equipped with either an Intel AX211 or Intel Killer AX1690i WiFi 6E WLAN module.[1]
The Wi-Fi performance is strong, supporting high-speed connections and Bluetooth 5.2.[2]
Benchmarks:
Bluetooth
The Alienware x14 R1 comes with a Bluetooth 5.2 module.[1]
SD Card Reader
The Alienware x14 R1 includes a microSD card reader.[1]
The card reader is fast and supports high transfer rates, making it convenient for photographers and content creators.[2]
Benchmarks:
- Maximum AS SSD Seq Read Test: 222 MB/s[2]
USB
The Alienware x14 R1 is equipped with the following USB ports[1]:
- 1 x USB-A (USB 3.2 Gen 1, 5 Gbps)
- 1 x USB-C (USB 3.2 Gen 2, 10 Gbps) with Power Delivery and DisplayPort 1.4
- 2 x Thunderbolt 4 with Power Delivery and DisplayPort 1.4
The port selection is modern but all ports are located at the rear, making them hard to access.[2]
Display Outputs
The Alienware x14 R1 comes with 3 display outputs:[1]
- 2 x Thunderbolt 4 with DisplayPort 1.4
- 1 x HDMI 2.1
The HDMI 2.1 output allows for high refresh rates and resolutions when connecting to external displays.[3]
Case
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The Alienware x14 R1 (2022) is available in one color: Lunar light.[1] The chassis is mostly plastic, but it feels durable and doesn't pick up fingerprints easily. The design is clean and effective, with a thin screen bezel. The build quality is high, but the design leads to a larger footprint compared to competitors. The chassis is made of high-quality materials, and the overall stability is impressive.[3][2] The laptop is impressively compact, weighing in at just 3.96 lbs (1.8 kg) and just over half an inch thick with the lid closed. The inset hinge design increases the overall footprint at the rear by about an inch.[4]
Maintenance
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The bottom panel is secured by screws and clips, making it somewhat difficult to access. The RAM is soldered down, limiting future upgrades. However, the SSD and Wi-Fi module can be replaced if needed.[2]
Cooling System
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The Alienware x14 R1 is equipped with vapor chamber cooling with two fans. The cooling system features Alienware's exclusive "Element 31" thermal material and a vapor cooling chamber, designed to manage heat effectively.[4]
Heat
The laptop remains relatively cool under light loads but can get warm during intensive tasks. The maximum temperature on the upper side is 51.3 °C, while the bottom reaches up to 44.4 °C.[2]
Benchmarks:Benchmarks:
Noise
The fans are loud under load, reaching over 51 dB(A) during gaming. The noise level is higher than some competitors, making headphones a necessity for gaming sessions. The system remains relatively quiet during idle and moderate use.[2][4]
Benchmarks:
- Load: > 51 dB(A)[2]
Energy Management
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Power Consumption
The Alienware x14 R1 ships with a 130W AC adapter.[1]
The laptop consumes around 107W under load, which is manageable with the included adapter. The implementation of Nvidia Advanced Optimus helps save power during light tasks, contributing to overall efficiency.[2][4]
Battery Life
All Alienware x14 R1 SKUs come with an 80 WHr Li-Polymer battery. The battery life fell just short of 'dismal' in some tests, indicating that while it is not the worst, it is still below average for gaming laptops.[3] However, other tests show that the battery lasts around 8-9 hours under typical usage, which is impressive for a gaming laptop.[2][4]
Benchmarks:
Biometrics
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The Alienware x14 R1 supports Windows Hello face recognition via its IR camera, providing a convenient and secure login method.[1][3]
Software
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All SKUs ship with Windows 11 Home, but the laptop can be upgraded to Windows 11 Pro, either manually or when buying directly from Dell.
Preinstalled Software
Alienware Command Center
The Alienware Command Center software allows for performance tuning and RGB lighting customization. It is noted for not being particularly well-designed and not doing much for the user experience.[3][4]
Other Preinstalled Software
The Alienware x14 R1 also comes with other software like Dell Digital Delivery, Dell Update, Excalibur, Microsoft Office 30-Day Trial, My Alienware, SupportAssist, and XBOX.[1]
Linux Support
Linux support is limited, as the device is primarily designed for Windows.[2]
Accessories & Warranty
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The Alienware x14 R1 comes with a 130W AC adapter and paperwork.[2]
There is a one-year limited manufacturer warranty if purchased in the US.[2]
Reviews Summary
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Overall Sentiment
The Alienware x14 R1 is considered a strong contender in the gaming laptop market, particularly for those seeking a portable yet powerful device. It delivers solid 1080p gaming performance and fast overall performance in a super-portable design. However, it faces stiff competition from rivals that offer better performance for similar prices. The primary downsides include fan noise, limited upgrade options, and below-average battery life.[3][4][2]
Problems Summary[3][4][2]
- High fan noise under load.
- Limited upgrade options due to soldered RAM.
- Below-average battery life in some tests.
- Ports located at the rear, making them hard to access.
- Subpar webcam quality.
- Small touchpad.
Links
i7-12700H, RTX 3060, 16 GB RAM, 1 TB SSD: PCGamer
i7-12700H, RTX 3060, 32 GB RAM, 2 TB SSD: PCMag
i7-12700H, RTX 3060, 16 GB RAM, 1 TB SSD: NotebookCheck
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 1.17 1.18 1.19 "Alienware x14 R1 Specifications". 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 2.36 2.37 2.38 2.39 2.40 2.41 2.42 2.43 2.44 2.45 2.46 2.47 2.48 2.49 2.50 2.51 "Alienware x14 Review: The world's thinnest gaming notebook requires compromises". NotebookCheck.
- ↑ 3.00 3.01 3.02 3.03 3.04 3.05 3.06 3.07 3.08 3.09 3.10 3.11 3.12 3.13 3.14 "Dell Alienware x14 Review: Benchmarks & Performance". PCGamer.
- ↑ 4.00 4.01 4.02 4.03 4.04 4.05 4.06 4.07 4.08 4.09 4.10 "Alienware x14 Review". PCMag.