The Tool Desk
Outbyte Driver Updater FREEScan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minuteDriver Scan →Outbyte PC Repair FREERepair Windows errors before they cause bigger problemsFix Now →The 2017 Alienware 17 R4 was a configurable 17.3-inch gaming desktop replacement: high-end versions paired Intel Core i7 processors with graphics up to the GeForce GTX 1080, while buyers could choose among several screen and storage options. Its strengths were substantial performance, broad connectivity and a distinctive design; its costs were bulk, heat, fan noise and battery life that varied sharply by configuration and workload. Today, it is best judged as a used machine whose exact specification and condition matter more than the model name alone.
What the Alienware 17 R4 was—and why configuration matters
The Alienware 17 R4 was a 17.3-inch gaming laptop sold in multiple configurations, not one fixed specification. Dell documented different graphics, display and battery choices. Period reviews covered systems from a GTX 1050 Ti through GTX 1070 and GTX 1080, with different CPUs, memory, storage and screens. A result from a GTX 1080 system should not be treated as a prediction for a GTX 1050 Ti or GTX 1070 model.
When comparing a used listing or a review, identify the CPU, GPU, screen resolution and refresh features, RAM, and storage. Those details determine what the machine can do and whether a particular benchmark or display assessment applies.
Which Alienware 17 R4 configuration has the GTX 1070?
Several configurations were reviewed, so the GTX 1070 is not tied to one universal R4 specification. Laptop Mag’s $1,949.99 review system paired a GTX 1070 with 8GB of graphics memory, an Intel Core i7-7700HQ, 16GB RAM, a 1080p screen, Tobii eye tracking, a 128GB SSD and a 1TB 7,200-rpm hard drive. Tech Advisor also reported a UK GTX 1070 configuration with 8GB and a 2560×1440 screen.
#1 Best Overall
- Brilliant display: Go deeper into games with a 16” WQXGA 120Hz display with 300 nits brightness.
- Game changing graphics: Step into the future of gaming and creation with NVIDIA GeForce RTX 5050 Laptop GPUs, powered by NVIDIA Blackwell and AI.
- Innovative cooling: A newly designed Cryo-Chamber structure focuses airflow to the core components, where it matters most.
- Comfort focused design: Alienware 16 Aurora’s streamlined design offers advanced thermal support without the need for a rear thermal shelf.
- Dell Services: 1 Year Onsite Service provides support when and where you need it. Dell will come to your home, office, or location of choice, if an issue covered by Limited Hardware Warranty cannot be resolved remotely.
For comparison, Laptop Mag’s $2,599.99 system used a GTX 1080, Intel Core i7-7820HK, QHD G-Sync display, 256GB PCIe SSD and 1TB hard drive. Its reported $1,299.99 base configuration used an i7-7700HQ, 8GB RAM, GTX 1050 Ti and 1TB hard drive. These are review-era US configuration prices, not current used-market values. Laptop Mag’s review documents those systems.
How fast was it for gaming?
At the high end, the R4 could deliver desktop-replacement performance. PCWorld tested a system with an Intel Core i7-7820HK, GeForce GTX 1080, 16GB DDR4, an SSD and a hard drive. In its longer benchmark tests, that Alienware scored 6,538 in 3DMark Time Spy against 5,489 for PCWorld’s Max-Q comparison system, and 4,960 against 4,091 in Fire Strike Ultra. The short gaming tests were much closer. These figures compare those specific test systems and methods; they do not establish performance for every R4 configuration. PCWorld’s review provides the test context.
Tech Advisor likewise found its top-end i7-7820HK/GTX 1080 sample strong in CPU and GPU benchmarks and generally smooth in gameplay, while cautioning that lower-tier models could perform differently. Tobii eye tracking and configurable lighting added features, but eye-tracking usefulness depended on supported games and Windows behaviors; support was not universal. Tech Advisor’s review describes its tested model.
Rank #2
- Brilliant display: Go deeper into games with a 16” WQXGA 240Hz display with 500 nits brightness.
- Intelligent processing: Intel Core Ultra HX processors integrate CPU, built-in GPU and NPU into a single package designed for AI acceleration and balanced performance across your favorite things to do.
- Game changing graphics: Step into the future of gaming and creation with NVIDIA GeForce RTX 5060 Laptop GPUs, powered by NVIDIA Blackwell and AI.
- Advanced thermals for extended play: Our advanced cooling technology, Alienware Cryo-tech, is designed to maintain system stability even during the most demanding sessions.
- Blend into any environment: Activate Stealth Mode with F7 to turn AlienFX RGB keyboard lighting to white and switch performance to Quiet Mode for a more subtle, covert experience*. *Quiet mode lowers noise produced by your system's cooling fans when possible. While your computer's performance might be slightly impacted, this option may also reduce both CPU and GPU power consumptions.
What display did the Alienware 17 R4 have?
The 17.3-inch line included FHD, QHD and UHD options, and some versions offered high refresh rates or G-Sync. Panel characteristics differed, so resolution alone does not establish screen quality. Tech Advisor’s reviewed unit had a 120Hz, 2560×1440 TN panel. In its measurements, that panel covered 93% of sRGB and 72% of Adobe RGB, with average Delta E 1.29, maximum brightness of 372.4 cd/m² and contrast of 460:1. The reviewer praised its sharpness and color but noted contrast as a weakness. These are measurements of that particular panel, not guaranteed results for every R4. Tech Advisor’s display assessment is specific to its sample.
How much does the Alienware 17 R4 weigh, and how is it to use?
Tech Advisor measured its reviewed configuration at 4.42 kg and found it awkward to carry. PCWorld also emphasized the laptop’s size and large power adapter. That makes the R4 more suitable for a desk-to-desk gaming setup than frequent commuting; a 17-inch screen does not make it an easy travel laptop.
Heat and noise were notable under load in both publications’ reviews. Tech Advisor reported loud fans and heat, while PCWorld found the system noisy under moderate and full loads and described its rear exhaust area as uncomfortably warm. For gaming, allow room around the rear exhaust and expect that a headset may be useful if fan noise bothers you. These are observations from the reviewed units, not a guarantee that every surviving machine behaves identically.
Rank #3
- Brilliant display: Go deeper into games with a 16” 16:10 WQXGA display with 300 nits brightness.
- Game changing graphics: Step into the future of gaming and creation with NVIDIA GeForce RTX 50 Series Laptop GPUs, powered by NVIDIA Blackwell and AI.
- Innovative cooling: A newly designed Cryo-Chamber structure focuses airflow to the core components, where it matters most.
- Comfort focused design: Alienware 16 Aurora’s streamlined design offers advanced thermal support without the need for a rear thermal shelf.
- Dell Services: 1 Year Onsite Service provides support when and where you need it. Dell will come to your home, office, or location of choice, if an issue covered by Limited Hardware Warranty cannot be resolved remotely.
Ports and expansion
Dell’s documentation lists Ethernet, Mini DisplayPort, HDMI, Thunderbolt 3, a dedicated Graphics Amplifier port, USB ports and audio connections. The Graphics Amplifier provided an option to connect a desktop GPU. Tech Advisor found the USB count and port placement awkward for some VR setups, so check where a headset’s cables and other peripherals will connect before relying on the built-in layout.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.How long does the battery last?
Battery life depended on configuration, workload and battery condition. Laptop Mag recorded 8 hours 32 minutes in a continuous Wi-Fi web-surfing test on a lower-level configuration. PCWorld recorded 3 hours 8 minutes in a 4K video rundown test on its high-performance review system. These different tests are not directly comparable, and neither predicts gaming runtime on battery or the runtime of an aged used battery.
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One free scan finds every outdated or missing driver and matches the right update for your exact hardware.Free scan · exact hardware matchDell documented removable 68 Wh and 99 Wh battery options. A replacement should be matched to the individual machine rather than assumed to fit every R4. Dell’s battery specifications list the options, and the R4 service manual covers the model’s service procedures.
Rank #4
- Compatible Models: Compatible with Alienware 17 R4.
- P/N: 00WN4Y 0WN4Y PK131QB1A00 NSK-EE0BC 01 0CF2YW CF2YW NSK-EE0BC 1D PK131QB1A01
- Condition: Brand new, Color: Black, Layout: US Layout. With backlit.
- Replacement Keyboard With High Quality.
- Please compare our actual image with your original item before bidding.
Is the Alienware 17 R4 still worth buying?
It may suit someone who wants a large, mostly stationary gaming laptop and can verify the exact configuration, working condition and charger. It is a less convincing choice if portability, quiet operation or predictable battery life is essential. The 2017 reviews establish what particular new systems delivered at launch; they do not establish current Windows support, repair-part availability, modern-game performance or present-day resale prices.
Before buying used, check:
- Exact specification: CPU, GPU, RAM, screen resolution and features, and storage.
- Battery condition: ask for current health or runtime information rather than relying on period test figures.
- Included charger: confirm that a working, appropriate power adapter is included.
- Replacement compatibility: verify any battery or service part against the system’s service tag and model documentation.
- Physical condition: inspect the chassis, display, ports, fans and exhaust area, and test the system under load if possible.
What did it cost at launch?
Tech Advisor reported historical UK launch-era range prices of £1,549 for a base model, £1,749 for a GTX 1060 model, £2,099 for a GTX 1070/8GB model with a 2560×1440 screen, and £2,449 for a top-listed GTX 1080 configuration. Its particular Dell review unit was reported at £2,697. These are 2017 UK review figures only; they are not current prices or an indication of what a used system should cost. Tech Advisor’s review gives the launch-era context.
Quick Recap
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
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