Alienware - The Best Gaming PC Maker has Sold Out!

[TEG]

Alienware has been acquired by Dell, which will sell off the remaining stock, turn all Alienware systems into XPSs, and Destroy a well build company.

Linky:
http://www.alienware.com/Intro_Pages/aw_announcement.aspx?source=2598

TEG

[yankeefan24]

wow. dell is expanding. i hate the xps line. very ugly. a loss of a good company.

[WildCowboy]

The Alienware announcement claims that Alienware will continue to operate as is, separate from Dell. Who knows how true that is and it definitely is the first step towards a possible disappearance of Alienware, but all is not lost yet.

[ITASOR]

I don't really know why anyone would buy an Alienware computer anyway, but, I don't want to start an argument in this thread. :)

[Spanky Deluxe]

And so Dell now sells platforms using AMD chips... through Alienware. But hey, its all Dell now!!

Edit: BTW has Alienware's front page always looked like that? It looks strikingly similar to Dell's.

[dejo]

I don't really know why anyone would buy an Alienware computer anyway...

Because they make (made?) one of the best gaming rigs out there!

[homerjward]

alienware was good? :confused:
i thought they were overpriced, had ugly cases and crappy technical support, and had fairly poor quality control, but i've never owned one so i guess i'm not the best judge. guess i won't ever now...
anyone know, out of curiosity, if they'll continue to make clevo-based notebooks? that'd be pretty cool if they made the new 19" sli one.

[Felldownthewell]

When debating whether I was going to switch or not, my choices were MBP (ordered yesterday!) or the alienware 5500 (the thin one, not the beastly 2.5in thick one.) It looked like an excellent computer, but wasn't powerful enough, and didn't have OSX. Now I'm glad I didn't go with them. It may be business but it still makes them sellouts.

[zap2]

yuck!

[mkrishnan]

No, man, Dell is serious now. They've got a case with flames on the side. That's a clear indication of quality. :eek: ;) :D

http://img.dell.com/img.aspx?p=j1fcj%2bwAKnVgQUKF0O5y3sXAvuwyReibjF8Lm8O3ctiRhsGnO0enob4PT8qXp3PakYbruiNb%2f%2bHwFEaPmap 70cCK4KE6BKyjvhpOm5i7bZLfweSjMkWxvfAZQ5uYtm7OyNDcrDZFq6utPwWCx6k8ndjM5qMyFueMsAlfh9qcd9rE0KHuOF2gvLM cUtWVmXbU2MGh7i8W5%2f79XVLVlfw8ndvN57o%2fFuf57UUJyN%2brd9rE0L7sZh717P9SFQ%3d%3d

[Dont Hurt Me]

As a owner of one i have no complaints,Aurora 3500 6800GT powers through F.E.A.R, Quake4,Doom3,IL2,Pacific fighters etc :D The thing is big and has room for all kinds of stuff. I have a TV card in it also:D so i allways have tv and web going. This is interesting news but is sounds like this will be a division of dell, perhaps the gamer line or who knows the performance division to use AMD stuff? Anyways after using one for 1 1/2 if give it thumbs up. Solid. Just found out they came out with a 7800GS for this machine and it can hold 4 gigs of memory and can be upgraded to a AMDFX60 so plenty of growth one day.

[dmw007]

No, man, Dell is serious now. They've got a case with flames on the side. That's a clear indication of quality. :eek: ;) :D

http://img.dell.com/img.aspx?p=j1fcj%2bwAKnVgQUKF0O5y3sXAvuwyReibjF8Lm8O3ctiRhsGnO0enob4PT8qXp3PakYbruiNb%2f%2bHwFEaPmap 70cCK4KE6BKyjvhpOm5i7bZLfweSjMkWxvfAZQ5uYtm7OyNDcrDZFq6utPwWCx6k8ndjM5qMyFueMsAlfh9qcd9rE0KHuOF2gvLM cUtWVmXbU2MGh7i8W5%2f79XVLVlfw8ndvN57o%2fFuf57UUJyN%2brd9rE0L7sZh717P9SFQ%3d%3d

And an affordable price to boot. ;) :)

[Nermal]

I'd heard a rumour about this, but wasn't sure whether to believe it or not. I don't really care anyway, because I don't plan on buying any Windows computers in the near (or maybe even distant) future. I don't think Alienware even sold to NZ in the first place, so I certainly won't miss them.

[ravenvii]

Yet another reason why Falcon Northwest (http://www.falcon-nw.com) is the true best gaming PC makers out there.

[yg17]

I see they've already adopted Alienware pricing.

[yankeefan24]

I see they've already adopted Alienware pricing.

and i thought macs were expensive:rolleyes: :D ;) :p

wow. thats all i have to say. wow. they sell it for almost 10 grand. wow.

[dmw007]

and i thought macs were expensive:rolleyes: :D ;) :p

wow. thats all i have to say. wow. they sell it for almost 10 grand. wow.

Ya, $10,000 and it still runs Windows XPee...RIP-OFF!! :rolleyes: :rolleyes:

[iMeowbot]

The 10 grand includes a 30-inch panel and other goodies :)

[mkrishnan]

The 10 grand includes a 30-inch panel and other goodies :)

You mean it's not a misprint? :eek:

[iMeowbot]

You mean it's not a misprint? :eek:
Oh, it's very real (http://www1.us.dell.com/content/topics/global.aspx/corp/pressoffice/en/2006/2006_03_22_rr_000)! There's a reason people call it the Intel Extremely Expensive Edition.

[dmw007]

The 10 grand includes a 30-inch panel and other goodies :)

Even with a 30" LCD included, thats still an awful lot of $$$ for a Windows machine! :eek:

[Kaiser Phoenix]

I thought alienware used to be really crap. Like it didnt function properly and their customer support was terrible...

But with Dells management, maybe that would improve but I still cant think of anyone spending 10,000 for playing games....I mean just buy a PS2 or xBox...

[Cadkiller]

Is this one ugly also?

http://www.alienware.com/intro_pages/nvidia_quadsli.aspx?source=1927

[Airforce]

Even with a 30" LCD included, thats still an awful lot of $$$ for a Windows machine! :eek:

Not for the average joe :p

Quad-SLI graphics....god, that would be fun at those high resolutions :cool:

[Spock]

The 10 grand includes a 30-inch panel and other goodies :)

Dont forget its autographed by Michael Dell!!!!

[~Shard~]

and i thought macs were expensive:rolleyes: :D ;) :p

wow. thats all i have to say. wow. they sell it for almost 10 grand. wow.

Yeah, what's up with a computer costing that much money, that's never happened before. :rolleyes: :cool:

http://img161.imageshack.us/img161/7828/tandy2dq.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

[emaja]

Alienware = overpriced crap for people with too much money.

Seriously, no one I know - from my Windows friends - would bother with Alienware when they could build a better - or at least the same spec'd computer - for less and have the pride of handpicking components and putting it together themselves.

Go to New Egg and piece something together for less.

[Airforce]

Alienware = overpriced crap for people with too much money.

Seriously, no one I know - from my Windows friends - would bother with Alienware when they could build a better - or at least the same spec'd computer - for less and have the pride of handpicking components and putting it together themselves.

Go to New Egg and piece something together for less.

Their hardware isn't crap. That's for sure. A little pricey, but it's top of the line stuff. The difference in price probably isn't as huge as you are thinking.

[dornoforpyros]

I'm sorry, everyone is worked up because a company that from the sounds of it none of you ever bought from "they have ugly cases, they cost too much, there tech support sucks" has gone and been acquired by Dell and your angry because...?

[Counterfit]

Is this one ugly also?

http://www.alienware.com/intro_pages/nvidia_quadsli.aspx?source=1927
Yes, it looks like a ****ing beluga whale.
and your angry because...?
It'll be more of the same? :p

[whooleytoo]

Even with a 30" LCD included, thats still an awful lot of $$$ for a Windows machine! :eek:

Have you checked the specs though?

4GHz+ CPU.
4 7800 GPUs
10,000RPM 160GB hard drive
7,200 400GB hard drive (just in case you run short)
2GB RAM (sounds a bit stingy to me!)

[Abstract]

Yeah, and note that only the above spec'ed computer costs $10000. The starting price isn't nearly this expensive. You only get 1 video card and no 30" monitor, that's all.

Mac users always defend Apple pricing by saying that Macs aren't expensive computers if you actually take a look at what the computers include. Well....open your eyes and take a look at what this computer comes with.

Is this one ugly also?

http://www.alienware.com/intro_pages/nvidia_quadsli.aspx?source=1927

For a gaming system, not at all. Visually it says a lot, which is better than minimalist, boring, old people stuff. I don't think Alienware computers look good, and the target market would definitely "say" it was ugly (not cool to say anything from a big company looks cool), but in reality, who wants a gaming system that looks like a PowerMac G5? Maybe someone like you who wants their desktop case to match their aluminium cased LCD, grandpa, but not people who dress and act cool and are young enough not to care.

Their hardware isn't crap. That's for sure. A little pricey, but it's top of the line stuff. The difference in price probably isn't as huge as you are thinking.

Exactly.

The same people who complain about it costing slightly more than if you were to put it together yourself are the same people who can cook pasta at home for very low cost, and yet go out and order pasta at a restaurant. They're called hypocrites, or MacRumours members......whatever.

Look, I don't know much about Alienware, but I'm sorta tired of the sheep in here who can't think for themselves. People read an opinion posted here a few times, and now you all have the same opinion about everything. So sad.

[Dont Hurt Me]

I have to admit i was surprised at the news but the facts are Alienware has very powerful stuff. Alienware for gaming & fun Macs for.....................work(blah)

[AUBPsych]

I don't really know why anyone would buy an Alienware computer anyway, but, I don't want to start an argument in this thread. :)

Totally agreed. When you buy an Alienware, probably $1K of the total price is for the name.

[baleensavage]

While people can argue whether or not Ailenware made good computers, I think we can all agree that this news sucks. It's just another case of a big dumb corporation buying up a smaller cutting-edge corporation so they can expand the bottom line. Though this may not be quite as tragic, it really reminds me of when Nike bought Converse. Dell has a cheapo public image. They want to improve this so they buy up and coming PC maker Alienware to improve their public image with the youth. Of course they don't stick a Dell logo on it, otherwise people will catch on and stop buying Alienware. It's the same thing that happened to Converse. Now they're made in some stupid Chinese factory by Nike and yet they don't say Nike anywhere on the package. Or how about the Adobe Macromedia buyout. At least they weren't quiet about that.

[mdntcallr]

It is time for apple to start taking gaming seriously.

People want performance computers with all of the trimmings. Alienware pushes the graphics card limits and makes excellent computers.

For Apple to differentiate themselves more. we need Gamers to take it seriously, they are a serious high end type of buyer.

additionally, a performance gaming rig can be used for oh so much more. it is really just a high end rig.

Here is a recent article pointing out that game developers need to pay alot to bring titles to mac, not just the basic game, but for middleware. ie online multiplayer support, or for the underpinning game engine a game may be built on top of. apple needs to cut some deals so that games arent as expensive for development on the mac. and are totally online multiplayer compatible with pc games. not just online gaming community through gameranger.

Gameranger is nice, but it sucks in many ways because of the small macgamer community, it can be hard to find people to play games with. for true gaming power, mac games need to be compatible with their windows same title companions. ie, enemy territory, starcraft, warcraft and more. we need full interoperbility.

http://www.macworld.com/weblogs/gameroom/2006/03/middleware/index.php

[iJaz]

Ugly Dells + Ugly Alienware = Fugly

[Felldownthewell]

Alienware = overpriced crap for people with too much money.

Seriously, no one I know - from my Windows friends - would bother with Alienware when they could build a better - or at least the same spec'd computer - for less and have the pride of handpicking components and putting it together themselves.

Go to New Egg and piece something together for less.


Thats easy enough to say, but I honestly do not know how to install a 4 SLI 7900s and I don't want to mess up when I try, seeing as it is a multiple-thousand piece of quipment.

Building PCs is for sure more cost efficient, but only for people who know alot about PCs. Regular people want the quality, or at least perception of quality, that major PC makers provide. Granted, someone going to spend 10,000 on a computer is not a regular person and probably should be building their own system...

[baleensavage]

It is time for apple to start taking gaming seriously.

I totally agree. If Apple wants to break out of their 4% they need to focus on gamers. Their hardware is there. They just need to really push these game designers to port the games to Macs. And they need to be good and on-time. Who wants to play a 3-year old game with lousy online capabilities when you can get the new one with all the bells and whistles for a PC?

[sushi]

Alienware has been acquired by Dell, which will sell off the remaining stock, turn all Alienware systems into XPSs, and Destroy a well build company.

Linky:
http://www.alienware.com/Intro_Pages/aw_announcement.aspx?source=2598

TEG
Sad. Alienware has some good hardware. I imagine that Dell since their focus is on cheaply built affordable systems will ruin their current advantage.

[socamx]

I can't stand the look of Alienware computers, Dell, HP/Compaq...any non-Apple computer for that manner. Apple has the best hardware designs in my opinion, I can't settle for anything less from an aesthetic point of view. I'm very particular with things having to look good, OS and the hardware. Not being anti-Windows, but that stuff gives me a headache to look at.

Just a 'meh' news topic...don't really see this being related very well to Apple and Mac rumors. Guess I don't really have much purpose posting in this thread if I have nothing to say relating to the topic.

[DJ Bliss]

Alienware is the closest thing PC users have to a Mac. They are well built from quality components, they are lightning fast, and they are visually stunning. They are huge, too. Do any of you actually believe that the PowerMac G5 is a mini cooper? No! It's a frackin tank and you all love it. Don't knock Alienware, feel bad for them.

[sushi]

Thats easy enough to say, but I honestly do not know how to install a 4 SLI 7900s and I don't want to mess up when I try, seeing as it is a multiple-thousand piece of quipment.

Building PCs is for sure more cost efficient, but only for people who know alot about PCs. Regular people want the quality, or at least perception of quality, that major PC makers provide. Granted, someone going to spend 10,000 on a computer is not a regular person and probably should be building their own system...
Also I've found that many folks who build their own do not include software costs. They bootleg most of it so of course they can build a cheaper PC. When you add the cost of Windows XP, Office, Antivirus, etc., the cost goes up quite a bit. Bootlegging software is so easy with Windows. From scratch in just a few minutes I can find hacks for just about anything. And with a broadband connection, I can DL images of most products. Sad when you think about it.

I also find that when I suggest that these folks should purchase their software, they usually look at me with a distain in their looks meaning why should they purchase software when it is so easy to DL and hack. Unfortunately, my arguments for purchasing software tend to fall on deaf ears.

[emaja]

Their hardware isn't crap. That's for sure. A little pricey, but it's top of the line stuff. The difference in price probably isn't as huge as you are thinking.

I use the phrase "overpriced crap" to be one word ("overpricedcrap") that simply means "overpriced" and not "expensive products of dubious quality." It's a quirk and you guys would not know that of me.



The same people who complain about it costing slightly more than if you were to put it together yourself are the same people who can cook pasta at home for very low cost, and yet go out and order pasta at a restaurant. They're called hypocrites, or MacRumours members......whatever.

Look, I don't know much about Alienware, but I'm sorta tired of the sheep in here who can't think for themselves. People read an opinion posted here a few times, and now you all have the same opinion about everything. So sad.

I am not being a sheep about this and held this opinion before I was a Mac user. No self-respecting gamer I have ever played with or know has bought an Alienware PC. The only people I know with them are people who have unlimited access to daddy's money.

Example -

I haven't priced them out lately, but when and took a look at the Aurora 7500 which starts at $1829 with the Athlon 3800x2/1GB/250GB/7900GT. Not a bad SLI system.

I went to New Egg and did this -

$109.00 - Lian Li Case
$139.99 - 650w Coolmax power supply
$295.00 - Athlon 64 3800 x2
$194.99 - MSI K8N nForce 4 SLI motherboard
$105.00 - 1GB (2x512MB) Crucial Ballistix RAM (CAS 2)
$329.00 - BFG GeForce 7900GT
$89.95 - Windows XP Home SP2
$96.00 - 250GB/7200/8MB cache Seagate hard drive
$51.00 - Lite-On DVDRW with LightScribe
$19.99 - Microsoft Basic keyboard
$14.99 - Microsoft Basic optical mouse

Total - $1444.91 - $384 dollars cheaper. The Aurora 7500 also does not have a DVD burner, only a DVD ROM and probably does not use Crucial Ballistix RAM, but I threw those in for a comparison of what you could do so you could knock about $50 off for using Corsair XMS RAM instead for $78 and getting a cheap OEM DVD drive which would make the difference over $400. That $400 can almost get you a sweet Dell 2005FPW monitor when it is on sale.

What do you lose by builing it yourself? A whopping 90 day warrantee.

For those who will ask, "What about the software?" well, the Alienware comes with Windows - that's all. No Works, no Office, no AV software. Nothing else. So I spec'd mine that way.

As you can see, I did not go cheap to undercut them. I used high quality components from brands that are typically used by high-end gamers.

I am no Windows hater. I have built and use my home-built nice Shuttle XPC every day for gaming. Alienware is too expensive for what you get. Building a PC is a piece of cake and very rewarding.

As for the pasta analogy, some people like to do things for the satisfaction of doing it. No one makes their own pasta to save a buck. People do build gaming PS for both. It is always cheaper and always more satisfying to build a PC yourself.

Anyone who knows enought to want a system like this generally knows how to plug a few things together to assemble the thing. It is not hard and not for only those who know a lot about PCs.

[snkTab]

Find out what's in Alienware's computer...
Buy the same/similar...

Then follow simple instructions that come with each part. Mostly, which slot to push said parts in. Building your computer is pretty easy.

[edesignuk]

Anyone know what Dell paid for the company?

[sushi]

Is this one ugly also?

http://www.alienware.com/intro_pages/nvidia_quadsli.aspx?source=1927
Personally, I like Alienware product design.

There is also some very nice build your own stuff out there as well.

I am not being a sheep about this and held this opinion before I was a Mac user. No self-respecting gamer I have ever played with or know has bought an Alienware PC. The only people I know with them are people who have unlimited access to daddy's money.
Or daddy who likes serious gaming! :D

[emaja]

Or daddy who likes serious gaming! :D

The irony of that is that I am the daddy who likes serious gaming!

I dread the day when my kids as for their own gaming PC. I am such a sucker for technology - LOL!

[cgmpowers]

Sorry if this is repeated for those who saw my message on MacNN but here's the letter I just wrote to Alienware PC.. It basically bashes them for selling out and turning their company into the Walmarts of the PC World...

Two Whom It May Concern,

I no longer own windows machines as I now own Mac's. However I at one time owned TWO Alienware PCs but this was SEVERAL years ago before you started redesigning the cases to make them cool and edgy.

I am totally disappointed in you all selling out to Dell. You guys have always strived to be unique and cutting edge. Your machines were solid and fast and never skimped on quality or cut corners on cost. However, this has been OPPOSITE of my experience with Dell users (who as a former PC Tech) often had to repair these because of the sub-par parts used in their machines. Dell support also has been non-existent for many of my former clients. Dell is one of the reasons I got out of the PC tech and networking and went into Graphic Design (a mostly Mac world).

I know you all feel this is a coup for you all, a very large vehicle with a ton of cash rolled up to your doorstep and saved you from whatever cost problems led you to accept this offer. However, you by selling to Dell have turned an amazing computer niche into a company comparable to the Walmart's of the PC World.

Alienware will be a distant memory in a few years, after Dell remolds you into something beige and boring, and with crappy equipment and non-existent customer support.

Sincerely
Christopher Powers

[sartinsauce]

Wow, this really happened. I read about it on MSN.com several days ago, but the article seemed to be pure speculation.

I used to work with several guys who were mad for Alienware. I have to say they were very nice machines. The ordering process was kind of ridiculous, hopefully Dell will improve on that.

The machines are solid though. Very high end, beatiful graphics and performance. My only beef was that they ran XP. All the problems my co-workers had were operating system issues, nothing wrong with the hardware.

As far as design, I'd rate the machines at No. 2 in the computing world (Apple being No. 1). I felt encouraged about the world when I saw that more companies were paying attention to the physical aesthetics of their PCs.

I suspect Dell will drive Alienware into the ground, steal their customers and Alien-ate a lot of people. But like someone else said, serious gamers are also serious consumers. Someone, maybe that Falcon (Falconer?) company will come up and rescue the gamers from Dull. I think I'll go check out their machines next.

[jmbear]

I am sad about these news, I always liked Alienware. Even if they were sort of tacky, at least they were trying to make a difference in sheep land. I hate when big fugly companies buy smaller innovative companies. Its sort of like when Microsoft buyed Bungie, remember Bungie?

[Chupa Chupa]

I find it humourous that Michael "Apple would do it's shareholders a favor by shutting down" Dell is now running scared of that very same Apple. I think this buyout shows. It's a stupid move and here is why:

Apple has become sucessful in the consumer space partl because it's hardware is smooth and elegant. It fits in as much in the living room as a computer room. Add in software like iTunes, iMovie, iPhoto that is easy to use, something Windows doesn't offer.

On the other hand, Alienware is a Geek's Geek Machine. The only place Alienware desktops fit in are in the basement or a 15 year olds bedroom. It just doesn't have a broad appeal. I think Dell would have done much better to take the money and hire an industrial design firm to redesign all their cases i.e., copy Apple.

Moreover, while Alienware hardware is solid, Dell is surely going to screw that aspect up. Guaranteed in a years time Alienware hardware will be just as crappy as mainline Dell hardware.

[ArizonaKid]

Two Whom It May Concern,

I am totally disappointed in you all selling out to Dell. You guys have always strived to be unique and cutting edge. Your machines were solid and fast and never skimped on quality or cut corners on cost. However, this has been OPPOSITE of my experience with Dell users (who as a former PC Tech) often had to repair these because of the sub-par parts used in their machines. Dell support also has been non-existent for many of my former clients. Dell is one of the reasons I got out of the PC tech and networking and went into Graphic Design (a mostly Mac world).

Sincerely
Christopher Powers

OMG. The self-righteousness and piety that is exhibited by some people is amazing. Who gives a ****, I am sure they don't, especially since you opened up by stating you were not a continued customer. What did they loose? Someone who already decided not to purchase Alienware Products? C'mon.

These guys build a successful business making great gaming PCs. Now we could all sit here and argue the merit of Alienware, but what’s the point. The market proves they were a success.

These founders got a chance to cash out for their own hard work and entrepreneurship and they took it. I say GREAT. The American Dream. They don't owe anybody anything, if you don't like the sell-off, then don't buy from Dell or Alienware...is that not simple enough.

The best way to show a company you don’t like what they are doing is simply by not purchasing their product.

To these Guys I say CHEERS, live up the good life.

[Spock]

Well this will just add to the to the list of companys Apple will own when they buy out Dell;)

[reflex]

Ya, $10,000 and it still runs Windows XPee...RIP-OFF!! :rolleyes: :rolleyes:

You mean a $10,000 computer wouldn't be a ripoff if it ran OSX?

[mahashel]

This seems to be a classic case of an underground counterculture becoming mainstream.
People like to root for the underdog. Many people have said the same thing about Apple. Aside from making stellar products (I love my Macs), they benefit somewhat by being the "little guy" in the OS market. It adds a touch of charm.

In the case of Alienware being bought by Dell, we see a successful underdog company building superior (compared to Dell) products in a niche market, similar to Apple (iPod mania notwithstanding), getting swallowed whole by a massive company with a reputation for boredom.
I wish Alienware the best. However, it hurts somewhat to see a bright young underdog disappear in the fog of megacorp mediocrity.
I'd wager the names of the companies involved in this case are virtually inconsequential, when it comes to defining why this is a depressing event.
Little smart company 'x' is eaten by huge boring company 'y'.

[bigandy]

I am sad about these news, I always liked Alienware. Even if they were sort of tacky, at least they were trying to make a difference in sheep land. I hate when big fugly companies buy smaller innovative companies. Its sort of like when Microsoft buyed Bungie, remember Bungie?


buyed? ;) bought... :p

[thejedipunk]

PowerMac G5

Specifications :
2.5GHz Quad-core PowerPC G5
16GB 533 DDR2 ECC SDRAM- 8x2GB
2x500GB Serial ATA - 7200rpm
QUADRO FX 4500 512MB SDRAM
Apple Cinema HD Display (30" flat panel)
AirPort Extreme + Bluetooth built-in
16x SuperDrive DL (DVD+R DL/DVD±RW/CD-RW)
Apple Keyboard & Mighty Mouse - U.S English
Mac OS X - U.S. English

Total price: $18,722.00

:|

[~Shard~]

PowerMac G5

Specifications :
2.5GHz Quad-core PowerPC G5
16GB 533 DDR2 ECC SDRAM- 8x2GB
2x500GB Serial ATA - 7200rpm
QUADRO FX 4500 512MB SDRAM
Apple Cinema HD Display (30" flat panel)
AirPort Extreme + Bluetooth built-in
16x SuperDrive DL (DVD+R DL/DVD±RW/CD-RW)
Apple Keyboard & Mighty Mouse - U.S English
Mac OS X - U.S. English

Total price: $18,722.00

:|


Thanks for copying some information off the Apple Store. I can do that too. What's your point? :cool:

[edesignuk]

<snip>
16GB 533 DDR2 ECC SDRAM- 8x2GB
<snip>

Total price: $18,722.00That's where a substantial amount of that total comes from I bet. 2GB sticks of Apple fitted RAM aint cheap! :eek:

[thejedipunk]

For those who are crying about Alienware's overpriced boxes: You're not complaining about Apple boxes because Jobs is crackin the whip.

[Gasu E.]

Dont forget its autographed by Michael Dell!!!!

Hence the flames.

[thestaton]

haha, I always love the fact that Alienwares and large windows based laptops come with a power supply that weighs more than the laptop.

and I'm not sure why they even call them laptops they run hot as hell, and have to be plugged into the wall to do any gaming.

and I'm not sure why some of the mac sites are saying this is competition to apple. last time I checked I didnt buy my mac to blast through the latest games or want a lime green childish piece of plastic taking up my desk real estate.

[topgunn]

Why is Alienware doomed just because they are now owned by Dell? Dell can continue using run-of-the-mill parts in their Dell labled computers and continue the trend of Alienware using high-quality components. This would be similar to Ford & Lincoln, Gap & Banana Republic, or PF Chang & Pei Wei. Its the good, better, and best structure.

[topgunn]

and I'm not sure why they even call them laptops they run hot as hell, and have to be plugged into the wall to do any gaming.
Quite a few people buy laptops for portability and not mobility. I have a laptop so that I can use the same computer at work, at job sites, in hotels and at home. I rarely need my computer where I do not have access to an electrical outlet. For me, it is a moot point since I have 4 hours of battery life but I wouldn't have a problem with an Alienware laptop with only 90 minutes of battery life.

and I'm not sure why some of the mac sites are saying this is competition to apple. last time I checked I didnt buy my mac to blast through the latest games or want a lime green childish piece of plastic taking up my desk real estate.
Anytime you have a custom PC manufacturer of the scale of Alienware that puts an emphasis on design (whether the design appeals to you or not), it will be considered competition to Apple.

[mark88]

I always thought of Alienware as the ultimate gamers rigs for lazy people who can't be arsed building their own machine.

I'm not a gamer, the Alienware syling doesn't appeal to me at all. I assume hardcore PC gamers think the exact same thing about macs, I don't imagine too many of these people are trying to decide between an Alienware PC and an Intel Imac....

[shawnce]

PowerMac G5
Specifications :
2.5GHz Quad-core PowerPC G5
16GB 533 DDR2 ECC SDRAM- 8x2GB
2x500GB Serial ATA - 7200rpm
QUADRO FX 4500 512MB SDRAM
Apple Cinema HD Display (30" flat panel)
AirPort Extreme + Bluetooth built-in
16x SuperDrive DL (DVD+R DL/DVD±RW/CD-RW)
Apple Keyboard & Mighty Mouse - U.S English
Mac OS X - U.S. English

Total price: $18,722.00
:|

2x500GB Serial ATA - 7200rpm adds $875
QUADRO FX 4500 512MB SDRAM adds $1,650
Apple Cinema HD Display (30" flat panel) adds $2,499
16GB 533 DDR2 ECC SDRAM- 8x2GB adds $10,300

If you got the memory from Crucial (http://www.crucial.com/store/MPartspecs.Asp?mtbpoid=0AEEA0C5A5CA7304&WSMD=Power+Mac+G5+%28Quad+2%2E5GHz+DDR2%29&WSPN=CT508543) it would run you about $6,660 (also not using ECC saves you a lot). Interestingly Apple is charging on average less then other independent resellers for the Quadro card (PC Connection lists it for over 2 thousand).

[crees!]

I see they've already adopted Alienware pricing.

That's cause it has a quad-chip graphics processor and 2GB memory. :eek: Oh snap!

[Dont Hurt Me]

For a Mac community there sure seems to be a lot of interest on this subject. For Muscle & gaming the stuff is great, i mean Apple still doesnt have anything that can match the frames in any modern fps Game that my old Amd powered Aurora can pump out. Thats the bottom line sure it does itunes and picassa and net etc. No its not a Mac but if i could throw the Mac OS on this machine i would.
The dvd/cd drive has another door over it cutting down that spin up sound. I have used Macs for 20 years and this was my first PC, i have not been disappointed plus i must admit i had to call tech support one time after my 1 yr was up and they helped me out as a courtesey,. I was re installing the os and had a couple of questions. You should see Doom3,Fear,Quake4,IL2/Pacific fighters a fantastic WW2 flight sim. I spend much more time on my Aurora then i do my Macs. Sure Windows bites but it works as long as you keep up all your walls and virus etc stuff and even with that all running in the background it still can spank any Mac in gaming. Anyways i guess its Dell history, reminds me of Microstink.

edit. my complete system is all silver & black,keyboard,mouse,joystick,monitor. People say wow when they see it.

[Doctor Q]

I'm not convinced that the Alienware deal was a Dell reaction to Apple. That might be the Apple-centric view of the world, but I'd bet that Dell already had plans for expansion in the gaming market, from before Apple moved to Intel.

[iris_failsafe]

Alienware Workstation

[1] MJ-12® 7550i

Processor/s: Dual Processor - Dual Intel® Xeon™ Processors 3.8GHz w/ EM64T 800 MHz FSB w/2MB Cache
Operating System (Office software not included): Genuine Microsoft® Windows® XP Professional with Service Pack 2
Warranty: 1-Year AlienCare Toll-Free 24/7 Phone Support w/ Onsite Service
Case: Alienware® Professional Workstation Chassis - Black
Power Supply: Enermax EG651P-VE 24P 550 Watt Power Supply
Motherboard: Alienware® X2 Dual Xeon™ Motherboard
Memory: 4GB Dual Channel DDR2 Registered ECC SDRAM at 400MHz - 4 x 1024MB
Graphics Accelerators: Dual NVIDIA® Quadro™ FX 4500 PCI-E 512MB DDR3 - SLI Ready
Chassis Upgrades: Standard Cooling
System Drive: High Performance - 500GB Serial ATA 3Gb/s 7,200 RPM w/16MB Cache
A/V Work Drives: Extreme Performance (RAID 0) - 1TB RAID0 (2 x 500GB Serial ATA 3Gb/s 7,200 RPM w/16MB Cache)
Removable Storage : Alienware® 28-in-1 Digital Media Reader / Writer
Primary Optical Drive: 16x Dual Layer DVD±R/W Drive w/LightScribe Technology
Secondary Optical Drive: 16x Dual Layer DVD±R/W Drive w/LightScribe Technology
Network Connection: Integrated High Performance Gigabit Ethernet
Additional Input / Output Controller: SIIG® Firewire 800 3-Port PCI Controller
Digital Audio Hardware: Integrated 5.1 Digital Audio with Optical Out
Monitor: 24" wide screen 6ms LCD - Silver/Black - Single Display
Keyboard: Microsoft® Basic Keyboard Black
Mouse: Microsoft® Basic Optical Mouse Black
Free Alienware Mousepad: Free Alienware® Mousepad

$ 9471.oo

PowerMac G5 Quad
2.5GHz Quad-core PowerPC G5
4GB 533 DDR2 Non ECC SDRAM- 4x1GB
2x500GB Serial ATA - 7200rpm
QUADRO FX 4500 512MB SDRAM
Apple Cinema HD Display (30" flat panel)
AirPort Extreme + Bluetooth built-in
16x SuperDrive DL (DVD+R DL/DVD±RW/CD-RW)
Fibre Channel PCI Express Card (w/ SFP-SFP cable)
Apple Keyboard & Mighty Mouse - U.S English
Mac OS X - U.S. English
Accessory kit

$ 9721.oo

[iMeowbot]

I'm not convinced that the Alienware deal was a Dell reaction to Apple. That might be the Apple-centric view of the world, but I'd bet that Dell already had plans for expansion in the gaming market, from before Apple moved to Intel.
The seems to be more like it. In this article (http://www.forbes.com/home/technology/2006/03/23/alienware-dell-lenovo-_cx_ckmr_0323dell.html) the head of WidowPC says that his company was also approached by Dell, and the competitive target was Alienware. Apparently the goal was to prevent Alienware from becoming a big name in the server market. With Alienware in hand, their servers are no longer competition.

[Cadkiller]

Man we sure have some wealthy gamers out there, that can spend that kind of money for a gaming system, that will be obsolete in a couple of years.

I can understand someone buying this for their work and using it to play games on ocasion; but to spend that kind of money just for games is another story in itself.

[Doctor Q]

The only people I know with them are people who have unlimited access to daddy's money.
Or daddy who likes serious gaming! :D
Man we sure have some wealthy gamers out there
Consumer Electronics Association study: Adults spend more time playing games than kids (http://www.macworld.com/news/2006/03/23/cea/)

About one-third of adult gamers spend 10 hours or more per week playing games on consoles or their computer, compared to only about 11 percent of teens.

[slu]

I totally agree. If Apple wants to break out of their 4% they need to focus on gamers. Their hardware is there. They just need to really push these game designers to port the games to Macs. And they need to be good and on-time. Who wants to play a 3-year old game with lousy online capabilities when you can get the new one with all the bells and whistles for a PC?

I totally disagree. I think the PC gamer market is much smaller than you think and what is Apple going to do to concentrate effort on the gamer market? They already make great hardware (see MacBook Pro benchmarks vs. other Core Duo laptops). Unless you want Apple to write the games themselves, isn't it really up to the game developers to put out more games for the Mac? But if it is not profitable to do so, then why put them out?

It is a double-edged sword that we, as Mac users, created. Nobody puts out games for the Mac because they cannot sell enough of them to be profitable. But everyone (here at least) thinks that more games = more Mac users. This is true, but I would bet that it wouldn't even make up 1 percentage point in marketshare.

Question: What can Apple do to make it "cheaper" to develop games for the Mac, other than subsidize the game development?

There are no Mac games because people don't buy them. Period.

[Neil4512]

I was sort of disapointed by this. Alienware was always cool to look at and see what they were doing, price a gaming rig and so on. Although the market for alienware desktops never really made sense to me, if you want such a high performance maching, it seems that it would be well worth it to learn how to build one yourself, it's really not very hard.

[BRLawyer]

Good to know Alienware is going the way of the dodo with Dell...

I really can't understand how people can spend 10K on a gaming toy...FUGLY, bulky and monstrous cases, Winblows system et al...no thanks...no matter how much some kids may praise SLI cards or Extreme Edition chips...they are just gaming PCs pulling some higher frame rates than most.

Too much bragging, little substance...GOOD RIDDANCE, Alienware..! Yet one more crappy PC maker to the graveyard! Go Apple!

[fartness]

Sorry if this is repeated for those who saw my message on MacNN but here's the letter I just wrote to Alienware PC.. It basically bashes them for selling out and turning their company into the Walmarts of the PC World...

Two Whom It May Concern,

I no longer own windows machines as I now own Mac's. However I at one time owned TWO Alienware PCs but this was SEVERAL years ago before you started redesigning the cases to make them cool and edgy.

I am totally disappointed in you all selling out to Dell. You guys have always strived to be unique and cutting edge. Your machines were solid and fast and never skimped on quality or cut corners on cost. However, this has been OPPOSITE of my experience with Dell users (who as a former PC Tech) often had to repair these because of the sub-par parts used in their machines. Dell support also has been non-existent for many of my former clients. Dell is one of the reasons I got out of the PC tech and networking and went into Graphic Design (a mostly Mac world).

I know you all feel this is a coup for you all, a very large vehicle with a ton of cash rolled up to your doorstep and saved you from whatever cost problems led you to accept this offer. However, you by selling to Dell have turned an amazing computer niche into a company comparable to the Walmart's of the PC World.

Alienware will be a distant memory in a few years, after Dell remolds you into something beige and boring, and with crappy equipment and non-existent customer support.

Sincerely
Christopher Powers


Boy, you really told them. I bet they are down in south florida now, crying tears after reading your letter, realizing what a mistake they had made.

wow.

[BRLawyer]

For those who are crying about Alienware's overpriced boxes: You're not complaining about Apple boxes because Jobs is crackin the whip.

Nope, it's because:

1) Apple is MUCH cheaper;

2) Apple is MUCH better;

3) Apple does OS X;

4) Only kids on crack would pay 10K for a gaming rig running Windows, anyway...at least help poor little Gates and buy an XBox...same crap, less money wasted.

But thank you for your attention.

[Dont Hurt Me]

I cant understand why people are so ignorant not to figure out Alienware makes many models with different spec's. Mine wasnt 10,000 dollars like Macheads like to rant and can do something most Macs cant, thats turn everything on @1280 x 1024. One day Macs will be able to run Quake 4 with everything turned on until then its a Alienworld for you.

[BRLawyer]

Boy, you really told them. I bet they are down in south florida now, crying tears after reading your letter, realizing what a mistake they had made.

wow.

Who cares? Mr. Gonzalez and his partner must have made a lot of money now...and no, please DON'T compare Alienware with Apple...

The only difference between AW and Dell is bigger boxes, strange painting and much higher price tag...all the rest is the same dull thing.

[rogiercreemers]

Hey, you can get an expensive Mac too!;)

[fartness]

I haven't priced them out lately, but when and took a look at the Aurora 7500 which starts at $1829 with the Athlon 3800x2/1GB/250GB/7900GT. Not a bad SLI system.

I went to New Egg and did this -

$109.00 - Lian Li Case
$139.99 - 650w Coolmax power supply
$295.00 - Athlon 64 3800 x2
$194.99 - MSI K8N nForce 4 SLI motherboard
$105.00 - 1GB (2x512MB) Crucial Ballistix RAM (CAS 2)
$329.00 - BFG GeForce 7900GT
$89.95 - Windows XP Home SP2
$96.00 - 250GB/7200/8MB cache Seagate hard drive
$51.00 - Lite-On DVDRW with LightScribe
$19.99 - Microsoft Basic keyboard
$14.99 - Microsoft Basic optical mouse

Total - $1444.91 - $384 dollars cheaper.


Never heard of "profit", have you?

Who cares? Mr. Gonzalez and his partner must have made a lot of money now...and no, please DON'T compare Alienware with Apple...

The only difference between AW and Dell is bigger boxes, strange painting and much higher price tag...all the rest is the same dull thing.

1. you missed my initial sarcasm.
2. Your ignorance over what goes into a Dell vs. what goes into an Alienware is clearly obvious.

[Dont Hurt Me]

Never heard of "profit", have you?
Now do that with Mac stuff for a good laugh.:eek:

[fartness]

Now do that with Mac stuff for a good laugh.:eek:

I did.

The same can be said for those who upgrade their memory through apple and pay nearly triple the price for it compared to buying it elsewhere.

[gkarris]

Alienware had support out of the USA.

Now, it will probably go over to India... (unless you pay for local support).

[Airforce]

Alienware had support out of the USA.

Now, it will probably go over to India... (unless you pay for local support).

Most of Dell's support has moved back here.

[gkarris]

Most of Dell's support has moved back here.

No, it hasn't, I just called a couple of days ago. I also had to call for business, if you have "Gold" support (which is really local support), then you get someone in the USA. That's an extra $100/year...


I can't see Dell paying for Alienware tech support centers when they already and are expanding their own in India. Read this article:

http://www.expressindia.com/fullstory.php?newsid=64648

[Twenty1]

Ok, I know I'll get flamed for this, but just thought I'd say it :)

I still can't figure out why anyone would spend thousands of dollars strickly for a gaming machine. I do appreciate that computers typically have better graphics and offer titles exclusive to PC's, but still...

I guess I say this as a casual gamer (Civ 3 and 4 is about as "hard core" as I get. I still get a kick out of how a Roman Spearman can defeat a Tank in Civ 3 :)

Anyways, didn't mean to offend anyone who buy's computers as strictly gaming machines. I guess I just don't understand that market... (feel free to educate me :)

[Airforce]

No, it hasn't, I just called a couple of days ago. I also had to call for business, if you have "Gold" support (which is really local support), then you get someone in the USA. That's an extra $100/year...


Read this article:

http://www.expressindia.com/fullstory.php?newsid=64648

Ouch, sorry. You're right :eek:

Ok, I know I'll get flamed for this, but just thought I'd say it :)

I still can't figure out why anyone would spend thousands of dollars strickly for a gaming machine. I do appreciate that computers typically have better graphics and offer titles exclusive to PC's, but still...

Why do people spend thousands of dollars on cars? Going to sporting events? Building model airplanes?

It's a hobby like any other. I wouldn't ever spend that much, but then again, I don't have that much time. If I did...who knows, but that's basically how I figure that kind of investment in a computer.

[gkarris]

Ouch, sorry. You're right :eek:

Unfortunatly for us Americans, I am.... no more Dell at least... that's the only thing we can do is not buy products that make us angry. I was going to buy an Alienware (heard only good things about it). But now, I won't... Hopefully, Apple will keep US call centers and we can boot Windows easily on the new Intel Macs...

[BRLawyer]

1. you missed my initial sarcasm.
2. Your ignorance over what goes into a Dell vs. what goes into an Alienware is clearly obvious.

No, there is no ignorance in here, as I am fully aware that PC fanboys love to play with specs and complex MOBO numbers...but for me a Dell = PC = Alienware...simple enough...:rolleyes:

[fartness]

No, there is no ignorance in here, as I am fully aware that PC fanboys love to play with specs and complex MOBO numbers...but for me a Dell = PC = Alienware...simple enough...:rolleyes:

Thank you for proving my point once again.

[topgunn]

Never heard of "profit", have you?
Because we all know that Newegg gives stuff away at cost.

[macdong]

alienware was good? :confused:
i thought they were overpriced, had ugly cases and crappy technical support, and had fairly poor quality control, but i've never owned one so i guess i'm not the best judge. guess i won't ever now...
anyone know, out of curiosity, if they'll continue to make clevo-based notebooks? that'd be pretty cool if they made the new 19" sli one.


aww, come on man, you know we come in peace...

[Seasought]

This could be a good thing. Perhaps we'll see more coupons/deals with Alienware machines now as part of this acquisition.

I've personally found the look of Alienware to be kind of neat. I also know you can build a machine for cheaper with the same look for the most part. However, if you just want to buy a setup and have the money to blow I think Alienware has some interesting systems.

I hope at the very least there are better bargains on Alienware machines without sacrificing other aspects.

[AidenShaw]

This would be similar to Ford & Lincoln,...
Closer to Ford & Jaguar or Ford & Volvo, since most Lincolns are tricked out Fords underneath the skin and leather.

[sushi]

I still can't figure out why anyone would spend thousands of dollars strickly for a gaming machine. I do appreciate that computers typically have better graphics and offer titles exclusive to PC's, but still...
Why do some people buy a boat? Or an RV? Or a plane?

Hobbies can be expensive! ;)

Some adults are really into games and have the dollars to get their dream gaming machine. More power to them.

[BenRoethig]

Too bad Apple didn't get AW first.

Who cares? Mr. Gonzalez and his partner must have made a lot of money now...and no, please DON'T compare Alienware with Apple...

The only difference between AW and Dell is bigger boxes, strange painting and much higher price tag...all the rest is the same dull thing.

And better quality. So, are you saying Apple is the same as Dell too since they all use the same basic components?

[LaMerVipere]

For a gaming system, not at all. Visually it says a lot, which is better than minimalist, boring, old people stuff. I don't think Alienware computers look good, and the target market would definitely "say" it was ugly (not cool to say anything from a big company looks cool), but in reality, who wants a gaming system that looks like a PowerMac G5? Maybe someone like you who wants their desktop case to match their aluminium cased LCD, grandpa, but not people who dress and act cool and are young enough not to care.

I can safely say that no one I know who "dresses cool and acts cool and are young enough not to care", or who are serious gamers, find the look of an Alienware PC appealing, not to mention the price.

Most of them love the look of Macs and hope to obtain one someday, but can think of better things to spend their money on at the moment (unlike me).

The Power Mac G5 is not a "grandpa" computer. :rolleyes:

[amateurmacfreak]

Ok, this thread is one of the more argumentative I've ever seen on here... I know I'm diving in here late, but I'm still going to give a piece of my mind. :)

Ok, this news really disappointed me. Why? Because, even if you want to bash Alienware for being overpriced(which I personally think they were/are), they made nice computers with great specs. I personally would rather have someone build me a custom comp or do it myself if I was in the market for a desktop Windows comp, but if you don't have the knowledge or whatever to do that, if you have the money, great, go for Alienware! I've never owned one, but I've actually heard they have excellent customer service.... contrary to what people on here have been saying.
I think it is sad, and I think the Nike buying Converse thing is a good analogy. A cool little company got bought up by a sh***y, large, very corporate enity.
Steve's quote: Pretty much, Apple and Dell are the only ones in this industry making money. They make it by being Wal-Mart. We make it by innovation," really speaks true in this.
To me, it's like thinking of Walmart buying.... oh crap, I hate all the other large retail corporations too. :o
Mostly I just think this is a fairly sad thing. Falcon Northwest is good, and I'm sure there are some other good gaming PCs out there, but Alienware was, for all it's flaws, a good computer company.

On the Renegade: Yuck.
It turns me off just by the fact it's "pimped out." I guess all the gamer dorks want to be pimpin'.:rolleyes: ;)
It has awesome specs. But it's ugly. It's super costly. And I just personally think it's gross.
But it does have mind-blowing specs. But the cost is more mind-blowing. :eek: :cool:
(holy crap, scared me for a sec, I didn't see the eek smiley where I thought it was....:o ):eek:

[emaja]

Never heard of "profit", have you?

Oh, I certainly have, but if I can make the same thing that Alienware makes and do it for $400 less, then I certainly will.

Never heard of "fiscal responsibility," have you?

[mac-er]

This is fake.

Supposedly, they have all these quotes from Michael Dell specifically about the Alienware purchase, and there is no press release from Dell. Also, no mention in the mainstream media.

[dejo]

Oh, I certainly have, but if I can make the same thing that Alienware makes and do it for $400 less, then I certainly will.

Never heard of "fiscal responsibility," have you?

For some people it is worth $400 to have someone else determine the required components, assemble the machine and guarantee its quality. Just because you can do it on your own, does not mean that your time and effort are not worth anything. And besides, you cannot make exactly the same thing as Alienware, since their cases are exclusive, AFAIK.

[emaja]

For some people it is worth $400 to have someone else determine the required components, assemble the machine and guarantee its quality. Just because you can do it on your own, does not mean that your time and effort are not worth anything. And besides, you cannot make exactly the same thing as Alienware, since their cases are exclusive, AFAIK.

Yes, for some people it is worth it, but buying an Alienware for the sake of a paying $400 extra for a 90 day warrantee is silly IMO.

It took me 15 minutes to match parts from New Egg. If I bought those parts, it would take me an hour to assemble them and another hour to install Windows.

Yes, the cases are exclusive, but that is obviously the least important part. If that is the primary reason you are buying an Alienware PC, then you have made a foolish decision.

The computer I spec'd out is better than the Alienware and costs less. What's wrong with that?

[~Shard~]

This is fake.

Supposedly, they have all these quotes from Michael Dell specifically about the Alienware purchase, and there is no press release from Dell. Also, no mention in the mainstream media.

This is not fake.

It was all over the news this morning, especially in the finance industry. Here's but one example (http://www.forbes.com/markets/2006/03/23/dell-alienware-0323markets08.html). :cool:

[iMeowbot]

Supposedly, they have all these quotes from Michael Dell specifically about the Alienware purchase, and there is no press release from Dell.
Dell press release (http://www1.us.dell.com/content/topics/global.aspx/corp/pressoffice/en/2006/2006_03_22_rr_001)

[cyberddot]

^^^<cough>

Holy ****!...I'd rather save my money for the universals and a new Mac! $10K would get me pretty far in an Apple Store.

[texasmafia]

If I spent $10,000 in an Apple store I could walk out with several awesome computers and a ton of peripherals.

[Timepass]

Yes, for some people it is worth it, but buying an Alienware for the sake of a paying $400 extra for a 90 day warrantee is silly IMO.

It took me 15 minutes to match parts from New Egg. If I bought those parts, it would take me an hour to assemble them and another hour to install Windows.

Yes, the cases are exclusive, but that is obviously the least important part. If that is the primary reason you are buying an Alienware PC, then you have made a foolish decision.

The computer I spec'd out is better than the Alienware and costs less. What's wrong with that?


The only reason I would go to alienware over build my own (which I have done and would rather do) is I know the parts are good parts like I would if I built my own so no draw back there.

Big one is I dont have to install the OS and a lot of other basic software since it will of already been done (1-2 hours installing windows, another 2hours installing all the basic software like drivers, Office among other things)

I have a 1 year warrenty (it is 30 bucks and if you are not willing to pay for that then I can not help you) on everything all from ONE location. Not one for every single one of my part.

The raw time saving and the warrenty from on location is the nice thing about it. It save me roughtly about 4 hours of my time to go though alienware plus just a lot of head ache of doing it all myself.

That being said I still like building my own. I get to pick and choose what extras I want. And I know where I can cut corners plus i know exactly what is in the box, both in software and hardware.

[BRLawyer]

Why do some people buy a boat? Or an RV? Or a plane?

Hobbies can be expensive! ;)

Some adults are really into games and have the dollars to get their dream gaming machine. More power to them.

Sorry, but the comparison doesn't hold at all...people buy AW to do one thing: gaming. It's not about brand, not about luxury, not about design.

Ferraris are bought because they ARE much more valued than other cars in many aspects...people buy AW just because they must be Mama's boys or rich guys with money to waste in crap...you can play the same games or better with a $300 console, not a 10K one...

Again, good riddance AW...you're NOT cool, and I hope you rot slowly with Michael Dell's blessing...

And better quality. So, are you saying Apple is the same as Dell too since they all use the same basic components?

Did I say that above? Please read my post, as I was comparing a dull PC maker with ANOTHER dull PC maker.

And I exactly excluded Apple from that comparison since the very beginning, because Apple is NOT an ordinary PC maker, be it on design, quality, philosophy, customer treatment and OS grounds.

The funny thing is to discuss a crappy PC maker on a Mac forum...AW is NOT cool and has never been...well, maybe only to those accustomed to beige boxes and Winblows...I say it again...GOOD RIDDANCE!

[barstard]

Well. AlienWare made great spec'd computers, but they certainly were tacky cases, although so was the original iMac IMO.:D

Seriously though, whatever you think of AW, it is another example of massive companies acquiring other much smaller companies to either use their technology without paying license fees (Apple has done plenty of this, so too Microsoft) or to stifle their competition (which Dell are doing here I'd say, in a way).

This sort of move almost always results in a loss of innovation in those areas, which definitely hurts consumers in the end.

barstard.

[joseph2166]

Well. AlienWare made great spec'd computers, but they certainly were tacky cases, although so was the original iMac IMO.:D



You realy think so? I think the original iMac did as much with such a large monitor as it could hope to do. It was different (and not just by painting the case green and putting 'spoilers' on it ala Alienware) it was as small and quiet as it could be... They dropped floppy disks and brought in USB... What more could you want from a case from 1998 (it was 98 right?) ? Although the originals always looked a bit unlike 'new apple' with the cd tray...

[Kaiser Phoenix]

I really get the argument of the "bigger guy, i.e. Dell" buying out the "poor little guy i.e. AW" argument but I dont really think it was like that.

Firstly Dell isnt a crap company and it doesnt make "CRAP" computers. I agree they look boring and very traditional and very lets say commodity like. It just does the job of emailing, exploring or whatever people wanna do. Its made of plastic and all. And its targetted to people who dont really care whats actually "in" the computer or what it actually "looks" like. its also very cheap. People complain how Dell is so crap but please someone tell me what is actually different from an Apple computer and a Dell computer apart from the CASE, OSX. I mean they are both Intel, RAM is usually made in Taiwan and they probbaly use the same, HD is made by other companies etc. Its not THAT different. Unlike a Ferrari and a Toyota, they are different but DELL and APPLE, I mean after they moved to Intel, not SOOOO much difference as people think.

Dell also has an excellent supply chain system which many business text books use as examples.

I think that Alienware agreed because probably they can learn a lot from Dells efficiency and probably make better and cheaper computers. Dell computers arnt just cheap. They are efficient and manage to keep costs down.

just my 2 c

[Airforce]

Sorry, but the comparison doesn't hold at all...people buy AW to do one thing: gaming. It's not about brand, not about luxury, not about design.

Ferraris are bought because they ARE much more valued than other cars in many aspects...people buy AW just because they must be Mama's boys or rich guys with money to waste in crap...you can play the same games or better with a $300 console, not a 10K one...

Again, good riddance AW...you're NOT cool, and I hope you rot slowly with Michael Dell's blessing...

Comparing that xbox 360 to the $10,000 computer is laughable. One word: resolutions. :cool:

[Dont Hurt Me]

Looks like most folks here dont get that a Alienware system can be built to your configuration, not some predetermined system made by marketeers,but by the owner or enthusiast. I was able to configure the system:D Consumer is King! Anyways looks like not much is changing at Alienware,just the buck stops at a different office.:cool:

[sushi]

people buy AW just because they must be Mama's boys or rich guys with money to waste in crap...you can play the same games or better with a $300 console, not a 10K one...
Many would disagree with you on this point.

It all depends on what games you are playing and things such as resolution and FPS.

Again, for some folks, gaming is their hobby so they spend what they want on their hobby.

If you think gaming is expensive, take a look at avionics. Yikes, they are expensive. Even for small single engine airplanes that are decked out.

Personally, if someone likes Alienware hardware more power to them. It's fun to see folks who are happy with their purchase and enjoy using whatever it is. I just hope that Dell does not ruin their current or future products.

As for those who say they can build a better computer. Well yeah. So what's your point? Some folks don't want the hassle of doing it themselves and would rather purchase a nice prebuilt rig that has a nice warranty and tech support.

...you know, like a majority of folks on this board who purchase nice looking well performing Macs. :)

TBig one is I dont have to install the OS and a lot of other basic software since it will of already been done (1-2 hours installing windows, another 2hours installing all the basic software like drivers, Office among other things)

The raw time saving and the warrenty from on location is the nice thing about it. It save me roughtly about 4 hours of my time to go though alienware plus just a lot of head ache of doing it all myself.
That's a good point.

It takes time to build and setup a computer.

As a hobby maybe time is not an issue. But for some, their time is valuable and would better be used on something else. Also, some do not want the agrivation of issues that might come up when building the computer or installing software.

Sometimes it's nice to take the easy no stress solution and just purchase off the shelf system that meets your needs.

...afterall, Apple has made a fortune doing that!

[sishaw]

Yeah, what's up with a computer costing that much money, that's never happened before. :rolleyes: :cool:

http://img161.imageshack.us/img161/7828/tandy2dq.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

The Apple Lisa originally retailed for $ 10 grand as well.

[whooleytoo]

The Apple Lisa originally retailed for $ 10 grand as well.


Slightly more recently, a fully specced IIfx probably wouldn't have been far off that price.

[BRLawyer]

Slightly more recently, a fully specced IIfx probably wouldn't have been far off that price.

That's right...actually a bare-bones IIfx cost something like 7,999, and it was the most expensive Mac ever...but also the fastest for quite some time...

Oh well...I paid around 3,000 for my charming pizzabox Quadra 605 back in 1995, so I can't really complain... ;)

[~Shard~]

That's right...actually a bare-bones IIfx cost something like 7,999, and it was the most expensive Mac ever...but also the fastest for quite some time...

Oh well...I paid around 3,000 for my charming pizzabox Quadra 605 back in 1995, so I can't really complain... ;)

Yeah, I remember our Apple //e costing over $5K back in 1983... Mind you, with the upgrades, taxes, etc. my iMac cost me almost $3K (CAD) and that was only 2 years ago, so not cheap by any means. ;)

[topgunn]

Too bad Apple didn't get AW first.
What would Apple want with Alienware?

[Cadkiller]

I recently checked my attachments in my control panel and found that this image I attached was down loaded 2,364 times. Can this be accurate?

sm_alx_silver.jpg
8.3 KB, 2,364 Downloads
Thread: Alienware - The Best Gaming PC Maker has Sold Out!
Post: «N/A»

[ethen]

heheh, brings back memories, my goldstar 8088 will give me electric shock everytime i power it on (on the side of the case)

[Tupring]

Even with a 30" LCD included, thats still an awful lot of $$$ for a Windows machine! :eek:$2,039 without the Extras.

[Tupring]

That's right...actually a bare-bones IIfx cost something like 7,999, and it was the most expensive Mac ever...but also the fastest for quite some time...The PowerMac 9650 and the 20th Anniversay Mac were each $7,500. I always thought they were the two most expensive, but I guess not… According to http://www.everymac.com/systems/apple/mac_ii/stats/mac_iifx.html the IIfx was almost 11 grand!

[Cadkiller]

Is this one ugly also?

http://www.alienware.com/intro_pages/nvidia_quadsli.aspx?source=1927

Wow over 2600 downloads for the attached image of an ugly PC.
Can this be true, that it is so ugly that is why so many have downloaded it?

[BenRoethig]

Simple, Mac users care only about looks. Performance is secondary.

[dpaanlka]

WOW.

Where is my barf bag I need to use it very soon!

I can't believe that gamers care this little abotu style.

Theres a difference between something stylish, and something flashy "cool" to look at.

As in, I think anybody with any styling sense would get VERY tired of looking at this thing after a month.

[Takumi]

Simple, Mac users care only about looks. Performance is secondary.
I'm goin gto use that as my sig;)

takumi

[DrStrangelove]

I'm a recent convert (PC to Mac) and I have to tell you, I've owned Dell's (and other self-built PCs) for quite some time. Most of the things I've grown disgruntled with in the PC world has very little to do with hardware/manufacturer. Although everyone makes a dud every once in a while.

My complaints over the years have nearly ALWAYS centered on or around the OS. And always on Microsoft technology. In the mid-90s I had a PC running OS2 and I was very happy with it. It's just too bad it didn't get the market support that other OSes were receiving.

Over the past couple of years, prior to switching to Mac, I grew quite fond of running my PC with a dual boot option: XP/Linux. I found the Linux build (I ran-- still run actually on my PC-- Suse Linux) to be very stable and quite the OS.

What bothers me next outside of the Windows OS in regards to Dell is the support. For my work computer we have US based support and help is pretty good. Pretty good. For my last PERSONAL machine, I found the overseas support to be one of the worst experiences I've ever had. The worst.

So my move to Mac was based primarily on the OS and secondarily on the support features. Thirdly is the actual hardware. And this isn't to say that I haven't found flaws with my Mac-- I have. But when weighed against my other experiences I've been overwhelmingly happy with my Apple purchases (all since Jan of this year).

In regards to price, the only "mistake" I've made with the Mac and feeling that I've spent perhaps too much money is on the 23" Cinema HD display. But ultimately, you know, I think I ended up paying a few hundred dollars more (than my Dell 24") to achieve a "look" that is universal on my desktop. I've made bigger mistakes.

So the arguments outside of the OS, I find, are mainly out of loyalty and not all that disparate in terms of functionality. We need to remember why we love (or some of us are growing to love the Mac as recent converts) our Macs. For me it's the move to a much more stable OS and one that has a decent market share when it comes to 3rd party software support.

Windows will never die and I don't see Dell going anywhere either. But I'll take pride in the fact that I've now put my anti-Mac feelings behind me and recognize that I've finally based a computer purchase on MY NEEDS as opposed to what the overwhelming majority tells me I should have on my desktop.

[sushi]

I'm a recent convert (PC to Mac)

<snip>

Windows will never die and I don't see Dell going anywhere either. But I'll take pride in the fact that I've now put my anti-Mac feelings behind me and recognize that I've finally based a computer purchase on MY NEEDS as opposed to what the overwhelming majority tells me I should have on my desktop.
Enjoyed reading your perspective.

Your last comment (sentence) is very interesting. Not running with the pack can be a challenge at times. But getting and using what you want is sure a pleasure.

[Dont Hurt Me]

Its the old story for the best OS use a Mac, for the fastest hardware gaming a PC. What a lot of people dont understand is that a powerful gaming machine usually does everything else just as fast or faster. I notice a lot of styling complaints, but i dont hear complaints from a performance point of view. Its pretty cool to have the computer built with the componets you want and not a commitee. Dont hear much about that and its something i have hated about Macs for decades. No you cant have 1 of our fastest cpu's, you must get 2 and then only this video, this this this...... Its a great selling point for Alienware something Apple doesnt have.

[Deinonychus]

Does NO ONE know of Overdrive PC? :eek:

www.overdrivepc.com

[dpaanlka]

Is there no like... muted styling gaming PC company? Any of them make desktops that don't look loud and flashy?

[pmartin]

I don't know where this Alienware having crappy tech support rumor came from as Alienware has always had some of the best computers and tech support in the industry. It was the most well known of the main gaming PC makers (Alienware, Voodoo, Falcon Northwest). Also, Dell purchased a widely known and respected brand. Alienware wasn't stealing Dell's sales of the XPS line, it was just because if people were going to spend $4000 on a gaming PC they sure as hell aren't going to buy a Dell built with mostly generic parts, they want an Alienware with the custom paint job, case and cabling, or a really high-end one from Voodoo. If anything, Dell's would keep around Alienware for gaming and drop the XPS, although this is only speculation on my part. It just doesn't make sense for them to buy out a brand name and simply ruin it or turn it into another Dell when the brand name had recognition and was known as being one of the best.

[BenRoethig]

I don't know where this Alienware having crappy tech support rumor came from as Alienware has always had some of the best computers and tech support in the industry. It was the most well known of the main gaming PC makers (Alienware, Voodoo, Falcon Northwest). Also, Dell purchased a widely known and respected brand. Alienware wasn't stealing Dell's sales of the XPS line, it was just because if people were going to spend $4000 on a gaming PC they sure as hell aren't going to buy a Dell built with mostly generic parts, they want an Alienware with the custom paint job, case and cabling, or a really high-end one from Voodoo. If anything, Dell's would keep around Alienware for gaming and drop the XPS, although this is only speculation on my part. It just doesn't make sense for them to buy out a brand name and simply ruin it or turn it into another Dell when the brand name had recognition and was known as being one of the best.

It was also the only one trying to branch out into more traditional sections. Would have been a great pickup for Apple. I hope Dell doesn't change a thing.

[zap2]

Would have been a great pickup for Apple.


How? Apple would put OS X on it, and high end gamers would no longer buy them, if they left Windows on it, well they don't sell Windows , they sell Mac OS. TO buy Alienware would have been a waster of $$ for Apple