Top products from r/Alienware

AW stuff is cool, but I prefer Logitech over anything else. Their products are backed by great warranties, and their products have a pretty good lifespan. Every logitech product I've ever owned is still alive and kicking. The G810 is pretty sweet, and with Aurora software can do some pretty cool stuff. My friend has one of their wireless mice and it's really nice. He can always add the powerplay powermat so he never has to charge it.

When I used my AW 13r3 as my primary desktop setup (before I built another PC) I always used one of those portable metal laptop stands so that it would have as much room to breath as possible.

That's an interesting looking passive cooling stand. Some of the reviewers mentioned, however, that the tabs on either side that keep the laptop from sliding off the front of the stand protrude above the typing surface of their laptop, making it uncomfortable to rest their hands for typing. The pictures of the unit seem to bear this complaint out to me.

I don't know if that's something that bothers you or not, but for anyone else looking for passive cooling, I have for many years used a stand I bought for my first Mac computer. I have used it with 3 Macs, 2 Razer Blades, and now my new Alienware 15 R3.

It needs to sit on top of something else like a laptop tray or laptop desk if you're going to actually use it on your lap, as it could not sit directly on your lap. I use a thick pillow-style tray to set it on, which raises the whole laptop above my lap enough to allow me to sit in a recliner and comfortably type and game on my laptop for hours at a time.

The advantage of the laptop stand I use is that it is extremely minimalistic, constructed of strong, attractive and adjustable aluminum rods, and it contracts and folds to a tiny size for easy packing into your laptop backpack or briefcase for travel and portability.

Search the web or Amazon for "Steklo X-Stand Universal Cooling Stand" if this sounds interesting.

( U.S. Amazon site link: https://www.amazon.com/Steklo-Aluminium-Adjustable-Portable-Universal/dp/B00VIZ60QY )

I should also mention one other advantage I commonly find for this stand: If you use an external USB drive (not a flash stick, but a drive that requires a USB cord), you can place the drive enclosure itself underneath the laptop and out of the way, since the stand allows for a lot of open space underneath the PC itself. For actual lap-based use this is ideal, since it keeps the USB drive enclosure tucked away and not dangling off the side of the PC somewhere.

Ok, if you don't feel comfortable doing the work, then having someone else do it is best. However, it generally isn't that hard if you take your time.

I use a Craftsman small screwdriver set like that one, and have for years. Yes, there are cheaper tools. But I happen to like these.

There is a guide on how to tear into your machine, available right here.

It will take you step by step what you need to take apart. Click on the Prerequisites for section "removing heat sink assembly." It will show you what all has to be torn down to get to that part, and remove it.

Then, clean the old paste off with a lint free cloth, and decent rubbing alcohol. I avoid 70% at all costs. I prefer my 99.9% stuff, but have used 80% when in a bind. Make sure it dries completely before you continue. Pure stuff dries very quickly, less pure can take some time.

Then apply the new paste as a thin line about the length of a grain of rice. Don't smear it, try to spread it, or anything else UNLESS it is specifically designed for that (liquid metals come to mind). Then, reassemble. Be careful to ensure the heat spreader is attached evenly, with appropriate pressure.

Undervolting allows you to reduce the heat of the chip by running at voltages lower than it was designed for. Ideally, this shouldn't have to be done. Assuming a decent paste job, you won't. If you do find yourself in the position where that needs done, then use Intel XTU to adjust the voltage in small increments, and run Prime 95 in the background to monitor the results. If the machine becomes unstable, or starts throttling, you went too far.

What you need:
Screw drivers

Lint free cloth (some people use coffee filters, or even paper towels)

Alcohol

Paste (I use IC7 Diamond these days. Works very well on my machines. Arctic Silver 5 is still decent stuff, as is Gelid Extreme. There are others, and I am sure someone else will chime in with their favorites)

Clean, static reducing/non static working environment

Hi darmasita! I am sorry but I might have been exaggerating slightly in my comment - 'cool' there means around 60 - 65 C -ish (on Empyrion - never played Witcher).

I have about the same undervolt (don't have the computer available right now) as you but the cooling pad really helps i believe. If I don't use that it gets about 8 - 10 C hotter :/ I've never had a peak in the 90's after downvolting, but the occasional peak into 80's do occur on Rome 2 (usually on big battles).

Also, I usually play on medium settings with only a few settings cranked up (such as textures), which I think helps as well (I've only ever had budget computers in my life, so even medium settings look good for me xD).

EDIT:

In case you're interested, this is the cooling pad I use.

cooling pad

My cooling pad is for 15' screens but since the A15 protrudes at the back, I really wish I had bought a slightly bigger one xD

I just bought an AW 13 R4 but to get the GTX 1060, I had to sacrifice the SSD (same problem). I see the 1tb are 250 on Amazon. Is it pretty easy to install as a plug and play or is there more to it? Which style will work for me [This] (https://www.amazon.com/Crucial-MX300-Internal-Solid-State/dp/B01IAGSDUE/ref=sr_1_4?s=pc&ie=UTF8&qid=1503929004&sr=1-4&keywords=1tb+ssd) or [This] (https://www.amazon.com/Crucial-MX300-Internal-Solid-CT1050MX300SSD4/dp/B01L80DH1Y/ref=sr_1_9?s=pc&ie=UTF8&qid=1503929004&sr=1-9&keywords=1tb+ssd) Thanks in advance for any help

These are fast and will do well. You don't really need anywhere above 2666 RAM for the mobo/CPU combo that the 13 has:
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01BMMVNL4/

NVMe M.2 1 TB SSDs are ridiculously expensive- but I have this particular 1 TB SATA SSD, and it has boost software that can increase it's speed (check the amazon reviews.) I really love it, and would highly recommend:
https://www.amazon.com/Crucial-MX300-275GB-Internal-Solid/dp/B01L80DH1Y/

Do you have any recommendations for ram? I'm not a tech guy but I hear Corsair Vengeance alot.



Corsair Vengeance 2666mhz

Kingston HyperX 2133mhz

Kingston HyperX 2400mhz

Crucial 2133mhz

Crucial 2400mhz

Which one would you say is the best for the r4 from above? Anything better?

Sorry for all the questions. I see you on a lot of threads and being a mod as well I thought you would be knowledgeable.

Thanks in advance.

Hey. I just purchased the exact config from the Dell outlet as a certified and refurbished last week. I don’t have the thermal issues like your device but my temps did cross 84C and I was concerned. The avg temps are in the mid 70s during Tom Clancys The Division gameplay. This is the most resource intensive game I have at this point. Someone here recommended that I raise the laptop in the air. Well I purchased the Steklo - X-Stand https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00VIZ60QY?ref=yo_pop_ma_swf. Now gameplay temps are peaking in the mid to upper 70s and averages around 68-72C. After you blow out the dust, try raising the back up and see if that helps. Good luck.

Hey bud! Repaste your thermal paste. Another issue to note is that your Cpu fan is directly against your PSU door. No air seems to get in in this setup, I recommend getting watercooled, it's not expensive for a single rad (sadly only a single rad seems to fit). This should definitely fix your issues!

Use this stuff:

https://www.amazon.com/Thermal-Grizzly-Kryonaut-Grease-Paste/dp/B011F7W3LU/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1519371166&sr=8-1&keywords=kryonaut

edit edit edit I've done it! haha!

https://www.amazon.com/Corsair-CW-9060024-WW-Extreme-Performance-Liquid/dp/B019954Y2Q/ref=sr_1_1?s=electronics&ie=UTF8&qid=1519371707&sr=1-1&keywords=h80i

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DOlWxc9tt6s link to video!

Make sure it's the same system for me!

You don't have to thermal repaste with the paste that's on this, you can if you want to. Heck, the paste might even fix the first issue w/o a new cooler. Good luck.

That would be a "Cooler Master NotePal U3 Plus" I bought on Amazon around a year ago. It has 3 fans underneath that you can latch-in below your bottom grille for a little extra airflow, but they don't really push much air. The stand is lightweight aluminium which is easy to carry around, but the handle ended up breaking on me from everyday use, other then that it's been a decent buy, helped lower the temps on my previous Acer laptop by around 5-10 degree's.

Shopping Link: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00ED3WMTC/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o05_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1


EDIT: Just checked the reseller prices on Amazon. I bought mine for 30 dollars with free shipping, it's advertised now for 60+ dollars, I think for 30 bucks it was worth it, but I wouldn't pay over 40 for one, there are better options that would last longer then this pad at that pricerange.

One quick remedy is to elevate the back of your laptop to increase ventilation. This helps it cool better. You may use a laptop cooling pad like this: https://www.amazon.de/Cooler-Master-Notepal-R9-NBC-8PCK-GP-Computers/dp/B003ZMF27G

In my experience, the cooling pad doesn't even need to have its own fans. Just helping air go through your laptop's cooling system helps a lot.

Yeah they have lost their edge a bit, but not too blinded by fandom to ignore it. I have no problem going against its constitutes, even if it falls at times. All in all it is your choice, whatever you choice; various heat temps by others reported has a lot of factors the temp of the room, what it is on, the dust built up over time. No matter what you end up choosing to go with, I would say get a extra laptop cooler on your machine, every little bit helps overtime.

Personally I have two coolers on my laptop machine, (Coolmaster massive 200mm fan I believe, and havoc vacuum on the vent [CPU focus] on the side./vacuum is an example they don't make my model anymore they cost 15-30 usually on amazon.) and it helps it run much cooler. I will now always keep the combo, because it's just overall healthier for the machine. I have 10 year old machine so it actually needs it now. Thermal past has worn away.

If you are bit paranoid about cooling (for laptops you should always be) a 3rd party seller that can help out is http://www.xoticpc.com/ they offer stronger cooling that's above any manufacturers default; cost more obviously. ( $35ish.) Can customize them too, an they have more than just Alienware (seems the 17x 980m is sold out for the moment sadly.) there too pretty much every gaming laptop brand.

An AW fanboy so I want to bully towards them(pretty colors!), but you have to get what is right for you. If there is another brand that's cheaper that seems to be the better performer go for it! AW is about gaming and doing whatever you want with the power that machine gives, and it's not the only one that can do it. Just don't get a macbook pro...I will not support that at all, and they actually run as hot gaming laptops without the power! But in all I just want to help a fellow gamer out. Giving you the most tools that can use to make a judgement.

I wouldn’t recommend that one. What I recommend is the same one I bought from amazon. #1 on the list of coolers, quiet, cools the laptop quite well, and inexpensive. I wish it had red leds since that is the led theme I have on but for the performance, great reviews and cost. I can’t complain. Also fits the 17” too. I am using it on my 13R3 and it has tons of space so should be able to fit just fine.

Check it out

This is the GPU I got: https://smile.amazon.com/GeForce-Turbo-Auto-extreme-Graphics-Turbo-GTX1070-8G/dp/B01IPVTHL8/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&qid=1493334947&sr=8-3&keywords=asus+gtx+turbo

This is the 1080 version: https://smile.amazon.com/ASUS-GeForce-Turbo-Graphic-TURBO-GTX1080-8G/dp/B01HDUVJ2M/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1493334947&sr=8-2&keywords=asus+gtx+turbo

This isn't the exact adapter I got, but it looks to be about the same--I'd just recommend getting the shortest possible one you can find, the case gets awfully crowded with the GPU, cables and HDD all in there! https://smile.amazon.com/GutsParker-6-Pin-Female-8-Pin-Cable/dp/B01N7KCRMT/ref=sr_1_7?ie=UTF8&qid=1493335271&sr=8-7&keywords=dual+6+pin+to+8+pin

Good luck!

A cooling pad will definitely help, ive heard just raising the laptops back off the table a inch has helped thermals. I would look into a cooler like this though: https://www.amazon.com/Cooler-Master-NotePal-PLUS-Performance/dp/B00ED3WMTC

The u3 is meant for 17 inch laptops, but you can grab the U2 which is the 15inch version but you will loose a fan. Ive used the cooler for years and its one of the best because you can move the fan exactly where you need it.

Late reply.

Its still on its way here. Chose free shipping which I will likely never do again. Anyway its this cooler but not this brand ( this coolers just a rebranded chinese item with various names). I assume the top 2 smaller fans will be right under the mesh vents.

https://www.amazon.com/Kootek-Laptop-Cooling-Cooler-Adjustable/dp/B01469DJLM/ref=lp_2243862011_1_11?s=pc&ie=UTF8&qid=1500176565&sr=1-11

I mainly bought it for the height adjustment for better posture but if the fans help out that's a plus. May also do a repaste(grizzly kryo on hand) and add a heat sink to the PCH down the road.

Just few tips as we all do with alienware laptops :

• raise up the backend of the laptop to have more airflow , personally im using this ( https://www.amazon.fr/ergonomique-aluminium-refroidissement-ordinateurs-portables/dp/B007BD16KC )
  
  
• try to undervolt your cpu to get much less temps with throttlestop as it is much reliable than xtu , you can google this to figure it out
  
  
• DONT OVERCLOCK your cpu with the shitty stock thermal past
  
  
• for the current recent games you dont even need extra clocks speed even you can disable turbo boost to have even less temps while playing games as i said you can do this through thottle stop program , im playing battlefield 1 and the division and im disabling this turbo boost
  
  
• finally try to install GeForce experience and get your Nvidia gpu updates from there and use the optimize settings for your games
  
  Welcome to the club bro 😊
  
  I hope i didn't forgot any other tips ,lets see if other users have more tips to help you
  
  

Here is a great forum on disassembly and repasting. Do what you feel most comfortable with.
http://forum.notebookreview.com/threads/alienware-17r4-15r3-disassembly-repaste-guide-results.797373/

This is the video I personally used for repasting, he uses Liquid Metal. I DID NOT
https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=Ujffb2gIsS0

This is the method I chose to go with using above video.
I used IC Graphite Thermal Pads along with copper shims in a stacked formation. !!!Side note!!! I did use the slightest of thermal paste to stop the graphite pad from sliding around on the CPU/GPU. Like a smudge of a smudge. Then I under volted CPU by 110. I personally have not had a heating issue since, but this all just a suggestion.

This is what I used
https://www.amazon.com/Innovation-Cooling-Graphite-Thermal-Pad/dp/B07CKVW18G/ref=mp_s_a_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1541335540&sr=8-2&pi=AC_SX236_SY340_FMwebp_QL65&keywords=ic+thermal+pad&dpPl=1&dpID=417eWA82WvL&ref=plSrch

Copper shim
https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B00OUJQX8K?psc=1&ref=yo_pop_mb_pd_title

This is what most people suggest**
https://www.amazon.com/Thermal-Grizzly-Kryonaut-Grease-Paste/dp/B011F7W3LU

Hope some of this helps

What are you talking about? The difference in cost most definitely not negligible. $4 cheaper for 4x the product?! It's really up to him if he thinks the extra cost is worth 1c cooler. If 1g is enough for 2 or 3 repastings then master gel is good for 8 or 10.

https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B011F7W3LU/ref=mp_s_a_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1522958883&sr=8-1&pi=AC_SX236_SY340_FMwebp_QL65&keywords=kryonaut&dpPl=1&dpID=41IkGIpkjtL&ref=plSrch

https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B019BZENY8/ref=mp_s_a_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1522958808&sr=8-1&pi=AC_SX236_SY340_FMwebp_QL65&keywords=master%2Bgel%2Bmaker&dpPl=1&dpID=315Br21UytL&ref=plSrch&th=1&psc=1

After your comment I actually went ahead and bought a stand for the laptop as I was noticing the temperatures getting pretty high.


Anyone wondering, the laptop sucks air in from the bottom so keep it free is important.


So thank you very much.

This is the one I use. Keeps your laptop very cool and 4 fans? You can turn off the top or bottom. Great silent fans..

Tree New Bee Cooling Pad for 15.6 - 17-Inch Laptops with Four 120mm Fans at 1200 RPM, Black (TNB-K0025) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B016PMVM7Q?ref=yo_pop_ma_swf

UPDATE so I found this beauty while doing more research. With the ability to adjust the fan positions I think it will be a great addition. I will update with any relevant data ie; temp changes, noise, aesthetics.

Personally, I have had some problems with temperatures. I just posted a question about it here, so I don't know anything yet. I'm getting around 85 degrees under load, with the fan at 100%, but even then, the noise levels haven't bothered me all that much.

The website where I bought mine is Danish, and can be found here. I'm pretty sure this is the same one though.

I have the alienware backpack and have never had any problems with it leading to scratches or damage to my laptop (unless I dropped it once as I did with my last laptop, an L702x which required a massive backpack). I should note I tend to only put my laptop and charge in the big pocket with my books, papers, and clipboards in the other pockets. Especially important with the clipboard so I don't destroy the finish of my laptop!

You could sleeve it, but it will still be annoying to carry around unless you put it in your bookbag anyway.

For stands/cooling pads I use a Coolermaster U3 Plus, I almost never use the fans unless I am gaming, but I find the incline is perfect for making the laptop comfortable to type on!

I have a 13R3 coming in soon and had done some research earlier, probably should have posted it somewhere - a 1TB 850 EVO m.2 was on sale for $250 last week on Newegg (it comes w/ a Watch Dog 2 code as well). For those looking for the best bang/buck now though, I'd go with the MX300. It performs surprisingly well for a budget SSD.

(Although that Microcenter deal for the Intel 600p looks great if you live near one.)

Besides the HyperX, you can also get an 8GB stick of Crucial Ballistix DDR4 2400 for about $7 cheaper.

I did the same to mine, minus the USB fan. Just lifted it off the desk a little, helps a ton with cooling. I recommend this to help cool it: Steklo Pro Stand -... https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00VIZ60QY?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share

Here or here or here via Amazon. Here via Dell.

There are multiple part numbers if you'd like to order used or elsewhere online, and those are: Y90RR / 5X3NX / F0K0N / XM3C3 / 331-2429. You do not necessarily need a new one, but if you're buying used you might want to confirm with the seller that they took care of their system (no overclocking/forced shutdowns, etc).

USA For me, but I think it's safe to assume the one highlighted in question you are referring to is this one correct?

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01IPVSGEC/ref=twister_B01JA2DCKS?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1

By any chance would you know if this is drastically different?


https://www.amazon.com/Geforce-Turbo-Auto-Extreme-Graphics-TURBO-GTX1060-6G/dp/B01K1JTCZS/ref=sr_1_1?s=pc&dd=fRsnLxReNzaOYn4J4iKHLQ%2C%2C&ie=UTF8&qid=1483868596&sr=1-1&keywords=1060+6gb&refinements=p_96%3A10155283011

I used the spread method as the paste I used came with a nifty little spreader. LinusTechTips tested each method and ultimately it makes no real difference. It's mostly personal preference. For me, I feel comforted to know that at the time I put the heatsink on, every part of the die was covered in a thin layer. With Pea/Line method there's a chance you haven't done enough, so there might be gaps on the edges - or too much and it spooges everywhere!

GC-Extreme was my paste of choice. No need to warm it up, but be patient, it's not like paint. You have to work at it slowly.
I bought from Amazon for £8.99 - https://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/product/B002P5W4RU/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o02_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

That one tube was more than enough. It'll easily do another 6-8 applications, probably more. You don't need a lot as the die for the CPU is about the size of your thumbnail and the GPU is roughly twice that.

I didn't use any tape - I'm pretty used to doing repastes as I've been overclocking desktop PC's for years. A steady hand is all that's needed.

I bought this one and it has been working great. http://imgur.com/a/koZfz I like that it has the vents on the side and it has a usb pass through so I don't loose a slot. The top is also metal so it stays very cool even after long uses. You can't turn off the lights but they really aren't bad.
here's the link https://www.amazon.com/HAVIT-HV-F2056-Laptop-Cooler-Cooling/dp/B00NNMB3KS/ref=sr_1_3?s=pc&ie=UTF8&qid=1495468552&sr=1-3&keywords=LAPTOP+COOLER

Portable stand - https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00VIZ60QY/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o02_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

Backpack - https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01LDIFEXU/ref=twister_B01MD1SC10?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1

Laptop coolers are junk - just get a solid stand.

Had my 13 for 2 weeks - absolutely love it.

Personal advice?

Be very very careful, I bought a cooler master U3 and positioned the fans near the intakes and the dust on the matrix protecting the fans underneath my 17R3 was building up on lowest speed setting. Had to blast it all out.

Since moved the fans as far away as possible to cool the battery area under the touchpad and all good. I’ll never direct air at the intakes again, and the battery area is kept far cooler than without.

Cooler Master NotePal U3 PLUS Laptop Cooling Pad 'Adjustable 3x 80mm Fans, Ergonomic Aluminium Design, Supports up to 19" laptops' R9-NBC-U3PK-GP https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B00ED3WMTC/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_tai_blTuDbC7E2Q17

You could always add small side cooler to help reduce the thermals to peace of mind levels

https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B00XKU47Y2/ref=mp_s_a_1_14?ie=UTF8&qid=1495765908&sr=8-14&pi=AC_SX236_SY340_QL65&keywords=laptop+coolers

Gelid extreme is a very good paste. I used both kryonaut and gelid, and gelid is a better value... temp difference is negligible.

https://www.amazon.com/Gelid-Solutions-GC-Extreme-Compound-TC-GC-03/dp/B002P5W4RU/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1520217785&sr=8-1&keywords=gelid+extreme

Samsung 850 EVO - 500GB - M.2 SATA III Internal SSD (MZ-N5E500BW) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00TGIW1XG/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_kqbSzbF96JQ4A

Or

Crucial MX300 1TB M.2 (2280) Internal Solid State Drive (CT1050MX300SSD4) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01L80DH1Y/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_erbSzbPSV2V1B

The 1TB for $287 is a great deal if you need the space. If not, go with the 500GB for less $$$

Which is more recommended, the one of closed fan, that fits without modifying anything, or the one of 2 fans, uncovered, but it has to remove the front fan, is for an X51 R1 and why?

https://www.amazon.com/Geforce-Turbo-Auto-Extreme-Graphics-TURBO-GTX1060-6G/dp/B01K1JTCZS/ref=sr_1_2?s=pc&ie=UTF8&qid=1498834618&sr=1-2&keywords=gtx+1060

https://www.amazon.com/MSI-GAMING-GTX-1060-6G/dp/B01IEKYD5U/ref=sr_1_3?s=pc&ie=UTF8&qid=1498834618&sr=1-3&keywords=gtx+1060

Ok thanks so much, you’re a gem. One final question. Will this be appropriate? It seems there’s a newer 960 - is that preferable or should this be more than enough?

https://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/aw/d/B00TGIVZTW/ref=mp_s_a_1_5?ie=UTF8&qid=1518728844&sr=8-5&pi=AC_SX236_SY340_QL65&keywords=samsung+850&dpPl=1&dpID=417M%2B-iF3iL&ref=plSrch

Here's the link for Kryonaut: https://www.amazon.com/Thermal-Grizzly-Kryonaut-Grease-Paste/dp/B011F7W3LU/ref=sr_1_1?s=pc&ie=UTF8&qid=1481491380&sr=1-1&keywords=thermal+grizzly+kryonaut

Just tell the technician you have your own thermal paste you'd like to use. If he says he can't do it, then call tech support and have them approve it. I was told any technician can use thermal paste supplied by the enduser.

Put two sticks of the 8GB Ballistix Sport LT 8GB Single DDR4 2400 MT/s (PC4-19200) SODIMM 260-Pin Memory - BLS8G4S240FSD (https://www.amazon.com/Ballistix-Single-PC4-19200-SODIMM-260-Pin/dp/B01DGOF7EA/) in my new Alienware 13 R3 and it worked perfectly.

We're using the Cooler Master NotePal U3. The included fans are completely removable & can be positioned anywhere. Had it for a few years now & has worked well on several different laptops from an MX18 R2 to the 17R4 we have now.

https://www.amazon.co.uk/Cooler-Master-Notepal-U3-notebook/dp/B003ZMF27G

You can probably find something more up-to-date in the same range. :)

I have this one in mine, works great.
https://www.amazon.com/Ballistix-Single-PC4-19200-SODIMM-260-Pin/dp/B01DGOF7EA

330w - Safe option

Dell 330W AC Adapter with 6 Foot Power Cord (DA330PM111, XM3C3, ADP-330AB B, 5X3NX, 332-1432, Charger, PA) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00CGA5JQM/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_HdB-Bb454YSZP

240w - $20 cheaper but it might not be authentic Dell / used part due to reciews.


AC adapter 240 Watt Original FWCRC for Alienware Area-51 M17x / M17-R1 / M17X / M17X-R3; Asus G70 / G70S / G70SG; Dell Precision M6400, M6500, M6600 https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00A076OEO/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_9eB-BbY1P9R23


Or just call Dell. The parts department can send you one even if it’s not shown online

Dont buy, for two reasons:

1. Cheaper on amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Crucial-MX300-Internal-Solid-CT1050MX300SSD4/dp/B01L80DH1Y
   
   
2. Although it does work, it uses the old SATA3 interface. If you are looking for an upgrade, its better to buy NVME interface.

Thanks for the tips! This one?

http://www.amazon.com/Samsung-850-EVO-250-MZ-N5E250BW/dp/B00TGIVZTW/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1463806051&sr=8-1&keywords=250gb+850+Evo+M.2+SSD

Just a quick look, I'm thinking this one would be ideal for packing in backpack.

i am using this one as my second ssd slot and it work nice . I never face any problem because i bought on black friday i got thing near $69 check it out
LINK

Yea take the front fan out and stick this in there. https://www.amazon.com/GeForce-Turbo-Ready-Graphic-TURBO-GTX1070-8G/dp/B01IPVTHL8 also if you have a cd drive I'd remove it as well as they add to the heat. Do you have the liquid cooling? If so you're golden you can probably even leave your cd drive.

Here is detailed guide how to repaste it: http://forum.notebookreview.com/threads/alienware-17r4-15r3-disassembly-repaste-guide-results.797373/.

If you're not confident and don't want to use thermal paste with electrical conductivity, then use Grizzly Kryonaut (http://amzn.to/2tqVFgm) instead of Conductonaut.

But first I recommend to run any 3D benchmark for 30+ minutes (3Dmark FireStrike, Heaven, Valley etc.) to find out if you don't have any stuttering, before doing the repaste. Because if you do have stuttering, then you probably will need to replace your motherboard..

It was still going upto 90+ until someone on here suggested this :

https://www.amazon.co.uk/Ergonomic-Aluminium-Portable-Foldable-Notebook/dp/B007BD16KC/ref=redir_mobile_desktop?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1&ref=yo_pop_d_yo_pop_d_pd_t2

And undervolted at -0.135 seems to have improved temps massively so obviously not ideal that the paste job was obviously pretty poor but oh well. I have been tempted to ring them to get them to replace the paste/pads but i’ll leave it for now

Raise the back of your laptop to get more ventilation. This will help the cooling system to actually do its job. I use something like this on my 17 R4: https://www.amazon.com/Ergonomic-Aluminium-Portable-Foldable-Notebook/dp/B007BD16KC

Results: 10-20C lower temps.

https://www.amazon.com/GeForce-Turbo-Ready-Graphic-TURBO-GTX1070-8G/dp/B01IPVTHL8/ref=sr_1_15?s=pc&ie=UTF8&qid=1469572016&sr=1-15&keywords=gtx+1070


You bought this one correct?

So the temps never get above 70? See I'm torn. This and a hybrid 980ti are around the same price. the 1070 seems more likely to be future-driver supported over the 980 ti. Even if the 980 ti, the hybrid especially, is a cool, bench-marking beast.

Anyways, post your benchmarks(4k witcher 3, fallout 4, whatever else you have or can do) and max temps. I personally don't like the idea of a gpu scraping 80 degrees C. Which this seems like it would do.

I use a laptop cooling pad, specifically this one-Cooling pad

I don't turn on the fans, even though it is an option. The temps are way better when I'm using it.

I just bought the Amazon Basics laptop stand.


https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00WRDS8H0/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_awdb_t1_BmuTAbS4N5BH2

Works well for me.

you will need rubbing alcohol to clean the paste. Then try this

​

https://www.amazon.com/Thermal-Grizzly-Kryonaut-Grease-Paste/dp/B011F7W3LU

EVGA GeForce GTX 1060 GAMING, ACX 2.0 (Single Fan), 6GB GDDR5, DX12 OSD Support (PXOC) 06G-P4-6161-KR https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01IPVSGEC/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_RcK9Bb3TMK5GK

thanks for the suggestion. I've noticed fans get dirty quite easily, so that's a major plus. Does anyone know if these 'vacuums' work on the 15 r2?

I use this one It looks good, metal but still lightweight and I don't bother with the fans.

Edit: not the "Plus" version which is for 19 inch laptops.

Just an FYI, this kit works: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01BNJL8I4/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o02_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

32GB 2400 CL14 for $143.

I actually have that exact one, and have had it for a few years. I ran tests with it when I was running an M17x R1 and M18x R1 (a few years later). I can't find the numbers, but IIRC it resulted in about 10% lower temperatures. It also added a lot to dust build up. Ultimately, I think it is worth it, but I paid a lot less than what it is up for now. Also, with the newer Alienwares, the vents are less segmented so you could probably make do with one that has 1 big fan or 2 smaller ones. On the m17x/m18x with SLI/CFX there were 3 distinct spots for processor and 2 gfx cards.

LINK

+1

I did the same thing.
Here's the one I got. Seems like the price is going up nowadays.

Yes, sorry it is a stand and cooling pad as it is adjustable position.

Kootek Laptop Cooling Pad 12"-17" Cooler Pad Chill Mat 5 Quiet Fans LED Lights and 2 USB 2.0 Ports Adjustable Mounts Laptop Stand Height Angle https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01469DJLM/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_lRKhDb7MRGH8P

Is the one that I got.

any muti fan one will work. i am using this one https://www.amazon.com/Kootek-Laptop-Cooling-Cooler-Adjustable/dp/B01469DJLM

Sorry if i was confusing: i have this evga one https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01IPVSGEC/ref=twister_B01JA2DCKS?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1

So i didnt have to modify anything for this card. And it plays BF4 like i described above. I do have the cd drive still in there

Grab these and you'll be fine

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07H9369Z1

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00NNMB3KS

I had an r4, bought it second hand with bad thermal issues. I put it in the shop to get the fans cleaned, fans oiled, cpu re-thermal pasted and then bought a laptop stand (like this https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B00WRDS8H0/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_vyhhDb3AAWE18)

This worked absolute wonders, I would recommend putting it in the shop to do the above, I’ve made about 7 PCs and consider myself pc savey- but it’s a long process - it even took the pc shop 3 hours to do, only charged me the agreed hour though.

No problem. If you want to upgrade the GPU I would recommend on one that fits the power range of the power brick (Which can be upgraded to the 330 Watt.) This Card fits size wise at 9.5 inches and also for power consumption its less than my GTX 660 that I run in my x51 R1.

I use my amplifier so I don’t have cooling problems... except when I’m on travel. I bought this and it really helps when I’m stuck in a hotel

https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B016PMVM7Q/ref=mp_s_a_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1520716578&sr=8-1-spons&pi=AC_SX236_SY340_QL65&keywords=laptop+cooling+pad&psc=1

I got this one for my 17 r4, works just fine.

Havit HV-F2056 15.6"-17" Laptop... https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00NNMB3KS?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share

It’s a mat I got on Amazon

Havit HV-F2056 15.6"-17" Laptop... https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00NNMB3KS?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share

I got the shelves and brackets at Lowe’s and the laptop stand from amazon. AmazonBasics Ventilated Adjustable Laptop Stand https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00WRDS8H0?ref=yo_pop_ma_swf

I just went with one off amazon that had a lot of buyers.

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00NNMB3KS/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_tai_Hg4ACbCRP35Q4)

I’ve only had it a few days but so far so good.

That makes a lot of sense actually - about it being cheaper likely because it's coming from China. Amazon it is. Do you know which model on Amazon I should be getting? I could find this, but it doesn't look like the 17 R5 is listed as compatible.

I purchased these two items and will use them when the laptop comes. It should be here in 10 days.

​

1. https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B002P5W4RU/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o00_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1
   
2. https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00UYTTMNI/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o00_s01?ie=UTF8&psc=1

I imagine an 18 is preferable for those who have longer gaming sessions. Reviews have shown concern for the heat Alienware laptops produce. Consider a cooling pad; www.Alienwarearena.com forums suggest the Notepal U3.

I use this https://www.amazon.co.uk/Ergonomic-Aluminium-Portable-Foldable-Notebook/dp/B007BD16KC/ref=redir_mobile_desktop?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1&ref=yo_pop_d_yo_pop_d_pd_t2 worth every penny

A laptop stand LINK dropped my GPU temps by 10c, I am running a GTX 1080 and never goes over 61c (Average is 58c)

This one should work:

Dell 330W Replacement AC Adapter for Dell Alienware x51 Desktop, Alienware M18x M18x R1, R2, R3, AM18X-6732BAA, Alienware M18x-0136 W7HP64 , M18X-0143, 100% compatible with P/N: F0K0N, 331-2429, 320-2269, XM3C3, ADP-330AB B, DA330PM111, CN-0XM3C3. https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00CGA5JQM/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_tai_SzeFxb3BZHFGJ

Hello! I in my case if you used a refrigerator, and the difference is quite noticeable, so it is advisable, and now more that comes the hot months (in Spain). I have this basis for a 17 R4: https://www.amazon.es/gp/product/B00ED3WMTC/ref=ox_sc_sfl_title_2?ie=UTF8&psc=1&smid=A31522I6NTHR25

It's a Cooler Master NotePal U3 Plus

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00NNMB3KS/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o00_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

https://smile.amazon.com/HAVIT-HV-F2056-Laptop-Cooler-Cooling/dp/B00NNMB3KS/ref=sr_1_4?s=pc&ie=UTF8&qid=1523203043&sr=1-4&keywords=laptop+cooling+pad

Is your samsung the same as [this one?]
(https://www.amazon.co.uk/Samsung-250GB-850-EVO-SATA/dp/B00TGIVZTW/ref=sr_1_1?s=computers&ie=UTF8&qid=1465499709&sr=1-1&keywords=samsung+850+evo+m.2)

There you go:

https://www.amazon.com/Steklo-Aluminium-Adjustable-Portable-Universal/dp/B00VIZ60QY

Yup. The stand is an aluminum “X” with 4 points of contact (2 at the bottom edge, and 2 at the back corners. Basically “floating” an inch and a half off the desk at the back.

https://www.amazon.ca/Steklo-Aluminium-Adjustable-Portable-Universal/dp/B00VIZ60QY/ref=redir_mobile_desktop?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1&ref=ppx_pop_dt_b_asin_image

I use this, its lowered my temps by over 5-8 celsius and has a ergonomic posture.

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00VIZ60QY/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o00_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

Have you tried one of these

AmazonBasics Ventilated Adjustable Laptop Stand https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00WRDS8H0/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_CuJ3Ab802TJS2

Here is what I use. Decent price too:


https://www.amazon.com/AmazonBasics-Ventilated-Adjustable-Laptop-Stand/dp/B00WRDS8H0?keywords=laptop+stand&qid=1539186449&s=Electronics&sr=1-4&ref=sr_1_4

I use this one. I like and it's sturdy. I have the 15 r3.

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00WRDS8H0/ref=dp_cerb_3

i use this, very cool and basic. also sturdy.

Use this paste
https://www.amazon.com/Thermal-Grizzly-Kryonaut-Grease-Paste/dp/B011F7W3LU/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1493834424&sr=8-1&keywords=kryonaught

The US. Is this correct?
https://www.amazon.com/Thermal-Grizzly-Kryonaut-Grease-Paste/dp/B011F7W3LU

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B011F7W3LU/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o00_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

Is this not the right one?

laptop stand

I'll be trying this out for the 15r3, arrives in a few days

https://www.amazon.com/Tree-New-Bee-Cooling-15-6/dp/B016PMVM7Q/ref=lp_2243862011_1_2?s=pc&ie=UTF8&qid=1500137576&sr=1-2

https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B016PMVM7Q/ref=psdcmw_14770845011_t1_B00NNMB3KS?utm_source=share&utm_medium=ios_app

Is this the 32GB kit that some people are buying - Kingston Hyper-X ?

You can get this below. It's short and it's a 1060. Why did you need a blower type?

https://www.amazon.com/EVGA-GeForce-Support-Graphics-06G-P4-6161-KR/dp/B01IPVSGEC/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1496781549&sr=8-1&keywords=nvidia+1060

this one?
https://www.amazon.com/EVGA-GeForce-Support-Graphics-06G-P4-6163-KR/dp/B01IPVSLTC

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01IPVSLTC/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o02_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

I ended up buying this: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01IPVTHL8/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o00_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

Contacted dell, they said it's compatible.

@ $250 1TB SSD this is a flawless performer.

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01L80DH1Y/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o04_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1


Got this for my AW13 R3 and couldn't be more happier

no undervolting

I first re-pasted with Artic Silver 5 and didn't see any improvements.

Then re-pasted with the below and haven't had issues since.

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B002P5W4RU/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o01_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

Gelid Solutions GC-Extreme Thermal Compound TC-GC-03-A

Don't bother with the 16 GB ram or the 512 GB SSD. It's much cheaper to add them in aftermarket. Dell charges you $100 extra to go from 8 to 16 gigs, but a 32 gig DDR4 kit @2400 mhz is only $140 from Amazon. A single 8 gig stick will set you back only $40.

I personally ordered the 6820HK/1070 stock config, and I'll be adding in ram and hard drive space later.

https://www.amazon.com/Geforce-Turbo-Auto-Extreme-Graphics-TURBO-GTX1060-6G/dp/B01K1JTCZS/ref=sr_1_1?s=electronics&ie=UTF8&qid=1493160796&sr=1-1&keywords=gtx+1060+blower

• this one ain't founders edition but has blower style cooling.. This card should have no issue fitting into the case correct
  
  
• The only think i'm concered about is the base clock on this GPU compared to the mini