Acer Nitro 5 15 vs Dell Alienware X17 R2

The Dell Alienware X17 R2 is rated better for general use than the Acer Nitro 5 15 as it comes with a more powerful CPU and double the memory, which significantly enhances multitasking and application performance; it also offers better screen quality with higher brightness and color coverage, though it is less portable due to its larger size and heavier weight. On the other hand, while the Acer Nitro 5 15 has a lower-performance CPU and less memory, this also contributes to its lighter weight and slightly better battery life, making it more suitable for those who prioritize portability and longer usage away from a power source.

The Dell Alienware X17 R2 provides superior gaming and 3D performance largely due to its more powerful Nvidia RTX 3080 Ti graphics processor and a screen with a much higher refresh rate of 480Hz, compared to the Acer Nitro 5 15's Nvidia RTX 4050 GPU and 144Hz screen. While both laptops have high-quality IPS displays, the increased refresh rate and advanced GPU on the Alienware will result in smoother visuals and better handling of graphically intensive tasks.

The Acer Nitro 5 15 is equipped with moderate specs including a mid-tier i5 processor and RTX 4050 graphics, which makes it suitable for some engineering and design applications, but the Dell Alienware X17 R2 surpasses it with a top-of-the-line i9 CPU, superior RTX 3080 Ti GPU, and more RAM, providing significantly enhanced performance across all engineering and design tasks. While the Nitro 5 is lighter and thus more portable, the Alienware's larger screen and higher screen quality improve the visual experience for detailed work despite being less convenient to transport.

PerfectRec’s Content Creation Score takes into account the many different features of the laptop that make it more or less suitable for photo editing, video editing and other content creation tasks.

If you prioritize a sharp and bright display for everyday tasks like browsing and watching videos, both the Acer Nitro 5 15 and Dell Alienware X17 R2 offer displays that fit the bill, with the Alienware having an edge in overall quality. For professionals in engineering and design who need accurate colors for their work, the Alienware's ability to cover a wider range of the color spectrum makes it a better fit. On the other hand, for those into gaming and 3D work where smooth motion is key, the lower refresh rate of both laptops' screens may not deliver the best experience, where alternatives with higher refresh rate screens would be more appropriate.

Battery life estimate is based on a mix of common use patterns. More portable and higher performing laptops tend to have less battery life.

PerfectRec’s Build Quality Score incorporates case materials, display and keyboard flex, hinge quality, and overall reliability.

PerfectRec’s Software Development Score takes into account the many different features of the laptop that make it more or less suitable for software developers.