Acer Predator Helios 300 vs Dell Alienware X17 R2

The Dell Alienware X17 R2 is ranked higher for general use compared to the Acer Predator Helios 300 due to its more powerful CPU and double the RAM, which contribute to faster and smoother performance. Additionally, the Alienware offers better screen quality, speaker quality and heat management, but it is less portable and offers shorter battery life than the Acer.

The Acer Predator Helios 300 offers a solid gaming performance with a capable GPU and high screen refresh rate which is critical for smooth visuals in fast-paced games. However, the Dell Alienware X17 R2 boasts a higher-tier GPU and equally impressive screen refresh rate, offering sharper graphics and more fluid gameplay, although at a higher price point and possibly with less portability due to its larger size.

The Acer Predator Helios 300, with a robust Intel i7 processor, Nvidia RTX 3060 graphics, and a high-quality IPS display, offers dependable performance for engineering and design tasks, favored for its slightly better portability and good keyboard quality. However, the Dell Alienware X17 R2, equipped with a more powerful Intel i9 processor, top-tier Nvidia RTX 3080 Ti graphics, more RAM, and exceptional screen brightness for greater detail and color accuracy, is regarded as very good for engineering and design use, though it is less portable and commands a higher price.

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.

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.

For general use, the screen quality is determined by how clear and vivid the image is, where both the Acer Predator Helios 300 and Dell Alienware X17 R2 offer high resolution and brightness, making text and images sharp and easy to see. For engineering and design tasks, accurate colors are crucial, and both laptops provide wide color gamuts ensuring precision in color-sensitive work, although differences in color accuracy might favor the Alienware. However, for gaming and 3D applications where smooth motion is key, the refresh rate, which dictates how quickly the screen updates, is lower on both models affecting the fluidity of fast-paced visuals.

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.