Alienware has made a future-proof gaming laptop

Alienware yesterday announced the Alienware 13, its latest gaming laptop, and the Graphics Amplifier, an external module that gives the Alienware 13 access to the power of a desktop-class graphics processor.

The Alienware 13 is a 13-inch gaming laptop boasting an Intel Core i5 processor, NVIDIA GeForce GTX860M graphics processor and a 2560×1440 Quad HD display. While the Alienware 13 has more than reasonable specs for a notebook, it is made unique by its compatibility with the Graphics Amplifier.  The Graphics Amplifier connects to the Alienware 13 via a dedicated PCI Express connection, and houses a desktop-class graphics processor that allows the laptop to offload complex calculations, improving the machine's performance. A user can also plug their monitors directly into the Graphics Amplifier, which also houses four USB 3.0 ports.

The Graphics Amplifier is compatible with both AMD and NVIDIA graphics processors, and users able to replace the graphics processor themselves.

The Alienware 13 and Graphics Amplifier will both be available from November 21 and priced from AUD$1,599 and AUD$349 respectively.

“Until now, gamers have had to make some really hard decisions and compromises when they are looking for their next gaming system. Do you choose the raw power and performance of a desktop, or do you need the portability and battery life to game wherever they choose?” said Frank Azor, General Manager of Alienware. “The Alienware 13 combined with the Alienware Graphics Amplifier enables gamers to choose both, with an amazingly portable and powerful laptop for mobile gaming and then simply plugging into a desktop-class gaming experience when you get home. This is gaming without compromises.”