The Alienware Aurora R16 is designed for gamers who want the small form factor of a laptop without compromising performance. This small gaming device can handle all types of gaming, from fast-paced action games to virtual reality experiences.
With improved cooling and upgradable components, the Aurora R16 offers gamers a lot of power in a small package. In this review, we’ll look at the device’s features and performance to see how well it stands up to other gaming PCs on the market.
Unveiling the Alienware Aurora R16 Gaming Desktop
In search of high-octane gaming performance in a sleek, compact, and cost-effective package? Look no further! The Alienware Aurora R16, an easily upgradable powerhouse, stands head and shoulders above the competition, making it one of the finest gaming PCs we’ve ever tested.
Alienware Aurora R16 Specs
| Processor | Intel Core i7-13700F |
| Memory | 32GB SK Hynix, DDR5-5600 RAM |
| Graphics | OEM GeForce RTX 4070 (12GB GDDR6, 2,475 MHz boost clock) |
| Networking | Intel Wi-Fi 6E AX210, Bluetooth 5.3 |
| Storage | Samsung PM9A1 1TB PCIe NVMe M.2 SSD |
| Rear Ports (Motherboard) | 4x USB 2.0 Type-A, 2x USB 3.2 Gen 1 Type-A, USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-C, USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 Type-C, Ethernet |
| Front Ports | 3.5 mm headphone jack, 3x USB 3.2 Gen 1 Type-A, USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-C |
| Cooling | 2x 120 mm case fans, 240 mm CPU all-in-one liquid cooler |
| Video Output (GPU) | 3x DisplayPort, HDMI |
| Power Supply | 1,000-watt |
| Dimensions | 18.05 x 16.5 x 7.76 inches (458.4 x 418 x 197 mm) |
| Operating System | Windows 11 Pro |
| Motherboard | Alienware 0RF96M (Intel Z690) |
| Price (as Configured) | $1,899.99 |
What we liked about it
Like a Ninja: Compact and Silent
The latest version of the Alienware Aurora R16 has undergone a stunning transformation. While it now boasts a more classic computer look, don’t let its traditional appearance deceive you. With a spacious internal volume of 25.2 liters and a 40% slimmer profile, this gaming beast is perfect for enthusiasts seeking high performance in a compact package.
It’s a veritable space-saver with dimensions of 16.5 by 18.05 by 7.76 inches and a weight just shy of 34 pounds. This is a triumph for the folks at Alienware, who have skillfully engineered a way to shrink the tower size without sacrificing performance. Now, even gamers with the coziest of desks or most compact gaming areas can enjoy top-tier gaming.
This Alienware desktop combines style and functionality with its dynamic RGB logo and versatile connectivity options. With multiple USB ports, including PowerShare technology, and a convenient headphone jack, it’s perfect for immersive gaming sessions. It also features a removable glass panel with a honeycomb design for airflow and a tinted section that offers a glimpse of its powerful components.
This powerful gaming beast has six USB ports, including two speedy USB-C ports, a 2.5Gb Ethernet port, and various audio connections. With three DisplayPort connections and HDMI options provided by the RTX 4070, it leaves no stone unturned when it comes to connectivity. Moreover, it is quiet and runs very cool, thanks to its dedicated cooling system.
Killer Performance and Future-Proof Upgradeability
One of the biggest selling points of the Alienware Aurora R16 is its raw, unrelenting performance. Packing a punch with an Intel Core i7-13700F and OEM GeForce RTX 4070 graphics, this compact titan is ready to tackle any game you throw.
Whether diving into the latest AAA titles or immersing yourself in VR worlds, the Aurora R16 has the horsepower to deliver fluid gameplay and dazzling visuals. Its ultra-fast DDR5-5600 RAM and 1TB NVMe M.2 SSD drive complement this by ensuring rapid load times and seamless multitasking prowess.
What sets the Aurora R16 apart is its impressive upgradeability. The folks at Alienware understand that gaming tech doesn’t stand still, and neither should your PC. With its clever design, the Aurora R16 is built for future enhancements. Whether swapping out the GPU for the latest model or adding more RAM to keep up with increasing game demands, this rig is ready to adapt and evolve.
Extraordinary Gaming and Graphics
The Alienware Aurora R16 delivers an immersive and unparalleled gaming experience that will thrill even the most hardcore gamers. With its powerful GPU – the OEM GeForce RTX 4070 – it delivers nothing short of extraordinary, cinematic-quality graphics. I
Imagine stepping into your favorite game and being blown away by hyper-realistic visuals, intricate details, and smooth-as-silk frame rates. That’s the experience the Aurora R16 delivers.
Whether exploring vast open-world landscapes or engaging in fast-paced multiplayer battles, the Aurora R16 can easily handle it all. Be it the dynamic lighting, the realistic shadows, or the intricate details, the graphics performance of this device will make you feel like you’re right in the middle of the action. Virtual reality gaming is a game-changer, giving you a crystal clear, lag-free experience that feels completely lifelike.
Moreover, the Aurora R16 comes with HDMI and multiple DisplayPort connections, making it easy to set up your ideal gaming station with multiple monitors. You could be commanding armies on one screen, chatting with fellow gamers on another, and keeping an eye on your socials on a third. Moreover, it is affordable compared to similar gaming PCs, making it a great value-for-money option.
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Aspects That Could Use Some Improvement
Need for More RGB Lighting
While the Aurora R16 ticks most of the boxes for an exceptional gaming PC, there is one area where it could further increase its appeal – more RGB lighting. Now, you might think, “Is more lighting really necessary?” But let us assure you when it comes to gaming; additional RGB lighting is not just about aesthetics. It can potentially heighten the gaming experience to a whole new level.
Think about it, with RGB lighting, your gaming rig becomes a dynamic visual spectacle. It adds an element of personalization, allowing you to express your unique gaming style. You can match the lighting to your game’s mood, create immersive light shows, or even coordinate the colors with your gaming setup. This helps create a truly immersive and more enjoyable gaming experience.
Therefore, while the Aurora R16 does have some RGB lighting features, like the dynamic Alienware power button (front panel), RGB fan (rear), and vertical (left side) panel, it could benefit from additional lighting.
MSI Aegis RS Vs. Alienware Aurora R13 Vs. Alienware Aurora R16
| MSI Aegis RS | Alienware Aurora R13 | Alienware Aurora R16 | |
| Processor | Intel Core i7–11700K | Intel Core i7–12700KF | Intel Core i7013700 |
| Geekbench 5 multicore performance | 10,348 | 15,272 | 13,494 |
| Graphics | Nvidia RTX 3080 | Nvidia RTX 3080 | Nvidia RTX 4070 |
| Shadow of the Tomb Raider (1080p, max settings) | 170 fps | 185 fps | 182 fps |
| Dirt 5 (1080p, max settings) | 160 fps | 114 fps | 170 fps |
Final Verdict: The Perfect Compact Gaming Desktop
The Alienware Aurora R16 is an excellent choice for gamers looking for a compact gaming rig that packs a serious punch. With its powerhouse performance, stylish looks, and great upgradeability options, this desktop is one of the best small-form-factor PCs.
Moreover, its designed enclosure offers superior cooling and quiet operation. And its impressive connectivity options make it even more versatile. With the Aurora R16, you can easily create an immersive gaming station with multiple monitors or take full advantage of virtual reality gaming at home.
So, if you’re looking for a capable PC that won’t take up much space on your desk, then the Alienware Aurora R16 is the perfect choice. With its power, style, and affordability combination, you’ll get more than your money’s worth.
