Alienware vs XPS......

OK folks, here is a puzzler.....since I can get the exact same components, down to the mfg, ect. Why would I want to spend extra for the Alienware vs XPS? The lights? The only difference I can fathom is the cooling configuration, perhaps better fans/airflow slots? Is mobo same as well, assuming all else is confirmed the same? Please point out differences....
I am not a heavy gamer, so perhaps XPS is the way to go? (hey, its not a total bail on Alienware, the cash stays inhouse

 

I assume this is m15x vs XPS 15.I'm not so knowledgeable on this stuff but i had a little play and XPS graphics card is worse.(thought no problem for you)
And i think a fully spec'd 15X is stronger than a fully spec'd XPS 15.

I don't know about the mobo's sorry but the alienware's are well built and have great airflow, easy to upgrade in the future too and the lights are cool
I'm finding it a bit hard to answer you, i think if you posted both specs that would be easier....for me at least

 

M15x same specs = better cooling, pretty lights, heavier, no wide screen.
Thats all, I would get XPS just because it has amazing speakers and for everyday use, I prefer widescreen.

 

I don't know a lot about the latest XPS systems, but some points which I think are different... the M15x has:

-5.1 surround output via 3 stereo jacks

-easy accesible parts in case you want to upgrade something yourself

-a really great screen compared to other systems (in my opinion... I have the 1080p)

-Premium support (next business day service)

-you already mentioned the lights, the design in general is unique

-build quality is superb imo



It really depends on your needs... the M15x is a powerful system, even a lower-end configuration will do a great job.


Edit:

Well, not exactly the same parts... take a look at the GPU for example. But since you're not a heavy gamer it probably won't matter anyway.

 

Wait, no widescreen, what are you talking about? Last time I checked my M15x still had the 1080p screen...

 

The XPS I am looking at: I-740,Navidia GeForce GT445 8G ram@1333mhz, 256 SSD, bluetooth, advanced-n card, 2.0 webcam, backlit keyboard, HD 900 display, facial recognition, Win7 Ultimate, 9 cell battery, 2x USB, ect, and superior sound vs Alienware.
All this for $400.00 less than M15X that has Ati 5730 card and lesser battery, no facial recognition (no big deal either way here...) same CPU and SSD.
Anybody see value here?

 

Just to specify.. the m15x does have facial recogniton (mine has anyway)...

 

vs. threads need to be posted in this area of NBR - see the stickies before posting:

http://forum.notebookreview.com/what-notebook-should-i-buy/