When comparing Alienware Alpha vs Digital Storm Eclipse, the Slant community recommends Alienware Alpha for most people. In the question“What are the best Steam Machines?” Alienware Alpha is ranked 4th while Digital Storm Eclipse is ranked 12th. The most important reason people chose Alienware Alpha is:
This machine launched before the Steam OS was released which means it is built on the Windows OS. This means all of the games available for Windows are able to be played on the machine. With Windows having a much larger amount of games available over Linux, which is what Steam OS is based on.
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Pros
Pro Windows OS
This machine launched before the Steam OS was released which means it is built on the Windows OS. This means all of the games available for Windows are able to be played on the machine. With Windows having a much larger amount of games available over Linux, which is what Steam OS is based on.
Pro The R2 model
The Alpha had undergone a revision which was later called the R2. This version opened up the possibility to allow you to use Alienware's official Amplifier add on on that could handle desktop quality GPUs, like a GTX 1060, as a way of upgrading what you currently had in your system. It can breath more life into your Alpha. For some odd reason, it feels like when the Sega Genesis had undergone the CD and 32X add on in order to extend it's lifespan. But, with the Amplifier, it isn't attaching itself on top of or underneath the system like the Genesis add ons so it makes for a cleaner look.
Pro Fully upgradable
Another Steam Machine that allows extensive flexibility in upgrades. You have mini ITX options like the power supply and motherboard, you can add two SSD storage units down the line, and you can even fit a desktop quality graphics card in this machine. Pretty impressive.
Pro Matte finish
Some other Steam Machines like glossy finishes that make the system look pretty, but can get fingerprints easily. Luckily, the Eclipse has a matte finish that doesn't stain easily just from touching it.
Pro Fits in anywhere
The Eclipse, like it's fellow Steam Machine brethren, is also a perfect form factor PC that can fit in your living room space or game room alongside your current and past gen consoles.
Cons
Con The R1 model
If you purchased the R1 model you're pretty much screwed in terms of upgrading, or amplifying, the GPU since this machine does not have an amplifier port for you to use the Alienware amplifier and be able to use something like a GTX 1080 or 1070 inside. There is one method that had been shared on youtube but it is a longer process than simply buying the R2 model and then buying the GPU of your choice and their Amplifier.
Con Some UI problems with the controller
Being that this is a Windows OS machine there are some parts of the UI such as the log in screen which are not optimal for controller support. It can be difficult to type in ones password when logging in.
Con A bit on the expensive side
Like the Maingear DRIFT it's base model reaches in the $1000 range from the get go. Plus, with all your choices adding up, it can be tied in a race against the DRIFT as being one of the more expensive options out there for a Steam Machine.
Con Non unique chassis
Even if the chassis is nice, it isn't unique. In fact, you can easily purchase the Silverstone Raven chassis on multiple outlets like Amazon and Superbliz for around $79.99 and can make a cheaper build with that exact chassis. The only things you won't get from building it yourself with that chassis is getting a warranty on the unit and the pretty sweet lightning bolt on the front.
Con No SteamOS
To some, this is a killer. Because, believe it or not, not everyone is a Windows enthusiast. Some love to use Linux for they find it easier, simpler, and they find SteamOS to be the closest OS to match that console feel they're looking for. Plus it's a cheaper alternative to Windows. Unfortunately, Digital Storm does not have that option for this particular system and that sucks to those who love Linux.