When comparing Alienware Alpha vs ASUS Vivopc X, the Slant community recommends Alienware Alpha for most people. In the question“What are the best Steam Machines?” Alienware Alpha is ranked 4th while ASUS Vivopc X is ranked 11th. 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.
Specs
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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 VR Ready
With the specs it has inside, this baby can play decently with some VR titles and there is even a limited time offer on Oculus bundles with this thing.
Pro Sleek looking design
It fits in well with your living room setup and is pretty subtle about it. Not too bulky and not too tiny. Just right.
Pro Price is nice
For $800, you're getting some pretty decent specs that can run your latest games in decent resolution. Not too bad ASUS.
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 Not upgradable
If you plan on buying this, be sure to get another computer after it had served its use because this baby isn't upgradable internally or externally with any amplifier's help. If you want any sort of upgrade, be sure to let an ASUS technician know about your requests. Other than that being your upgrade option, that is all you have to look forward to.