Alienware - Aurora R7 Gaming Desktop - Intel Core i7-8700 - 16GB Memory - NVIDIA GTX 1080 - 2TB HDD + Intel Optane Memory - Epic Silver
Model: AWAUR7-7982SLV-PUS
SKU: 6155309
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I have always purchased the less expensive desktop computers, then upgraded everything from the power supply, to the memory, to the video card. My Best Buy had this Alienware in stock, and since I had always wanted one, I gave it a shot. This machine is a beast! It handles everything. I added the LG Freesync monitor and it handles every game I have tossed at it with ease. It is quiet, has not gotten hot at all, functions as my main desktop as well, and the thing just looks cool. I do not like the Optane memory and will be adding an SSD drive instead. That's not a complaint, just a preference. If you have been wondering if Optane is faster than SSD, it is not.
Posted by dave2156
I've long been skeptical of pre-built gaming PCs. Too many of them are overpriced, unattractive, and can't be easily upgraded. But the Alienware Aurora is entirely different. It's sleek, highly customizable, and has handled everything I've thrown at it with ease. If you want a PC that can handle high-resolution gaming, VR, and pretty much any other graphics-intensive task there is, this Aurora R7 configuration deserves your attention. PROS: - Awesome futuristic design. With sleek silver panels and LED lights on the front and sides, it's easily one of the most attractive gaming desktops. There is a sturdy handle atop the computer that makes it easy to move around. The LED lights are easily configured via the pre-installed Command Center app. You can choose from an almost limitless amount of colors and even a unique color for each side if you'd like. - Tons of ports - probably more than you'll ever need. I counted 10 USB ports on the back and three more on the front. There are also a couple of USB-C ports for newer devices. Other ports include an optical out, Ethernet, multiple DisplayPort connections, and the standard headphone and microphone jacks. You'll be able to connect multiple monitors, external drives, etc., with no problem. The USB ports on the front are especially convenient and easy to access. - Super easy to upgrade. The side panel comes off with a quick press of a button. The graphics card, RAM, hard drive, and power supply can all be removed without using any tools. There are two open bays for 2.5" solid state drives and two open memory slots supporting up to 64GB of RAM. - Incredible gaming performance at high resolutions such as 2560 x 1440 (QHD). Rise of the Tomb Raider (high settings): 80+ FPS. Rocket League: 175+ FPS. Far Cry 5: 80+ FPS. Destiny 2: 90+ FPS. You get the idea. This machine will handle any game you throw at it. I wasn't able to test with a 4K resolution, but I'd imagine there would be a noticeable hit to performance. But for 1080p or 1440p gaming, the included GTX 1080 is the sweet spot. - The i7-8700 processor and 16GB of RAM make this machine a beast for other intensive tasks as well. Dozens of browser tabs open while downloading a 50GB game and exporting a 4K video from Premier Pro? No problem. This computer is a total workhorse and is ready to handle practically any multitasking situation. - Surprisingly quiet. Even while running all of the games mentioned above, fan noise was never an issue. You can easily see fan and thermal status using the included Alienware software. CONS: - There is some bloatware included, but thankfully it's minimal. Games like Candy Crush and Disney Magic Kingdoms were the first things I uninstalled. - Intel Optane Memory provides a nice boost to drive speed, but it still pales in comparison to a real solid state drive. One of my first upgrades will be to replace the Optane memory with an NVMe SSD. - The included 460W power supply is sufficient for the default configuration, but leaves little room for major upgrades in the future. If you want to add a second graphics card or max out the amount of drives in the system, you'll likely have to upgrade the power supply as well. - No Blu-ray drive. A DVD drive is included, but at this price, a Blu-ray drive should be standard. Luckily it's a fairly cheap and easy upgrade. - A mouse and keyboard are included, but they are fairly basic. I purchased the Alienware Pro Gaming keyboard which integrates perfectly with the Alienware Command Center and matches the same LED lighting that I choose for the computer. OVERALL: This is by far the most capable and customizable computer I've ever owned. This particular configuration of the Aurora R7 should satisfy all but the most hardcore of gamers. I wish Dell wouldn't have skimped on the power supply wattage and optical drive, but that's hardly a deal-breaker. The machine is a perfect mix of design, performance, and upgradability with many years of life ahead of it. Highly recommended!
Posted by ryanmcv
I was quite pleasantly surprised on how fast this computer can perform my daily work using Adobe software. Mostly Photoshop and After Effects. I added 16gb more for a total of 32gb of DDR4 3200mhz and a 500gb SSD drive. I couldn't be happier. I'm not much of a gamer, but if I was, this machine would handle it with a breeze. Go out and get this computer you'll be quite happy.
Posted by Lamac23
The vast majority of our reviews come from verified purchases. Reviews from customers may include My Best Buy members, employees, and Tech Insider Network members (as tagged). Select reviewers may receive discounted products, promotional considerations or entries into drawings for honest, helpful reviews.
Customers are impressed with the Aurora R7's performance and graphics card, frequently citing its speed and ability to handle demanding games and VR applications. Positive feedback also highlights the quiet operation and good value for the price. While some users noted concerns about the power supply's limitations and the included Optane memory, the overall experience was largely positive.