Alienware Alpha as PC

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bbunnys

321 posts

Ultimate Geek

#171542 22-Apr-2015 12:09

Im looking at getting a new PC to plug into my TV. Mainly for video and web surfing.

I see Alienware have released the Alpha which is designed for light gaming and seems ok for the price compared to building a NUC.
I see it has Windows 8.1 but can you run it in desktop mode like a real PC or is it locked into Steam OS for gaming. Just most reviews mention gaming etc. Nothing about just using it as a PC.

richms

28172 posts

Uber Geek

Trusted

Lifetime subscriber

#1289199 22-Apr-2015 12:15

Dont overlook the Pipo X7 or any of the other similar priced and specced baytrail based PC's. I have one X7 that I am using on the garage TV as a music player and youtube watcher etc since I have given up on the TV youtube client that the fireTV and PS3 use as it will not show more than 100 subscriptions whereas the web shows them all.

Richard rich.ms

Inphinity

2780 posts

Uber Geek

#1289251 22-Apr-2015 12:56

The Alpha runs Windows 8.1, so it has full desktop features. I've never seen any official mention of it coming with SteamOS instead, but I'm sure you could put it on if you wanted, as it's essentially a debian-based linux distro.

littleheaven

2130 posts

Uber Geek

#1289371 22-Apr-2015 14:23

I quote their site:

"It's your choice: Whether you want a console gaming experience with an included Xbox controller, or a keyboard/mouse combination in desktop mode, you can game the way you want on the big screen in 1080p Full HD beauty."

You can choose to boot into the Steam UI or into Windows. Looks like it would be a really good media box - with the 4GB RAM and the dedicated 2GB graphics. Now I want one too. I was holding out for the HP Stream Mini but this one has the added advantages of more power, and not looking like a Tupperware lunch box.

Geek girl. Freelance copywriter and editor at Unmistakable.co.nz.