Alienware 17 GTX970M alternatives

[Luggs]

Hey everyone,

Friend of mine is fairly set on getting the Alienware 17 GTX970M (base model circa £1,300) with a view to then buying this Alienware Graphics Amplifier at a later date for boosting performance whilst at home.

Firstly, I'm not a fan of Alieware, so recognise I am biased here and secondly, I can't quite get my head around this Amp? You wouldn't want to lug that around with you when travelling? So why not buy higher spec laptop for combined value?

I have tried to find some alternatives and have come up with GIGABYTE P37W v3-CF1 and the MSI GS60 2QE-247UK, though the MSI is only 15.6" screen so he will probably discount that.

Anyone using the Alienware + Amp? Anyone have any views on this? What would you buy for £1,300 - £1,500ish budget?

Really appreciate any suggestions guys.
Thanks,

 

[Luggs]

Yeah he needs something portable as he travels around. I've mentioned small form factor desktops but he prefers a laptop. I think over time he plans to get monitor and amp etc to build up a good home system but with the flexibility to take the laptop with him when travelling.

Thanks for suggestion on the GS30, I'll take a look. I don't think battery life will be an issue as he will mostly have access to power from what I understand...

I noticed the GS60 has the 980 card, so guess you compromised between gpu and screen size?

It's the amp that I'm not sure about. Do they really offer future upgradeability or are they a gimmick?