Just like those who infiltrated top-secret government facilities back in 2019, Alienware is making a swift return to Area 51, using Naruto’s signature style. The brand, which is under Dell’s ownership, is presenting long-term enthusiasts a shot at reveling in the nostalgic vibe—but to a certain extent. The freshly-released Area-51 laptop has the look, showcasing softened edges and RGB mood illumination reminiscent of Alienware’s vintage style. On the flip side, the Area-51 desktop aligns more closely with its present-day, more pragmatic form. Yet—this time—it’s exceptionally, exceptionally large.

The latest models measuring 16 and 18 inches in the Area 51 series serve as the larger counterparts of the m16 R2 and m18 R2 from 2024. They provide an option between an Intel Core Ultra 7 255HX or a Core Ultra 9 275HX, alongside Nvidia’s 50-series graphics processors. Additional setups are available up to 64 GB of DDR5 RAM (32 GB offers DDR5XMP at 7200 MT/s). The notebook endorses an impressive 175W of TGP, potentially required to accommodate the high-end 50-series graphics processing units. We are yet to evaluate the newest gaming solutions from Intel and Nvidia for laptops, yet your primary interest here is the design. There is a petite transparent section on the base to view a few of the internal parts.

Prior to CES, I didn’t have the opportunity to “operate” the Area-51 laptops in any substantive manner, though tapping their keys equipped with CherryMX mechanical switches brought back memories of older gaming laptops sporting complete mechanical keyboards. The typing experience was uncharacteristically delightful and something I hadn’t encountered on a laptop in quite some time, which alone generates excitement for further testing. Both laptops offer a QHD+ resolution (2,560 by 1600) IPS LCD display with a refresh rate of up to 240 Hz for visuals.

The starting price for the Area-51 laptops will hover close to $2,000, while configurations carrying the top-tier 50-series cards are expected to begin at $3,200. They are likely to become available around the beginning of 2025, with additional configuration variants to be introduced later.

For some time now, Alienware has been reshaping its design philosophy. The recent Aurora R16 desktop, which possesses a more ordinary appearance compared to previous sci-fi styles, is a prime illustration. The fresh Area-51 incorporates this identical design, featuring the RGB loop and rounded, square chassis. The casing is voluminous, and photographs fail to convey its considerable dimensions accurately. It is specifically designed to accommodate Nvidia’s 50-series GPUs, incorporating a sliding rack to stabilize large graphics cards with lengths reaching up to 450mm. The tower is sufficiently sizable to accommodate potential future expansion with larger cards. Corresponding to its dimensions is its hefty price. The new desktop model is anticipated to appear in the marketplace during the first quarter of 2025, with initial prices set to start at $4,500.

Measuring 24 by 9 by 22 inches, the case is a considerable size. To support the demands of cutting-edge Nvidia GPUs, Area-51 is equipped with either a robust 850W 80 Plus Gold PSU or an even more powerful 1500W 80 Plus Platinum PSU. Adjacent to this power unit is a cradle built to accommodate additional drives beyond the integrated SSD storage. The Area-51 affords extra space if you have a previous drive you wish to integrate into your system.

A key aspect of the Area-51 is the functionality of its “positive pressure airflow” cooling system. Typically, case fans draw in cooler outside air and dispel it via exit fans. In this setup, all fans aim inward, allowing heat to escape passively through back vents—an exhaust fan isn’t necessary. This method, utilized for years, purportedly enhances graphics card cooling compared to conventional configurations. Alienware asserts this new tower is 13% cooler than traditional fan configurations while maintaining lower noise levels.

Gizmodo is featuring all the most exhilarating and peculiar technology from the exhibition floor at CES 2025 in Las Vegas. Stay tuned to our real-time reporting here.