/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_asset/file/24827380/Main.png "Alienware’s Upcoming Aurora R16 Desktop: A 40% Smaller Build with Minimal Plastic Usage")
Alienware has taken into account the feedback it received regarding its prebuilt Aurora desktop PC, especially in terms of cooling. The new Alienware Aurora R16 has been designed with a focus on addressing this issue, to the extent that the company has largely abandoned its distinctive futuristic appearance.
The new Aurora R16 retains the same basic steel chassis as its predecessor, with 25.2 liters of space for components. However, the new boxy design eliminates several pounds of plastic, resulting in a 40 percent reduction in total volume, from 60.7 liters to 36 liters. Alienware stated that this move was specifically aimed at improving airflow.
As a result, the Aurora R16 boasts a CPU temperature reduction of up to 10 percent and a GPU temperature reduction of up to 6 percent. Additionally, the system operates 20 percent more quietly compared to previous models. According to Eddy Goyanes, a long-time Alienware employee, it is the quietest Aurora ever built.
The new PC features the “Stadium Loop,” a large looped vent design on both sides of the front of the rig, with a 120mm intake fan located behind them. The window-side of the loop is adorned with 44 LEDs for lighting. The chassis also includes hexagonal vents on the side, which likely serve as air intakes or exhausts depending on the GPU configuration.
The Aurora R16 comes standard with Intel AX210 Wi-Fi 6E, a 500W 80+ Platinum power supply, and two memory slots and two M.2 SSD slots supporting up to 64GB DDR5-5600 RAM and 8TB PCIe Gen 4 storage. There is also space to accommodate a 3.5mm spinning hard drive. An optional 1000W 80+ Platinum power supply is available depending on the CPU and GPU configurations.
The chassis weighs 33.8 pounds and offers various ports, including USB-C, USB-A, 3.5mm headset, USB 2.0, ethernet, and audio output options.
The Alienware Aurora R16 is available in the US starting at $1,750 with an air-cooled Core i7 13700F and Nvidia RTX 4070 graphics. Upgraded GPU options are currently limited in the US, with Asia and Europe having additional choices. Alienware plans to release a more powerful desktop version by the end of the year.
However, upgradability is limited in this new model, as the power supply and Z690 motherboard remain proprietary. According to Alienware lead Matt McGowan, this decision was driven by efficiency and time constraints. The company may consider upgradability in future models but has not made any promises. Additionally, Alienware has not provided any information regarding the availability of an AMD version of the R16.