The Alienware Area51 Threadripper has long been the stuff of legend among gamers. As Dell’s premier high-performance gaming desktop brand, Alienware has always pushed the limits when it comes to outrageous power packed into unique sci-fi inspired chassis designs. The latest Alienware Area-51 now takes things even further with AMD’s beastly Ryzen Threadripper processors – creating what may be the ultimate AMD gaming desktop available.

Dubbed the Alienware Area51 Threadripper Edition, this new flagship configuration offers everything gamers and power users could want. You get your choice of blisteringly fast Threadripper CPUs with up to 32 cores and 64 threads, paired with top-tier graphics cards like the RTX 3090, blazing fast NVMe SSD storage, and memory configurations up to 128GB. All of this is wrapped in Alienware’s signature triangular curved tower case with fully customizable RGB lighting.

If you’re looking to build the ultimate no-compromises AMD gaming rig, streaming machine, development workstation or content creation powerhouse, the Alienware Area51 Threadripper Edition delivers. It combines record-breaking multithreaded performance with high clock speeds to dominate any task you throw at it. Let’s dive into everything this beast of a desktop has to offer for enthusiasts.

Overview of the Alienware Area51 Threadripper Threadripper

The Alienware Area51 Threadripper represents the pinnacle of prebuilt high-end gaming PCs. This iconic Alienware desktop is powered by AMD’s monster Ryzen Threadripper CPUs to deliver extreme performance.

Alienware’s Gaming Legacy

Alienware is one of the most well-known gaming computer brands that has been specializing in high-performance rigs since 1996. They were bought by Dell in 2006 but continue to produce uniquely styled desktops and laptops built for gaming enthusiasts. The Area-51 line represents their flagship desktops.

Powerful Area-51 Product Line

The Area-51 series is Alienware’s top-of-the-line gaming desktop packed with the latest and greatest components. There are different configurations available based on Intel or AMD processors. The Alienware Area51 Threadripper edition focuses on harnessing the power of AMD’s Ryzen Threadripper workstation CPUs.

AMD Ryzen Threadripper CPU Options

This special edition Alienware Area51 Threadripper comes equipped with up to an AMD Ryzen Threadripper 3990X processor. This has a staggering 64 cores and 128 threads along with 288MB total cache and a 4.3GHz boost clock speed. More affordable options include the 24-core 3960X or 12-core 3960X. Even that 12-core CPU demolishes Intel’s best for core-intensive tasks.

Bleeding Edge Specs When Fully Maxed

Going all out, you can configure an Alienware Area51 Threadripper with up to a 64-core Threadripper 3990X, 128GB of quad-channel RAM, dual NVIDIA RTX 3090 graphics cards in SLI, 10TB of RAID 0 NVMe SSD storage, and a top-tier 1600W power supply. This creates an unrivaled AMD gaming and content creation beast.

Aggressive Alienware Case Design

Housing these beastly specs is Alienware’s uniquely styled chassis. It features a tapered triangular shape with rounded edges, customizable exterior and internal lighting, and a clean black finish. The Alienware Area51 Threadripper definitely stands out from more understated PC cases.

Extensive Lighting Effects and Alien Theme

Part of the Alienware experience is full RGB lighting customization. There are multiple zones located across the exterior and interior that can be controlled through the AlienFX software suite. Tweak colors and effects to match your style or game content.

Ultimate Desktop for Hardcore Gamers

The Alienware Area51 Threadripper clearly targets hardcore gamers wanting the best possible prebuilt AMD gaming desktop. Between the menacing Alienware design, stellar performance, and customization options, it satisfies the needs of performance-obsessed PC enthusiasts.

AMD Ryzen Threadripper Processor Options

One of the biggest selling points of the Alienware Area51 Threadripper is the ability to configure it with one of AMD’s powerful Ryzen Threadripper processors. This section will take a deeper look at the capabilities of these unique CPUs.

Up to 64 Cores and 128 Threads

The flagship 3rd Gen Ryzen Threadripper 3990X offers a staggering 64 cores and 128 threads in a single desktop processor. This is an order of magnitude above mainstream consumer chips. Even the more affordable 24-core 3960X dominates for heavily multi-threaded workloads.

High Clock Speeds Despite Massive Cores

Even with up to 64 cores, the Threadripper 3990X can boost up to 4.3GHz. The additional cores don’t severely hamper clock speeds compared to other CPUs. Combined with the fast DDR4-3200 quad-channel memory, the Threadripper makes quick work of large creative projects.

Giant L3 Cache Size

The full size 3990X CPU has an enormous 288MB of L3 cache to feed its 64 cores. This keeps the cores well fed with data and instructions to operate efficiently. More modest Threadripper options still have sizable cache pools up to 72MB.

Direct Competition to Intel Extreme Edition

AMD positions Threadripper against Intel’s premium Extreme Edition processors for hardcore enthusiasts. In terms of raw multi-core performance, Threadripper thoroughly beats equivalently priced Intel chips. The core counts achieved were unheard of in the consumer space just a few years ago.

Ideal for Gaming Streamers

What makes Threadripper so great for gaming is that it provides the CPU overhead for smoothly running a game while streaming high-quality video to an audience. The extra cores let you multitask without compromising performance.

Extreme Performance Workstation

For creative professionals, Threadripper delivers workstation-grade performance at a fraction of the cost of enterprise hardware. Video editors can render effects and timelines faster than ever. 3D modelers can pound through render jobs in record time with all the extra cores.

In summary, equipping the Alienware Area51 Threadripper with an AMD Ryzen Threadripper CPU gives it unmatched processing power compared to any other gaming desktop on the market.

Hardware Specs and Configuration

Beyond the AMD Ryzen Threadripper CPU, the Alienware Area51 Threadripper packs elite-tier hardware across the board. You can customize the configuration with cutting-edge components selected by Alienware’s experts for ultimate performance.

Memory Up to 128GB Quad-Channel RAM

Equip the Alienware Area51 Threadripper with up to a ludicrous 128GB of quad-channel DDR4 RAM clocked at 3200MHz or higher. Even the base config starts at 16GB and is upgradeable to 256 GB. With Threadripper’s quad DIMM slots per channel, you can build a powerhouse workstation.

Dual Graphics Cards Up to RTX 3090 SLI

This desktop can accommodate not just one, but two of the most powerful GPUs on the market with support for NVIDIA NVLink SLI. Load it up with dual GeForce RTX 3090s to enable high FPS 4K gaming on multiple monitors or 8K on a single monitor. Other options include the RTX 3080 and Radeon RX 6900 XT.

Blazing Fast NVMe SSD Storage

For storage, the Alienware Area51 Threadripper can be configured with up to 10TB of lightning fast NVMe solid state drive storage set up in a blisteringly quick RAID 0 array. The standard 1TB NVMe SSD is no slouch either with read speeds exceeding 3GB/s.

1,600 Watt 80 Plus Platinum PSU

Providing stable power to all the cutting-edge components is an 80 Plus Platinum certified 1,600 watt power supply. This industrial-grade PSU delivers extremely efficient and reliable power even under heavy loads during marathon gaming sessions.

Liquid Cooling Keeps Temps Low

An elaborate closed-loop liquid cooler keeps the high core count Threadripper CPU running frosty. Fans push hot air out the top of the triangular chassis. Liquid cooling on the GPUs is also available for further noise reduction and thermal headroom.

Easy Access for Upgrades

The tool-less chassis is designed for easy component access and upgrades. With just a Phillips screwdriver you can swap memory, storage, or GPUs down the line. Proper cable management ensures neat routing and airflow.

In summary, the Alienware Area51 Threadripper offers extreme flexibility for configuring a supercomputer-level AMD gaming rig with cutting-edge parts that push the limits of performance.

Design, Lighting and Customization

The Alienware Area51 Threadripper sports the company’s iconic angular chassis design with fully customizable lighting effects. This section will examine the unique case style, RGB lighting configuration options, and ways to tailor the look.

Curved Triangular Case

Alienware desktops stand out from the crowd with their distinct curved triangle shape. It’s an aggressive gaming aesthetic accentuated by angular lines, sloping panels, and an illuminated alien head logo up front. The Area-51 houses all the high-end components in this uniquely styled steel and plastic chassis measuring 18.9 x 17 x 8.35 inches. Integrated handles make transporting this heavy desktop easier.

Extensive RGB Lighting Zones

The Alienware Area51 Threadripper takes custom lighting to the extreme. There are 16 individual RGB LED zones located throughout the exterior and interior that owners can control. Accent lighting strips adorn the front, side air intakes, and back panels. Even the Alienware name on the front glows. Use Alienware’s proprietary AlienFX software suite to modify colors, effects, themes, and synchronization across all zones.

Alienware Themes and Effects

Choose from a range of responsive lighting presets and themes that react to inputs and gaming events, like morphing colors when loading a game level. The dark “stealth” theme dims all lighting for a more subtle look. Or make the Area-51 pulse rainbow colors when playing music. Beyond colors, you can also set lighting to respond to GPU or CPU temperature spikes. The possibilities are nearly endless for personalization.

Custom Color Options

Configure the exact colors you want for the chassis lighting, ports, power buttons, and accent panels. Popular schemes include matching your school colors or coordinating colors to the rest of your gaming setup. There are too many combinations to list thanks to the per-zone RGB control. Use Alienware’s Command Center app to fine-tune everything from anywhere.

Premium Materials and Build Quality

The Alienware Area51 Threadripper exhibits exceptional craftsmanship with tight component fit, clean cable routing, and rigid steel construction. Sturdy clear plastic windows provide views of the elaborate liquid cooling system and GPU configuration without compromising dust protection. The overall look screams high-performance gaming.

In summary, the Alienware Area51 Threadripper offers hardcore gamers a level of customization not found on any other off-the-shelf gaming PC. From the uniquely styled case to full RGB lighting control, you can configure an Alienware desktop that matches your preferences and style.

Price, Availability and Warranty

The Alienware Area51 Threadripper commands premium pricing given the top-shelf components and unique design. This section will break down the base costs, price increases for upgrades, purchasing options, and included warranty coverage.

Base Pricing Starts Over $3,000

Even the most basic Alienware Area51 Threadripper model with a 12-core Ryzen 9 CPU, RX 6700 XT GPU, 16GB RAM, and 1TB SSD will cost you over $3,000. Opting for higher core count Threadripper Pro CPUs like the 24-core 3975WX easily pushes the starting price over $4,000. You’ll pay a premium for the brand name, case design, and support.

High-End Configurations Cost $7,000+

Loading up on the best possible components drives the price sky high. Going for a 64-core 3990X CPU, dual RTX 3090 GPUs, 128GB RAM, and 10TB of NVMe SSD storage results in a cost of $7,000 or more. The hardware alone in a maxed out Area-51 Threadripper is over $6,000 retail. Expect to pay even higher when financing through Dell.

Direct from Dell or Other Retailers

Purchase your configured to order Alienware Area51 Threadripper directly from Dell. They offer 0% 12-month financing options to offset the high upfront cost. Alienware desktops are also sold at popular electronics retailers like Best Buy and Amazon. You can often find open box and discounted refurbished models available.

1 Year Hardware Warranty Standard

All new Alienware PCs come with a 1 year limited hardware warranty covering defects and repairs. Extended warranties of up to 5 years are available for purchase to lengthen support but increase the price. Premium Support Plus gives you 24/7 phone access and rapid on-site servicing by technicians for critical issues.

Cost Summary

In summary, the Alienware Area-51 Threadripper commands a premium price between $3,000 on the low end and over $7,000 fully maxed out. You pay for the exotic design, Alienware branding, high-end parts, and warranty support. Evaluate whether those benefits are worth the extra cost of building your own PC.

Should You Buy the Alienware Area51 Threadripper?

The Area-51 Threadripper stands as one of the most powerful prebuilt gaming PCs money can buy. But is it the right choice for you? Here are some guidelines on the type of gamer this desktop is ideally suited for.

Ideal for Threadripper Workstation Users

The biggest reason to grab an Area-51 Threadripper is if you need a professionally focused AMD workstation. Video editors, 3D animators, developers, and other creatives can utilize the immense multi-threaded performance from a 24/32-core Threadripper Pro CPU. You’d spend way more building a similar AMD workstation yourself.

Hardcore Gamers Who Want Top-Tier Power

Serious gamers who want the ultimate power for smooth 4K or high FPS 1440p gaming are prime Area-51 Threadripper buyers. Dual RTX 3090s, PCIe 4.0 SSDs, beefy liquid cooling, and other high-end parts provide an unrivaled gaming experience. Enjoy buttery smooth frame rates in the latest titles.

Those Seeking a Unique Sci-Fi Style

Gamers who appreciate Alienware’s one-of-a-kind triangular chassis and excessive RGB lighting effects will feel right at home with the Area-51. It’s a true conversation starter that shows off your gaming passion. Accessories like branded mice and keyboards complement the aesthetic.

Recommended Specs for Top Performance

I’d recommend at least a 24-core Threadripper CPU, 32GB RAM, 1TB NVMe SSD, and an RTX 3080 Ti or 3090 GPU. This provides excellent 4K gaming performance and responsive Windows desktop usage. Liquid cools the CPU to boost clocks. Add more RAM if running intensive creative apps.

Alternatives from Maingear, Origin PC, NZXT

Other custom PC builders like Maingear, Origin, and NZXT offer similarly high-end configurations and exotic open-frame designs costing several thousand dollars. Each has its own look and approach but can’t match Alienware’s style.

Final Verdict

The Alienware Area51 Threadripper earns a strong recommendation for hardcore gamers wanting a unique high-end prebuilt AMD desktop. Just be prepared to pay a hefty premium over DIY builds to enjoy Alienware’s special sauce.