Alienware Gaming Laptop 16 2.5K Display, Intel Core 7-240H, 16 GB DDR5 RAM, 1 TB

Introduction

The Alienware Gaming Laptop 16 2.5K Display, Intel Core 7-240H, 16 GB DDR5 RAM, 1 TB is a budget-friendly laptop designed for students and casual users who need a portable device for basic computing tasks. With its compact 14-inch Full HD display, included Microsoft Office 365, and attractive pink finish, it targets users looking for an affordable entry point into portable computing. While it won't replace a professional workstation for serious illustration work, it can handle light design tasks and everyday computing at a very accessible price point of £1,049.00.

Performance & Build Quality

Drawing Performance: The Intel Celeron N4500 processor and 4GB RAM configuration means this laptop is best suited for light illustration work. It can handle basic tasks in programs like Krita, GIMP, or simple vector work in Inkscape, but don't expect smooth performance with Adobe Creative Suite or complex multi-layer projects. The 128GB eMMC storage is adequate for documents and small project files, though you'll likely need external storage or cloud solutions for larger illustration libraries. For digital artists, this laptop works best for sketching, note-taking with a stylus (if you add one), or editing photos on the go. It's not designed for professional illustration work but serves well as a secondary device or for students just starting out.

Build Quality: The plastic construction keeps the weight down and the price low, but it doesn't feel as premium as metal-bodied laptops. The pink finish is eye-catching and well-executed, though the build quality is functional rather than luxurious. It's sturdy enough for daily use but requires careful handling - this isn't a laptop you'd want to toss in a bag without protection.

Ergonomics & Comfort

Workspace Comfort: The 14-inch Full HD (1920x1080) display offers decent screen real estate for basic work, though professional illustrators will find it cramped for detailed projects. The display quality is acceptable for the price - colours are reasonably accurate for casual use, but don't expect the colour gamut needed for professional colour work. The keyboard is comfortable for typing, with decent key travel, though the trackpad is small and basic. The compact size (approximately 1.3kg) makes it highly portable - perfect for students moving between classes or casual users who want to work from cafes.

Battery Life: ASUS claims up to 12 hours of battery life, though real-world usage typically delivers 6-8 hours with mixed tasks. This is respectable for a budget laptop and sufficient for a day of classes or light work sessions.

Features & Compatibility

Key Features: • Windows 11 S Mode (can be switched to full Windows 11 for free) • Microsoft Office 365 included (1-year subscription) • USB-C port for modern connectivity • HDMI output for external displays • Wi-Fi 5 and Bluetooth 4.1 • Built-in webcam and microphone for video calls

Compatibility: The Vivobook 14 runs Windows 11, giving you access to the full range of Windows illustration software. However, the limited RAM and processor mean you'll want to stick with lighter applications. It works well with web-based design tools like Canva, Figma, or Adobe Express, and can handle basic photo editing in programs like Paint.NET or Photopea.

Value for Money

At £1,049.00, the Alienware Gaming Laptop 16 2.5K Display, Intel Core 7-240H, 16 GB DDR5 RAM, 1 TB represents excellent value for students and casual users who need a portable computer for basic tasks. The inclusion of Office 365 adds significant value, as does the Full HD display at this price point. However, it's important to set realistic expectations. This is not a laptop for professional illustrators or designers who need to run Adobe Creative Suite smoothly. It's best suited for: • Students needing a laptop for note-taking, essays, and light creative work • Casual users wanting a secondary device for browsing and basic tasks • Budget-conscious buyers who need Office applications • Anyone starting to explore digital art with free or lightweight software For serious illustration work, you'd need to invest in a more powerful machine, but as an entry-level or supplementary device, it offers solid value.