You may be able to go a couple of steps up in GPU, but no way to the 2000 series.
CPU is limited to the 4th generation Haswell models - no way to the 9th generation. There are a couple of faster CPUs than what you have, but they're going to be small-step upgrades even if you can use them - probably not worth the cost. Even used they're around or over $300 -- and that's for a very small upgrade.
For upgradability, yes a desktop is a better choice. And for the ultimate in upgradability look for something built with standard parts - from one of the boutique sellers that use standard cases, mainboards, power supplies, etc. That will leave out the Inspiron/G-series/XPS (many proprietary components). And while the Alienware desktops are generally more upgradable, there are still issues you'll face -- and at the price point where these sell, a home build or a true custom standard build can be a compelling option.
You already have one of the best CPU's available for that laptop. The only upgrade would be to the 4930MX or 4940MX. These are unlocked CPU's for people who want to push overclocking. Your CPU can be overclocked in the BIOS but I would not suggest doing this unless you know what you're doing.
The GPU can be upgraded though but it depends how much you want to invest in the old girl. It's best if you have 120Hz 3D display but upgrades are still possible with the 60Hz display. A GTX 1060 or 1070 is usually recommended and will be a big boost from the 880M. There has been some success with the Quadro RTX 3000 and 5000 cards but they have been too expensive for more people to test. A few others had tested the Clevo RTX cards with no success but @Alienware Area-51 ALX 2006 apparently got the Clevo RTX 2080 to work in his 18 so maybe have a chat with him.
Unfortunately the 17 R1 never came with the Graphic Amp port.
ejn63
10 Elder
•
30.7K Posts
0
October 28th, 2020 04:00
You may be able to go a couple of steps up in GPU, but no way to the 2000 series.
CPU is limited to the 4th generation Haswell models - no way to the 9th generation. There are a couple of faster CPUs than what you have, but they're going to be small-step upgrades even if you can use them - probably not worth the cost. Even used they're around or over $300 -- and that's for a very small upgrade.
For upgradability, yes a desktop is a better choice. And for the ultimate in upgradability look for something built with standard parts - from one of the boutique sellers that use standard cases, mainboards, power supplies, etc. That will leave out the Inspiron/G-series/XPS (many proprietary components). And while the Alienware desktops are generally more upgradable, there are still issues you'll face -- and at the price point where these sell, a home build or a true custom standard build can be a compelling option.
mattyb3
5 Practitioner
•
1.7K Posts
0
October 28th, 2020 14:00
You already have one of the best CPU's available for that laptop. The only upgrade would be to the 4930MX or 4940MX. These are unlocked CPU's for people who want to push overclocking. Your CPU can be overclocked in the BIOS but I would not suggest doing this unless you know what you're doing.
The GPU can be upgraded though but it depends how much you want to invest in the old girl. It's best if you have 120Hz 3D display but upgrades are still possible with the 60Hz display. A GTX 1060 or 1070 is usually recommended and will be a big boost from the 880M. There has been some success with the Quadro RTX 3000 and 5000 cards but they have been too expensive for more people to test. A few others had tested the Clevo RTX cards with no success but @Alienware Area-51 ALX 2006 apparently got the Clevo RTX 2080 to work in his 18 so maybe have a chat with him.
Unfortunately the 17 R1 never came with the Graphic Amp port.
DELL-Chris M
Community Manager
•
56.9K Posts
0
October 29th, 2020 07:00
FYI
Alienware Laptops Forum search = 17 R1, possible upgrades