The Alienware X51 is an attractively compact gaming desktop and a powerful entry point into VR gaming.

The Alienware X51 R3 packs a powerful Intel Skylake processor and Nvidia graphics into a compact gaming desktop, but the graphics amp makes it future-proof.

While most systems we test are decked out with every possible upgrade, the X51’s modest GTX 960, Intel Core i5, and PCIe solid state drive show there’s value in mid-range rigs.

Under both idle and load conditions, the Alienware X51 R3, thanks to its power friendly combination of Skylake (the Core i7-6700K) and Maxwell (the GeForce GTX 960), virtually sips power.

Well, Alienware is back with its third-generation model, putting more pep into the X51’s stride. The most obvious update to the R3 version is Intel’s 6th-gen Core i7-6700K Skylake chip inside.

The new Alienware X51 R3 is now available for purchase, with more configurations coming later this year. And since this is Alienware we're talking about, don't be surprised that prices start at ...

The Alienware X51 R3 features a slew of attractive upgrades, but it still doesn't make much sense as a purchase unless you're specifically after a smaller gaming PC.

The new Alienware X51 R3 shown at the Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas has enough power to run the Oculus Rift.

Alienware has a long standing reputation for making behemoth gaming PCs and laptops, such as the excellent Aurora R3 and the outstanding M11X.

The Alienware X51 proves that big things can come in small packages, offering excellent gaming performance in a slim chassis.

Alienware calls their new machine simply the X51 R3, as it's the third revision of the product -- and here it is, in the flesh. #PCMasterRace - Consoles wish they had the chops.

The Alienware X51 crunches the power of a full-size gaming rig into the size of a console, providing top-notch graphics in a living-room-friendly package.