New Gadget 2011

GAMING PC MAKER Alienware has launched its X51 compact desktop PC for gamers who are short of space.

The Alienware X51 is designed to give consumers a powerful machine capable of high-end gaming without compromising on size. Alienware said the X51 is its smallest ever gaming desktop.

Alienware VP Arthur Lewis said, "The Alienware X51 allows us to bring the exciting nature of high-definition, immersive gaming within reach of more gamers than ever before,"

"With the X51, we've expanded our gaming desktop offering to cater to all gamers in addition to our core enthusiast and competitive gamers. Now everyone can enjoy the latest games on a sleek, powerful, compact and customisable system. The X51 desktop delivers an incredible feature set for its size and price."

The case is certainly compact, especially when sat next to the Alienware Aurora that the company launched last month. Design-wise the X51 doesn't look too dissimilar to the Xbox 360, not a bad thing in our eyes.

Prices start at �699, which will get you an Intel Core i3 processor, 4GB of RAM, a 1GB Nvidia Geforce GT545 graphics card and a 1TB hard drive. According to the firm this setup delivers an average frame rate of 34fps in Battlefield 3 with high settings and HD 1080p resolution.

If you fancy splashing out a bit more cash then you can opt for an Intel Core i5 or Core i7 chip, up to 8GB of RAM and an Nvidia Geforce GTX555 graphics card.

Other specifications include Windows 7 Home Premium, a DVD burner, WiFi, USB 2.0 and 3.0 ports, an HDMI 1.4 port and internal high definition 7.1 audio.