Alienware M17x good all-rounder?

I would personally say no because Alienware is overpriced. Its like buying Nike shoes when WalMart has the same ones for 1/4 the price. You can build or find another laptop with the same specs and I guarantee it will be cheaper. It might not look as cool on the outside but you can even find laptops designed for gaming with good cooling that are still cool looking and cheaper. Its a matter of personal preference. I would recommend stores however I live in Canada and I doubt you have any of the stores that I have near you. You should just do a little research around your area and look at laptops with the same specs and compare prices.