Something big is coming: a new teaser video posted on Twitter by Alienware (opens in new tab) almost certainly mentions a new 18-inch laptop. Meanwhile, Razer is also rumored to be planning its own 18"; "In 2023, 18" could be the new 17"" It sure looks that way.

Alienware last sold an 18-inch model in 2015, which is not an unprecedented form factor. However, much has changed since then, from screen technology to CPU and GPU performance.

The last 18-inch model, the eponymous Alienware 18 (opens in new tab), was an absolute monster with dual GPUs. However, it only ran in 1080p, had a DVD writer, weighed 5.5 kg, and had a screen bezel almost as wide as the Panama Canal.

It was a machine from an entirely different era.

At this early stage, there was absolutely no indication as to the specifications of the new Alienware 18. However, with Nvidia announcing a new GPU (open in new tab) at CES within a month, it is certain that the graphics power of the RTX 40 series will be under the hood.

Intel's upcoming 13th generation mobile CPUs are also likely to make an appearance. The big question, therefore, is whether Alienware will stick with the ultra-heavy design of the previous 18-inch model or go for something more sophisticated.

There is always a trade-off when it comes to styling and performance in gaming laptops, but it seems likely that Alienware will go with a slimmer design this time around. At the very least, there will likely be slimmer bezels and OLED and mini-LED display options with both 1440p and 4K. At least a high refresh rate of 240 Hz is almost certain.

Back in 2015, the Alienware 18 cost between $2,500 and $4,500 depending on specifications; when you factor in eight years and a lot of inflation that has occurred in that time, it is somewhat frightening to think how much the new model will cost. It is hard to imagine the starting price going below $3,000.

Razer is also rumored to be working on an 18-inch laptop (opens in new tab) with a 13th generation Intel CPU. Both could well be announced at CES in January. If you like supersized gaming portable PCs, keep an eye out for them. We think you will be very pleased.