Alienware Steam Machines Can be Upgraded

But don't expect it to be easy.

Alienware has clarified that you will be able to upgrade its upcoming Steam Machines, but doing so won't be easy.
Consternation reigned earlier this week when the company revealed it planned to release new boxes annually with no customisation options, but it's now clarified its position to Eurogamer.
Alienware boss Frank Azor explained that owners won't be prevented from modding their Steam Machines; it just won't be easy.

"Enabling customers the opportunity to upgrade components has been a core tenet for Alienware since the company was founded, and that remains true today," he said. "The Alienware Steam Machine, announced at CES, is designed to deliver a great gaming experience in the living room and we will enable customers to upgrade components.

Upgrading the internal components will not be as easy as compared to other platforms.

"Considering we've purposefully designed the Alienware Steam Machine to be smaller than the latest generation consoles, upgrading the internal components will not be as easy as compared to other platforms, such as the Alienware X51, but we will not prevent a customer from upgrading."
Despite this, he reiterated earlier comments that the company's conventional products may be better suited for anyone keen on fiddling with their devices' innards, saying, "If a customer is interested in modding and upgrading their rig on a regular basis, then we recommend the Alienware X51," he said. "Enabling easy upgradeability was a critical design requirement for the X51. It includes features such as single screw access to all internal components, and easy-to-remove ODD, HDD, graphics, etc.
"We feel we have multiple options for customers based on their individual needs. If a gamer wants more freedom to upgrade, we have the X51. If they would prefer a smaller, more console-like system, we will offer the Alienware Steam Machine."

A couple of weeks ago at CES, Alienware unveiled its upcoming Steam Machine to the world, before announcing details on price and specs a week later. Of course if Alienware's machine isn't to your liking, there's no need to worry. There's another 13 you'll be able to choose from in all shapes and sizes.