If we are talking about desktops, probably not, but it really depends on your situation. Laptops (for me) are a completely different realm. I'm fine with buying premium laptops because they tend to be better balanced computers, not just battery sucking devices. Although, I probably wouldn't go for Alienware, but to Alienware's credit, some of their smaller laptops to perform quite nicely.

The article builds a system that's about $200 cheaper. That's about it, and I'm surprised that's the example the article revolves around. I don't find that a sole reason to build one instead, unless that's what you prefer. For me, a $200 price difference is in the territory of simply going for what you prefer. Save up longer if needed.

At the same time, I know you can build a similar system for a lot cheaper, and in which case you probably are better off building a computer since Alienware appeals to the game crowd. A crowd that is also known to build their own rigs.

In the prosumer and professional world it's a different story, but Alienware doesn't really appeal to that crowd.

They are quite sexy and they have top of the line specs but they're becoming over-powered work horses. Besides Aliens don't even use them. Pffft!