Which is better for gaming?

The Alienware 16 Aurora. Its RTX 5050 8GB and 120Hz screen are built for games, while the 16 Plus relies on integrated Intel graphics.

Which is better for school or office work?

The Dell 16 Plus. It is lighter, has a touchscreen and still runs a Core Ultra 7 with up to 32GB RAM.

Which lasts longer on battery?

The 16 Plus, because integrated graphics draw far less power. The Aurora drains faster in games and GPU workloads.

Is the Alienware worth stepping up to?

Only if you need dedicated graphics or a 120Hz display. For writing, browsing and spreadsheets the 16 Plus covers it with less weight.

Can the 16 Plus handle video editing?

Light editing, yes, with the Core Ultra 7 and 32GB option. Heavy 4K timelines and 3D rendering favor the Aurora's RTX 5050.

Dell 16 Plus Laptop vs Dell Alienware 16 Aurora Gaming Laptop

Buy the Dell 16 Plus for school, office work and everyday multitasking. It is lighter, has a touchscreen and runs a Core Ultra 7 with up to 32GB RAM. Buy the Alienware 16 Aurora for gaming and GPU-heavy work: the RTX 5050, 120Hz panel and DDR5 memory are the real split. The Plus is the more portable, general-purpose machine; the Aurora is the heavier gaming laptop with dedicated graphics.

Choose the Dell 16 Plus if you want a lighter 16-inch laptop for work, study and touch-friendly apps.
Choose the Alienware 16 Aurora if you play games or run GPU-accelerated software and want a 120Hz screen.

Prices

Dell 16 Plus Laptop: $1,049.99 at Amazon (checked today)
Dell Alienware 16 Aurora Gaming Laptop: $1,149.00 at eBay (last seen Nov 9)
Difference: the Dell 16 Plus Laptop is $99.01 cheaper than the Dell Alienware 16 Aurora Gaming Laptop at the latest prices (Nov 9 and Nov 10)