Buzz
With its diverse range of products, Dell can produce ultra-compact desktop computers that provide suitable work performance and high reliability. The computer featured in this article, the OptiPlex 3070 micro, is one such option that balances performance, compact design, and space optimization, suitable for a variety of usage needs not limited to businesses alone.The OptiPlex 3070 offers various chassis size options. Among them, the OptiPlex 3070 micro is designed with an ultra-small size, often referred to as a tiny PC. Consequently, the machine utilizes a specially designed motherboard tailored for this product.
The OptiPlex 3070 micro sits compactly beside an A4-sized book, even smaller in comparison. Its overall dimensions form a sleek box measuring no more than 18 cm in length and 3.6 cm in thickness, weighing a mere 1.18 kg for effortless portability. I often liken such machines to 'portable desktops'.
Thanks to its size, the machine doesn't occupy much space on the desk. You can place it vertically alongside document trays or horizontally if the desk feels empty. If the monitor stand is the right size, the OptiPlex 3070 micro can snugly fit beneath it. In cramped spaces, it can even be mounted behind the monitor with separate accessories. I often notice such machine designs at bank counters like HSBC Vietnam.
Dell has produced many such compact machines, including the OptiPlex 70x0 series. The OptiPlex 3070 micro boasts a 9th generation Core i platform with various hardware options suitable for businesses, such as SSDs with data self-encryption capabilities, secure BIOS, TPM 2.0 chip, and more.
The front face of the machine features a protective panel with hexagonal ventilation holes intertwined within a metal frame. Behind it lies an external speaker for music playback or alert sounds in case of machine malfunctions.
The power button of the OptiPlex 3070 micro integrates a distinctive style indicator light. Additionally, the machine includes storage indicator lights and connectivity ports such as headphone jack, 3.5mm input, two front-facing USB-A 3.1 gen 1 ports for convenient access.
At the rear, the OptiPlex 3070 micro is equipped with all essential connectivity ports. For display output, the machine offers HDMI, DisplayPort, and even VGA (D-Sub) for specialized displays or older standard monitors. The remaining ports are all USB-A, including 2 USB 3.1 gen 1 ports distinguished from two USB 2.0 ports. One USB 2.0 port features Smart Power On functionality. I haven't explored this utility yet, but it seems like a way to wake the machine remotely.
Compared to some similar models, Dell enhances the Wi-Fi connectivity of the OptiPlex 3070 micro with 802.11ac Wave 2 standard using an external antenna. This is a noteworthy feature that some other models only integrate internal antennas. Additionally, the machine retains a 1 Gb Ethernet LAN connection, a staple for desktop machines. For those who are particular, the absence of USB-C shouldn't be a concern, as other products of similar size may lack it too. High-security corporate environments may even block common peripheral connections to ensure device and data safety.
The borrowed machine boasts a basic configuration, featuring an Intel Core i3-9100T processor, 4 GB DDR4 laptop-standard SO-DIMM RAM, and a 500 GB 7,200 rpm HDD. The highlight of the system lies in the 4-core, 4-thread Core i3-9100T processor with clock speeds ranging from 3.1 GHz to 3.7 GHz. The 'T' suffix distinguishes it from standard processors due to its optimized 35W TDP power consumption. The entire system is powered by an external 65W AC power adapter. You can easily find the GeekBench 5 scores for this model: it typically reaches around 900 - 1,000 single-core points and 2,700 - 3,300 multi-core points.
In terms of upgradability, the OptiFlex 3070 micro features an M.2-2280 slot for upgrading to a separate SSD or using Intel Optane for systems requiring large 2.5-inch storage capacity. Additionally, the machine only has one additional DDR4 SO-DIMM RAM slot for expansion. The M.2 interface can also accommodate future upgrades such as Wi-Fi 6 or higher with compatible cards.
Designed for business environments, Dell integrates system management tools like Dell Client Command Suite or optional VMware Workspace ONE, combined with TPM 2.0 security chip to resist external virus attacks. Dell SafeBIOS ensures the system BIOS remains untampered. Additionally, Dell SafeData option allows end-users to manage their data freely, knowing it's protected even when created and stored in the cloud.For individual users, this machine can be a 'ready-to-use' option compared to Intel NUC hardware, which lacks RAM and storage. Furthermore, desktop-designed processors deliver better performance. The machine operates smoothly with efficient cooling systems, maintaining stable temperatures around 80°C for heavier graphic tasks.
The product I borrowed from ADG Distribution. They are an authorized distributor of genuine Dell Technologies products, offering full manufacturer warranty and customer care such as 24/7 Pro Support for hardware and software, along with a 2-year onsite warranty. For more details, contact ADG distributor or visit here.
