Dell Precision 5470 Gen 3

Technical Specifications

• Processor: 12th Gen Intel Core H-class processors, including Core i5-12500H, Core i7-12800H, and Core i9-12900H. These CPUs feature up to 14 cores and 20 or 28 threads, with clock speeds up to 5.0 GHz.
• RAM: Up to 64GB LPDDR5-5200 or 6400MT/s. RAM is soldered to the motherboard and is not user-upgradeable.
• Storage: Up to 4TB PCIe Gen 4 NVMe SSD, utilizing a single M.2 slot.
• Display: 14-inch, 16:10 aspect ratio. Options include FHD+ (1920x1200) non-touch or QHD+ (2560x1600) touch, both with 60Hz refresh rate and 500 nits brightness. Features Dell's InfinityEdge micro-bezel design.
• Graphics (GPU): Integrated Intel Iris Xe Graphics or discrete Nvidia RTX A1000 with 4GB VRAM.
• Ports: Four Thunderbolt 4 (USB Type-C) ports with Power Delivery and DisplayPort functionality, a universal headphone/microphone combo jack, and a MicroSD card slot. A USB-C to USB-A 3.2 and HDMI adapter is included.
• Wireless: Wi-Fi 6E (802.11ax) and Bluetooth 5.2.
• Camera: 720p at 30 fps HD IR Camera with ALS sensor.
• Battery: 4-cell, 72Whr Li-ion battery.
• Dimensions & Weight: 0.74 inches (H) x 12.22 inches (W) x 8.27 inches (D), weighing 1.48 kg (3.26 lbs).
• Operating System: Ships with Windows 11 Pro (64-bit).

Analysis of Technical Specifications

The Dell Precision 5470 is a compact 14-inch mobile workstation, leveraging powerful 12th Gen Intel H-class processors typically found in larger machines. This allows for strong CPU-intensive workload performance. The inclusion of DDR5 memory and PCIe Gen 4 storage ensures fast data processing and access. The display options, particularly the QHD+ panel with 500 nits brightness and 16:10 aspect ratio, offer excellent visual clarity and increased vertical screen real estate for productivity. The discrete Nvidia RTX A1000 GPU provides entry-level professional graphics capabilities, suitable for light to moderate 3D work and content creation. However, its performance may be a limiting factor for highly complex or graphics-intensive tasks. The port selection, while modern with four Thunderbolt 4 ports, lacks traditional USB-A and HDMI without an adapter, which may require users to carry additional dongles. The soldered RAM, especially in base configurations, limits future upgradeability.

Support & Compatibility

• OS Support: Fully supports Windows 11 Pro (64-bit). Drivers are also available for Windows 10 and Windows 8 (32-bit and 64-bit).
• End of Support Date: Dell provides End of Life (EOL) and End of Service Life (EOSL) information for its products, though a specific EOL date for the Precision 5470 is not publicly listed.
• Available Drivers: All necessary drivers, firmware, and software updates are available for download from the official Dell Support website and can be managed via Dell SupportAssist.
• Compatibility: Integrates with Dell Optimizer software, which enhances application performance, battery life, audio settings, and privacy features. It is compatible with Dell Thunderbolt 4 Docking stations for expanded connectivity.

Analysis of Support & Compatibility Status

The Dell Precision 5470 offers robust support for current Windows operating systems, ensuring broad software compatibility. Dell's commitment to providing drivers and updates through its support channels and Dell SupportAssist simplifies maintenance for IT departments and end-users. The integration with Dell Optimizer is a significant advantage, providing intelligent optimization features that adapt to user behavior, enhancing overall system efficiency and user experience. Compatibility with Thunderbolt 4 docking solutions ensures seamless integration into various professional environments, despite the minimalist on-board port selection. While a specific end-of-life date is not readily available, Dell's general policy of providing EOL information suggests a structured support lifecycle.

Security Status

• Security Features: Includes a discrete Trusted Platform Module (TPM) 2.0 with FIPS 140-2 and TCG certification. Features contacted Smart Card and Control Vault 3, contactless Smart Card, NFC, and Self-Encrypting Drives (SED SSDs, including Opal and non-Opal variants). A fingerprint reader is integrated into the power button, and an IR camera supports Windows Hello for facial recognition.
• Intelligent Privacy Features: Leverages Dell Optimizer for intelligent privacy, including "Onlooker Detection" to texturize or activate Safe Screen when an unauthorized person is detected, and "Look Away Detect" to dim the screen when the user is not looking. "Express Sign-in" uses a proximity sensor to wake the system and log in via the IR camera.
• Vulnerabilities: No specific widespread vulnerabilities are identified in the provided information.

Analysis on the Security Status

The Dell Precision 5470 provides a comprehensive suite of hardware and software security features, making it well-suited for enterprise environments handling sensitive data. The presence of TPM 2.0, Smart Card readers, and SED SSDs offers strong foundational data protection and authentication. The integrated fingerprint reader and IR camera for Windows Hello provide convenient and secure biometric login options. Furthermore, Dell's intelligent privacy features, powered by Dell Optimizer, proactively enhance data security by deterring visual hacking and optimizing power consumption based on user presence. These features collectively contribute to a strong security posture, mitigating common risks associated with mobile workstations.

Performance & Benchmarks

• CPU Performance: Achieves high scores in multi-core benchmarks like Geekbench 5.4 (11,040 with Core i9-12900H) and Cinebench, significantly outperforming the premium laptop average. Excels in CPU-intensive workloads.
• GPU Performance: Scores 9,238 on 3DMark Fire Strike with the RTX A1000. Delivers 76.3 frames per second in Sid Meier's Civilization VI: Gathering Storm (1080p). While suitable for entry-level 3D work, it may struggle with highly complex modeling compared to higher-end GPUs. Outperforms the 14-inch MacBook Pro in Blender GPU benchmarks (73.5% higher in Classroom workload), Autodesk Maya rendering (5.1x faster), and HandBrake video encoding (74.5% faster H.265).
• Overall Performance: Posts excellent scores in PCMark Office tests, indicating strong performance for everyday productivity applications. Handles labor-intensive tasks such as image editing, video editing, and 3D rendering with minimal lag.
• Battery Life: Offers exceptional endurance, lasting up to 11 hours and 39 minutes in continuous web surfing tests and nearly 15 hours in video rundown tests. Achieves over a full workday in PCMark 10 battery benchmarks for productivity tasks.
• Cooling: Features an advanced cooling system designed to manage the powerful components within its compact chassis.

Analysis of Performance & Benchmarks

The Dell Precision 5470 delivers impressive performance for its class, particularly in CPU-bound tasks, thanks to its integration of 45-watt Intel H-class processors. This makes it a highly capable machine for demanding professional applications, including software development, data analysis, and general productivity. While the Nvidia RTX A1000 GPU provides a significant boost over integrated graphics and is competitive against some rivals like the MacBook Pro in specific creative benchmarks, it remains an entry-level professional GPU. Users requiring top-tier graphics performance for complex 3D rendering or intensive GPU-accelerated workflows might find it a limiting factor. A standout feature is the exceptional battery life, which is uncommon for a workstation of this caliber, offering extended mobility. The advanced cooling system helps maintain performance under load.

User Reviews & Feedback

User reviews consistently praise the Dell Precision 5470 for its compact design, often described as the "smallest, thinnest, and most powerful 14-inch workstation." Users appreciate its robust build quality, premium feel, and attractive design, often comparing it to a "Dell XPS on steroids." The bright, high-resolution 16:10 display with minimal bezels receives positive feedback for its visual quality and increased vertical workspace. The comfortable keyboard and responsive trackpad are also highlighted as positives. A recurring theme in feedback is the impressive battery life, which is considered exceptional for a mobile workstation. The strong CPU performance is well-regarded for handling demanding professional applications and content creation tasks.

However, common criticisms include the minimalist port selection, specifically the absence of traditional USB-A and HDMI ports, necessitating the use of adapters. The base configurations with 8GB of soldered RAM are frequently cited as insufficient and non-upgradeable, which is a significant drawback for a workstation. While capable, the Nvidia RTX A1000 GPU is sometimes seen as a bottleneck for users with highly graphics-intensive workflows, as it is an entry-level professional GPU. Some users find the touchpad to be on the smaller side and positioned too close to the front edge. The premium pricing, especially for higher-end configurations, is also noted as a consideration.

Summary

The Dell Precision 5470 stands out as a highly capable and exceptionally portable 14-inch mobile workstation. Its primary strength lies in integrating powerful 12th Gen Intel H-class processors within a remarkably compact and well-built chassis, delivering robust CPU performance for demanding professional applications. The vibrant 16:10 display, excellent battery life, and comprehensive suite of security features further enhance its appeal for mobile professionals. Dell Optimizer adds intelligent optimizations for performance, battery, and privacy, adapting to user workflows. The system is well-supported with readily available drivers and compatibility with modern docking solutions.

However, the Precision 5470 has notable weaknesses. The soldered RAM, particularly in lower-end configurations, limits future upgradeability and can be a significant constraint for memory-intensive tasks. The discrete Nvidia RTX A1000, while a professional GPU, is entry-level and may not suffice for the most demanding graphics-intensive workloads. The reliance on Thunderbolt 4 ports means users may need to carry adapters for legacy peripherals. Despite these trade-offs, the Precision 5470 is an excellent choice for users prioritizing portability and strong CPU performance for content creation, software development, and general productivity on the go. It is less suited for those requiring maximum GPU horsepower or extensive internal upgradeability.

The information provided is based on publicly available data and may vary depending on specific device configurations. For up-to-date information, please consult official manufacturer resources.