Dell Precision 5470 Gen 4

Dell Precision 5470

Technical Specifications

• Processor: 12th Generation Intel Core H-series processors, including options up to Core i9-12900H (featuring a mix of Performance and Efficient cores, with up to 14 cores and 20 threads), operating at a 45W TDP. [1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 9, 14, 17, 28]
• RAM: LPDDR5 memory, operating at 5200 MHz. Configurations range from 8GB to 64GB. The RAM is integrated (soldered) onto the system board and is not user-upgradeable after purchase. [1, 3, 4, 8, 9, 18, 21, 25, 28]
• Storage: PCIe Gen 4 NVMe Solid State Drive (SSD). Features a single M.2 slot, supporting capacities up to 4TB. [1, 3, 4, 5, 9, 14, 25, 26]
• Display: 14-inch InfinityEdge display with a 16:10 aspect ratio. Available options include a Full HD+ (FHD+, 1920x1200) non-touch panel or a Quad HD+ (QHD+, 2560x1600) touch panel. Both options offer 500 nits brightness and feature anti-glare properties and TÜV low blue light certification. [1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 9, 15, 20, 26, 28]
• Graphics: Integrated Intel Iris Xe Graphics or a discrete NVIDIA RTX A1000 with 4GB GDDR6 dedicated memory. [1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 9, 14, 15, 22, 23, 28]
• Ports: Four Thunderbolt 4 (USB-C) ports, all supporting Power Delivery and DisplayPort functionality. Also includes a universal audio jack, a microSD card slot, and a wedge-shaped security lock slot. It notably lacks traditional USB-A and HDMI ports, though a USB-C to USB-A 3.2 and HDMI adapter is included. [1, 3, 5, 9, 12, 13, 14, 15, 26]
• Wireless: Intel AX211 Wi-Fi 6E (802.11ax) and Bluetooth 5.2. [1, 3, 4, 5, 12, 15]
• Camera: 720p HD IR Camera with an Ambient Light Sensor (ALS) for Windows Hello facial recognition. [3, 13, 15]
• Battery: 4-cell, 72Whr Lithium-ion battery. [1, 3, 9, 25]
• Dimensions & Weight: Measures 0.74 by 12.2 by 8.3 inches (HWD) and weighs approximately 3.26 pounds (1.48 kg). [1, 2, 3, 5]

The Dell Precision 5470 distinguishes itself by packing high-performance workstation components into a remarkably compact 14-inch chassis. The inclusion of 12th Gen Intel Core H-series processors provides substantial processing power for demanding applications. While the integrated LPDDR5 RAM offers high speed, its soldered nature means users must carefully select the desired memory configuration at the time of purchase, as it cannot be upgraded later. The NVIDIA RTX A1000 GPU is suitable for entry-level professional graphics tasks, offering a significant boost over integrated graphics, though it is not designed for the most intensive 3D rendering or complex simulations. The port selection, exclusively USB-C Thunderbolt 4, emphasizes modern connectivity and high data transfer rates, but necessitates the use of adapters for legacy peripherals, which Dell thoughtfully includes.

Support & Compatibility

• Operating System Support: Supports Windows 10 (64-bit), Windows 11, Red Hat Enterprise Linux 8.2, and Ubuntu 20.04 LTS. [7]
• End of Support Date: Dell provides ongoing driver and system updates for its Precision line, ensuring long-term usability and security. Specific end-of-life dates are typically communicated by the manufacturer.
• Available Drivers: All necessary drivers and firmware updates are available through Dell's official support website.
• Compatibility: Fully compatible with Dell Thunderbolt 4 docking stations for expanded connectivity and power delivery. Supports connection to external displays, including up to two 4K displays or one 8K display via its Thunderbolt 4 ports. [12, 13, 19, 22]

The Dell Precision 5470 offers robust operating system compatibility, catering to both Windows and Linux professional environments. This flexibility is crucial for diverse enterprise deployments. Dell's commitment to providing comprehensive driver support ensures system stability and optimal performance. The reliance on Thunderbolt 4 for all primary external connectivity streamlines modern workflows but requires users to adapt to a USB-C centric ecosystem, often through Dell's own docking solutions for a seamless experience.

Security Status

• Security Features: Includes a discrete Trusted Platform Module (TPM) 2.0 with FIPS 140-2 certification, Intel vPro technology (on select configurations), a fingerprint reader integrated into the power button, and an IR camera for Windows Hello facial recognition. It also supports optional SmartCard readers (contacted and contactless) and features a wedge-shaped lock slot. Dell SafeID and SafeBIOS enhance system integrity, and Self-Encrypting Drive (SED) NVMe SSD options are available. [2, 5, 10, 12, 13, 14, 24]
• Intelligent Privacy Features: Leverages Dell Optimizer's Intelligent Privacy features such as Onlooker Detection (to texturize or activate Safe Screen when an intruder is detected) and Look Away Detect (to darken the screen based on user behavior). ExpressSign-in uses proximity sensors to wake the system and log in via facial recognition, and also locks the system when the user walks away. [2, 10, 12, 20]
• Vulnerabilities: No specific model-unique vulnerabilities are widely reported. Standard industry best practices for software and hardware security apply.
• Recommendations: Users should enable and utilize all available hardware and software security features, including TPM, biometric authentication, and intelligent privacy settings. Regular operating system and driver updates are essential to mitigate potential vulnerabilities. Adherence to strong password policies and cautious handling of sensitive data are also recommended.

The Dell Precision 5470 provides a comprehensive suite of security features, making it highly suitable for enterprise environments where data protection and secure access are paramount. The integration of hardware-level security like TPM 2.0 and Intel vPro, combined with advanced biometric and intelligent privacy software, offers multiple layers of defense against unauthorized access and data breaches. While no specific vulnerabilities are highlighted, continuous vigilance through updates and user best practices remains critical for maintaining a secure computing environment.

Performance & Benchmarks

• CPU Performance: Demonstrates strong multi-core performance. In Geekbench 5, it achieves scores around 11,000-11,320 for multi-core tasks. Cinebench R23 multi-core scores are approximately 11,154. This performance allows it to handle intensive CPU-bound workloads effectively. [1, 2, 5, 9, 11]
• GPU Performance: The NVIDIA RTX A1000 (4GB GDDR6) scores approximately 9,238 on 3DMark Fire Strike. It is well-suited for professional applications such as CAD, BIM, and entry-level 3D content creation and video editing. While capable, it is not designed for the most demanding graphics-intensive tasks. [2, 3, 4, 9, 11, 15, 16]
• Real-world Performance: Excels in CPU-intensive professional applications like Adobe Photoshop, video encoding (e.g., HandBrake), and rendering in software such as Autodesk Maya with Arnold and Blender. It maintains smooth operation without significant lag during these demanding tasks. [1, 11, 15, 16]
• Battery Life: Offers exceptional battery longevity for a workstation, lasting nearly 15 hours in video rundown tests and providing more than a full workday of use for general productivity. [1, 2, 3, 11, 25, 26]
• Comparison with Similar Devices: Positioned as a highly portable workstation, the Precision 5470 often outperforms competitors like the M2 MacBook Pro in multi-core CPU and GPU benchmarks. However, it trades some raw graphics power for its compact size, meaning larger mobile workstations with higher-tier GPUs (e.g., NVIDIA RTX A3000/A4000) will surpass it in highly graphics-intensive workflows. [1, 2, 3, 5, 11, 16]

The Dell Precision 5470 delivers impressive performance for its class, particularly in CPU-intensive professional applications. Its 12th Gen Intel Core H-series processors provide a significant computational backbone, making it a strong contender for tasks requiring substantial processing power. The NVIDIA RTX A1000 GPU, while not top-tier, capably handles a range of professional graphics workloads. A standout feature is its exceptional battery life, which is uncommon for a workstation of this caliber, enhancing its portability. While it may not match the raw graphics muscle of larger, heavier mobile workstations, its balance of performance and portability is a key strength.

User Reviews & Feedback

User reviews consistently praise the Dell Precision 5470 for its compact and highly portable design, often likening its premium build quality to Dell's XPS consumer line, but with enhanced workstation capabilities. Users appreciate its strong CPU performance, which handles demanding professional software effectively. The excellent battery life is frequently highlighted as a significant advantage for mobile professionals. The display quality, with its high brightness and vibrant colors, also receives positive feedback. The keyboard and touchpad are generally well-regarded for comfort and responsiveness. [1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 9, 11, 14, 15, 26]

However, common feedback points to the lack of traditional USB-A and HDMI ports as a minor inconvenience, requiring the use of the included adapter or a docking station. The soldered RAM is noted as a limitation, as it prevents future memory upgrades. While the RTX A1000 GPU is capable for many tasks, some users involved in highly graphics-intensive workflows find it less powerful than desired. The premium price point is also a recurring consideration. Some users find the trackpad to be on the smaller side. [1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 9, 11, 14, 15, 25, 26]

Summary

The Dell Precision 5470 stands out as a highly capable and exceptionally portable 14-inch mobile workstation. Its primary strengths lie in its powerful 12th Generation Intel Core H-series processors, which deliver robust performance for CPU-intensive professional applications such as video editing, rendering, and CAD. The premium build quality, characterized by an aluminum chassis and carbon fiber palm rest, contributes to its durability and aesthetic appeal. A significant advantage is its outstanding battery life, offering extended productivity on the go. The comprehensive suite of security features, including TPM 2.0, biometrics, and intelligent privacy options, makes it a secure choice for enterprise environments.

However, the asset has certain limitations. The NVIDIA RTX A1000 GPU, while competent for many professional tasks, may not suffice for the most demanding graphics-heavy workflows. The exclusive reliance on Thunderbolt 4 (USB-C) ports, while forward-looking, necessitates adapters for legacy peripherals, which can be a minor inconvenience. Furthermore, the soldered LPDDR5 RAM, while fast, means that memory configuration must be carefully chosen at the time of purchase as it is not user-upgradeable. The premium pricing also positions it as a significant investment.

Overall, the Dell Precision 5470 is highly recommended for professionals who require a powerful, secure, and exceptionally portable workstation for CPU-centric tasks and moderate graphics work, where long battery life is a critical factor. It is an excellent choice for users who prioritize mobility and a sleek design without compromising significantly on performance. For those engaged in extremely graphics-intensive work or requiring extensive legacy port connectivity without adapters, larger mobile workstations might be more suitable.

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.