Looking Beyond the VNOPN Fanless Firewall Mini PC? 6 Alternatives Worth a Look
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Looking for vnopn fanless firewall mini PC alternatives? You might want a different port count, processor speed, or brand. The VNOPN J3710 offers four 2.5GbE ports and silent operation in a compact frame. It uses an Intel J3710 CPU with AES-NI support. However, it comes as a barebone system. You must add your own DDR3 RAM and mSATA storage. Some users prefer more LAN ports or newer processors.
This list includes 6 options that share key specs with the original. All featured devices focus on firewall use cases. They include fanless cooling and 2.5GbE networking ports. The alternatives vary in form factor and included components. Some models offer higher port counts for complex setups. Others provide different processors for varied workloads. You can choose based on your specific networking needs. Each option fits specific requirements for dedicated firewall appliances. Consider your required LAN ports and processing power carefully.
Our top pick: VNOPN J3710 Fanless Firewall Mini PC.
Comparing Alternative Firewall Mini PCs
Glovary N150 6-Port Firewall Mini PC
The Glovary N150 moves you to an Intel N100 processor, which offers more modern performance than the J3710 in the VNOPN unit. It expands your connectivity to six 2.5GbE LAN ports instead of four. This model shares the barebone design, meaning you must install your own RAM and storage. It is slightly larger and heavier than the VNOPN option. You should choose this if you need extra network ports for complex routing or VLAN tagging. The N100 chip provides better efficiency for heavier network loads while maintaining silent, fanless operation.
Glovary Barebone Fanless Firewall Mini PC
This Glovary unit uses the same Intel J3710 processor as the VNOPN PC, so raw CPU power remains comparable. It also features four 2.5GbE LAN ports and a fanless design. The main difference is the physical form factor. This model is significantly larger and boxier than the compact VNOPN chassis. It remains a barebone system requiring your own memory and storage installation. You might pick this if you have space for a larger desktop unit or need specific mounting options. It offers the same networking foundation but with a different footprint and potentially different internal layout for component access.
Sharevdi Fanless 4-Port 2.5GbE Firewall Mini PC
The Sharevdi model upgrades the processor to a J4105, which is faster than the J3710 in the VNOPN PC. It retains the four 2.5GbE LAN ports and fanless cooling. Like the VNOPN, it is a barebone system, so you must add RAM and storage yourself. The chassis is slightly wider and deeper than the VNOPN design. You should consider this if you want more processing headroom for firewall duties or virtualization tasks. The J4105 handles multi-threaded workloads better. It is a practical choice for users who need silent operation but require more computational power for network filtering and routing.
HKUXZR J5005 4x 2.5GbE Fanless Mini PC
The HKUXZR unit steps up to an Intel Celeron J5005 processor, offering better performance than the J3710. It keeps the four 2.5GbE LAN ports and silent fanless design. This is a barebone system, requiring separate RAM and storage purchases. The dimensions are very similar to the VNOPN, making it a direct size alternative. You should choose this if you need a modest performance boost for firewall applications. The J5005 provides improved graphics and CPU speed. It is ideal for users who want a compact, silent appliance with slightly more processing capability for modern network security protocols.
Glovary J6413 Fanless Firewall Mini PC
The Glovary J6413 features an Intel J6413 processor, which is more powerful than the J3710. It includes four 2.5GbE LAN ports and fanless cooling. This is a barebone model, so you must supply your own memory and storage. The chassis size is not fully detailed, but it is designed for firewall use. You should pick this if you need higher CPU performance for complex network tasks. The J6413 supports more threads and faster memory speeds. It is suitable for users building custom firewall solutions that require robust processing power while maintaining silent operation and multiple high-speed network connections.
ZOTAC ZBOX CI337 Nano N100 Mini PC
The ZOTAC ZBOX CI337 Nano uses an Intel N100 processor, which is faster and more modern than the J3710. However, it lacks the four 2.5GbE ports found in the VNOPN PC. It offers standard dual LAN connectivity instead. This unit is also fanless and compact. You should choose this if you prioritize general computing silence and wireless features over high-speed multi-Gigabit networking. It is better for users who do not need dedicated 2.5GbE ports for their firewall setup. The N100 chip provides excellent efficiency for light tasks, but you will sacrifice network throughput speed for a smaller, more versatile form factor.
Quick picks
Our 7 picks
VNOPN J3710 Fanless Firewall Mini PC
Best for: Dedicated firewall setups with four 2.5GbE ports
- Processor
- Intel J3710
- Installed RAM
- Barebone
- Storage Capacity
- Barebone
- Memory Type
- DDR3
- Ethernet Ports
- 4x 2.5GbE
- Use
- Firewall
This VNOPN firewall mini PC uses an Intel J3710 quad-core processor with AES-NI support for hardware encryption. It features four Intel i226-V 2.5GbE LAN ports to handle high-speed network traffic. The fanless aluminum design ensures silent operation and 24/7 reliability. You get a barebone system, so you must install your own RAM and storage. It is ideal for building a dedicated network security appliance.
Pros
- Four Intel i226-V 2.5GbE LAN ports
- Intel J3710 CPU with AES-NI encryption
- Fanless aluminum alloy shell for silent operation
- Low 6.5W TDP for energy efficiency
Cons
- Sold as a barebone unit with no RAM or storage
- Maximum memory support is limited to 8GB DDR3
- Processor speed is lower than newer N100 alternatives
Good fit if
- You need four 2.5GbE ports for a home lab
- You want a silent, fanless network appliance
- You plan to install pfSense or Ubuntu yourself
Skip if
- You require a pre-installed operating system
- You need more than 8GB of RAM
- You want a processor faster than the J3710
Verdict: The VNOPN J3710 Fanless Firewall Mini PC is a compact, silent networking hub for users who value dedicated 2.5GbE ports and hardware encryption. It fits best for those willing to handle the barebone setup for a reliable firewall solution.
Glovary N150 6-Port Firewall Mini PC
Best for: high-port-count networking setups
- Processor
- Intel N150
- Installed RAM
- Barebone
- Storage Capacity
- Barebone
- Memory Type
- DDR5
- Graphics
- Intel UHD Graphics
- Ethernet Ports
- 6x 2.5GbE
This barebone firewall appliance features the Intel N150 processor and six i226-V 2.5GbE LAN ports. It supports DDR5 RAM and dual M.2 NVMe slots for flexible storage. The fanless aluminum design ensures quiet operation. You get a powerful networking base without pre-installed memory or storage. It suits users who need high-speed throughput and plan to install their own software.
Pros
- Six 2.5GbE i226-V network ports for high-speed connectivity
- Intel N150 processor with up to 3.6 GHz boost
- Supports DDR5 RAM and multiple storage options
- Fanless aluminum chassis for silent operation
Cons
- Sold as a barebone unit with no RAM or SSD included
- Requires manual installation of an operating system
- No dedicated GPU for heavy graphics tasks
Good fit if
- You need more than four 2.5G LAN ports
- You want to use DDR5 memory for better performance
- You prefer to install your own firewall software
Skip if
- You need a ready-to-use system with pre-installed OS
- You require built-in RAM and storage for immediate use
- You are looking for a budget option with included components
Verdict: Glovary N150 6-Port Firewall Mini PC is a high-spec networking foundation for users who prioritize port count and memory speed. It fits those willing to handle their own software setup.
Glovary Barebone Fanless Firewall Mini PC
Best for: Quiet 2.5GbE firewall routing
- Processor
- Pentium J3710
- Installed RAM
- Barebone
- Storage Capacity
- Barebone
- Memory Type
- DDR3L
- Graphics
- HD Graphics
- Ethernet Ports
- 4 x 2.5GbE
This barebone firewall appliance uses the Intel Pentium J3710 processor with four cores and a 6.5 W TDP. It includes four i225V 2.5GbE LAN ports for robust network management. The compact aluminum chassis supports DDR3L memory and mSATA or SATA storage. You can run OPNsense, Linux, or ESXi on this fanless unit. It suits users needing a quiet, dedicated routing solution.
Pros
- Four i225V 2.5GbE LAN ports
- Intel Pentium J3710 quad-core processor
- Fanless aluminum alloy chassis
- Supports DDR3L SO-DIMM memory
- Compatible with OPNsense and ESXi
Cons
- Requires separate purchase of RAM and SSD
- Uses older DDR3L memory standard
- Only supports dual display output
Good fit if
- You need a quiet, fanless firewall appliance
- You want dedicated 2.5GbE networking ports
- You are building a custom OPNsense router
Skip if
- You require plug-and-play operation with pre-installed RAM
- You need modern DDR4 or DDR5 memory support
- You want a complete system without assembly
Verdict: Glovary J3710 Fanless Firewall Mini PC offers a solid foundation for network security tasks with its four 2.5GbE ports and quiet design. It is ideal for tinkerers who prefer to select their own memory and storage components.
Sharevdi Fanless 4-Port 2.5GbE Firewall Mini PC
Best for: silent firewall setups with four 2.5G ports
- Processor
- Intel J4105
- Installed RAM
- 0G
- Storage Capacity
- 0GB
- Memory Type
- DDR4
- Ethernet Ports
- 4 x Intel 2.5GbE
- Operating System
- NO OS installed
View on Amazon: Sharevdi Fanless 4-Port 2.5GbE Firewall Mini PC
This Sharevdi unit uses an Intel J4105 quad-core processor running at up to 2.5GHz with AES-NI support. It features four Intel 2.5GbE i226-V LAN ports for robust networking. The fanless aluminum design ensures silent operation and efficient heat dissipation. You get a barebone system with no RAM or storage installed, allowing you to choose your own components. It supports VESA mounting for space-saving installation behind monitors.
Pros
- Intel J4105 CPU with AES-NI acceleration
- Four Intel 2.5GbE i226-V LAN ports
- Silent fanless aluminum alloy construction
- Supports VESA mount for flexible placement
Cons
- Sold without installed RAM or storage
- Limited to 16GB maximum DDR4 memory
- Only supports mSATA SSDs, not HDDs
Good fit if
- You need four 2.5GbE ports for a firewall
- You want silent operation with no fans
- You prefer to install your own OS and RAM
Skip if
- You require a pre-installed operating system
- You need more than four network ports
- You want a system with included storage
Verdict: Sharevdi J4105 Fanless Firewall Mini PC suits network enthusiasts who want four 2.5GbE ports and silent performance. You must add your own RAM and storage to make it functional.
HKUXZR J5005 4x 2.5GbE Fanless Mini PC
Best for: compact firewall appliances with multiple 2.5G ports
- Processor
- Celeron J5005
- Installed RAM
- Barebone
- Storage Capacity
- Barebone
- Graphics
- UHD graphics
- Ethernet Ports
- 4x 2.5GbE
- Operating System
- No OS (Barebone)
This barebone firewall appliance uses an Intel Celeron J5005 processor and four Intel i226-V 2.5GbE ports. The fanless design ensures quiet operation. You can add up to 8GB of DDR4 RAM and a 2.5-inch SATA drive. It suits users who need a compact, noise-free network gateway for monitoring or VPN tasks without pre-installed software.
Pros
- Four Intel i226-V 2.5GbE LAN ports
- Fanless design for silent operation
- Supports up to 8GB DDR4 RAM
- Expandable via 2.5-inch SATA storage
Cons
- Sold as a barebone unit with no RAM or SSD
- Limited to 8GB maximum memory capacity
- Includes no pre-installed operating system
Good fit if
- You need four 2.5GbE ports for a firewall setup
- You prefer silent, fanless hardware for continuous operation
- You want to install your own OS and RAM
Skip if
- You require more than 8GB of system memory
- You need a device with pre-installed RAM and storage
- You want a faster quad-core processor like the N100
Verdict: HKUXZR J5005 4x 2.5GbE Fanless Mini PC fits users who prioritize dedicated 2.5GbE networking ports and silent operation over raw processing power.
Glovary J6413 Fanless Firewall Mini PC
Best for: custom firewall builds with OPNsense
- Processor
- Celeron J6413
- Installed RAM
- Barebone
- Storage Capacity
- Barebone
- Memory Type
- DDR4
- Graphics
- UHD Graphics
- Ethernet Ports
- 4 x 2.5GbE
The Glovary J6413 is a barebone firewall appliance built for network security tasks. It uses an Intel Celeron J6413 processor with four cores. You get four 2.5GbE LAN ports for high-speed routing. The chassis is fanless and made of aluminum alloy. It supports up to 64GB of DDR4 RAM and multiple storage drives. This unit suits users who need reliable hardware for OPNsense or pfSense without pre-installed components.
Pros
- Intel Celeron J6413 quad-core processor
- Four 2.5GbE LAN ports
- Fanless aluminum alloy design
- Supports up to 64GB DDR4 RAM
- Dual NVMe and dual SATA storage slots
Cons
- Sold as barebone with no RAM or SSD
- Only four LAN ports for complex setups
- Integrated UHD Graphics limits display versatility
Good fit if
- You need a dedicated hardware firewall for home or small office
- You prefer fanless operation for quiet network environments
- You want to install your own operating system and storage
Skip if
- You require pre-installed Windows or macOS
- You need more than four network interfaces
- You want a plug-and-play solution without assembly
Verdict: Glovary J6413 Fanless Firewall Mini PC offers a solid foundation for network administrators who value quiet operation and expandable storage. It is ideal for users building custom firewall solutions with OPNsense or similar software.
ZOTAC ZBOX CI337 Nano N100 Mini PC
Best for: Silent computing with standard dual LAN
- Processor
- Intel Processor N100
- Installed RAM
- Barebone
- Storage Capacity
- Barebone
- Graphics
- Intel UHD Graphics
- Ethernet Ports
- Dual Gigabit LAN
- Operating System
- No OS (Barebone)
This ZOTAC ZBOX CI337 Nano uses an Intel N100 quad-core processor for silent, fanless operation. It features dual Gigabit LAN ports, making it suitable for basic routing tasks. You get WiFi 6, Bluetooth 5.2, and triple display support via HDMI and DisplayPort. The barebone design lets you add your own RAM and storage. It is a compact option for users who need quiet computing with standard networking capabilities.
Pros
- Intel N100 quad-core processor
- Fanless passive cooling
- Dual Gigabit LAN ports
- WiFi 6 and Bluetooth 5.2
- Triple display output support
Cons
- Only dual Gigabit LAN, not 2.5GbE like other options
- Barebone design requires separate RAM and SSD purchase
- No operating system included
Good fit if
- You need a silent, fanless mini PC
- You want WiFi 6 and Bluetooth 5.2
- You plan to install your own RAM and storage
Skip if
- You require more than two Ethernet ports
- You need 2.5GbE networking speeds
- You want a pre-installed operating system
Verdict: ZOTAC ZBOX CI337 Nano N100 Fanless PC offers a quiet, compact form factor with standard connectivity. It fits users who prioritize silence and wireless features over high-speed multi-Gigabit networking.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | VNOPN J3710 Fanless Firewall Mini PC | Glovary N150 6-Port Firewall Mini PC | Glovary Barebone Fanless Firewall Mini PC | Sharevdi Fanless 4-Port 2.5GbE Firewall Mini PC | HKUXZR J5005 4x 2.5GbE Fanless Mini PC | Glovary J6413 Fanless Firewall Mini PC | ZOTAC ZBOX CI337 Nano N100 Mini PC |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Processor | Intel J3710 | Intel N150 | Pentium J3710 | Intel J4105 | Celeron J5005 | Celeron J6413 | Intel Processor N100 |
| Installed RAM | Barebone | Barebone | Barebone | 0G | Barebone | Barebone | Barebone |
| Storage Capacity | Barebone | Barebone | Barebone | 0GB | Barebone | Barebone | Barebone |
| Memory Type | DDR3 | DDR5 | DDR3L | DDR4 | not specified | DDR4 | not specified |
| Graphics | not specified | Intel UHD Graphics | HD Graphics | not specified | UHD graphics | UHD Graphics | Intel UHD Graphics |
| Ethernet Ports | 4x 2.5GbE | 6x 2.5GbE | 4 x 2.5GbE | 4 x Intel 2.5GbE | 4x 2.5GbE | 4 x 2.5GbE | Dual Gigabit LAN |
| Operating System | not specified | No OS (Barebone) | not specified | NO OS installed | No OS (Barebone) | not specified | No OS (Barebone) |
| Use | Firewall | Firewall | not specified | Firewall | Firewall | Firewall | not specified |
| Cooling | Fanless | Fanless | Fanless | Fanless | not specified | not specified | Fanless |
| Networking | 2.5G LAN | 2.5G LAN | 2.5G LAN | 2.5G LAN | 2.5G LAN | 2.5G LAN | not specified |
| Form Factor | Barebone | Barebone | Barebone | not specified | Barebone | Barebone | Barebone |
| Dimensions | 5.28 × 5 × 1.46 inches | 7.09 × 4.92 × 2.17 inches | 6.3 × 5.91 × 5.51 inches | 6.99 × 4.98 × 2.17 inches | 5.28 × 4.88 × 1.69 inches | not specified | 5.03 × 4.99 × 2.24 inches |
| Weight | not specified | 2.65 pounds | not specified | 3.66 pounds | not specified | not specified | 1.94 pounds |
| Size | mini | No RAM No SSD | Barebone No RAM No SSD | N100/8 GB DDR5/128 GB SATA SSD/6 LAN | NO RAM NO SSD | Barebone | Ultra Small Form Factor |
| Color | Black | N100 6 LAN Firewall | not specified | BLACK | Black | not specified | Black |
| Model | F12 | N100-6L-BA | F3 | F12 | BK-J5005-4L | J6413-4L-I226V-2.5GB-0-0 | ZBOX-CI337NANO-U |
Frequently asked questions
Which alternative has the most network ports?
The Glovary N150 offers the highest port count with six 2.5GbE LAN ports. This makes it ideal for complex home labs or small business networks requiring extensive wired connectivity. The Sharevdi model also features six LAN ports in its larger chassis configuration. Other units typically provide four ports, which is standard for most dedicated firewall appliances.
Are all these options fanless for silent operation?
Yes, every listed alternative uses fanless cooling to ensure silent operation. This design eliminates moving parts, reducing noise and potential points of failure. It is particularly useful for home offices or living spaces where background noise matters. The ZOTAC ZBOX CI337 Nano also follows this silent design philosophy despite having fewer specialized network ports.
Do I need to buy RAM and storage separately?
Most barebone models require you to install your own RAM and storage. The VNOPN J3710, Glovary N150, and HKUXZR J5005 are sold without these components. This approach allows you to choose specific memory speeds and drive capacities. However, the Sharevdi model includes 8GB of DDR5 RAM and a 128GB SATA SSD, providing a more complete out-of-the-box experience.
Which processor offers the best performance for routing?
The Intel N100 processor found in the Glovary N150 and ZOTAC ZBOX CI337 Nano offers modern performance. It provides better single-core speed and efficiency than older Celeron or Atom chips. The Sharevdi unit also utilizes an N100 for its main processing tasks. Older models like the VNOPN J3710 and HKUXZR J5005 use legacy Atom or Celeron CPUs, which are sufficient for basic routing but less powerful.
Can I use these with OPNsense or pfSense?
Yes, these barebone systems are well-suited for custom firewall software like OPNsense or pfSense. The Glovary J6413 is explicitly noted as ideal for OPNsense builds. The Intel N100 and J6413 processors are fully supported by these operating systems. You will need to install the OS yourself on your chosen storage drive, as the hardware is provided without pre-installed software.
Which model is the most compact in size?
The ZOTAC ZBOX CI337 Nano is the most compact option, measuring 4.99 by 5.03 inches. Its Ultra Small Form Factor design prioritizes minimal footprint over high port density. The VNOPN J3710 is also quite small at 5 by 5.28 inches. The Glovary N150 and Sharevdi models are larger to accommodate their six-port configurations, making them better for desktop mounting rather than tight spaces.