VNOPN Fanless Intel J3710 Mini PC vs VNOPN Fanless Firewall Mini PC: Spec Comparison
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This vnopn fanless intel j3710 mini PC vs fanless firewall mini PC comparison focuses on two compact firewall appliances. Both units share the same Intel J3710 processor and fanless aluminum design for silent 24/7 operation. The main difference lies in their configuration. One model comes pre-equipped with RAM and storage, ready for immediate use. The other is a barebone system, requiring you to install your own memory and drive. You should choose based on your need for convenience versus customization.
Key differences
| Aspect | VNOPN Fanless Intel J3710 Mini PC | VNOPN J3710 Fanless Firewall Mini PC |
|---|---|---|
| Memory | 8 GB DDR3 | Barebone (max 8 GB) |
| Storage | 64 GB mSATA SSD | Barebone (max 512 GB) |
| Networking | 4x Intel I226 LAN | 4x 2.5GbE I226-V LAN |
| Form Factor | Pre-built | Barebone |
Which one should you choose?
Choose VNOPN Fanless Intel J3710 Mini PC if
- You want a ready-to-use system without buying separate components
- You prefer a pre-tested configuration for firewall software
- You need 8 GB of RAM and 64 GB of storage included
Choose VNOPN J3710 Fanless Firewall Mini PC if
- You want to upgrade to faster 2.5GbE network ports
- You prefer to select your own RAM and SSD capacity
- You want a barebone unit to customize for specific needs
Verdict: Choose the pre-built model if you want a complete, out-of-the-box solution with included memory and storage. Opt for the barebone version if you need 2.5GbE networking speeds and want to customize your own components. Both share the same efficient, silent processor and chassis.
VNOPN J3710 Mini PC Spec Breakdown
Processor performance
Both units rely on the Intel J3710 quad-core processor. This chip offers four cores and four threads with a 2MB L2 cache. The maximum turbo frequency reaches 2.64GHz. The thermal design power remains low at 6.5W for both models. This low power draw supports silent fanless operation in aluminum enclosures. Both systems support AES-NI instructions for hardware-accelerated encryption. This feature is critical for firewall performance when handling encrypted traffic. You get identical computational power regardless of which configuration you choose. The processing capability will handle standard routing and firewall tasks efficiently.
Memory configuration
Memory setup differs significantly between the two options. The VNOPN Fanless Intel J3710 Mini PC comes with 8GB of DDR3 RAM installed. This amount allows immediate operation with popular open-source operating systems like pfSense or OPNsense. The VNOPN J3710 Fanless Firewall Mini PC is a barebone unit with zero installed RAM. It supports a maximum of 8GB DDR3, but you must purchase and install the memory module yourself. If you want a plug-and-play experience, the pre-configured model is superior. If you already have compatible RAM, the barebone option saves cost.
Storage capacity
Storage options also vary between these two compact appliances. The first model includes a 64GB mSATA SSD. This drive provides enough space for the operating system and basic firewall logs. It supports upgrades up to 512GB if needed. The second model is a barebone system with no storage installed. It accepts mSATA SSDs up to 512GB, but you must supply the drive. Neither unit supports traditional HDDs. For users who do not want to source additional components, the pre-installed storage is a clear advantage. Barebone buyers need to budget for separate SSD purchases.
Networking capabilities
Both mini PCs feature four Ethernet ports for network connectivity. The VNOPN Fanless Intel J3710 Mini PC lists these as Intel I226 LAN ports. The VNOPN J3710 Fanless Firewall Mini PC explicitly labels them as 2.5GbE I226-V ports. The I226-V chipset supports 2.5 Gigabit Ethernet speeds. This provides higher bandwidth potential compared to standard 1Gbps connections. Both units include two USB 3.0 ports and one RS232 COM port for console access. The second model’s explicit mention of 2.5GbE suggests it is optimized for faster network throughput. This makes it slightly more future-proof for high-speed internet connections.
Operating system
The software state upon delivery is a key difference. The VNOPN Fanless Intel J3710 Mini PC has been tested with pfSense, OPNsense, Linux, and Ubuntu. It comes ready for these operating systems. The VNOPN J3710 Fanless Firewall Mini PC explicitly states that no system is installed. It is provided for testing purposes only. If you prefer a device that is ready to configure immediately after unboxing, the first option is better. The second option requires you to install an OS from scratch. This adds time and complexity for users who are not familiar with open-source firewall distributions.
Choose the right VNOPN firewall mini PC
Users wanting a ready-to-use firewall appliance
This model includes 8GB of DDR3 RAM and a 64GB mSATA SSD, so you do not need to purchase or install memory and storage separately. It arrives pre-configured for popular open-source operating systems like pfSense or Ubuntu. The four Intel I226 LAN ports are ready for immediate network integration without additional hardware setup.
Users needing higher throughput for 2.5GbE networks
This barebone unit features four 2.5GbE Intel I226-V LAN ports, offering higher potential bandwidth than standard Gigabit connections. Since it is a barebone system, you can install your preferred high-speed RAM and storage modules to match your specific performance requirements. The fanless design ensures silent operation during intensive routing tasks.
Users who prefer to customize their own build
This option is sold as a barebone system with no installed RAM or storage, giving you full control over component selection. You can choose specific DDR3 memory and mSATA SSD capacities up to 512GB. This flexibility allows you to tailor the hardware precisely to your firewall software needs and budget constraints.
The products compared
VNOPN Fanless Intel J3710 Mini PC
Best for: Dedicated firewall or router setups
- Processor
- Intel J3710
- Installed RAM
- 8 GB
- Storage Capacity
- 64 GB
- Memory Type
- DDR3
- Ethernet Ports
- 4x Intel I226 LAN
- Use
- Firewall
View on Amazon: VNOPN Fanless Intel J3710 Mini PC Affiliate link
This VNOPN mini PC is built for network tasks, featuring an Intel J3710 processor and four Intel I226 LAN ports. It includes 8GB of DDR3 RAM and a 64GB mSATA SSD. The fanless aluminum design ensures silent operation and heat dissipation up to 60°C. You can mount it behind a monitor using the included VESA bracket. It supports various open-source operating systems for firewall or router applications.
Pros
- Four Intel I226 LAN ports for robust networking
- Fanless design with aluminum alloy shell
- Compact size with VESA mounting capability
- Supports AES-NI encryption acceleration
Cons
- Uses older DDR3 RAM instead of DDR4
- Limited to mSATA SSD storage only
- Only 64GB of built-in storage capacity
Good fit if
- You need a dedicated firewall or router device
- You require multiple wired Ethernet connections
- You want a silent, fanless network appliance
Skip if
- You need high-performance desktop computing
- You require modern DDR4 or DDR5 memory
- You need to connect standard SATA hard drives
Verdict: VNOPN Fanless Firewall Mini PC is a specialized tool for users who need a quiet, multi-port network device. It fits those building a home lab or dedicated router setup.
VNOPN J3710 Fanless Firewall Mini PC
Best for: Dedicated firewall and network security setups
- Processor
- Intel J3710
- Installed RAM
- Barebone
- Storage Capacity
- Barebone
- Memory Type
- DDR3
- Ethernet Ports
- 4x 2.5GbE
- Use
- Firewall
View on Amazon: VNOPN J3710 Fanless Firewall Mini PC Affiliate link
This VNOPN mini PC is a barebone firewall appliance built around the Intel J3710 processor. It features four Intel 2.5GbE LAN ports for robust network handling. The fanless aluminum design ensures silent 24/7 operation with low power consumption. You need to add your own DDR3 RAM and mSATA storage. It suits users who want a dedicated, quiet network security device.
Pros
- Four Intel 2.5GbE LAN ports
- Fanless aluminum alloy design
- Low 6.5W TDP
- Supports AES-NI encryption
Cons
- Sold as a barebone unit with no RAM or storage
- Limited to DDR3 memory support
- Only supports mSATA SSDs, not standard HDDs
Good fit if
- You need dedicated 2.5GbE networking ports
- You want a silent, fanless network appliance
- You prefer to install your own OS and storage
Skip if
- You need a pre-installed operating system
- You require high-performance gaming or heavy multitasking
- You want to use standard 2.5-inch SATA drives
Verdict: VNOPN Fanless Firewall Mini PC is a compact, silent network device for users who value dedicated 2.5GbE ports and low power usage. It fits those willing to handle their own RAM and storage installation.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | VNOPN Fanless Intel J3710 Mini PC | VNOPN J3710 Fanless Firewall Mini PC |
|---|---|---|
| Processor | Intel J3710 | Intel J3710 |
| Installed RAM | 8 GB | Barebone |
| Storage Capacity | 64 GB | Barebone |
| Memory Type | DDR3 | DDR3 |
| Ethernet Ports | 4x Intel I226 LAN | 4x 2.5GbE |
| Use | Firewall | Firewall |
| Cooling | Fanless | Fanless |
| Networking | not stated | 2.5G LAN |
| Form Factor | not stated | Barebone |
| Dimensions | 5.27 × 5 × 1.43 inches | 5.28 × 5 × 1.46 inches |
| Size | mini | mini |
| Color | Black | Black |
| Model | F12 | F12 |
Frequently asked questions
Are both VNOPN firewall mini PCs fanless?
Yes, both models use a fanless design. This ensures silent operation, which is ideal for home labs or quiet office environments. The aluminum chassis helps dissipate heat without moving parts, reducing maintenance needs while maintaining reliable performance for network tasks.
What is the physical size of these VNOPN units?
Both devices are compact mini PCs. The first model measures 5 inches wide, 1.43 inches high, and 5.27 inches long. The second model is slightly taller at 1.46 inches high and 5.28 inches long. Their small footprint allows easy mounting behind a monitor or in tight rack spaces.
Do I need to buy RAM and storage separately?
It depends on the specific model you choose. One version comes as a barebone system, meaning you must install your own RAM and storage. The other model includes 8GB of DDR3 RAM and a 64GB mSATA SSD, so it is ready to use out of the box.
What network speed do these firewall PCs support?
The VNOPN J3710 Fanless Firewall Mini PC supports 2.5G LAN networking. This higher bandwidth capability helps handle modern internet speeds and heavy network traffic efficiently. It is suitable for users who need faster throughput for advanced firewall rules or virtual private network connections.
Is the Intel J3710 processor powerful enough for a router?
The Intel J3710 quad-core processor is designed for low-power, continuous operation. It features four cores and threads with a maximum turbo frequency of 2.64GHz. This performance level is sufficient for handling firewall duties, routing, and basic network security tasks without consuming excessive power.
Which VNOPN mini PC is better for a dedicated firewall setup?
The choice depends on your preference for hardware installation. If you want a plug-and-play experience, the model with included RAM and storage is best. If you prefer to customize your memory and storage, the barebone version with 2.5G LAN ports offers more flexibility for your specific needs.