Protectli Vault V1410 Mini PC review exploring performance, features, and compact design

Description

Advantages of the Compact and Reliable Design

Testing out the Protectli Vault V1410, I immediately noticed its size and build quality. This micro appliance is compact, measuring just 4.5 x 4.5 x 2 inches, and weighs a mere 1.81 pounds. It’s perfect for those who want a powerful yet portable device that doesn’t hog desk space. The solid metal casing gives it a premium, durable feel, and I’ve found it blends seamlessly into both home and office setups. What stood out most is how quiet it runs. Despite its powerful N5105 Quad Core CPU, the device operates without the annoying fan noise you’d expect from similar products.

The 4x 2.5G NIC ports make it an excellent choice for networking enthusiasts, IT professionals, or anyone needing fast, reliable connections. I tested it with multiple devices and experienced no lag or interruptions, which is a huge plus for tasks like running a home firewall or managing a small business network.

Performance and Hardware Specifications

The N5105 processor in this mini PC is impressive. With a base speed of 2.0 GHz and turbo capabilities up to 2.9 GHz, it handled everything I threw at it. Running firewall software like OPNsense and VyOS was smooth, and I appreciated the built-in AES-NI hardware support for added encryption security. The 8GB LPDDR4 RAM is soldered onto the motherboard, which might be a limitation for those wanting to upgrade, but for my use, it was more than sufficient.

The 32GB eMMC storage on board is basic, but the addition of a 500GB NVMe SSD makes up for it. This combination provides a good balance of speed and storage capacity. Boot times were fast, and transferring files was seamless, thanks to the 4x USB 3.0 ports included. It also features a USB Type-C console port and HDMI output, which offers flexibility for both modern and legacy devices.

Compatibility and Software Testing

One thing to note is that this device ships with no operating system pre-installed, which can be a bit intimidating for those not familiar with setting up hardware. However, I found it to be a strength rather than a weakness. The device is tested with various open-source solutions, including OPNsense, pfSense, and VyOS, which means you have the freedom to customize it to your specific needs. I personally tested it with OPNsense, and the installation process was straightforward. This flexibility makes it ideal for tech-savvy users who enjoy tailoring their setups.

Positives

• Compact and durable design, perfect for small spaces.
• Quiet operation, even under heavy loads.
• 4x 2.5G NIC ports for excellent networking performance.
• AES-NI support enhances security for encryption tasks.
• Highly compatible with popular open-source software.

Weaknesses

• Non-upgradable RAM limits future scalability.
• No pre-installed OS may not suit beginners.
• The eMMC storage is minimal, though the SSD compensates for this.

Competing Brands

Comparing the Protectli Vault V1410 to similar products, I’d say it holds its own against brands like Intel’s NUC series and Qotom devices. The Intel NUC might offer more RAM flexibility and a polished consumer experience, but it often comes at a higher price. Qotom devices, on the other hand, are similarly priced but lack the same build quality and 2.5G network ports.

What sets this product apart is its focus on networking capabilities and open-source compatibility. For instance, while Intel NUCs often require extra hardware for networking, the Vault V1410 provides everything out of the box. However, the inability to upgrade RAM is a downside compared to its rivals.

Price to Quality Ratio

Considering its features and performance, I’d say this product offers excellent value for money. It’s not the cheapest option out there, but for what you’re getting—quad-core processing power, multiple 2.5G NIC ports, and compatibility with various software solutions—it’s worth every penny. While the lack of user-upgradable RAM might deter some, the overall package feels balanced and geared toward professionals who need a reliable, customizable setup.

For someone like me, who enjoys tinkering with network setups and running virtual machines, this device is a solid investment. It’s not just a mini PC—it’s a powerful tool tailored for those who demand control over their systems.

Additional information