Dell OptiPlex Pro Slim QCS1250 SFF Desktop Computer Next-Gen Version Review

A compact powerhouse with a professional twist. The 20-core i7 CPU and 4TB SSD are fantastic, but the RTX A1000 GPU isn't for gaming. At $2400, it's a niche buy for pros who need a tiny workstation. Most people should look at a standard gaming PC instead.

The Dell OptiPlex Pro Slim QCS1250 is a small form factor desktop that packs a surprising punch. It's built around Intel's 20-core i7-14700 CPU and a professional-grade Nvidia RTX A1000 GPU, all crammed into a chassis that won't hog your desk space. This isn't a gaming rig, though. It's a compact workstation that's aiming to handle heavy-duty office and creative tasks without the bulk of a tower.

The 20-core Intel i7-14700 is the star here, landing in the 76th percentile for CPU performance. It's going to tear through spreadsheets, video calls, and even some light video editing without breaking a sweat. The 4TB NVMe SSD is a monster, scoring in the 98th percentile for storage, so you'll never wait on file transfers. The catch is the GPU. The RTX A1000 is a professional card, not a gaming one, and its 52nd percentile ranking shows. It's fine for driving multiple 4K displays and some CAD work, but don't expect to play modern games at high settings.

At $2400, this is a tough sell for most people. You're paying a premium for the compact SFF form factor and the professional RTX A1000 GPU. If you specifically need a tiny, powerful PC for professional applications that can leverage that A1000, the value might be there. For everyone else, especially gamers, that money goes a lot further in a standard mid-tower.

This Dell sits in a weird spot. It's not a gaming PC like the HP Omen 45L or Alienware Aurora, which offer much stronger consumer gaming GPUs for similar money. Compared to business-focused towers like the Lenovo ThinkStation, it trades raw expansion and power for its tiny size. The MSI MEG Vision X and Corsair Vengeance a7400 are full-blown gaming powerhouses that will run circles around this Dell in games. This OptiPlex is for the niche user who needs professional graphics in a shoebox.

Gamers, skip this immediately. The RTX A1000 is the wrong tool for the job, and for $2400 you can get a killer gaming rig. Also, if you think you might want to upgrade components later, the small case and 360W PSU will wall you in. Get a standard mid-tower instead.

Buy this only if your top priority is a supremely compact desktop with a professional-grade GPU for CAD, 3D modeling, or data science. The CPU and storage are excellent, but the form factor and pro card come at a high price. For literally any other use—especially gaming or general home office work—you can get more power and better value elsewhere.