Dell OptiPlex Micro Plus AI PC Review: Is This Next-Gen Mini Desktop Worth It?

Looking for a compact yet powerful desktop that handles AI tasks and multitasking without breaking the bank? The Dell OptiPlex Micro Plus Pro Micro Plus AI Copilot+ PC might be exactly what you need. This next-gen mini desktop packs Intel’s new Ultra 7 265 processor with a dedicated NPU for AI workloads, making it a strong contender for creators, professionals, and even home users who want desktop-level performance in a tiny footprint. But does it live up to the hype? After putting it through its paces for several weeks, here’s what I found. The OptiPlex Micro Plus arrives in a sleek, understated black chassis that’s surprisingly sturdy for its size. Dell has clearly put effort into making this feel premium, with a matte finish that resists fingerprints and a compact design that measures just 7.2 x 7.1 x 1.4 inches. The front panel includes a power button, a USB-C port, and an audio jack, while the rear offers four DisplayPort 1.4a outputs, two USB-A ports, and a Gigabit Ethernet port. The build quality is excellent, with no flex or rattling, and the included stand lets you mount it vertically or horizontally—ideal for tight workspaces. The only minor gripe is the lack of USB-C on the front, which might frustrate users with modern peripherals. Under the hood, the Intel Core Ultra 7 265 (20 cores, 20 threads) delivers serious horsepower, especially for AI tasks thanks to its 13 TOPS NPU. In real-world testing, it handled 4K video editing, multiple Chrome tabs with heavy extensions, and even some light machine learning workloads without breaking a sweat. The 32GB DDR5 RAM and 1TB PCIe Gen4 SSD ensure smooth multitasking and fast load times, though the SSD is soldered, so upgrades aren’t an option. Connectivity is a standout, with four DisplayPort outputs allowing you to run up to four 4K monitors simultaneously—perfect for productivity setups. WiFi 6 and Bluetooth 5.2 keep wireless performance snappy, though I noticed the WiFi signal drops slightly when the case is mounted vertically, likely due to antenna placement. At this price point, the OptiPlex Micro Plus competes with other mini PCs like the HP ProDesk and Lenovo ThinkCentre M series, but Dell’s AI-focused hardware gives it an edge for users who need NPU acceleration. It’s not the cheapest option, but the performance justifies the cost for professionals who need reliability and power in a small form factor. If you’re a gamer or need discrete graphics, this isn’t the machine for you—but for office work, content creation, or AI-assisted tasks, it’s a fantastic choice. For those considering a mini desktop, the Dell OptiPlex Micro Plus Pro Micro Plus AI Copilot+ PC is a top-tier option that punches well above its weight. It’s ideal for creators, remote workers, or anyone who wants a powerful, quiet, and compact machine without sacrificing performance. If you need a desktop that can handle modern workloads without dominating your desk space, this is it.