HP Compaq dc7800 Small Form Factor review

Security is bolstered further by the inclusion of a TPM 1.2 chip. No fingerprint option is available, but HP's credential manager prompts you to securely store network and internet passwords when you first enter them. Then, once you've logged on to your PC, you won't need to enter any more passwords until the system is locked again.

So should a small business opt for a fleet of small form factor dc7800s? The size and design of the system is undeniably attractive and, if your current budget is being swallowed by complex visits from tech support, you'd do well to consider vPro systems. The dc7800 range, in particular, has some strong benefits, not least its performance and the fact that HP won a Highly Commended award in the last PC Pro Reliability & Service survey.

But while the SFF has some clear upsides, there's tough competition. The Fujitsu Siemens Esprimo E5916 is some £62 cheaper, for instance. For that money, the HP admittedly delivers a faster Core 2 Duo and 512MB more RAM, yet chassis accessibility is about the same. Before you buy, though, check with HP - or your preferred retailer - for a specification of the dc7800 SFF that better meets your budget.

Author: Dave Stevenson