Dell OptiPlex 5490 All-in-One — Review: Features, Specs
Key Specs
Based on Dell’s spec sheet and retailer listings:
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Display: 23.8″, Full HD (1920×1080) — available in touch and non-touch variants.
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Processors: Options from 10th-gen Intel (e.g., i3-10105T) up to 11th-gen i5/i7 T-series.
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Memory: Supports DDR4; typical configs start at 8 GB.
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Storage: M.2 NVMe SSD (e.g., 256 GB) + optional 2.5" SATA drive.
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Graphics: Integrated Intel graphics (e.g., UHD 630 or 750, depending on CPU).
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Connectivity: Wi-Fi 6 (AX201) + Bluetooth; various USB ports including USB-C.
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Power Supply: Internal PSU options — 155 W (80 PLUS Bronze) or 220 W (80 PLUS Platinum) depending on config.
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Security: TPM 2.0, lockable port covers, chassis intrusion alert (per spec sheet).
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Stand Options: Fixed, height-adjustable, or with optical drive.
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Sustainability: EPEAT Gold, some ENERGY STAR configurations.
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Weight: ~6 kg (varies by model)
Performance & Real-World Use
Productivity / Office Use
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Well-suited for business, office, and administrative tasks. With the 6-core T-series CPUs, it can handle multitasking, productivity apps, and standard business workloads.
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The large 23.8″ screen is great for spreadsheets, dual-pane documents, and video calls.
Storage & Responsiveness
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The use of a PCIe NVMe SSD means boot and load times can be good, though that depends on the exact SSD used.
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The additional 2.5" drive bay provides flexibility — good for extra storage, though if you put in a mechanical HDD, it will be slower than the SSD.
Graphics
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Integrated graphics are not designed for gaming or heavy GPU work. It’s fine for standard UI, video conferencing, and light multimedia, but not suitable for demanding 3D rendering or modern AAA games.
Connectivity & Collaboration
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Good connectivity: multiple USB ports + USB-C + DisplayPort output helps with expandability.
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Built-in webcam options: there are models with a pop-up webcam + quad mics + “Intelligent Audio” for better conferencing experiences per spec sheet.
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AI / Productivity features: includes Dell Optimizer with features like ExpressResponse to optimize performance for certain applications.
Build & Ergonomics
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The chassis is fairly compact for an AIO, and there are useful ergonomic stand options (height-adjustable).
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Solid design, as expected from Dell business-class AIO.
Pros & Strengths
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Space-saving form factor: All-in-one design keeps the footprint clean.
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Good screen size for productivity: 23.8″ is large but not overly bulky.
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Flexible configurations: Multiple CPU, storage, and memory options.
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Modern connectivity: USB-C, Wi-Fi 6, and ample USB ports.
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Security features: TPM, chassis lock, etc., are good for business environments.
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Energy efficient: Some configurations are ENERGY STAR / EPEAT certified.
Drawbacks & Considerations
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Integrated Graphics Only: Not for graphics-intensive tasks.
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Upgrade Limitations: While there is an M.2 slot and 2.5" bay, upgrading may be less straightforward than a desktop tower.
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Weight: At ~6 kg, it's heavier than a typical monitor, so moving it often isn’t ideal.
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Reports of Reliability Issues: Some users report hardware problems. For example:
“Just had 6 Dell OptiPlex AIO fail … they all … got stuck on Dell Logo … motherboard replaced … issue persisted”
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Imaging / Deployment Challenges: Sysadmins note possible BSOD / driver issues when imaging via SCCM.
Who It’s Good For
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Business / Office Environments: Ideal for call centers, reception desks, or offices where clean desks and reliability matter.
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Education / Classrooms: The AIO form and good screen make it suitable for student use, teacher stations, or computer labs.
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Remote Work / Hybrid Work: Good for video calls, working in documents, or moderate multitasking.
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Users Not Needing Gaming: If your work doesn’t require a discrete GPU, this is a solid pick.
Verdict
The Dell OptiPlex 5490 All-in-One is a very capable business-class AIO. It balances performance (via modern T-series Intel CPUs), connectivity, and a clean design. It's particularly strong for productivity, office work, and collaborative environments.
However, it's not a powerhouse for GPU-heavy workloads, and some buyers (especially in enterprise) have reported hardware reliability issues. If you're looking for a reliable, space-efficient AIO for business or personal productivity — and don’t need high-end graphics — it's a compelling option. But if you need gaming, video editing, or 3D work, you'd likely be better off with a tower or workstation.

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