Lenovo ThinkCentre M70s Gen 3 SFF (11TC001SGR) Review – Powerful and Compact
Lenovo ThinkCentre M70s Gen 3 SFF (11TC001SGR) Review
Table of Contents
Introduction
The Lenovo ThinkCentre M70s Gen 3 SFF is a compact desktop PC designed for both business and home users. This review focuses on the model with an Intel Core i7-12700 processor, 8GB RAM, and a 512GB SSD. I’ve been using this system for a few weeks now, and I’m ready to share my experience, covering its performance, features, and overall value.
Features
The Lenovo ThinkCentre M70s Gen 3 SFF packs a lot of features into its small form factor. Here are some highlights:
* **Powerful Intel Core i7-12700 Processor:** This 12th Gen Intel processor provides ample power for demanding tasks, including multitasking, gaming, and content creation.
* **8GB DDR4 RAM:** The 8GB of DDR4 RAM ensures smooth multitasking and fast application loading.
* **512GB SSD:** The 512GB SSD provides fast boot times and quick application loading.
* **Intel UHD Graphics 770:** The integrated graphics solution delivers decent performance for casual gaming and everyday tasks.
* **Small Form Factor:** The compact design saves space on your desk and is easy to transport.
* **Extensive Connectivity:** The ThinkCentre M70s Gen 3 SFF offers a wide range of ports, including USB 3.2 Gen 2, HDMI 2.1, DisplayPort 1.4, and Gigabit Ethernet.
* **Durable Construction:** The ThinkCentre M70s Gen 3 SFF is built to withstand the rigors of everyday use and is MIL-STD-810H certified for durability.
Performance
The Lenovo ThinkCentre M70s Gen 3 SFF delivers impressive performance for its size. The Intel Core i7-12700 processor handled everything I threw at it, including:
* **Multitasking:** Switching between multiple applications, including productivity software, web browsers, and creative tools, felt smooth and responsive.
* **Gaming:** The integrated graphics card was able to run less demanding games at decent settings.
* **Content Creation:** I was able to edit photos and videos without any lag or stutter.
* **Everyday Tasks:** Browsing the web, checking emails, and using productivity software was a breeze.
The 512GB SSD provided fast boot times and quick application loading, making the overall user experience very smooth.
Pros & Cons
Here’s a breakdown of the ThinkCentre M70s Gen 3 SFF’s pros and cons:
**Pros:**
* Powerful performance for a small form factor.
* Good value for money, offering a balance of features and price.
* Durable construction with MIL-STD-810H certification.
* Extensive connectivity with a wide range of ports.
* Compact design saves space on the desk.
* Quiet operation during everyday use.
**Cons:**
* 8GB of RAM can be limiting for some users.
* Integrated graphics card is suitable for casual gaming but not demanding games.
* Upgrading components can be challenging due to the compact design.
Final Verdict
Overall, the Lenovo ThinkCentre M70s Gen 3 SFF is a solid choice for users looking for a compact and powerful desktop PC. The Intel Core i7-12700 processor, 8GB RAM, and 512GB SSD deliver excellent performance for everyday tasks, multitasking, and light gaming. The extensive connectivity options, durable construction, and quiet operation further enhance the overall user experience. While the 8GB of RAM may be limiting for some users, and the integrated graphics card is not ideal for high-end gaming, the ThinkCentre M70s Gen 3 SFF offers a good balance of features and performance for its price.
Specifications
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Processor | Intel® Core™ i7-12700, 12C (8P + 4E) / 20T, Max Turbo up to 4.9GHz, P-core 2.1 / 4.8GHz, E-core 1.6 / 3.6GHz, 25MB |
| Graphics | Integrated Intel® UHD Graphics 770 |
| Chipset | Intel® Q670 Chipset |
| Memory | 1x 8GB UDIMM DDR4-3200 |
| Memory Slots | Four DDR4 DIMM slots, dual-channel capable |
| Max Memory | Up to 128GB DDR4-3200 |
| Storage | 512GB SSD M.2 2280 PCIe® 4.0×4 Value NVMe® Opal |
| Storage Support | Up to three drives, 1x 2.5″/3.5″ HDD + 1x 2.5″ HDD + 1x M.2 SSD • 2.5″ HDD up to 1TB each • 3.5″ HDD up to 2TB • M.2 SSD up to 2TB |
| Card Reader | 3-in-1 Card Reader |
| Optical | DVD±RW |
| Audio Chip | High Definition (HD) Audio, Realtek® ALC897Q-CG codec |
| Speakers | 1Wx1 |
| Power Supply | 260W 90% |
| Keyboard | USB Traditional Keyboard, Black, Arabic |
| Mouse | USB Calliope Mouse, Black |
| Optional Bay | None |
| Expansion Slots | One PCIe® 4.0 x16, low-profile, length ≤ 155mm, height ≤ 70mmTwo PCIe® 3.0 x1, low-profile, length ≤ 155mm, height ≤ 70mmTwo M.2 slots (one for WLAN, one for SSD) |
| Case Color | Black |
| Stand | None |
| Dust Filter | None |
| Form Factor | SFF (8.2L) |
| Dimensions (WxDxH) | 92.5 x 297.7 x 339.5 mm (3.6 x 11.7 x 13.4 inches) |
| Weight | Around 5.3 kg (11.7 lbs) |
| Ethernet | Integrated 100/1000M |
| WLAN + Bluetooth | None |
| Front Ports | 1x USB-C® 3.2 Gen 1 (15W charging)2x USB 3.2 Gen 12x USB 3.2 Gen 21x headphone / microphone combo jack (3.5mm)1x microphone (3.5mm) |
| Optional Front Ports (configured) | 1x card reader |
| Rear Ports | 4x USB 2.01x HDMI® 2.1 TMDS2x DisplayPort™ 1.41x Ethernet (RJ-45)1x line-out (3.5mm) |
| Optional Rear Ports (configured) | None |
| Monitor Cable | None |
| Security Chip | Discrete TPM 2.0, TCG certified |
| Fingerprint Reader | No fingerprint reader |
| Physical Locks | Kensington® Security Slot™, 3 x 7 mmPadlock Loop |
| Smart Cable Clip | None |
| Chassis E-Lock | None |
| Chassis Intrusion Switch | None |
| System Management | Non-vPro® |
| Green Certifications | ErP Lot 3RoHS compliantTCO Certified 9.0 |
| Mil-Spec Test | MIL-STD-810H military test passed (Low Pressure [Altitude], High Temperature, Low Temperature, Temperature Shock, Humidity, Sand and Dust, Vibration, Shock, Fungus, Solar Radiation, Contamination by Fluids, Salt Fog) |
| Operating System | Windows® 11 Pro, Arabic / English |
| Bundled Software | None |
| Bundled Accessories | None |
