Choosing between the Dell Wyse vs. Raspberry Pi can be a tough task. After all, users want to work with the best hardware and ensure everything runs smoothly.
Although each device has similar technology, these offer different functionalities and compatibility with software.
This article focuses on key differences in these machines, helping you make an informed decision. So let’s take a look!
Table of Contents
- Wyse Device Applications
- Comparing Dell Wyse 3040 vs. Raspberry Pi 4
- Does The Dell Wyse Serve As A Computer?
- Summary
Wyse Device Applications
The Dell Wyse device works as a virtual desktop.
Owners utilize the Dell Wyse 3040 for varying applications, such as at-home network projects. Other use cases include:
- Networking projects
- Virtual desktop
- Cloud-based computing
- Internet connectivity
Comparing Dell Wyse 3040 vs. Raspberry Pi 4
A Raspberry Pi 4 device
Both devices have similar hardware, including Gigabit Ethernet, 64-bit CPU (quad-core), four USB ports, and storage (SDIO). Check out the table for a quick glimpse into what these machines offer.
| Hardware | Raspberry Pi 4 | Dell Wyse 3040 |
| CPU | Broadcom BCM2711 Cortex A-72 Quad Core 64-bit CPU | Intel Atom x5-8350 1.44 GHz 64-bit Quad Core CPU |
| GPU | Broadcom VideoCore VI Compatible with: OpenGL 2.1 and OpenGL ES 3.2 | Built-in 8th Gen Intel HD Graphics (Broadwell) Compatible with: Vulkan 1.0, OpenCL 1.2, OpenGL 4.4, and OpenGL ES 3.0 |
| Ethernet | Broadcom Ethernet LAN 10MB/100MB/1000MB | Realtek Ethernet LAN 10MB/100MB/1000MB Copper RJ-45 |
| Storage | Micro SD Card (SDIO) for OS and data storage (8GB to 32GB) | 8GB or 16GB eMMC flash chip (soldered) |
| Memory | 1GB, 2GB, 4GB, 8GB LPDDR4-3200 SDRAM | 2GB DDR3L/1600 MHz (soldered) |
| Wireless | Broadcom Synaptics BCM SYN43436 2.4 GHz WiFi with Bluetooth 5.0 | Azurewave AW-CM389MA 2.4 GHz WiFi with Bluetooth 4.2 |
| Audio | Audio Jack – 3.5mm | Audio-mic combo Jack – 3.5mm |
| Display | Micro HDMI (2) with 3840 x 2160 resolution @ 30 Hz | DisplayPorts (2) with 1920×1080 resolution @ 60 Hz |
| Power | 5V/3A (USB Type C) | 5V/3A or 12V/2A (4.1mmx1.77mm plug) |
| USB | USB 3.0 – 2, USB 2.0 – 2 | USB 3.0 – 1, USB 2.0 – 3 |
| Other | CSI camera portDSI display portGPIO Header (40 pins) | RTC (CR2023 battery-powered)Power button |
You will also realize that each device functions differently, providing varying capabilities.
CPU
Example of a CPU.
Dell’s 3040 Wyse features an Intel Atom quad-core 1.44 GHz 64-bit CPU. It also has a 1.92 GHz turbo mode and a 2 MB cache. Atom’s design allows users to install any operating system on this device.
Meanwhile, the Raspberry Pi 4 has a Broadcom BCM2711 quad-core 64-bit CPU. This ARM processor has a 1 MB shared cache.
However, the ARM software requires frequent patch installations for software compatibility. So it may not run any operating system, which means you must choose a certain Pi OS to run the software.
GPU
Image showing a GPU.
Dell Wyse 3040 has dual Display Ports that achieve 1920×1080 resolution at 60 Hz with two connected displays. You can utilize a DP/HDMI adapter to connect these ports to an HDMI socket.
The Intel Broadwell 8th Gen GPU offers compatibility with Vulkan 1.0, OpenCL 1.2, OpenGL 4.4, and OpenGL ES 3.0.
The Raspberry Pi 4 comes with 4k 60Hz through one monitor. You can connect the display via micro-HDMI ports. It also features a Videocore Vi GPU, offering compatibility with OpenGL 2.1 and OpenGL ES 3.2.
Ethernet and Wireless Connectivity
Each device features a different version of Bluetooth.
Dell’s 3040 Wyse system comes with an 8169 ethernet controller from Realtek. It also has Bluetooth 4.2 and Azurewave AW-CM389MA 2.4 GHz WiFi.
Raspberry Pi 4 features a Broadcom ethernet controller. Additionally, this device has Bluetooth 5.0 along with a BCM/SYN43436 2.4 GHz WiFi.
Power
The Wyse 3040 device’s barrel jack distributes power to other components. However, you must also power the barrel jack, which requires a USB charger connected to a USB A to 4 mm converter cable.
Ensure the device has the correct power specification by verifying the rating underneath the unit.
Raspberry Pi 4 should get its power through a power supply (5V/3A) plugged into the Pi device via the USB Type-C connector.
Audio
Each unit features an audio headphone jack. You can find the Wyse 3040 headphone jack on the frontal area. Additionally, the HDMI and display ports have audio output. You can enhance the Pi’s audio by integrating GPIO hardware.
USB Ports
Both machines have one or more USB 3.0 ports.
The Dell Wyse 3040 and Raspberry Pi 4 have four USB ports. While Raspberry Pi 4 has two USB 3.0 ports, the Wyse has one.
Other Hardware
Example of an RTC module.
The Dell Wyse 3040 also includes a power button and a real-time clock powered by a CR2032 battery. You can add more USB functionality to the 3040, including a TV tuner.
On the other hand, the Raspberry Pi 4 has a CSI (camera) and DSI (display) port. It also features a 40-pin GPIO header, allowing users to integrate more hardware.
Does The Dell Wyse Serve As A Computer?
Yes, but the Dell Wyse system works more like a thin client. In that case, it doesn’t have a hard drive that stores files and applications for the user to access.
Instead, this device obtains the software and data from a server, effectively reducing costs. Plus, you can utilize the Dell Wyse 3040 as an alternative to the Raspberry Pi 4.
Summary
Overall, both devices have similar technology but perform differently due to compatibility.
Plus, you may feel more inclined to purchase one over the other due to more intriguing features. For instance, the Raspberry Pi has a GPIO header, which isn’t available on the Dell Wyse.