Thin clients are small, quiet, low-power devices that connect users to desktops and applications running on a server or in the cloud, such as Citrix, Omnissa (VMware) Horizon, Microsoft Remote Desktop, Azure Virtual Desktop and Windows 365. Data stays in the data centre, and IT manages every device centrally. HP Pro and Elite thin clients, plus NComputing and Acer.
How to choose the right thin client
- Start with your platform. Confirm that the thin client and its operating system support the remote desktop system you use (Citrix, Horizon, RDP/AVD or Windows 365). This decides more than the hardware.
- Operating system. HP ThinPro is a lightweight, locked-down system made for remote desktop clients. Windows IoT Enterprise can also run local Windows software and agents, but needs more memory and storage. No OS models are for organisations that install their own image.
- Performance. Celeron models (such as HP Pro t550) suit office applications on one or two screens. AMD Ryzen Embedded models (HP Elite t655, t660 and t755) handle more screens, video and video calls more smoothly.
- Screens and ports. Count the monitors each user needs and check the number of video outputs. Check USB-C, serial or extra network ports if you use scanners, printers or legacy devices.
- Network. Most models use wired Ethernet; choose a Wi-Fi model if there is no network socket at the desk.
- Mounting. Thin clients can mount behind a monitor or under a desk with a VESA bracket.
- Need full Windows locally? A mini PC is the better choice.
Not sure which one fits? Tell us which remote desktop platform you use and how many users, and we will suggest a model. Call +357 25 878 758 or email [email protected].