The Optiplex 990 SFF's port selection isn't too exciting. The machine offers a total of 10 USB ports -- 6 on the rear, and 4 conveniently located up front. That's certainly a generous amount, but there's a noted lack of variety areas. Both FireWire and USB 3.0 PCI cards are available as optional extras, but the Vostro 460 includes both USB 3.0 and eSata connectors. The graphics card offers DisplayPort and DVI connectors. Serial PS/2 keyboard and mouse ports free up your USB ports, and there's also a serial port for your legacy hardware. Gigabit Ethernet is bog standard, but the 802.11n WiFi isn't -- a welcome addition, and especially useful in a machine that's intended to be tucked away.

Lastly are the bundled peripherals -- nothing especially exciting here, as expected from the Business category. The bundled mouse is generic -- a simple, two buttons and a scroll wheel contraption. The keyboard, by contrast, offers quite a bit more functionality. Shortcut keys give quick access to browser functions and applications, as well as offering control for media playback. It's a very simple addition, but one that's nonetheless appreciated.

There's a substantial price difference between the Vostro 460 and the Optiplex 990. But the Optiplex line includes Dell's Pro Support services, which are likely to be invaluable if your business doesn't have robust IT services. That said, if you have your own support backend in place, the Vostro 460 offers marginally better performance, and will save you a few hundred dollars. Also keep in mind that both machines can be customized to suite your needs, and you'll save a bit of cash if you opt for a larger chassis. You'll lose out on the space savings that the Optiplex 990 SFF offers, but you will have room inside to make your own upgrades.