If you're interested in learning about the differences between the Fitlet2 and Fitlet3, we invite you to read our detailed blog post. In it, we go over each aspect of the devices, including their CPU, memory, storage, networking, power, and operating environment. We also discuss the available options for each device, as well as their standard features. Whether you're a software developer, a hardware enthusiast, or someone looking for a compact computing solution, you're in the right place.
CPU
Fitlet3 offers more advanced processing capabilities compared to Fitlet2. Fitlet3 is equipped with a newer generation CPU that has a processing power ranging from 1.3 to 2.0 GHz and offers three available CPU options. These CPUs are more energy-efficient compared to some of the higher-powered CPUs available on the market, with a power consumption range of 6 W to 12 W. Fitlet2 is equipped with an older generation CPU that has a processing power ranging from 1.3 to 1.5 GHz and also offers three available CPU options with a similar power consumption range of 6.5 W to 12 W. The increased processing power on Fitlet3 makes it suitable for a wider range of applications that require higher processing capabilities.
Memory
Fitlet3 offers more advanced memory capabilities compared to Fitlet2. Fitlet3 uses SO-DIMM DDR4 memory with a maximum speed of 3200MT/s and offers five available memory options ranging from 2GB to 32GB. This memory type and speed offer faster data transfer rates, resulting in better performance and multitasking capabilities. In contrast, Fitlet2 uses SO-DIMM DDR3L memory with a maximum speed of 1600MT/s and offers four available memory options ranging from 2GB to 16GB. While DDR3L memory is still a reliable option, the maximum speed is slower than DDR4, resulting in slower data transfer rates and potentially slower overall performance. Overall, the increased memory capabilities on Fitlet3 make it a better choice for applications that require more memory-intensive operations, such as running multiple applications simultaneously or editing large files.
Storage
Fitlet3 offers similar storage capabilities to Fitlet2 but with a more advanced storage interface. Both Fitlet3 and Fitlet2 offer M.2 and 2.5" HDD/SSD expansion options. However, Fitlet3 uses the M.2 Key-M interface which can support NVMe or M.2 SATA, whereas Fitlet2 uses the M.2 Key-B interface which supports only M.2 SATA. NVMe is a newer storage protocol that offers faster read/write speeds than SATA, resulting in faster data transfer rates and improved overall system performance. The M.2 Key-M interface on Fitlet3, therefore, provides the option for faster storage capabilities. Additionally, both Fitlet3 and Fitlet2 offer similar storage capacities for M.2 and 2.5" HDD/SSD expansion, with SATA options ranging from 32GB to 512GB and 2.5" HDD/SSD options ranging from 1T to 2T. Overall, while Fitlet3 and Fitlet2 offer similar storage capacities, Fitlet3's support for NVMe provides faster storage options and improved system performance.
Network capabilities
The Fitlet3 can be equipped with an on-board Intel AX210 6GHz Wi-Fi and Bluetooth module, which is already integrated into the motherboard. However, even if the module is not pre-installed, it can still be added to the M.2 socket for added flexibility. On the other hand, the fitlet2 does not have cellular and GNSS functionality as standard, and assembling the necessary networking modules would require an expansion board. This means that if your configuration requires Wi-Fi & Bluetooth or a cellular modem, the Fitlet3 may be a more convenient choice. The Fitlet3 comes with an M.2 Key-B and Micro-SIM tray that can be easily reached, while the Fitlet2 lacks this feature.
Input&Output and connectivities
The fitlet3 has 4 USB 2.0 and 2 USB 3.1 ports on USB Type-A, while the fitlet2 has 2 USB 2.0 and 2 USB 3.1 ports on USB Type-A. The fitlet2 also has an option to add 4 additional USB 2.0 ports with an FC-4USB FACET card.
The Fitlet2 and Fitlet3 differ in terms of their Serial/GPIO/CAN capabilities. The Fitlet2 comes with one RS-232 on a mini-serial connector as standard, while the Fitlet3 does not include any serial/GPIO/CAN functionality as standard. However, the Fitlet3 offers more flexibility in this regard, as these features can be added through FACET expansion cards. The Fitlet2 also lacks GPIO and CAN bus functionality as standard, while the Fitlet3 supports these features through the FC-SCG FACET card. Overall, while the Fitlet2 has some basic serial functionality included as standard, the Fitlet3 offers more flexibility and expandability in terms of its Serial/GPIO/CAN capabilities.
Power
Both Fitlet2 and Fitlet3 come with a universal 12V AC wall-mount power supply unit included as standard. Additionally, both models can be powered via Power over Ethernet (PoE) by using the GbE LAN port on RJ45, but this feature is not included as standard and requires additional equipment.
Software
Both the fitlet2 and fitlet3 come with an internal firmware TPM (Trusted Platform Module) 2.0, and an additional option for a discrete TPM 2.0 module. A TPM is a dedicated hardware component that provides a secure environment for the storage and processing of sensitive data, such as encryption keys and digital certificates. It helps to ensure the integrity of the system by providing features such as secure boot, measured boot, and device identity. The presence of a TPM on the fitlet2 and fitlet3 is important for software companies that require a secure platform for their applications, as it can protect against theft, tampering, and unauthorized access.
The Fitlet3 and Fitlet2 offer a variety of operating systems to choose from, including Windows 10 Pro, Windows 11 Pro, and Linux Mint/Ubuntu. Additionally, the Fitlet3 provides the option to include Windows 10 IoT Enterprise LTSC 2021, while the Fitlet2 offers Windows 10 IoT Enterprise LTSC 2019 as an alternative. These operating systems provide a range of features and capabilities suitable for various use cases, enabling users to select the OS that best fits their needs.
Physical Characteristics&Cooling
The standard operating environment for both Fitlet2 and Fitlet3 is commercial, with a temperature range of 0°C to 45°C. However, extended and industrial options are available, with a temperature range of -20°C to 70°C and -40°C to 85°C, respectively. Both devices feature fanless, passive cooling, which ensures quiet operation and reduces maintenance needs.
Fitlet2 and Fitlet3 are two compact PCs manufactured by Compulab. Fitlet3 is approximately 19-20% larger than Fitlet2 in terms of overall size, with a width of 132.8mm and depth of 100mm, compared to Fitlet2's width of 112mm and depth of 84mm. Despite this size difference, both devices are still small enough to fit in tight spaces and can be easily mounted to walls or other surfaces. The increase in size of Fitlet3 allows for larger internal components, including more powerful processors and additional ports. Both devices share many common features, such as robust aluminum housing, rugged design, and support for multiple operating systems, making them an attractive choice for users looking for a compact and reliable PC. Additionally, both devices are fanless and energy-efficient, which makes them suitable for a wide range of applications. Overall, Fitlet3 provides an increase in size that offers more flexibility and functionality, while both devices offer a robust, high-quality computing experience in a compact package.
If you're interested in seeing the Fitlet3 in action, we invite you to check out our unboxing video on YouTube. We take a closer look at the device and its components, as well as share our first impressions of its performance and features.
Learn more about Fitlet 2
Learn more about Fitlet 3
.png)
