HP EliteBook 1040 Gen 11

Technical Specifications

• Processor: Intel Core Ultra 5 or 7 processors (Meteor Lake-H/U series), with configurations up to the Intel Core Ultra 7 165H (16 cores, 22 threads, up to 5.0 GHz). Select models feature Intel vPro technology.
• RAM: Up to 64GB LPDDR5x-7467 MT/s, soldered down, supporting dual-channel memory.
• Storage: PCIe NVMe Solid State Drive (SSD), with capacities available up to 1TB.
• Display: 14-inch diagonal.
  • WUXGA (1920x1200) IPS, anti-glare, 400 nits brightness (available in touch and non-touch variants).
  • WUXGA (1920x1200) UWVA, Anti-Glare, WLED + Low Blue Light, 800 nits, 100% sRGB, featuring Sure View 5 Privacy Screen.
  • OLED (2880x1800), 120Hz with Variable Refresh Rate (VRR), 400 nits, BrightView.
• Graphics: Integrated Intel Arc Graphics (available with select H-series Intel Core Ultra processors and a minimum of 16GB dual-channel system memory) or Intel Graphics. Supports DirectX 12 and HDMI 2.1.
• Ports:
  • 2x Thunderbolt 4 USB4 Type-C ports (40 Gbps signaling rate, USB Power Delivery, DisplayPort 2.1).
  • 1x USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-C port (10 Gbps signaling rate, USB Power Delivery, DisplayPort 1.4a).
  • 1x USB 3.2 Gen 1 Type-A port (5 Gbps signaling rate, power charging).
  • 1x HDMI 2.1 port.
  • 1x Headphone/microphone combo jack.
  • Optional Nano SIM card slot.
  • Integrated security lock slot.
• Wireless: Intel BE200 Wi-Fi 7, Bluetooth 5.4. Optional WWAN (HP 5000 5G Solution) and NFC.
• Battery: HP Long Life 6-cell, 68 Wh Li-ion polymer or 3-cell, 56 Wh Li-ion polymer. Supports fast charging (50% in 30 minutes).
• Dimensions & Weight: Starting at 1.18 kg (2.57 lbs). Features a slim profile, with a front height of 1.05 cm and a rear height of 1.49 cm.
• Build: Aluminum chassis with magnesium construction, matte finish, and tested to 19 MIL-STD 810H standards for durability.
• Webcam: 5MP IR Webcam with a physical privacy shutter.
• Audio: Bang & Olufsen tuned quad speakers with AI Noise Reduction.

Analysis of Technical Specifications

The HP EliteBook 1040 Gen 11 presents a robust and modern technical foundation for enterprise users. The inclusion of Intel Core Ultra processors, featuring integrated Neural Processing Units (NPUs), signifies a strong focus on AI-accelerated tasks and efficient performance. The generous RAM options, though soldered, ensure smooth multitasking, while fast NVMe SSDs provide quick data access. The diverse display options, including high-resolution OLED and the Sure View privacy screen, cater to various professional needs, from vibrant visual work to secure public usage. Comprehensive port selection, including multiple Thunderbolt 4 USB-C ports and HDMI 2.1, offers excellent connectivity and external display support. The lightweight yet MIL-STD 810H certified durable build, coupled with advanced audio and a high-resolution IR webcam, positions this asset as a premium device for mobile professionals demanding both performance and reliability.

Support & Compatibility

• Operating System Support: Ships with Windows 11 Home, Windows 11 Pro (recommended for business), Windows 11 Pro Education, or FreeDOS. Windows 11 Enterprise is available via Volume Licensing Agreement.
• Drivers: Drivers are available for Windows 11 (versions 23H2, 22H2, 24H2) and Windows 10 (64-bit, version 22H2) on the official HP support website.
• End of Support Date: Not explicitly stated. HP provides drivers for current Windows versions, but long-term driver availability for older models can be a concern, potentially indicating an eventual end-of-support for specific OS versions or hardware.
• Management Features: Includes HP Client Catalog, HP Cloud Recovery, HP Connect for Microsoft Endpoint Manager, HP Client Management Script Library, HP Driver Packs, HP Image Assistant, HP Manageability Integration Kit, and HP Patch Assistant.
• Warranty: Typically includes a 3-year limited warranty, with options for HP Wolf Pro Security Edition (1 year).
• Compatibility: Wi-Fi 7 functionality requires a compatible Windows 11 OS, processor, and a separately purchased Wi-Fi 7 router. Wi-Fi 6E is backward compatible. The device supports connecting up to three external 4K monitors.

Analysis of Support & Compatibility Status

The HP EliteBook 1040 Gen 11 is well-supported for contemporary enterprise environments, primarily focusing on Windows 11. HP provides a comprehensive suite of management tools designed to streamline deployment, configuration, and maintenance for IT departments. The standard 3-year warranty and optional HP Wolf Pro Security Edition highlight its business-centric support model. While current driver availability is robust, potential long-term support for older operating systems or hardware configurations might become a consideration, as observed with some older HP models. Its broad compatibility with modern wireless standards and multi-monitor setups ensures seamless integration into diverse professional workflows.

Security Status

• Security Features:
  • HP Wolf Security: Offers Malware Prevention (AI-driven, real-time scanning), Threat Containment (isolates threats in micro-VMs for browsing and documents), and Credential Protection (phishing detection).
  • Biometric Authentication: Fingerprint sensor and IR Camera for Windows Hello facial recognition.
  • TPM 2.0: Trusted Platform Module for hardware-based security.
  • HP Sure Click: Hardware-enforced security to protect against malware from websites and read-only attachments by isolating them in micro-virtual machines.
  • HP Sure Start: Self-healing BIOS that automatically recovers from attacks or corruption.
  • HP Sure View: Optional integrated privacy screen to prevent visual hacking.
  • Physical Webcam Shutter: Provides privacy control for the 5MP IR webcam.
  • Intel vPro: Optional technology enabling remote management and enhanced security features.
  • MIL-STD 810H Durability: Tested against various environmental stresses, contributing to physical security and resilience.
• Vulnerabilities: No specific vulnerabilities are publicly highlighted for this model in the provided information.
• Recommendations: Leveraging the full suite of HP Wolf Security features, including regular updates of drivers and BIOS, is recommended for optimal protection.

Analysis on the Security Status

The HP EliteBook 1040 Gen 11 sets a high standard for enterprise security, integrating a comprehensive array of hardware and software protections. HP Wolf Security stands out with its proactive malware prevention, threat containment through micro-virtualization, and credential protection, offering robust defense against sophisticated cyber threats. Hardware-level security, including TPM 2.0, HP Sure Start's self-healing BIOS, and Intel vPro, ensures a secure boot process and remote manageability. Physical security is addressed with a webcam privacy shutter and the optional HP Sure View privacy screen. The MIL-STD 810H certification further underscores its resilience against physical damage. This extensive security architecture makes the EliteBook 1040 G11 a highly secure asset for sensitive business environments.

Performance & Benchmarks

• Processor Performance:
  • Intel Core Ultra 7 165H: Achieves Cinebench R23 Multi-Core scores of 14,146 and Single-Core scores of 1,798. In Cinebench 2024 Multi-Core, it scores 926 (Elite x360 1040 G11). GeekBench 6 CPU scores include 2,120 for single-core and 11,899 for multi-core.
  • Intel Core Ultra 7 155H: Scores 1073 in Cinebench 2024 Multi-Core (Elite x360 1040 G11).
  • PCMark 10: Demonstrates impressive results in productivity and storage segments.
  • Photoshop: Delivers solid performance in image editing tasks.
• Graphics Performance:
  • Integrated Intel Arc Graphics (8-Cores): Scores 4125 in 3DMark Time Spy (Graphics).
  • Integrated Intel Arc Graphics (7-Cores): Scores 3607 in 3DMark Time Spy (Graphics).
  • 3DMark Fire Strike: The Elite x360 1040 G11 scores 8,225, surpassing the average for premium laptops.
  • Gaming: Averages 45 frames per second in Sid Meier's Civilization VI: Gathering Storm (Medium, 1080p) on the Elite x360 1040 G11.
• Real-world Performance: Handles typical productivity workloads, including web browsing, Microsoft Office applications, light photo editing, and coding with multiple instances, smoothly and without noticeable slowdowns.
• Battery Life:
  • Manufacturer Claim: Up to 20 hours.
  • Tested (PCMag): Achieved 13 hours and 43 minutes.
  • Tested (LaptopMedia): Approximately 11 hours of video playback.
  • Elite x360 1040 G11 (Laptop Mag): 9 hours and 57 minutes.
• Thermal Performance: Fans operate quietly, even under sustained heavy CPU loads. The Core Ultra 7 155H runs approximately 8°C cooler in the 1040 G11 compared to the x360 version under stress.

Analysis of the Performance Status

The HP EliteBook 1040 Gen 11 delivers strong and consistent performance, particularly with its Intel Core Ultra 7 165H processor, which excels in multi-core CPU benchmarks. This makes it highly capable for demanding business applications and multitasking. The integrated Intel Arc Graphics provides a significant boost over previous integrated solutions, offering capable performance for lighter graphical tasks and even some casual gaming. Real-world usage confirms its smooth operation across a range of professional activities. Battery life is a notable strength, often extending beyond a typical workday, making it ideal for mobile professionals. Furthermore, the thermal management is efficient, ensuring the device remains cool and quiet even under load, contributing to a comfortable user experience.

User Reviews & Feedback

User feedback for the HP EliteBook 1040 Gen 11 generally highlights its premium attributes. Users frequently praise its solid metal chassis, lightweight and thin design, and the matte finish that resists fingerprints. The keyboard and touchpad are often commended for their quality and precision. The display, particularly the vibrant anti-glare WUXGA and OLED options, receives positive remarks for its clarity and brightness. Excellent battery life is a recurring positive, making it suitable for extended use on the go. The device is also recognized for its reliable, secure, and high-performance computing capabilities, with its durability (MIL-STD 810H certification) being a valued aspect. Some users consider it a significant upgrade from previous models.

However, some feedback points to areas for improvement. The high price point is a common concern. While touchscreens are available, some users express disappointment when an expensive configuration lacks this feature. A few users prefer physical touchpad buttons over the two-finger right-click gesture. A minor criticism for some is the 60Hz refresh rate on the standard IPS display, with a desire for higher refresh rate options. Isolated reports of "dead slow speed" exist, though these contradict the majority of performance reviews. Additionally, some users feel the port selection could be more extensive, suggesting the need for a docking solution.

Summary

The HP EliteBook 1040 Gen 11 stands out as a formidable enterprise asset, meticulously crafted for the modern professional. Its strengths lie in its cutting-edge Intel Core Ultra processors with integrated NPUs, delivering exceptional performance for demanding business applications and AI-driven tasks. The device offers a range of high-quality display options, including vibrant OLED and privacy-focused Sure View screens, catering to diverse visual and security needs. Connectivity is robust, featuring multiple Thunderbolt 4 ports, HDMI 2.1, and advanced wireless capabilities like Wi-Fi 7. The premium aluminum and magnesium chassis ensures a lightweight yet highly durable build, certified to MIL-STD 810H standards, making it resilient for mobile use. Comprehensive security features, powered by HP Wolf Security, provide multi-layered protection against cyber threats, from hardware-enforced defenses to micro-virtualization for threat containment. Excellent battery life, often exceeding a full workday, and efficient, quiet thermal management further enhance its appeal as a reliable workhorse.

While the EliteBook 1040 Gen 11 excels in many areas, its primary weakness is its high price point, which can be a barrier for some. User feedback also occasionally points to preferences for physical touchpad buttons or a higher refresh rate on standard IPS displays. Despite these minor considerations, the EliteBook 1040 Gen 11 is a top-tier business laptop that synthesizes performance, security, and premium design into a compelling package. It is highly recommended for professionals and enterprises seeking a powerful, secure, and durable device capable of handling intensive workloads and ensuring data integrity in a hybrid work environment.

The information provided is based on publicly available data and may vary depending on specific device configurations. For up-to-date information, please consult official manufacturer resources.