HP EliteBook 1040 Gen 6

Technical Specifications

• Processor: Intel Core i5-8265U, i5-8365U, i7-8565U, or i7-8665U (8th Gen Intel Core processors, quad-core, with vPro options for i5-8365U and i7-8665U). Base clock speeds range from 1.6 GHz to 1.8 GHz, with Turbo Boost frequencies up to 3.9 GHz or 4.8 GHz.
• RAM: Up to 32 GB DDR4-2666 SDRAM, soldered onboard.
• Storage: Options include up to 1 TB PCIe NVMe SSD. Some configurations also feature 32 GB Intel Optane memory for enhanced performance.
• Display: 14-inch diagonal IPS display. Available resolutions include Full HD (1920 x 1080) and 4K UHD (3840 x 2160). Touchscreen options are available, some with HP Sure View integrated privacy screen and Corning Gorilla Glass 5 protection. Brightness options up to 1000 nits.
• Graphics: Integrated Intel UHD Graphics 620.
• Ports: 2x Thunderbolt 3 (USB Type-C, 10 Gbps, DisplayPort, HDMI, Power Delivery 3.0), 2x USB 3.1 Gen 1 Type-A (one charging), 1x HDMI 1.4, 1x headphone/microphone combo jack, 1x external Nano SIM slot (for WWAN).
• Wireless: Intel Dual Band Wireless-AC 9560 (802.11a/b/g/n/ac) Wi-Fi and Bluetooth 5 Combo (vPro and non-vPro options), or Intel AX201 Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax) and Bluetooth 5 Combo (vPro and non-vPro options). Optional gigabit-class 4G LTE-Advanced (Cat 9 or Cat 16).
• Camera: 1080p FHD IR webcam with a privacy shutter.
• Battery: 4-cell, 56.2 Wh Li-ion polymer battery, offering up to 24 hours of battery life (depending on configuration). Supports fast charging (50% in 30 minutes).
• Dimensions & Weight: 32.14 x 21.5 x 1.69 cm (12.65 x 8.46 x 0.67 inches), starting at 1.35 kg (2.98 lbs).

Analysis of Technical Specifications: The HP EliteBook x360 1040 G6 is a premium 2-in-1 business laptop designed for professionals requiring a blend of performance, portability, and versatility. The 8th generation Intel Core processors, particularly the i7 vPro variants, provide ample power for demanding business applications and multitasking. The inclusion of up to 32 GB of soldered DDR4 RAM ensures smooth operation, though the soldered nature means no post-purchase upgrades. Storage options with NVMe SSDs and optional Intel Optane memory deliver fast boot times and responsive performance. The 14-inch display, available in FHD or 4K UHD with optional Sure View privacy and Gorilla Glass, caters to both visual clarity and security needs. The comprehensive port selection, including Thunderbolt 3 and USB-A, offers excellent connectivity. Advanced wireless capabilities like Wi-Fi 6 and optional 4G LTE ensure reliable network access. The 360-degree hinge allows for flexible usage modes, enhancing its utility as a convertible device. The long battery life and fast-charging support are significant advantages for mobile professionals. The integrated Intel UHD Graphics 620 is suitable for business tasks and light multimedia but not for graphically intensive applications or gaming.

Support & Compatibility

• Operating System Support: Primarily supports Windows 10 Pro (64-bit). It is also compatible with Windows 11 Pro. HP does not officially support Windows 7 or 8 on devices with 7th generation and forward Intel processors.
• End of Support Date: HP generally supports consumer products for ten years. Once a hardware model is designated "Retired," HP provides support for another five years before reaching "End of Service Life" (EOSL), where official support is discontinued. Users can check their device's EOSL date via HP's tools.
• Available Drivers: Drivers, firmware, and software are available for download from HP's official support website for Windows 10 and Windows 11. Third-party driver utilities also offer driver downloads for Windows 7, 8, 8.1, 10, and 11.
• Management Software: Includes HP Driver Packs, System Software Manager (SSM), and BIOS Configuration Utility for enterprise management.

Analysis of Support & Compatibility Status: The HP EliteBook x360 1040 G6 offers robust support for modern Windows operating systems, specifically Windows 10 and 11, aligning with its business-oriented design. The availability of drivers and management tools directly from HP's official channels ensures proper functionality and ease of deployment in enterprise environments. While HP provides a general guideline for end-of-support, specific EOSL dates can be verified, which is crucial for long-term asset management. The lack of official support for older Windows versions (7/8) is standard for devices with newer processors. The comprehensive driver availability, including for various components like Wi-Fi, audio, and sensors, ensures that the device remains functional and up-to-date.

Security Status

• Security Features:
  • TPM 2.0 security chip (embedded)
  • Fingerprint Sensor
  • IR Camera for facial recognition (Windows Hello compatible)
  • HP DriveLock / Automatic DriveLock
  • Preboot authentication
  • HP Secure Erase (for NIST Special Publication 800-88 "Clear" sanitation method; does not support Intel Optane platforms)
  • HP Sure Click (isolates browsing and untrusted documents in micro-VMs to prevent malware infection)
  • HP Sure Sense (uses deep learning AI for protection against advanced malware and zero-day attacks)
  • HP Sure Start (self-healing BIOS)
  • HP Sure Run (maintains critical security processes)
  • HP Sure Recover (recovers the OS using a network connection; Gen1 does not support Intel Optane platforms)
  • HP Sure View Gen3 (optional integrated privacy screen to prevent visual hacking)
  • HP Privacy Camera shutter (physical shutter for the webcam)
  • HP Client Security Manager Gen5
  • Windows Defender
  • Optional HP Rechargeable Active Pen with proximity alert
• Vulnerabilities: Firmware vulnerabilities have been identified in HP EliteBook devices, including six high-severity firmware vulnerabilities related to System Management Mode (SMM) that could allow arbitrary code execution. These vulnerabilities can affect multiple HP product lines.
• Recommendations:
  • Regularly update BIOS/firmware to the latest versions to patch known vulnerabilities.
  • Utilize all available HP security features, such as HP Sure Click, Sure Sense, Sure Start, and Sure View.
  • Enable multi-factor authentication, including fingerprint and IR camera for Windows Hello.
  • Exercise caution with untrusted documents and websites, leveraging HP Sure Click's micro-VM isolation.
  • Implement strong password policies and data encryption.

Analysis on the Security Status: The HP EliteBook x360 1040 G6 is equipped with an extensive suite of hardware and software security features, making it a highly secure device for enterprise use. Features like TPM 2.0, fingerprint and IR camera authentication, and HP's Sure Start, Sure Run, and Sure Recover provide robust protection against various threats, from unauthorized access to BIOS attacks and OS corruption. HP Sure Click and Sure Sense offer advanced protection against malware and phishing by isolating threats and using AI-driven detection. The optional HP Sure View privacy screen is a valuable asset for protecting sensitive information in public settings. However, like many complex systems, the device is not immune to vulnerabilities. High-severity firmware vulnerabilities have been discovered, emphasizing the critical importance of keeping the device's firmware and software updated. Proactive patching and full utilization of the integrated security tools are essential to maintain a strong security posture.

Performance & Benchmarks

• Processor Performance: Features 8th Gen Intel Core i5 and i7 processors. The Intel Core i7-8565U, for example, shows a Geekbench 5 Single-Core Score of 831 and a Multi-Core Score of 2566.
• Real-world Performance Metrics: Designed for fast performance in multitasking, video conferencing, and data processing. The combination of DDR4 RAM and NVMe SSD ensures quick boot times and responsive application handling.
• Battery Life: Up to 24 hours (with specific configurations like i5 processor, 8GB RAM, 128GB SSD, FHD low power panel, Wi-Fi 6). Real-world usage can yield around 12-18 hours.
• Comparison with Similar Devices: The G6 model offers a fingerprint reader and two Thunderbolt 3 ports, which are key differences compared to the successor G7 model. The G7, however, shows moderately better single-core performance (+13%) and significantly better multi-threading performance (+59%) with newer processors.
• Performance Throttling: Users report that the laptop may throttle processor performance when running on battery power, likely by design to extend battery life. This behavior might not be configurable in BIOS.

Analysis of Performance Status: The HP EliteBook x360 1040 G6 delivers strong performance for business and professional use, powered by 8th generation Intel Core processors and fast NVMe SSD storage. The available RAM configurations, up to 32GB, support intensive multitasking. Benchmark scores, such as those from Geekbench 5, indicate solid single-core and multi-core performance for its generation. The device excels in real-world scenarios requiring responsiveness and efficiency. Battery life is a significant strength, offering extended usage on a single charge, making it ideal for mobile professionals. However, performance throttling on battery power is a reported characteristic, which, while extending battery life, might impact peak performance during unplugged use. When compared to its successor, the G7, the G6 holds its own in terms of core features and connectivity, though newer generations naturally offer performance improvements.

User Reviews & Feedback

User reviews generally praise the HP EliteBook x360 1040 G6 for its premium design, versatility, and robust security features. Users appreciate its slim, lightweight, and durable CNC aluminum chassis, along with the 360-degree hinge that allows for multiple usage modes (laptop, tablet, tent, stand). The long battery life is frequently highlighted as a major advantage for on-the-go productivity. The display, especially with optional Sure View privacy and Gorilla Glass, receives positive feedback for its clarity and protection. The comprehensive security suite, including features like HP Sure View, fingerprint sensor, and IR camera, is a strong selling point for business users concerned about data protection. Some users have noted issues with performance throttling when operating on battery power, and there have been reports of boot-up problems, particularly after Windows 11 updates, or charging issues when running Windows 11. Overall, the device is considered a reliable and high-performing machine for professionals, with a high recommendation rate from satisfied customers.

Summary

The HP EliteBook x360 1040 G6 is a highly capable and versatile 2-in-1 convertible laptop, meticulously crafted for the modern business professional. Its unibody CNC aluminum design offers both elegance and durability, complemented by a 360-degree hinge for adaptable usage across various work scenarios. The technical specifications are robust, featuring 8th generation Intel Core i5 or i7 processors, up to 32 GB of DDR4 RAM, and fast NVMe SSD storage, often augmented by Intel Optane memory. The 14-inch display, available in FHD or 4K UHD with optional HP Sure View privacy technology, provides excellent visual quality and data protection. Connectivity is comprehensive, with Thunderbolt 3, USB 3.1, HDMI, Wi-Fi 6, and optional 4G LTE. A standout feature is its extensive security suite, including TPM 2.0, biometric authentication, and HP's Sure technologies (Sure Click, Sure Sense, Sure Start, Sure Run, Sure Recover), which collectively offer advanced protection against a wide array of cyber threats. Performance is strong for typical business workloads, with impressive battery life that supports extended mobile use. User feedback generally commends its design, security, and portability, though some users have reported performance throttling on battery and occasional boot/charging issues, particularly with Windows 11. The EliteBook x360 1040 G6 excels as a secure, flexible, and powerful tool for enterprise environments, balancing high performance with critical security measures and a premium user experience.

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.