HP EliteBook 1040 Gen 8

Technical Specifications

• Processor: 11th Generation Intel Core processors, including Intel Core i5-1135G7, i5-1145G7, i7-1165G7, and i7-1185G7.
• RAM: 8GB, 16GB, or 32GB LPDDR4X-4266 SDRAM. Memory is soldered to the motherboard.
• Storage: PCIe NVMe M.2 SSDs, with options ranging from 256GB to 4TB. Available with SED (Self-Encrypting Drive) and TCG Opal Encryption 2.
• Graphics: Integrated Intel Iris Xe Graphics. Requires Intel Core i5 or i7 processors and dual-channel memory for full Iris Xe capabilities; otherwise, it functions as Intel UHD Graphics.
• Display: 14-inch diagonal IPS touchscreen. Options include Full HD (1920 x 1080) with up to 1000 nits brightness and HP Sure View Reflect integrated privacy screen, or 4K UHD (3840 x 2160). Features Corning Gorilla Glass 5 protection.
• Ports: 2x Thunderbolt 4 with USB4 Type-C (supporting Power Delivery and DisplayPort 1.4), 2x SuperSpeed USB Type-A 5Gbps (USB 3.2 Gen 1, with charging support), 1x HDMI 2.0, 1x 3.5mm headphone/microphone combo jack. An optional SIM card slot is available.
• Wireless: Intel Wi-Fi 6 AX201 (2x2) and Bluetooth 5.0 or 5.2 combo. Optional 5G connectivity is available.
• Camera: Hybrid 720p HD IR camera with an integrated electronic privacy shutter (HP Sure Shutter).
• Audio: Audio by Bang & Olufsen with 4 premium stereo speakers and multi-array microphones.
• Design: 2-in-1 convertible with a 360-degree hinge, aluminum chassis, and a weight starting at 1.32 kg.
• Security Features: Fingerprint reader, Windows Hello support, NFC, TPM 2.0.

Analysis of Technical Specifications

The HP EliteBook x360 1040 G8 offers robust specifications tailored for business professionals requiring performance and versatility. The inclusion of 11th Gen Intel Core processors ensures strong performance for demanding tasks, while integrated Intel Iris Xe Graphics are suitable for productivity and light creative work, though not for intensive graphical applications. The soldered RAM, while offering faster speeds (LPDDR4X-4266), limits future upgradeability, making it crucial to select sufficient memory at the time of purchase. Storage options are ample, with fast PCIe NVMe SSDs, including secure SED and TCG Opal 2 variants, which are vital for enterprise data protection. The 14-inch IPS touchscreen display, particularly with the optional 4K resolution and high brightness, provides a premium visual experience, and the HP Sure View Reflect privacy screen is a significant security asset for mobile users. Connectivity is comprehensive, featuring Thunderbolt 4 ports for high-speed peripherals and charging, along with Wi-Fi 6 and optional 5G for modern networking needs. The 2-in-1 convertible design enhances flexibility, allowing the device to adapt to various workstyles.

Support & Compatibility

• Operating System Support: Ships with Windows 10 Pro 64-bit (HP recommends for business), with options for Windows 10 Home 64, Windows 10 Home Single Language 64, and FreeDOS. It includes a Windows 11 Pro license.
• End of Support Date: Specific end-of-support dates are not explicitly published in the provided data. However, user discussions indicate potential challenges with driver availability for HP laptops older than five years, and Windows 10 support is nearing its end.
• Available Drivers: Drivers and firmware are available through the HP Support website. Some users have encountered issues with HP Softpaq drivers reporting incompatibility with newer OS versions, though community-developed tools exist to address these installer-level blocks.
• Management Features: HP Driver Packs, HP System Software Manager (SSM), HP BIOS Config Utility (BCU), HP Client Catalog, HP Manageability Integration Kit Gen4.

Analysis of Support & Compatibility Status

The HP EliteBook x360 1040 G8 offers broad operating system compatibility, primarily supporting Windows 10 and providing a path to Windows 11. For enterprise environments, HP provides a suite of management tools like HP Driver Packs and HP BIOS Config Utility, simplifying deployment and maintenance. While HP's official support channels provide drivers, there are anecdotal reports of difficulties obtaining drivers for older HP models or installing them on newer Windows versions, suggesting that long-term driver availability and compatibility might require attention. Users should plan for OS upgrades and driver management, especially as Windows 10 approaches its end-of-life.

Security Status

• Security Features:
  • HP Sure Start Gen6: A self-healing BIOS that automatically recovers from firmware attacks.
  • HP Sure View Reflect: An integrated privacy screen that narrows viewing angles to prevent visual hacking.
  • HP Sure Sense: AI-based malware protection designed to neutralize advanced malware and ransomware.
  • HP Sure Run Gen4: Helps maintain the functionality of security features, even if malware attempts to shut them down.
  • HP Sure Click: Isolates web pages, applications, and files in hardware-enforced virtual containers to protect against malware.
  • Physical Camera Shutter: Provides privacy by physically blocking the webcam.
  • Fingerprint Reader: For secure biometric authentication.
  • Windows Hello Support: Enables facial recognition login via the IR camera.
  • TPM 2.0: Trusted Platform Module for hardware-based security.
  • Encrypted Storage: SSDs with SED and TCG Opal Encryption 2.
  • HP BIOSphere Gen6: Delivers enhanced firmware protection.
• Vulnerabilities: No specific vulnerabilities are highlighted in the provided information.
• Recommendations: Users should actively utilize the comprehensive suite of HP security features, keep the operating system and security software updated, and be aware of potential trade-offs with features like Sure View (e.g., reduced brightness).

Analysis on the Security Status

The HP EliteBook x360 1040 G8 is designed with an extensive array of security features, positioning it as a highly secure device for enterprise use. HP's Sure ecosystem (Sure Start, Sure Sense, Sure Run, Sure Click) provides multi-layered protection from the firmware level up to application and web browsing, effectively guarding against sophisticated cyberattacks and malware. Hardware-based security, including TPM 2.0, a fingerprint reader, and an IR camera for Windows Hello, offers robust authentication and data protection. The HP Sure View Reflect privacy screen is a critical feature for professionals working in public spaces, preventing shoulder surfing. While the Sure View feature can impact display brightness, its security benefits often outweigh this minor inconvenience for sensitive work. The inclusion of a physical camera shutter further enhances user privacy. Overall, the EliteBook x360 1040 G8 provides a strong security posture, making it suitable for environments where data protection is paramount.

Performance & Benchmarks

• Processor Performance:
  • Cinebench R20: 3887 points.
  • GeekBench 5: 1388 (single-core), 5319 (multi-core).
  • Geekbench Single-Core (Intel Core i7-1185G7): 1102.
• Graphics Performance:
  • 3DMark Night Raid: 13757.
• System Performance:
  • PCMark 10 (Home Test): 4717 points.
• Battery Life:
  • PCMark 10 Battery Life: 11 hours 10 minutes.
  • TechRadar movie test: 10 hours 37 minutes.
  • Web browsing: 12 hours 18 minutes.
  • Video playback: 11 hours 22 minutes.
• Comparison with Similar Devices: The 11th Gen Intel Core i7-1165G7 offers moderately better average single-core performance (around +21%) and slightly better multithreading performance (around +7%) compared to the i7-10710U in the EliteBook x360 1040 G7.

Analysis of Performance Status

The HP EliteBook x360 1040 G8 delivers solid performance for typical business workloads, driven by its 11th Gen Intel Core processors. Benchmark scores like 3887 in Cinebench R20 and 4717 in PCMark 10 indicate strong capabilities for multitasking, office applications, and general productivity. The integrated Intel Iris Xe Graphics provide sufficient power for high-resolution displays and light graphical tasks, aligning with the needs of a business laptop. A standout feature is its excellent battery life, consistently achieving over 10 hours in various tests, making it highly suitable for mobile professionals who need to work extended periods without access to power. Performance improvements over its predecessor, the G7, particularly in single-core tasks, ensure a responsive user experience. While not designed for heavy gaming or intensive video rendering, its performance profile is well-suited for its target audience of secure, mobile business users.

User Reviews & Feedback

User reviews generally praise the HP EliteBook x360 1040 G8 for its premium design, robust security features, and strong battery life. The aluminum chassis provides a sleek and durable feel, and its lightweight, convertible design is appreciated for portability and versatility in various work modes. The display quality, particularly the Full HD IPS panel, receives positive feedback for high maximum brightness (up to 603 nits), excellent contrast ratio (1900:1), and good sRGB color coverage (89%), making it comfortable for extended use without PWM flickering. The inclusion of an HP Active Pen in some configurations is also a plus.

However, users also highlight several drawbacks. The high price point is a common concern. A significant limitation is the soldered RAM, which prevents future upgrades, emphasizing the need to choose the correct memory configuration at purchase. The webcam quality is frequently cited as surprisingly poor, which is a notable disadvantage in the current remote work environment. While the HP Sure View privacy screen is a security asset, some users find it significantly reduces display brightness and can lead to an angle-dependent viewing experience, similar to older display technologies. Other reported issues include occasional freezing, loud fan noise, and inconsistent fingerprint reader performance. Some users also experienced screen orientation problems after system updates.

Summary

The HP EliteBook x360 1040 G8 stands out as a premium 2-in-1 convertible laptop meticulously crafted for the demanding needs of enterprise professionals. Its core strengths lie in its powerful 11th Gen Intel Core processors, ensuring smooth performance for business applications and multitasking. The device boasts an exceptional suite of security features, including HP Sure Start, Sure Sense, Sure Run, Sure Click, and Sure View Reflect, providing comprehensive protection against modern cyber threats and ensuring data privacy. The sleek aluminum design, lightweight form factor, and impressive battery life (often exceeding 10 hours) make it an ideal companion for mobile workstyles. The high-quality IPS touchscreen display, with options for FHD or 4K resolution and strong color accuracy, enhances the user experience, particularly for presentations and visual tasks.

However, the EliteBook x360 1040 G8 is not without its weaknesses. The soldered RAM is a significant limitation, precluding any future memory upgrades and requiring careful consideration of configuration at the time of purchase. The webcam quality is a notable disappointment, which can impact video conferencing experiences. While the HP Sure View privacy screen is a valuable security tool, its implementation can reduce display brightness and affect viewing angles for the primary user. Some users have also reported minor issues such as occasional system freezes, fan noise, and inconsistent fingerprint reader performance.

Recommendations: The HP EliteBook x360 1040 G8 is highly recommended for organizations and professionals prioritizing top-tier security, robust performance for productivity, and versatile form factors for mobile work. Prospective buyers should carefully assess their RAM requirements due to the non-upgradable memory. For users heavily reliant on video conferencing, an external webcam might be a worthwhile consideration. While the Sure View display offers excellent privacy, it is advisable to test its visual impact if possible. Overall, it represents a strong investment for those seeking a secure, high-performing, and adaptable business laptop.

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.