HP EliteBook 840 Gen 10

Technical Specifications

• Processor: 13th Generation Intel Core processors, including Core i5 (e.g., i5-1335U, i5-1340P, i5-1345U) and Core i7 (e.g., i7-1355U, i7-1360P, i7-1365U, i7-1370P) series.
• RAM: Configurable up to 64GB DDR5-5200MHz or DDR5-5600MHz via two SODIMM slots.
• Storage: PCIe NVMe SSDs, with options up to 1TB. Features one M.2 slot for Gen 4 SSDs, and some configurations may include two SSD slots.
• Display: 14-inch diagonal WUXGA (1920 x 1200) IPS anti-glare display, with options for 250 nits, 400 nits, or 1000 nits brightness. Some high-end configurations offer WQXGA (2560 x 1600) IPS panels with a 120Hz refresh rate, 614 nits peak brightness, 100% sRGB, and 99% DCI-P3 coverage, often featuring HP Sure View Reflect integrated privacy screen.
• Graphics: Integrated Intel Iris Xe Graphics (requires dual-channel memory for full capabilities) or Intel UHD Graphics.
• Ports: Includes 2x USB Type-C (Thunderbolt 4, Power Delivery, DisplayPort), 2x SuperSpeed USB 3.2 Gen 1 Type-A (one charging), 1x HDMI 2.1, 1x Headphone/microphone combo jack. Optional SmartCard Reader and Nano SIM card slot are available.
• Wireless: Wi-Fi 6E (802.11ax) and Bluetooth 5.3. Optional WWAN module for 4G LTE or 5G connectivity.
• Audio: Audio by Bang & Olufsen, dual stereo speakers, and dual microphones enhanced by AI noise reduction.
• Webcam: 5MP IR camera with a privacy shutter.
• Battery: Internal, non-replaceable battery. Recharges up to 50% within 30 minutes with a 65W adapter.
• Dimensions & Weight: Minimum dimensions are 31.56 x 22.4 x 1.92 cm. Weight varies by configuration.

Analysis of Technical Specifications

The HP EliteBook 840 Gen 10 offers a robust set of technical specifications tailored for business and professional use, emphasizing performance, portability, and connectivity. The inclusion of 13th Gen Intel Core processors, particularly the P-series, provides strong multi-core performance suitable for demanding office applications and multitasking. The DDR5 RAM, configurable up to 64GB, ensures smooth operation and future-proofing, with two SODIMM slots allowing for user upgrades and dual-channel memory benefits. Storage options with PCIe NVMe SSDs deliver fast boot times and application loading.

The display is a significant highlight, with high-resolution WUXGA and WQXGA options, high brightness levels (up to 1000 nits, or 614 nits for the 120Hz WQXGA panel), and excellent color accuracy (100% sRGB, 99% DCI-P3 on some panels), making it suitable for color-sensitive tasks. The optional HP Sure View Reflect privacy screen enhances security in public environments. The integrated Intel Iris Xe Graphics performs well for everyday tasks and light gaming, but it is not designed for resource-intensive graphics or gaming. A comprehensive port selection, including Thunderbolt 4, ensures broad compatibility with peripherals and external displays. Advanced wireless capabilities like Wi-Fi 6E and optional 5G WWAN provide fast and reliable connectivity.

Support & Compatibility

• Operating System Support: Ships with Windows 11 Pro, with downgrade rights to Windows 10 Pro. Windows 11 Home and FreeDOS are also available as configuration options. Does not support Windows 8 or Windows 7.
• Drivers: Drivers are available for the HP EliteBook 840 Gen 10 on HP's support website.
• End of Support Date: HP generally supports hardware for 5 years after a model is "Retired," after which it reaches "End of Life" and support is discontinued. Specific end-of-life dates for the 840 G10 are not publicly detailed by HP, but third-party services may offer maintenance beyond this period.
• Compatibility with other systems: Compatible with various docking solutions via Thunderbolt 4 ports. Wi-Fi 6E is backward compatible with prior 802.11 specifications.
• Memory Compatibility: HP recommends HP-branded memory to ensure compatibility. Mixing memory speeds causes the system to perform at the lower memory speed.

Analysis of Support & Compatibility Status

The HP EliteBook 840 Gen 10 demonstrates strong support for current enterprise operating systems, primarily Windows 11 Pro, with flexibility for Windows 10 Pro environments. The availability of drivers directly from HP's support website ensures that users can maintain and troubleshoot their devices effectively. However, HP's policy of not explicitly stating end-of-life dates for specific models can make long-term planning challenging for enterprises, though a general 5-year support window post-retirement is indicated. The device's modern I/O, including Thunderbolt 4, ensures broad compatibility with contemporary peripherals and enterprise ecosystems. The note regarding HP-branded memory and speed matching is crucial for optimal performance and stability, especially in managed environments. While the device is designed for modern Windows environments, it explicitly lacks support for older operating systems like Windows 7 and 8.

Security Status

• Security Features:
  • HP Wolf Security for Business: Includes HP Sure Click Pro and HP Sure Sense Pro for advanced threat protection.
  • HP Sure Click: Isolates browser sessions and untrusted documents in micro-VMs to contain malware.
  • HP Sure Sense: Uses AI to prevent malware, zero-day attacks, and Advanced Persistent Threats (APTs).
  • HP Sure Start Gen7: Self-healing BIOS protection.
  • HP Sure Run Gen5/Gen6: Maintains critical security processes even if malware tries to shut them down.
  • HP Sure Recover Gen5/Gen6: Enables embedded reimaging for quick system recovery.
  • HP Sure View Reflect: Integrated privacy screen option to prevent visual hacking.
  • HP BIOSphere Gen6: Firmware-level protection.
  • HP Tamper Lock: Detects physical tampering.
  • HP Fingerprint sensor: Optional for secure authentication.
  • 5MP IR camera: Supports Windows Hello facial recognition.
  • Webcam privacy shutter: Physical cover for the webcam.
  • Secured-Core PC Enable: Requires Intel vPro processor and 8GB+ RAM, enabled from the factory.
  • Credential Protection: Offers protection against identity theft attacks using a web browser extension.
• Vulnerabilities:
  • Some users have reported issues with 802.1x PKCS certificate enrollment to the TPM chipset on G10 models via Microsoft Intune, which worked on previous generations (G5-G8). This issue may be related to differences in TPM chipsets (NTC on G10 vs. IFX on older models) or HP Wolf Security.
  • BIOS and BitLocker locks can restrict access, requiring HP support for unlocking if passwords are lost or if the device is company-restricted.
• Recommendations:
  • Ensure all HP Wolf Security features are actively managed and updated.
  • For Intune deployments with 802.1x PKCS certificates, verify compatibility and configuration with HP support, especially concerning TPM differences.
  • Implement strong password policies and multi-factor authentication, leveraging features like the fingerprint sensor and IR camera.
  • Regularly back up important data, especially before using recovery features like HP Sure Recover.

Analysis on the Security Status

The HP EliteBook 840 Gen 10 boasts an extensive suite of security features under the HP Wolf Security for Business umbrella, making it a highly secure device for enterprise environments. Features like Sure Click, Sure Sense, Sure Start, and Sure Run provide multi-layered protection against various threats, from malware and zero-day attacks to firmware tampering and critical process interruption. The optional Sure View Reflect privacy screen and physical webcam shutter address common privacy concerns in mobile work. The inclusion of a 5MP IR camera and fingerprint sensor facilitates robust biometric authentication.

However, a notable vulnerability has emerged concerning 802.1x PKCS certificate enrollment on G10 models when managed via Microsoft Intune, which appears to be a regression compared to older EliteBook generations. This issue, potentially linked to the TPM chipset or Wolf Security, requires careful attention for organizations relying on such certificate-based authentication. Additionally, the robust BIOS and BitLocker security, while protective, can become a hurdle if administrative access is lost, necessitating direct HP support. Overall, the security posture is strong, but enterprises should be aware of and proactively address the reported certificate enrollment issue in their deployment strategies.

Performance & Benchmarks

• Processor Performance: Equipped with 13th Gen Intel Core P-series and U-series processors, offering strong performance for office applications and multitasking. For example, an Intel Core i5-1340P scored 612 in Cinebench 2024 Multi-Core, while an i7-1355U scored 536 and an i7-1365U scored 560.
• RAM Performance: Supports DDR5-5200MHz or DDR5-5600MHz RAM, configurable up to 64GB in dual-channel mode, which significantly enhances performance, especially for integrated graphics.
• Storage Performance: Utilizes fast PCIe NVMe SSDs, providing quick boot times and application loading.
• Graphics Performance: Integrated Intel Iris Xe Graphics (with dual-channel memory) or Intel UHD Graphics. Iris Xe is suitable for light gaming and general graphic tasks but falls short for resource-intensive gaming or advanced rendering.
• Cooling System: Features an effective cooling system that keeps the laptop from overheating even during multitasking, with a quiet fan that can be turned off on AC power via BIOS settings.
• Battery Life: Real-world usage translates to approximately 7 to 8 hours of everyday tasks, with HP claiming up to 10-12 hours under moderate use. For web browsing, it can achieve around 10 hours on a single charge.
• Real-world Performance Metrics:
  • Handles heavy spreadsheets, online conferences, and simple graphic tasks confidently.
  • Sufficient for most office applications and multitasking.
  • Integrated GPU is surprisingly fast for light gaming.
  • Below average performance experience in Metaverse world or games, and for AI tagging detection (e.g., 21 photos per second).

Analysis of the Performance Status

The HP EliteBook 840 Gen 10 delivers strong performance for its intended business and productivity use case. The 13th Gen Intel Core processors, particularly the P-series, provide ample power for demanding workloads, reflected in solid Cinebench scores. The DDR5 RAM, especially when configured in dual-channel mode, significantly boosts overall system responsiveness and integrated graphics capabilities. Fast NVMe SSDs ensure a snappy user experience with quick data access.

While the integrated Intel Iris Xe Graphics is competent for everyday tasks, multimedia consumption, and even light gaming, it is not designed for heavy graphical workloads, 3D rendering, or high-end gaming. Benchmarks indicate a "Below Average" experience for Metaverse or AI-intensive tasks, highlighting its focus on professional productivity rather than specialized computational demands. The cooling system is effective and quiet, contributing to a comfortable user experience even under load. Battery life is respectable for a business laptop, offering a full workday of use for many users. Overall, the EliteBook 840 G10 is a capable and efficient machine for its target audience, excelling in office productivity and general business applications.

User Reviews & Feedback

• Users praise the laptop's great specs, making it suitable for both school and leisure activities.
• Positive feedback highlights adequate storage space and good graphics quality for its class.
• The keyboard is described as very comfortable with good key travel and quiet keys, ideal for extensive typing.
• The touchpad is large and responsive, supporting multi-touch gestures, making it convenient for navigation without a mouse.
• Build quality is excellent, made from high-quality aluminum and magnesium alloy, contributing to durability and a premium feel.
• The design is professional and modern, with a beautiful gray color.
• Battery life is generally considered good, with real-world usage often around 7-8 hours, though some note it's "nothing to write home about" compared to manufacturer claims.
• The cooling system is effective, preventing overheating even during multitasking, and the fan operates quietly.
• The display is highly praised, especially the optional WQXGA panel, for its high resolution, 120Hz refresh rate, brightness, wide viewing angles, and color accuracy, with no PWM flickering.
• Sound quality from the Bang & Olufsen speakers is very good, with clear tones.
• Some users find the user manual light on clear and detailed information.
• The integrated graphics may fall short for more complex tasks like gaming or advanced graphics.

Summary of User Reviews & Feedback

User reviews for the HP EliteBook 840 Gen 10 are largely positive, emphasizing its suitability as a reliable and powerful business laptop. Users consistently commend its robust build quality, featuring a premium aluminum and magnesium alloy chassis that offers both durability and a professional aesthetic. The keyboard and touchpad receive high marks for comfort, responsiveness, and quiet operation, making it an excellent device for productivity. The display, particularly the higher-end WQXGA option, is a standout feature, praised for its high resolution, vibrant colors, brightness, 120Hz refresh rate, and lack of PWM, which enhances the user experience for both work and content consumption.

Performance is generally seen as strong for office applications and multitasking, with the 13th Gen Intel processors handling daily workloads efficiently. Battery life is considered good for a full workday, though some users note it might not always reach the maximum advertised figures. While the integrated graphics are sufficient for most business needs and light entertainment, users acknowledge their limitations for demanding gaming or advanced graphical tasks. A minor point of criticism includes the user manual being less detailed than some users prefer. Overall, the EliteBook 840 G10 is highly recommended for professionals seeking a premium, high-performing, and secure portable workstation.

Summary

The HP EliteBook 840 Gen 10 stands out as a highly capable and secure enterprise asset, meticulously designed for the demands of modern hybrid work environments. Its core strength lies in its powerful 13th Generation Intel Core processors, coupled with high-speed DDR5 RAM and fast PCIe NVMe SSD storage, ensuring seamless multitasking and rapid application performance. The device offers a premium user experience with its excellent build quality, comfortable input devices, and particularly impressive display options, including high-resolution, bright, and color-accurate panels, some with privacy features. Connectivity is comprehensive, featuring Thunderbolt 4, Wi-Fi 6E, and optional 5G WWAN, making it adaptable to various professional settings.

Security is a paramount strength, with the HP Wolf Security suite providing multi-layered protection against a wide array of cyber threats, from firmware attacks to malware containment. Features like Sure Click, Sure Sense, Sure Start, and the optional Sure View Reflect privacy screen offer robust defense mechanisms. However, a reported issue with 802.1x PKCS certificate enrollment via Intune on G10 models highlights a potential vulnerability that requires attention for specific enterprise deployments. Support is strong for current Windows operating systems, with readily available drivers, though HP's general approach to end-of-life dates requires proactive planning.

Performance benchmarks confirm its efficiency for business productivity, though its integrated graphics are not suited for intensive gaming or advanced rendering. User feedback consistently praises its design, keyboard, display, and overall performance for daily tasks, with battery life generally meeting expectations for a full workday. The EliteBook 840 Gen 10 is an excellent choice for business users who prioritize reliability, advanced security, and a premium user experience in a portable form factor. Its strengths lie in its robust security features, powerful processing capabilities, and high-quality display, making it a strong contender for enterprise deployments. The primary weakness is the potential for specific certificate enrollment issues in complex IT environments, which should be thoroughly tested.

Recommendations include leveraging its extensive security features, verifying compatibility for specific IT management tools like Intune, and considering the higher-end display options for enhanced visual experience. This asset is highly recommended for professionals and organizations seeking a secure, high-performance, and well-built 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.