EliteBook 840 Gen 3

Technical Specifications

• Processor: Intel 6th Generation Core i3, i5, or i7 processors (Skylake-U series), including Core i5-6200U, i5-6300U (vPro), i7-6500U, and i7-6600U (vPro).
• RAM: DDR4 PC4-19200 (2400MHz) or DDR4-2133 SDRAM. Configurable from 4GB up to a maximum of 32GB across two SODIMM slots. Supports dual-channel memory.
• Storage: Options include SATA SSDs (e.g., 128GB, 256GB, 512GB) and PCIe Gen3 NVMe SSDs. Supports dual storage options (SSD + HDD) for combined speed and capacity.
• Display: 14-inch diagonal. Available resolutions include HD (1366x768) with TN panel, Full HD (1920x1080) with TN or IPS panel, and WQHD (2560x1440) with TN or IPS panel. Some configurations feature an optional HP Sure View integrated privacy screen.
• Graphics: Integrated Intel HD Graphics 520. Some configurations may include discrete AMD Radeon R7 M340 or M350.
• Ports: Includes USB 3.0 Type-A (one charging), USB 3.0 Type-C (Gen 1), DisplayPort 1.2, VGA, RJ-45 (Gigabit Ethernet), headphone/microphone combo jack, docking connector, and an SD card reader.
• Wireless Connectivity: Dual-band Wi-Fi (802.11a/b/g/n/ac), Bluetooth 4.1 or 4.2. Optional LTE modem.
• Dimensions & Weight: Approximately 338 x 237 x 19 mm (13.31" x 9.33" x 0.75"). Starting at 1.48 kg (3.41 lb) for non-touch models.

Analysis of Technical Specifications

The HP EliteBook 840 Gen 3 offers a robust set of specifications for a business-class laptop of its generation. The inclusion of 6th Gen Intel Core processors provides a good balance of performance and power efficiency for typical business applications. The ability to upgrade RAM up to 32GB DDR4 is a significant advantage for multitasking and future-proofing, allowing the device to handle demanding workloads. Storage flexibility, with options for fast SSDs and dual-drive configurations, ensures quick boot times and ample space. The variety of display options, particularly the Full HD IPS and WQHD panels, cater to different user needs, with the optional Sure View privacy screen being a notable security feature for mobile professionals. A comprehensive array of ports, including modern USB-C and legacy VGA/DisplayPort, along with enterprise docking capabilities, enhances connectivity and integration into diverse IT environments. While integrated graphics are sufficient for most business tasks, the option for discrete AMD graphics provides a slight boost for more visually intensive applications. Its slim and light design makes it highly portable, aligning with the needs of mobile professionals.

Support & Compatibility

• Operating System Support: Primarily ships with Windows 10 Pro. Also supports Windows 7 Professional, Windows 10 Home, FreeDOS 2.0, and NeoKylin Linux 64. Drivers are available for Windows 7, 8, 8.1, 10, and 11 (via DriverPack).
• End of Support Date: As a model released in 2016, it is considered a legacy device. Official manufacturer support for new driver releases and major OS updates beyond Windows 10 may be limited.
• Available Drivers: Drivers, firmware, and software are available for download from HP's official support website. Third-party driver aggregators also provide driver packages for various Windows versions.
• Compatibility: Compatible with HP UltraSlim docking stations. Supports dual-channel DDR4 memory. Storage upgrades include M.2 SATA and NVMe SSDs, and a 2.5-inch SATA drive bay for HDD/SSD.

Analysis of Support & Compatibility Status

The HP EliteBook 840 Gen 3, released in 2016, benefits from broad operating system compatibility, including various Windows versions and Linux distributions, making it versatile for different enterprise deployments. While HP continues to host drivers on its support website, active development for new OS features or performance optimizations is minimal due to the device's age. Users may need to rely on community support or third-party driver solutions for newer operating systems like Windows 11. The laptop's design allows for significant component upgrades, such as RAM and storage, extending its usable lifespan and enhancing performance beyond its original configuration. Compatibility with HP's UltraSlim docking station is a key advantage for business users, providing seamless desktop integration.

Security Status

• Security Features:
  • HP Sure Start with Dynamic Protection: Protects against BIOS attacks and self-heals the BIOS.
  • TPM (Trusted Platform Module): Ships with TPM 1.2, with an upgrade utility for TPM 2.0.
  • Fingerprint Reader: For secure biometric login.
  • Smart Card Reader: For enhanced authentication.
  • DriveLock / Secure Erase: Features for securing storage drives.
  • HP Sure View: Optional integrated privacy screen to prevent visual hacking.
  • Kensington Lock Slot: For physical security.
  • HP Client Security: Software suite for managing security features.
  • BitLocker: Full-disk encryption tool available with Windows Pro versions.
  • Windows Defender & Firewall: Built-in antivirus and network protection.
• Vulnerabilities: As an older model, it may be more susceptible to vulnerabilities discovered after its release, particularly if not kept updated with the latest firmware and OS patches. BIOS-level vulnerabilities are mitigated by HP Sure Start.
• Recommendations:
  • Keep BIOS and firmware updated via HP's official channels.
  • Utilize HP Sure Start and TPM for foundational security.
  • Enable BitLocker for full disk encryption.
  • Employ strong authentication methods like fingerprint or smart card.
  • Regularly apply operating system security updates.
  • Consider the optional HP Sure View for sensitive work in public spaces.

Analysis on the Security Status

The HP EliteBook 840 Gen 3 incorporates a comprehensive suite of enterprise-grade security features. HP Sure Start provides robust protection against BIOS-level attacks, a critical layer of defense often targeted by sophisticated threats. The presence of a TPM, fingerprint reader, and smart card reader offers multiple strong authentication options and hardware-based encryption capabilities, crucial for data protection in business environments. The optional HP Sure View privacy screen is a significant advantage for mobile professionals, preventing "shoulder surfing" and visual data breaches. While the hardware security features are strong for its generation, ongoing vigilance with software updates (OS, drivers, and firmware) is essential to address newly discovered vulnerabilities. The device's age means it may not receive the same level of continuous security updates as newer models, making proactive patch management vital.

Performance & Benchmarks

• Benchmark Scores:
  • Geekbench 4 (Intel Core i7-6600U): Single-Core Score around 3691, Multi-Core Score around 6961.
  • Geekbench (Intel Core i5-6300U): Single-Core Score above 4000 (specific version not stated, but generally strong for its class).
  • Cinebench 20 Multi-core: Performance varies by CPU, indicating its capability for rendering tasks.
• Real-World Performance Metrics:
  • Fast boot times and application loading, especially with SSD configurations.
  • Handles everyday tasks like web browsing, document editing, and office suites (e.g., Office 365) with ease.
  • Capable of multitasking, even with demanding applications like heavy Excel spreadsheets or basic Adobe software.
  • Smooth 1080p 60fps video streaming.
  • Fan noise is minimal under normal load.
• Comparison with Similar Devices: Competes with business Ultrabooks like the Dell Latitude E7470, with the Latitude sometimes having an edge in build quality and component choice. The EliteBook 840 G3 offers comparable performance to other 6th Gen Intel Core i5/i7 business laptops.

Analysis of the Performance Status

The HP EliteBook 840 Gen 3 delivers solid performance for its intended business use case. Equipped with 6th Gen Intel Core i5 or i7 processors and DDR4 RAM, it capably handles typical office productivity, web conferencing, and multitasking. Benchmark scores, such as those from Geekbench, confirm its strong single and multi-core performance for its generation, making it suitable for demanding business applications. Real-world usage demonstrates quick boot times and responsive application launches, particularly when configured with an SSD. While not designed for intensive graphics tasks like modern gaming or heavy video editing, its integrated or optional discrete graphics are sufficient for business presentations and multimedia consumption. Its performance is competitive within its class of business laptops, offering a reliable and efficient computing experience for professionals.

User Reviews & Feedback

• Users generally praise the HP EliteBook 840 Gen 3 for its balance of price and performance, especially in refurbished markets.
• Positive feedback highlights swift operations, reliability, and solid build quality, often noting its sleek design and durability.
• The keyboard receives positive remarks for comfort, key travel, and spill resistance, with some users appreciating extra function keys and backlighting.
• Connectivity options, including a variety of ports and docking capabilities, are frequently appreciated.
• Battery life is generally considered good, with users reporting several hours of productivity, though some refurbished units may have reduced battery longevity.
• Common criticisms include large display bezels and, in some configurations, the use of TN panels which offer poorer viewing angles and color reproduction compared to IPS.
• Some users of refurbished models report minor cosmetic damage or issues with Windows updates.
• The device is considered a good value for money, particularly for basic office work and college use.

Summary

The HP EliteBook 840 Gen 3 stands as a robust and versatile business-class laptop, designed for professionals requiring a balance of performance, portability, and security. Its strengths lie in its comprehensive enterprise-grade security features, including HP Sure Start for BIOS protection, TPM, fingerprint and smart card readers, and the innovative optional Sure View privacy screen. The device offers solid performance for everyday business tasks and multitasking, powered by 6th Gen Intel Core processors and expandable DDR4 RAM up to 32GB. Storage flexibility with SSD and dual-drive options ensures quick responsiveness and ample capacity. Connectivity is a strong point, featuring a wide array of ports, including USB-C, DisplayPort, VGA, and dedicated docking capabilities. The durable, slim, and lightweight design, coupled with a comfortable, spill-resistant keyboard, enhances its appeal for mobile professionals.

However, the EliteBook 840 Gen 3 does have weaknesses. As an older model, its integrated graphics are not suited for demanding creative work or modern gaming. Some display configurations, particularly those with TN panels, may offer suboptimal visual quality compared to the IPS or WQHD options. While drivers are available, ongoing official support for the latest operating system features or long-term security updates may diminish over time.

Overall, the HP EliteBook 840 Gen 3 remains a highly capable and reliable asset for general business use, office productivity, and remote work, especially when acquired at a competitive price point. Its upgradeability for RAM and storage further extends its utility. It is an excellent choice for organizations or individuals seeking a cost-effective, secure, and durable workhorse laptop that performs well for its generation.

Note: 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.