HP EliteBook 840 Gen 9

Technical Specifications

• Processor: 12th Gen Intel Core i5 and i7 processors (U-series and P-series), including options with Intel vPro Technology. Available with up to 14 cores (6 Performance, 8 Efficient).
• RAM: Configurable from 8GB to 64GB DDR5-4800MHz, with dual-channel support.
• Storage: 256GB to 2TB PCIe Gen4 NVMe M.2 Solid State Drive.
• Display: 14-inch, 16:10 aspect ratio, WUXGA (1920x1200) IPS panel. Options include non-touch or touch, with brightness levels of 250-nit, 400-nit, and HP Sure View Reflect privacy screen (up to 1000 nits).
• Graphics: Integrated Intel Iris Xe Graphics (requires Intel Core i5 or i7 processors and dual-channel memory; otherwise functions as Intel UHD Graphics).
• Ports: 2x Thunderbolt 4 with USB4 Type-C (40Gbps signaling rate, Power Delivery, DisplayPort 1.4), 2x SuperSpeed USB Type-A (5Gbps signaling rate, one charging), 1x HDMI 2.0, 1x combo headphone/microphone jack. Optional Smart Card reader and optional nano-SIM slot for WWAN.
• Wireless: Intel Wi-Fi 6E AX211, Bluetooth 5.2 (some configurations may include Bluetooth 5.3). Optional 5G WWAN (Intel 5G Solution 5000).
• Webcam: 5MP with auto-framing, IR for Windows Hello facial recognition, and a manual privacy shutter.
• Audio: Dual stereo speakers tuned by Bang & Olufsen, dual array world-facing microphones with AI-based noise suppression and dynamic voice leveling.
• Dimensions: 0.76 x 12.4 x 8.8 inches (1.92 x 31.56 x 22.4 cm).
• Weight: Starting at 2.99 lbs (1.36 kg).
• Build: All-aluminum chassis, designed to pass 19 MIL-STD 810H tests for durability.

The HP EliteBook 840 Gen 9 offers a robust set of technical specifications tailored for enterprise use. The inclusion of 12th Gen Intel Core P-series processors, coupled with DDR5 RAM and PCIe Gen4 SSDs, ensures strong performance for demanding business applications and multitasking. The 16:10 aspect ratio display provides enhanced vertical screen real estate, improving productivity. A comprehensive selection of modern and legacy ports, including Thunderbolt 4, along with Wi-Fi 6E and optional 5G, guarantees excellent connectivity. The 5MP webcam with AI-enhanced conferencing features is a significant advantage for hybrid work environments. However, the absence of discrete graphics limits its suitability for graphically intensive tasks, and the lack of 4K or OLED display options might be a drawback for users prioritizing visual fidelity.

Support & Compatibility

• Operating System Support: Primarily supports Windows 11 Pro (recommended for business), Windows 11 Home, and Windows 10 Pro (available via downgrade rights from Windows 11 Pro). FreeDOS is also an option.
• OS Policy: HP does not officially support Windows 7 or 8 on products configured with 7th generation or later Intel/AMD processors.
• Drivers: All necessary drivers are available for download from the official HP Support website. Automated diagnostic tools are also provided.
• End of Support Date: Not explicitly published, but enterprise devices typically receive several years of driver and security updates. HP Care Pack Services offer optional extended service contracts.
• System Compatibility: Optimized for Windows operating systems. While Linux can be installed, it is not officially supported, and users may encounter compatibility issues with certain hardware components like the webcam, touchpad, or speakers. Virtualization of Linux is a recommended alternative.
• Serviceability: Key components such as the battery, SSD, WWAN module, WLAN module, and RAM are designed to be IT replaceable, facilitating easier maintenance and upgrades.

The HP EliteBook 840 Gen 9 is built with enterprise compatibility in mind, focusing on seamless integration within Windows-centric IT infrastructures. Official support for Windows 11 Pro and Windows 10 Pro ensures broad compatibility with business software and management tools. The availability of drivers and diagnostic tools directly from HP's support channels streamlines deployment and troubleshooting. The modular design, allowing for IT-replaceable components, enhances the asset's lifecycle management and reduces total cost of ownership. While its unofficial Linux compatibility might deter some users, the option for virtualization mitigates this limitation for most enterprise scenarios.

Security Status

• Security Features:
  • HP Wolf Security for Business: A hardware-enforced, always-on, resilient defense suite.
  • HP Sure Click: Provides hardware-enforced protection against malware, ransomware, and viruses from websites and read-only Microsoft Office and PDF attachments.
  • HP Sure Sense: Utilizes deep learning AI to offer exceptional protection against advanced malware and never-before-seen attacks.
  • HP Sure View Reflect: An optional integrated privacy screen that makes the display unreadable from the side.
  • HP Sure Start Gen7: Automatically recovers the BIOS from attacks or corruption.
  • HP Sure Run Gen5: Keeps critical security processes running, even if malware tries to shut them down.
  • HP Sure Recover Gen5: Enables quick and secure OS recovery with embedded reimaging.
  • HP Tamper Lock: Detects and logs physical intrusion attempts.
  • HP Sure Admin: Simplifies BIOS management.
  • HP Client Security Manager Gen7: Centralized management for security features.
  • TPM 2.0: Embedded security chip (Common Criteria EAL4+ and FIPS 140-2 Level 2 Certified).
  • Secured-core PC capable: Meets Microsoft's Secured-core PC requirements.
  • Biometric Authentication: Optional fingerprint sensor and IR webcam for Windows Hello facial recognition.
  • SmartCard Reader: Optional for enhanced authentication.
• Vulnerabilities: Potential vulnerabilities (CVE-2022-31644, CVE-2022-31645, CVE-2022-31646) were identified in the system BIOS of certain HP PC products, which could allow arbitrary code execution, escalation of privilege, or denial of service. These were published in 2022.
• Recommendations: Regularly update the system BIOS and firmware to patch known vulnerabilities. Fully leverage the HP Wolf Security suite, including Sure Click and Sure Sense. Implement strong authentication methods like fingerprint or facial recognition and SmartCard where available. Maintain regular data backups.

The HP EliteBook 840 Gen 9 prioritizes security with an extensive array of hardware-enforced and software-based protections. HP Wolf Security for Business provides a comprehensive defense strategy, safeguarding the device from various threats, from the BIOS level to web browsing. Features like Sure View Reflect, fingerprint readers, and IR cameras enhance both data privacy and user authentication. While past BIOS vulnerabilities have been noted, these are common in complex systems and are typically addressed through timely firmware updates. Adhering to HP's security recommendations and maintaining up-to-date software is crucial for maximizing the asset's security posture.

Performance & Benchmarks

• Processor Performance: Delivers excellent performance for standard productivity applications, including office suites, web browsing, and development tools. P-series Intel Core i7 processors, such as the i7-1280P, provide strong multi-core and single-core performance. Some i5 configurations may experience performance throttling for battery optimization.
• Graphics Performance: Integrated Intel Iris Xe Graphics handles general creative tasks and casual gaming effectively. Its full capabilities are realized with dual-channel memory configurations.
• Memory & Storage Performance: DDR5-4800MHz RAM and PCIe Gen4 NVMe SSDs contribute to fast system responsiveness and rapid data access.
• Real-world Performance: The device maintains quiet and cool operation even under significant workloads. It handles everyday tasks smoothly and efficiently.
• Benchmark Scores (Illustrative Examples):
  • Cinebench R23 Multi-Core: Scores vary by processor, with reported figures such as i5-1240P at 630, i7-1260P at 435, and i7-1280P at 437.
  • 3DMark Time Spy (Graphics): Intel Iris Xe Graphics G7 (80EU) scored 1794, and G7 (96EU) scored 949.77.
  • 3DMark 11 (on mains): Physics 15376, Graphics 7101.
• Battery Life: Highly variable depending on configuration and usage. P-series processors can result in approximately 4 hours of battery life under typical daily use. Other reports indicate up to 13 hours under lighter loads or with U-series processors.
• Comparison: Competes favorably with other leading business laptops such as the Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Carbon Gen 10 and Dell Latitude 9430/7400 series.

The HP EliteBook 840 Gen 9 delivers competitive performance for its class, making it a reliable workhorse for enterprise users. Its 12th Gen Intel Core processors, particularly the P-series, provide ample power for multitasking and demanding business applications, while fast DDR5 memory and PCIe Gen4 storage ensure quick system and application loading. The integrated Iris Xe graphics are sufficient for general use and light creative tasks. While benchmark scores can vary, the EliteBook 840 G9 generally performs well, maintaining cool and quiet operation. Battery life is a notable point of variation, with performance-oriented configurations yielding shorter durations, whereas optimized settings or U-series CPUs can extend usage significantly.

User Reviews & Feedback

User reviews and feedback for the HP EliteBook 840 Gen 9 are largely positive, highlighting its suitability for business and hybrid work environments. Users consistently praise its strong performance for productivity tasks, noting its ability to handle daily workloads without excessive fan noise or heat. The expansion and connectivity options, including Thunderbolt 4 and optional 5G, are frequently appreciated. The 16:10 aspect ratio display is a welcome improvement, offering more workspace, and the 5MP auto-framing webcam receives high marks for enhancing video conferencing experiences. The all-aluminum build quality and MIL-STD 810H testing instill confidence in its durability. The keyboard is often described as comfortable and best-in-class, featuring backlighting and spill resistance. The comprehensive HP Wolf Security suite is a significant advantage for security-conscious users. The IT-replaceable components (RAM, SSD, WWAN, WLAN, battery) are also seen as a major benefit for enterprise manageability and longevity.

Conversely, some feedback points to areas for improvement. The battery life, particularly with P-series processors, can be a concern for users needing extended unplugged operation, with some reporting around four hours of real-world use. The absence of 4K or OLED display options is a minor disappointment for those seeking higher resolution or more vibrant colors. While the Bang & Olufsen tuned speakers are adequate for calls, they are considered merely serviceable for music. Some users suggest that certain i5 configurations might feel underpowered compared to the higher-end options. The lack of a discrete GPU limits its utility for intensive graphical applications or serious gaming.

Overall, the HP EliteBook 840 Gen 9 is highly recommended as a reliable, secure, and well-built business laptop that offers excellent value, especially when considering its comprehensive feature set and enterprise-grade security. It is considered a strong contender against premium alternatives in the business laptop market.

Summary

The HP EliteBook 840 Gen 9 stands out as a highly capable and well-rounded enterprise asset, meticulously designed to meet the demands of modern business and hybrid work environments. Its foundation on 12th Gen Intel Core processors, configurable with up to 64GB of DDR5 RAM and fast PCIe Gen4 NVMe SSDs, ensures robust performance for a wide spectrum of professional tasks, from routine office applications to more intensive workloads. The 14-inch, 16:10 WUXGA display enhances productivity by offering increased vertical screen real estate, a feature highly valued by users. Connectivity is a significant strength, with a rich assortment of ports including Thunderbolt 4, alongside advanced wireless options like Wi-Fi 6E and optional 5G WWAN, facilitating seamless integration into diverse work settings.

A standout aspect of the EliteBook 840 Gen 9 is its comprehensive security architecture, underpinned by HP Wolf Security for Business. This suite provides multi-layered, hardware-enforced protection, encompassing features like Sure Click for threat isolation, Sure Sense for AI-driven malware defense, and Sure Start for BIOS integrity. Biometric authentication options and an optional privacy screen further fortify data and user security. While some past BIOS vulnerabilities have been identified, HP's commitment to regular updates and the robust security framework mitigate these risks effectively.

Performance benchmarks confirm its strong capabilities for business applications, with consistent and quiet operation. The integrated Intel Iris Xe Graphics are suitable for general use and light creative work, though the absence of a discrete GPU means it is not intended for graphically intensive tasks. User feedback generally praises its build quality, comfortable keyboard, and the high-quality 5MP webcam with AI-driven conferencing features. However, potential weaknesses include variable battery life, particularly with power-hungry P-series processors, and the lack of 4K or OLED display options. The device's IT-replaceable components enhance its serviceability and longevity, making it a cost-effective choice for large-scale deployments.

In conclusion, the HP EliteBook 840 Gen 9 is a highly recommended business laptop that synthesizes performance, security, and manageability into a reliable package. Its strengths lie in its powerful processing capabilities, advanced security features, excellent connectivity, and user-friendly design. While it has minor limitations in graphics and display options, these are generally outweighed by its overall value and suitability for enterprise use. It represents a solid investment for organizations seeking a durable, secure, and high-performing asset for their workforce.

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.