HP ZBook 17 Gen 3

Basic Information

• Model: HP ZBook 17 G3 Mobile Workstation.
• Release Date: December 17, 2015.
• Minimum Requirements: Requires 64-bit operating systems for full functionality; specific hardware configurations vary.
• Supported Operating Systems: Windows 10 Pro 64, Windows 10 Home 64, Windows 7 Professional 64 (via downgrade rights from Windows 10 Pro), FreeDOS 2.0, Red Hat Enterprise Linux 6 & 7 (web support only).
• Latest Stable Version: Firmware and drivers are available through HP's official support website.
• End of Support Date: Official HP support for this model has likely ended or is very limited by November 2025, as HP typically supports products for approximately 10 years, with driver updates for 3-5 years. Some obsolescence dates were noted around May 2020.
• End of Life Date: The product is likely considered End of Life by November 2025, following HP's typical support lifecycle of discontinuing support 5 years after a product reaches "Retired" status.
• Auto-update Expiration Date: Dependent on the operating system's lifecycle; Windows 10 updates automatically.
• License Type: Typically ships with a perpetual license for the pre-installed operating system, such as Windows 7 Professional 64-bit (including a Windows 10 Pro 64-bit license).
• Deployment Model: Mobile Workstation.

Technical Specifications

• Processor: Options include 6th Generation Intel Core i5, Intel Core i7 (e.g., i7-6700HQ, i7-6820HQ), and Intel Xeon E3-1535M v5 processors.
• RAM: Up to 64 GB DDR4-2133 SDRAM across four SODIMM slots. ECC memory is available with Intel Xeon processors, while non-ECC memory is used with Intel Core processors.
• Storage: Configurable with up to 4 TB total storage, utilizing dual HP Z Turbo Drive G2 (NVMe PCIe SSDs) and/or 2.5-inch SATA drives. Features two M.2 slots and two 2.5-inch drive bays.
• Display: 17.3-inch diagonal displays, with options including Full HD (1920 x 1080) UWVA IPS anti-glare, HD+ (1600 x 900) TN, and optional 4K UHD DreamColor displays.
• Graphics: Integrated Intel HD Graphics 530 (with Core i5/i7), Intel HD Graphics P530 or Iris Pro Graphics P580 (with Xeon). Discrete graphics options include NVIDIA Quadro M1000M (2GB GDDR5), M2000M (4GB GDDR5), M3000M (4GB GDDR5), M4000M (4GB GDDR5), M5000M (8GB GDDR5), and AMD FirePro W6150M (4GB GDDR5).
• Ports: Includes 3x USB 3.0 / 3.1 Gen1, 2x USB 3.1 Gen2 (USB-C), 2x Thunderbolt 3 (USB-C, supporting DisplayPort 1.2 and PCIe Gen 3), 1x HDMI 1.4, 1x VGA, 1x Gigabit Ethernet (RJ-45), 3.5 mm headset/audio jack, SD UHS-II card reader, SmartCard reader, and Kensington Lock slot.
• Operating System: (Refer to Basic Information).
• Dimensions: 30 x 420 x 280 mm (1.18 x 16.54 x 11.02 inches).
• Weight: Starting at 3.00 kg (6.62 lbs), with some configurations reaching 3.26 kg (7.19 lbs). The power supply weighs approximately 987 g.

Analysis of Technical Specifications

The HP ZBook 17 G3 is a powerful mobile workstation designed for demanding professional tasks. Its 6th generation Intel Core and Xeon processors, coupled with up to 64GB of DDR4 RAM, provide robust computational power. The extensive storage options, including NVMe PCIe SSDs and multiple drive bays, ensure high-speed data access and ample capacity for large files. The choice of professional NVIDIA Quadro or AMD FirePro discrete graphics cards, with up to 8GB of dedicated GDDR5 memory, makes it suitable for graphics-intensive applications like 3D rendering, CAD, and video editing. The display options, including 4K UHD DreamColor, cater to users requiring high color accuracy and resolution. Connectivity is comprehensive, featuring modern Thunderbolt 3 ports alongside traditional USB and video outputs, offering excellent expandability and peripheral support. Despite its powerful components, the device maintains a relatively slim profile and reduced weight compared to its predecessor, enhancing its portability as a desktop replacement.

Support & Compatibility

• Latest Version: The latest drivers, firmware, and software updates are available directly from the HP support website.
• OS Support: Supports Windows 7 Professional, Windows 10 Pro/Home, FreeDOS, and Red Hat Enterprise Linux 6 & 7.
• End of Support Date: Official HP support is likely limited or concluded by November 2025, based on typical product lifecycles.
• Localization: HP provides support resources, drivers, and documentation in multiple languages, including English, German, Dutch, and Italian.
• Available Drivers: Drivers are available for Windows and, to a lesser extent, Mac operating systems on the HP support portal.
• Cartridge and Ink Codes: Not applicable for a mobile workstation.

Analysis of Overall Support & Compatibility Status

The HP ZBook 17 G3 offered broad operating system compatibility at its release, including various Windows versions and Linux distributions. HP provided comprehensive driver and firmware support through its official channels. However, given its release date in late 2015, the device is now past its primary support window. While drivers and some documentation may still be accessible, active software updates and official technical support from HP are likely minimal or discontinued. Users relying on this asset should anticipate seeking community-based support or managing driver compatibility independently for newer operating systems.

Security Status

• Security Features: Comprehensive features include a SmartCard reader, fingerprint scanner, TPM 1.2/2.0 module (EAL4+ certified), BIOS passwords, and the ability to disable individual ports. HP Client Security software provides fingerprint registration and hard drive encryption. Additional features include Secure Erase, Kensington Lock slot, HP BIOS Protection with Sure Start, DriveLock, Automatic DriveLock, RAID support (configurable), USB port disablement via BIOS, removable media write/boot control, and power-on password.
• Known Vulnerabilities: No specific hardware vulnerabilities are highlighted in the provided data. General software and operating system vulnerabilities may exist due to the age of the platform.
• Blacklist Status: No information indicates a blacklist status.
• Certifications: Common Criteria EAL4+ Augmented Certified Discrete TPM 1.2/2.0, US ENERGY STAR certified, and EPEAT registered.
• Encryption Support: Supports hardware-based encryption through SED SSD options and software encryption via HP Client Security.
• Authentication Methods: Fingerprint scanning, SmartCard authentication, and traditional password protection for system access and BIOS.
• General Recommendations: Users should maintain up-to-date operating system patches, utilize all available hardware security features, and implement strong authentication practices.

Analysis on the Overall Security Rating

The HP ZBook 17 G3 boasts a very strong security posture for its generation, offering a wide array of hardware and software-based security features. The inclusion of a TPM module, SmartCard reader, and fingerprint scanner provides robust multi-factor authentication options. HP's proprietary security suite, including BIOS Protection and DriveLock, enhances data and system integrity. While the hardware security remains solid, the overall security rating is influenced by the potential for unpatched software or operating system vulnerabilities due to the product's age and diminishing official support. Regular OS and application updates are crucial for maintaining a high level of security.

Performance & Benchmarks

• Benchmark Scores: Achieved a Fire Strike Ultra score of 2229 with the Nvidia Quadro M5000M. In Cinebench, it ranked 5th for OpenGL performance, competing with desktop graphics cards.
• Real-world Performance Metrics: Delivers excellent performance for 3D content creation, photo manipulation (e.g., Photoshop, Lightroom), video editing, CAD software, and machine learning tasks. It is described as fast and smooth, offering desktop-level performance in a mobile form factor.
• Power Consumption: Processor consumption is limited to approximately 27 Watts on battery, which can result in a performance drop of up to 20% in benchmarks. Normal operation consumes around 16.64 W (115 VAC), 1.01 W in sleep mode, and 0.31 W when off.
• Carbon Footprint: An estimated mean carbon footprint of 310 kg of CO2-e, with a standard deviation of 60 kg of CO2-e, for an industry-average notebook configuration.
• Comparison with Similar Assets: Competes with the Dell Precision 7710 and Lenovo ThinkPad P70. It is noted for being lighter, cooler, smaller, and more powerful than its predecessor, the ZBook 17 G2.

Analysis of the Overall Performance Status

The HP ZBook 17 G3 is a high-performance mobile workstation, excelling in demanding professional applications. Its powerful processor and professional-grade graphics options ensure smooth operation for tasks requiring significant computational and graphical horsepower. While performance can be slightly throttled on battery power, its plugged-in performance is comparable to desktop workstations of its era. The significant improvements over its predecessor in terms of power and efficiency underscore its design as a robust portable solution for engineers, creative professionals, and data scientists.

User Reviews & Feedback

User reviews highlight the HP ZBook 17 G3 as a powerful and highly configurable mobile workstation. Strengths frequently mentioned include its robust hardware, excellent connectivity options, and high-quality display choices, particularly the FHD and optional 4K UHD DreamColor panels. Users appreciate its sturdy construction, fast performance for intensive applications like 3D modeling and video editing, and the inclusion of a full-sized keyboard with a numeric keypad. The Bang & Olufsen speakers are also noted for providing superior audio quality compared to many other laptops.

However, some weaknesses are also noted. The device is considered heavy and large, though it is an improvement over its G2 predecessor. Some users reported issues with the hinge, describing it as squeaky or creaky. There are mixed opinions on build quality, with some finding it less premium than older HP EliteBooks, citing plastic materials and occasional fan noise interference with the sound card. The transition from Thunderbolt 2 to Thunderbolt 3 also meant some users needed adapters for existing peripherals. Despite these points, the ZBook 17 G3 is generally recommended for professionals needing a reliable, high-performance mobile workstation.

Summary

The HP ZBook 17 G3 stands as a formidable mobile workstation, designed to deliver desktop-class performance for demanding professional applications. Its strengths lie in its highly configurable architecture, offering a range of 6th generation Intel Core and Xeon processors, up to 64GB of DDR4 RAM, and professional NVIDIA Quadro or AMD FirePro graphics with ample video memory. The extensive storage options, including NVMe PCIe SSDs, ensure rapid data access and significant capacity. Connectivity is robust, featuring modern Thunderbolt 3 ports alongside a comprehensive array of traditional inputs, making it highly adaptable to various workflows and peripherals. Security features are also a strong point, with integrated TPM, fingerprint and SmartCard readers, and HP's proprietary security software.

While praised for its power and functionality, the ZBook 17 G3 is a large and heavy device, reflecting its workstation-class components. Some user feedback points to minor concerns regarding build material perception and occasional hinge or fan noise issues. Support for the device is now limited due to its age, meaning users should be prepared for self-service regarding drivers and troubleshooting.

Overall, the HP ZBook 17 G3 is an excellent choice for professionals in creative fields, engineering, and data science who require a powerful, reliable, and highly capable mobile platform for intensive tasks like 3D rendering, CAD, and video editing. Its performance capabilities and comprehensive feature set make it a strong contender for those prioritizing power and expandability over ultimate portability.

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.