HP ZBook 2024

HP ZBook 2024

HP ZBook 2024 series: powerful, secure, and versatile mobile workstations.

Basic Information

The HP ZBook 2024 series comprises a range of mobile workstations designed for professional use, including the ZBook Firefly G11, ZBook Power G11, ZBook Studio G11, and ZBook Fury G11. These models were announced in March 2024, with expected launch dates in April or May 2024 for most models.

  • Model: ZBook Firefly G11, ZBook Power G11, ZBook Studio G11, ZBook Fury G11 (various configurations)
  • Version: G11 series
  • Release Date: Announced March 2024, expected launch April/May 2024.
  • Minimum Requirements: Typically Windows 11, with specific hardware requirements varying by configuration (e.g., Intel Core Ultra or AMD Ryzen Pro CPUs, DDR5 RAM).
  • Supported Operating Systems: Windows 11 Pro is standard.
  • Latest Stable Version: Refers to the G11 series as the latest generation.
  • End of Support Date: Not explicitly stated for the 2024 series, but HP typically provides several years of support for its enterprise devices.
  • End of Life Date: Not explicitly stated.
  • Auto-update Expiration Date: Not explicitly stated, dependent on the operating system (Windows 11).
  • License Type: Typically includes Windows 11 Pro license.
  • Deployment Model: On-premise (as a physical laptop).

Technical Specifications

The HP ZBook 2024 series offers a wide array of configurations tailored for various professional workloads, from light tasks to intensive 3D rendering and AI/ML.

  • Processor: Options include Intel Core Ultra processors (up to Ultra 9 185H), 13th/14th Gen Intel Core HX-series (up to i9-14900HX), or AMD Ryzen PRO CPUs (up to Ryzen 9 8945HS). All feature an NPU for AI acceleration.
  • RAM: Configurable from 8GB up to 64GB DDR5-5600 MHz SODIMM, with some Fury models supporting up to 128GB or even 192GB (user-upgradeable).
  • Storage: PCIe Gen4 NVMe SSDs available from 256GB up to 4TB, with some Fury models supporting up to 8TB or even 16TB across multiple slots.
  • Display:
    • ZBook Firefly G11: 14-inch or 16-inch WUXGA (1920 x 1200) IPS, with options for touch, 300 nits, 400 nits, or 1000 nits (HP Sure View Reflect). QHD+ (2560 x 1600) options also available for 14-inch.
    • ZBook Power G11: 16-inch WUXGA (1920 x 1200) IPS (300-400 nits, 45-100% sRGB) or WQXGA (2560 x 1600) 120Hz IPS (400 nits, 100% sRGB).
    • ZBook Studio G11: 16-inch WUXGA (1920 x 1200) or 4K (3840 x 2400) DreamColor IPS displays, some with 120Hz refresh rate.
    • ZBook Fury G11: 16-inch WUXGA (1920 x 1200) or 4K (3840 x 2400) DreamColor IPS displays, 120Hz refresh rate, 500 nits brightness, 100% DCI-P3.
  • Graphics:
    • Integrated: AMD Radeon Graphics (for AMD CPUs), Intel Arc Graphics or Intel UHD Graphics (for Intel CPUs).
    • Discrete: NVIDIA RTX Ada Generation Laptop GPUs, ranging from RTX A500, RTX 1000, RTX 2000, RTX 3000, up to RTX 5000 Ada Generation with up to 16GB GDDR6 dedicated memory. NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4070 also available on some Studio models.
  • Ports: Generally includes 2x Thunderbolt 4 (USB4 Type-C 40Gbps with Power Delivery, DisplayPort 1.4, HP Sleep and Charge), 1-2x USB Type-A (5Gbps, some with Sleep and Charge), HDMI 2.0b or 2.1, Ethernet (RJ-45), 3.5mm headphone/microphone combo jack, SD card reader, optional Smart Card reader, and optional Nano SIM slot.
  • Operating System: Windows 11 Pro.
  • Dimensions & Weight:
    • ZBook Power 16 G11: 14.15" x 9.88" x 0.9" (359.41 x 250.95 x 22.9 mm), starting at 4.5-4.68 lbs (2.04-2.12 kg).
    • ZBook Studio 16 G11: 14.02" x 9.54" x 0.76" (non-touch) or 0.72" (touch), starting at 3.81 lbs (1.73 kg).
    • ZBook Fury 16 G11: Heavier, designed for maximum performance and upgradability.

Analysis of Technical Specifications: The 2024 ZBook lineup emphasizes powerful, AI-ready processors from both Intel (Core Ultra, HX-series) and AMD (Ryzen PRO), paired with professional-grade NVIDIA RTX Ada Generation GPUs. This combination provides significant horsepower for demanding applications like 3D modeling, video editing, and data analysis. Memory and storage options are extensive, allowing for high customization to meet specific professional needs, with user-upgradable components in many models. The display options are diverse, offering high resolutions, refresh rates, and color accuracy, particularly with DreamColor panels for color-critical work. Port selection is comprehensive, ensuring broad connectivity for peripherals and external displays. The series maintains a balance between performance and portability, though the Fury models prioritize raw power and upgradability over extreme thinness. The inclusion of NPUs across the processor range highlights a strong focus on AI-accelerated workflows.

Support & Compatibility

  • Latest Version: G11 series (2024 models).
  • OS Support: Primarily Windows 11 Pro.
  • End of Support Date: Not publicly specified. HP typically provides long-term driver and software support for its business and workstation lines.
  • Localization: Available globally with localized keyboard layouts and software.
  • Available Drivers: HP provides drivers through its support website, HP Support Assistant, and Windows Update.

Analysis of Overall Support & Compatibility Status: The HP ZBook 2024 series offers robust support and compatibility, typical of HP's enterprise-grade workstations. Running on Windows 11 Pro, it benefits from Microsoft's extensive ecosystem and security updates. HP's commitment to professional users is evident through readily available drivers and software updates via official channels. The workstations are ISV-certified for various professional applications (e.g., Autodesk, Adobe, SOLIDWORKS), ensuring optimal performance and stability with industry-standard software. Wireless connectivity includes Wi-Fi 6E or Wi-Fi 7 and Bluetooth 5.3 or 5.4, ensuring modern and fast wireless communication.

Security Status

  • Security Features: HP Wolf Security for Business (hardware-enforced, always-on defense), HP BIOSphere Gen6, HP Secure Erase, Absolute Persistence Module, HP DriveLock & Automatic DriveLock, BIOS Update via Network, HP Wake on WLAN, Fingerprint Sensor (select models), Secured-Core PC Enablement, Trusted Platform Module (TPM 2.0) Embedded Security Chip, Smart Card reader (optional), IR webcam for facial recognition (Windows Hello), Kensington Nano security lock slot.
  • Known Vulnerabilities: No specific widespread vulnerabilities for the 2024 series are publicly highlighted at launch, but ongoing security updates are provided by HP and Microsoft.
  • Blacklist Status: Not applicable; these are standard commercial products.
  • Certifications: FIPS 140-2 compliant TPM 2.0, FIPS 201 compliant Smartcard Reader (Alcor AU9560). MIL-STD 810H tested for durability.
  • Encryption Support: Microsoft Bitlocker Encryption, hardware-level encryption via TPM 2.0.
  • Authentication Methods: Fingerprint reader, IR webcam for facial recognition (Windows Hello), Smart Card reader, traditional password/PIN.
  • General Recommendations: Keep BIOS, drivers, and operating system updated. Utilize HP Wolf Security features.

Analysis on Overall Security Rating: The HP ZBook 2024 series boasts a strong security posture, integrating HP's comprehensive Wolf Security for Business suite. This provides multi-layered protection from the BIOS to the operating system, with hardware-enforced features like TPM 2.0 and optional Smart Card readers. The inclusion of IR webcams and fingerprint readers offers convenient and secure biometric authentication. MIL-STD 810H testing indicates a robust physical design, further contributing to overall security by ensuring durability in challenging environments. The focus on enterprise-grade security features makes these workstations suitable for sensitive professional data and environments.

Performance & Benchmarks

  • Benchmark Scores:
    • HP ZBook Power G11 A (AMD Ryzen 9 8945HS): Geekbench 5 CPU Single-Thread ~1,981 points, Multi-Thread ~12,051 points, GPU Compute ~33,120 points.
    • HP ZBook Studio 16 G11 (Intel Core Ultra 9 185H, RTX 3000 Ada): High performance for creative tasks.
    • HP ZBook Fury 16 G11 (Intel Core i7-13850HX/i9-14900HX, RTX 2000/5000 Ada): Designed for extreme workflows, 8K video editing, 3D rendering, machine learning.
    • ZBook 8 G1as (AMD Ryzen AI 9 HX PRO 375): Cinebench 2024 and Geekbench single-core performance is excellent, multi-core is mid-pack.
  • Real-World Performance Metrics:
    • ZBook Power G11 A: Excellent for intensive workloads like simulations or 3D rendering. Strong performance for school use, graphic design, engineering, sciences.
    • ZBook Studio G11: Ideal for engineers, designers, and 3D artists, handles demanding SolidWorks assemblies, real-time rendering, and simulation tasks effortlessly.
    • ZBook Fury G11: Desktop-class CPU performance in a laptop, capable of tackling the most intense workflows.
    • ZBook Firefly G11: Juggernaut workstation with impeccable energy efficiency and strong single-thread speed, suitable for instantaneous rendering and simulation.
  • Power Consumption: Power adapters range from 150W to 230W depending on GPU configuration. Fast charging supports 50% battery in 30 minutes.
  • Carbon Footprint: HP aims for net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2040. The ZBook Studio 16 G11 contains at least 75% recycled metal and significant recycled plastic. HP's 2024 Sustainable Impact Report highlights efforts in circular material use and reduced product carbon footprint.
  • Comparison with Similar Assets: The ZBook series competes with Dell Precision and Lenovo ThinkPad P series workstations. HP ZBook Power G11 A offers strong performance but some displays lack color gamut for critical work compared to competitors. Lenovo options might offer higher RAM (up to 128GB ECC) and faster GPUs in top configurations.

Analysis of Overall Performance Status: The HP ZBook 2024 series delivers strong to extreme performance across its various models, catering to a wide spectrum of professional needs. The integration of the latest Intel Core Ultra/HX and AMD Ryzen PRO CPUs with NVIDIA RTX Ada Generation GPUs ensures high-speed processing and graphical capabilities for complex tasks. Benchmarks confirm competitive CPU and GPU performance, particularly for multi-threaded and compute-intensive applications. Real-world usage demonstrates their suitability for demanding professional software. While power consumption varies with configuration, fast-charging capabilities enhance productivity. HP's commitment to sustainability is notable, with efforts to reduce the carbon footprint and incorporate recycled materials.

User Reviews & Feedback

  • Strengths: Excellent port selection (including Thunderbolt 4, HDMI 2.1, Ethernet, SD card reader), robust build quality (all-aluminum chassis, MIL-STD 810H tested), strong performance for intensive workloads, comfortable keyboard and touchpad, good battery life (especially for light use with integrated graphics), AI-powered features, ISV certifications.
  • Weaknesses: Some display options lack sRGB coverage for color-critical work or struggle with reflections in bright environments, touchpad edges can be inconsistent, higher-end configurations can be expensive.
  • Recommended Use Cases:
    • ZBook Firefly: Light CAD, business intelligence, financial modeling, technical documentation, AI-enhanced productivity, field work, energy efficiency.
    • ZBook Power: General professional use, graphic design, engineering, simulations, 3D rendering, AutoCAD, Premiere Pro, school use.
    • ZBook Studio: Engineers, designers, 3D artists, content creators, video editing, 3D modeling, SolidWorks, requiring precision, speed, and portability.
    • ZBook Fury: Extreme 3D rendering, 8K video editing, machine learning, complex engineering simulations, large-scale data analysis, Blender, MATLAB, DaVinci Resolve.

User feedback generally praises the ZBook series for its workstation-grade performance, durable construction, and comprehensive connectivity. Professionals appreciate the ISV certifications and the ability to handle demanding software. The long battery life for lighter tasks is a significant advantage for mobile professionals. However, some users note that certain display configurations might not meet the color accuracy needs of all creative professionals, and the cost of top-tier models can be a barrier.

Summary

The HP ZBook 2024 series represents a robust and versatile lineup of mobile workstations designed to meet the rigorous demands of professional users across various industries. Key strengths include a wide range of powerful processors from both Intel and AMD, featuring integrated NPUs for AI acceleration, and a comprehensive selection of NVIDIA RTX Ada Generation GPUs, ensuring exceptional performance for tasks from CAD and 3D modeling to video editing and machine learning. The series offers extensive memory (up to 64GB or 128GB/192GB user-upgradeable DDR5) and storage options (up to 4TB or 16TB NVMe SSDs), providing ample resources for complex projects. Connectivity is a highlight, with multiple Thunderbolt 4 ports, USB-A, HDMI, Ethernet, and SD card readers, alongside Wi-Fi 6E/7 and Bluetooth 5.3/5.4. The build quality is consistently praised, with durable all-aluminum chassis and MIL-STD 810H testing, complemented by HP's robust Wolf Security for Business suite, offering hardware-enforced protection and secure authentication methods.

However, some weaknesses exist. While display options are generally strong, certain configurations may lack the color gamut coverage required for highly color-critical work or may suffer from reflections in bright environments. The cost of high-end configurations can also be substantial.

Overall, the HP ZBook 2024 series is an excellent choice for professionals seeking high-performance, secure, and durable mobile workstations. The Firefly models cater to portability and efficiency, Power offers a balanced performance, Studio targets creative professionals with a blend of power and sleek design, and Fury provides maximum performance and upgradability for the most demanding workflows. HP's commitment to sustainability, evidenced by the use of recycled materials and efforts to reduce carbon footprint, adds further value.

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.