HP EliteBook 840 G5 14" vs HP EliteBook 840 G6 14"

HP EliteBook 840 G5 14"
HP EliteBook 840 G5 14"
Starting at

Refurbished price:$233.00

Versus $434.99 new

See options
HP EliteBook 840 G6 14"
HP EliteBook 840 G6 14"
Starting at

Refurbished price:$280.00

Versus $1,319.98 new

See options

Ratings

The HP EliteBook 840 G5 and HP EliteBook 840 G6 are 14-inch business-oriented laptops, released in 2018 and 2019 respectively. While they share a similar design philosophy and target audience, the G6 model introduces incremental updates in processing capabilities, display options, and wireless connectivity, building upon the robust foundation of its predecessor. Both devices operate on the Windows platform, offering a familiar experience for professional users.

Scores

Durability

Both the EliteBook 840 G5 and G6 are constructed with business-grade durability in mind, featuring robust aluminum chassis designed to withstand daily professional use.

  • Release Timeline: The EliteBook 840 G5 was released in January 2018, while the EliteBook 840 G6 followed in May 2019. This one-year difference means the G6 may receive software updates and security patches for a slightly longer period.
  • OS Support: Both models are compatible with Windows 10 Pro and are likely to support current Windows versions, including Windows 11, offering a practical lifespan for several years.
  • Repairability: Both generations are designed with serviceability in mind, allowing for upgrades to components like RAM and storage, which can extend their useful life. The EliteBook 840 G6, in particular, has received a high repairability score, indicating that components such as RAM, SSD, and battery are easily accessible and replaceable.

Release Year

2017

2019

Last Os Compatibility

Yes

Yes

OS

Windows 11

Windows 11

Performance

The performance of these laptops is centered around their respective generations of processors, offering reliable power for typical business applications and multitasking.

  • Processor Capabilities: The EliteBook 840 G5 typically features 8th Generation processors, while the EliteBook 840 G6 also uses 8th Generation processors, often slightly newer variants, which can provide a marginal boost in efficiency and clock speeds for demanding applications.
  • Multitasking and Responsiveness: Both models offer configurations with ample RAM. The G5 supports up to 32GB of DDR4-2400 SDRAM, while the G6 supports up to 64GB of DDR4-2400 SDRAM, allowing for smoother handling of numerous open applications or more memory-intensive tasks.
  • Storage Options: Both generations utilize fast NVMe SSDs for quick boot times and application loading. The G6 offers larger maximum storage configurations, potentially up to 2TB, compared to the G5's typical maximum of 1TB.

Memory (GB)

8 GB

16 GB

Processor

Core i5 - Gen 8 (U)

Core i5 - Gen 8 (U)

Graphic card

Integrated Graphics

Integrated Graphics

Screen quality

Both laptops feature 14-inch displays, but there are differences in available panel options and brightness levels.

  • Display Technology and Resolution: Both the EliteBook 840 G5 and G6 typically come with a 14-inch Full HD (1920x1080) IPS anti-glare display, providing clear visuals and good viewing angles suitable for professional use.
  • Brightness Levels: The base model of the G5 may have a display rated at 220 nits, which some users found to be dim. The G6 generally offers a base brightness of 250 nits, with options for higher brightness panels, including up to 1000 nits with an integrated privacy screen.
  • Advanced Display Options: The EliteBook 840 G6 also offers optional UHD (3840 x 2160) displays and touch-enabled screens, providing more versatility for users requiring higher resolution or interactive input.

Resolution

1920 x 1080

1920 x 1080

Screen type

IPS

IPS

Camera

Audiovisual

The audio-visual components are designed to support professional communication and media consumption.

  • Camera System: Both models typically include a 720p HD webcam for video conferencing. The EliteBook 840 G6 offers optional enhancements such as an HD IR webcam for facial recognition and an HP Privacy Camera for enhanced security.
  • Microphone Quality: The G6 features three multi-array microphones with HP Noise Cancellation, which helps in providing clear audio during calls by reducing background noise. The G5 also includes features to enhance conferencing, such as a third microphone on the outside of the lid to pick up voices in a room.
  • Speaker Output: Both laptops are equipped with Bang & Olufsen dual stereo speakers, delivering rich sound for media consumption and clear audio for calls.

Miscellaneous

Beyond core components, several practical features differentiate the user experience between these two business laptops.

  • Connectivity Options: The G5 typically comes with Wi-Fi 5 (802.11ac) and Bluetooth 4.2. The G6 offers an upgrade path to Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax) and Bluetooth 5.0, providing potentially faster and more stable wireless connections. Both include options for WWAN (4G LTE-Advanced).
  • Port Types: Both generations feature a comprehensive selection of ports, including a Thunderbolt (USB Type-C) port, two USB 3.1 Gen 1 ports (one charging), HDMI 1.4b, and an RJ-45 Ethernet port.
  • Security Features: Both models offer robust security features such as fingerprint readers and SmartCard readers. The G6 also integrates HP Sure View Gen3 for display privacy.
  • Weight and Dimensions: The G5 starts at approximately 1.48 kg, while the G6 starts at a similar 1.48 kg, making both portable options for professionals.

Weight

55 oz

52 oz

Screen size

14

14

The HP EliteBook 840 G5 and G6 are both highly capable business laptops, each offering a solid foundation for productivity. User feedback often praises their robust build quality, comfortable keyboards, and comprehensive security features. Common criticisms for the G5 sometimes point to the base model's display brightness and battery life. For the G6, some users have noted potential battery swelling issues over time, though this can often be addressed with replacement.

Users prioritizing a slightly more modern device with potentially longer software support, improved wireless connectivity, and more advanced display options (including higher brightness and optional 4K) may find the EliteBook 840 G6 better suited to their needs. Its higher maximum RAM capacity also benefits those who frequently engage in memory-intensive multitasking. Conversely, users seeking a reliable and durable business laptop for everyday tasks, where the latest incremental upgrades are not a primary concern, will find the EliteBook 840 G5 to be a strong contender. Both models represent a practical choice for professionals, students, and travelers who require a dependable machine for their daily computing needs.

For those considering these models, exploring quality-assured refurbished options can provide an eco-friendly alternative, extending the life of these durable devices while offering a sustainable choice for technology acquisition.

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