By Administrator Introduction
The HP EliteBook series has long been a staple in the business world, known for its blend of performance, durability, and security features. Among these models, the HP EliteBook 840 G2 laptop stands out as a particularly reliable and popular choice. This article aims to provide a detailed overview and review of the EliteBook 840 G2, focusing on its design, performance, features, and overall value, particularly for those considering purchasing a used or refurbished unit. Given its age, many of these laptops are now available at attractive price points, making them appealing to budget-conscious buyers or those seeking a dependable secondary device.
Design and Build Quality: Built to Last
The HP EliteBook 840 G2 laptop boasts a professional and understated design, primarily constructed from magnesium and aluminum alloys. This combination not only gives the laptop a premium feel but also ensures a high level of durability. The silver finish contributes to its sleek and business-appropriate appearance. The overall aesthetic is clean and functional, avoiding any unnecessary frills.
The build quality is a standout feature. The chassis feels solid and robust, capable of withstanding the rigors of daily use and travel. The hinges are sturdy, providing smooth and reliable opening and closing of the display without excessive wobble. Keyboard flex is minimal, even under heavy typing, further reinforcing the sense of quality.
In terms of portability, the HP EliteBook 840 G2 laptop strikes a good balance. Its weight and dimensions make it reasonably easy to carry in a backpack or briefcase. It’s suitable for business professionals who frequently work on the go. The dimensions are slim enough to allow usage in tight spaces such as airplanes or trains.
While the design is generally well-regarded, some users may find it somewhat dated compared to more modern ultraportables. However, the focus on durability and functionality remains a significant advantage. Overall, the EliteBook 840 G2 prioritizes practicality and resilience over flashy aesthetics.
Hardware and Performance: A Solid Performer for Everyday Tasks
The HP EliteBook 840 G2 laptop typically features a range of Intel Core processors, generally from the fifth generation. These processors, including the Intel Core i5 and i7 variants, provide adequate performance for most business-oriented tasks. Paired with sufficient RAM, usually ranging from 4GB to 16GB depending on the configuration, the EliteBook 840 G2 can handle multitasking with ease.
Storage options commonly include either a traditional Hard Disk Drive (HDD) or a Solid State Drive (SSD). While HDDs offer larger capacities at a lower cost, SSDs provide significantly faster boot times, application loading, and overall system responsiveness. An SSD is highly recommended for optimal performance. The capacities range from 128GB to 512GB, providing sufficient space for operating systems, applications, and documents.
The graphics are handled by integrated Intel HD Graphics. This integrated solution is suitable for everyday tasks such as browsing the web, creating and editing documents, and video conferencing. However, it’s not designed for demanding graphical applications such as modern games or professional video editing software. The integrated graphics is geared towards power efficiency and prolonging battery life.
The performance of the HP EliteBook 840 G2 laptop is more than adequate for typical business activities. Users can expect smooth operation when working with office applications, browsing the internet, and participating in video conferences. While it may not be the best choice for graphically intensive workloads, it excels in its intended domain.
Display: A Clear View of Your Work
The HP EliteBook 840 G2 laptop usually comes equipped with a fourteen-inch display, available in High Definition (HD) or Full High Definition (FHD) resolutions. The resolution determines the sharpness and clarity of the image. FHD offers a more detailed and immersive viewing experience compared to HD.
The panel type can vary, with some models featuring TN (Twisted Nematic) panels and others utilizing IPS (In-Plane Switching) panels. IPS panels generally provide wider viewing angles and better color accuracy than TN panels. This is especially important for tasks that require accurate color representation or when collaborating with others and viewing the screen from different angles.
The brightness and contrast levels are typically adequate for indoor use. However, the display might struggle in direct sunlight. The overall display quality is suitable for productivity tasks and casual multimedia consumption. The sharp text and clear visuals make it easy to work for extended periods without eye strain.
Keyboard and Touchpad: Comfortable and Precise Input
The keyboard on the HP EliteBook 840 G2 laptop is designed for comfortable and efficient typing. The keys offer decent travel and tactile feedback, allowing for accurate and comfortable typing. The layout is generally standard, with well-spaced keys that minimize accidental keystrokes.
The typing experience is smooth and responsive, making it ideal for users who spend a significant amount of time writing or coding. The keyboard is also spill-resistant, providing added protection against accidental liquid spills.
The touchpad is adequately sized and responsive, offering precise cursor control. It supports multi-touch gestures, allowing for easy navigation and shortcuts. The surface is smooth and comfortable to the touch.
Many EliteBook models also feature a PointStick (trackpoint), a small joystick located in the center of the keyboard. The PointStick provides an alternative way to control the cursor, which some users find more efficient than the touchpad.
Ports and Connectivity: Staying Connected
The HP EliteBook 840 G2 laptop offers a wide array of ports, ensuring compatibility with various peripherals and external devices. These typically include multiple USB ports (often a mix of USB 3.0 and USB 2.0), a DisplayPort for connecting to external monitors, a VGA port for legacy displays, an Ethernet port for wired network connectivity, and an audio jack for headphones and microphones.
Wireless connectivity options include Wi-Fi, supporting common wireless standards, and Bluetooth for connecting wireless accessories such as mice and headphones. The abundance of ports and wireless connectivity options makes it easy to connect to external displays, printers, storage devices, and other peripherals.
Audio and Webcam: Communication Essentials
The HP EliteBook 840 G2 laptop features built-in speakers and a microphone, providing essential audio capabilities for communication and multimedia consumption. The audio quality is adequate for video conferencing and casual listening. However, it might not be suitable for high-fidelity audio playback.
The webcam typically offers a standard resolution, sufficient for video calls and online meetings. The performance is generally acceptable in well-lit environments. Some models may include noise-cancellation features to improve audio clarity during video conferences.
Battery Life: Power Through Your Day
The battery life of the HP EliteBook 840 G2 laptop depends on the battery capacity and usage patterns. Under typical usage scenarios, such as browsing the web, working with office applications, and participating in video conferences, users can expect several hours of battery life.
The charging time is relatively quick. However, it’s important to consider the battery health, especially when purchasing a used or refurbished model. Battery health degrades over time, leading to reduced capacity and shorter battery life.
Security Features: Protecting Your Data
The HP EliteBook 840 G2 laptop is equipped with several security features designed to protect sensitive data. These may include HP Sure Start, a BIOS protection system that helps prevent malware attacks, a TPM (Trusted Platform Module) for secure storage of cryptographic keys, and a fingerprint reader for secure login (depending on the model).
These security features make the EliteBook 840 G2 a secure choice for business professionals who need to protect confidential information.
Software and Operating System: Flexibility and Compatibility
The HP EliteBook 840 G2 laptop typically comes with pre-installed software, including HP utilities and trial versions of various applications. It is compatible with a variety of operating systems, including Windows operating systems.
Driver availability is generally good, ensuring that all hardware components function properly with the operating system.
Pros and Cons: Weighing the Options
The HP EliteBook 840 G2 laptop offers several key advantages, including its robust build quality, comfortable keyboard, adequate performance for everyday tasks, and comprehensive security features. However, it also has some drawbacks, such as its dated design, integrated graphics, and potentially limited battery life (especially in used models).
Alternatives: Exploring Other Options
Alternatives to the HP EliteBook 840 G2 laptop include other business-class laptops such as the Lenovo ThinkPad series and the Dell Latitude series. These laptops offer similar features and performance, but they may differ in terms of design, build quality, and price. Comparing these alternatives can help buyers make an informed decision.
Conclusion: A Reliable Choice for Business Professionals
The HP EliteBook 840 G2 laptop remains a reliable and capable choice for business professionals who need a durable, secure, and affordable device. While it may not offer the latest features or cutting-edge performance, it excels in its core strengths: providing a dependable platform for productivity and security.
The EliteBook 840 G2 is ideal for individuals who prioritize functionality and durability over aesthetics and raw power. Its robust build, comfortable keyboard, and adequate performance make it a great choice for tasks such as word processing, spreadsheet creation, email communication, and web browsing.
In today’s market, the HP EliteBook 840 G2 laptop is particularly attractive as a used or refurbished option. Its affordable price point makes it accessible to budget-conscious buyers who need a reliable secondary device or a basic workhorse for everyday tasks. While its age may mean shorter battery life and older components, the overall reliability and durability of the EliteBook series make it a worthwhile investment for those seeking a dependable business laptop without breaking the bank. It is a solid and reliable machine that, even now, provides significant value.
