HP EliteBook 845 Review: Is It Worth The Hype?

The EliteBook 845 series has evolved through several generations. Each version brings improvements. The latest models feature AMD Ryzen Pro processors. These chips deliver performance that rivals Intel options.

But performance alone doesn’t make a great laptop. You need good build quality, reliable battery life, and a display that doesn’t strain your eyes during long work sessions.

This review covers everything you need to know. We’ll explore the design, performance, display quality, and real world usage. You’ll learn about the strengths and weaknesses.

Key Takeaways

• Premium Build Quality: The EliteBook 845 features a full aluminum chassis that feels solid in your hands. The metal construction protects against daily wear and tear. You won’t find any flex in the keyboard deck or screen lid.
• AMD Ryzen Performance: The laptop uses AMD Ryzen Pro processors ranging from Ryzen 5 to Ryzen 9. These chips provide excellent performance for business tasks. You get fast application loading and smooth multitasking capabilities.
• Long Battery Life: Most configurations deliver between 10 to 13 hours of real world use. This means you can work through a full day without searching for outlets. Battery performance varies based on screen brightness and workload.
• Versatile Display Options: HP offers multiple screen choices including FHD, WUXGA, and even 120Hz refresh rate panels. The higher end displays reach over 500 nits brightness. This makes outdoor work actually possible.
• Business Security Features: The laptop includes HP Wolf Security, fingerprint reader, and optional smart card reader. These features keep your data protected. Business users will appreciate the comprehensive security suite.

HP EliteBook 845: Understanding the Model Lineup

The EliteBook 845 comes in multiple generations. Each generation brings new features. The G7, G8, G9, G10, and G11 models represent different years. Understanding these differences helps you choose the right version.

The G7 generation launched with AMD Ryzen 4000 series processors. This version proved that AMD could compete in business laptops. The G8 improved on this foundation. It added better screens and refined the design. The G9 brought DDR5 memory support. This made the laptop faster in memory intensive tasks.

The G10 version represents a major leap. It uses AMD Zen 4 processors. These chips offer better performance per watt. You get more speed without sacrificing battery life. The G10 also introduced optional 120Hz displays. This makes scrolling feel smoother.

The newest G11 continues the evolution. It features AMD Ryzen 8000 series chips. The processing power keeps improving. Each generation also brings minor design tweaks. The overall formula remains consistent. HP knows what works for business users.

The 14 inch screen size stays constant across generations. This size balances portability with usability. You can fit the laptop in most bags. The screen still provides enough space for productive work.

Design and Build Quality That Impresses

The HP EliteBook 845 uses premium materials throughout. The chassis consists of aluminum alloy. This material provides strength without excessive weight. The laptop weighs around 3 pounds depending on configuration. You can carry it all day without fatigue.

The silver finish looks professional. It doesn’t attract fingerprints like glossy surfaces. The HP logo sits subtly on the lid. No flashy designs here. This laptop means business in every sense.

The hinges feel solid when you open and close the lid. They hold the screen firmly at any angle. Some laptops have wobbly screens. The EliteBook 845 doesn’t suffer from this problem. The build quality rivals more expensive ThinkPads.

The bottom panel provides easy access to internals. You can upgrade RAM and storage yourself. Two SODIMM slots support up to 64GB of DDR5 memory. The SSD uses a standard M.2 slot. This upgradability extends the laptop’s useful life.

The cooling vents sit along the back edge. This design keeps hot air away from your hands. The laptop runs quietly during normal tasks. Even under heavy load, the fans remain relatively quiet. Heat management works well in this design.

The MIL STD 810H certification means the laptop can handle tough conditions. It survives drops, vibrations, and temperature extremes. This durability matters for business users who travel frequently.

Display Quality: Multiple Options to Choose From

HP offers several display configurations. The base model uses a 1920 x 1200 FHD panel. This provides more vertical space than standard 1920 x 1080 screens. The extra pixels help when working with documents and spreadsheets.

The premium display option features 120Hz refresh rate. This makes scrolling feel incredibly smooth. Once you use a high refresh screen, regular displays feel choppy. The 120Hz panel also reaches over 500 nits brightness. You can work outdoors without squinting.

Some models include touchscreen capability. The touch response works well when you need it. Most business users won’t use touch often. The option adds flexibility for certain workflows.

The bezels around the screen stay narrow. This maximizes screen space in a compact footprint. The webcam sits at the top center. It includes a privacy shutter for security. The camera quality reaches 5MP on higher end models.

Color accuracy meets business standards. The displays cover around 45% to 100% NTSC color gamut depending on the model. This matters for photo editing and design work. Most business tasks don’t require perfect color accuracy.

The anti glare coating works effectively. You won’t battle reflections in bright offices. The matte finish reduces eye strain during long work sessions. This makes a real difference in daily comfort.

Top 3 Alternatives for HP EliteBook 845

Performance: AMD Ryzen Power Delivers

The AMD Ryzen processors in the EliteBook 845 surprise many users. These chips match or exceed Intel equivalents in most tasks. The Ryzen 5 Pro 7545U handles everyday work easily. You get smooth performance in Microsoft Office, web browsing, and video calls.

The Ryzen 7 Pro 7840U steps up performance significantly. This processor features 8 cores and 16 threads. It handles demanding applications like photo editing and data analysis. The integrated Radeon graphics even allow light gaming during breaks.

The top tier Ryzen 9 Pro 7940HS delivers workstation class performance. This chip barely breaks a sweat with heavy workloads. You can run multiple virtual machines. Video encoding finishes quickly. This processor costs more but delivers impressive capabilities.

All Ryzen Pro processors include enhanced security features. AMD Memory Guard encrypts system memory. The secure boot process protects against malware. These features matter in corporate environments.

Single channel memory in some configurations limits graphics performance. The integrated GPU works better with dual channel RAM. If you plan to use graphics intensive applications, ensure you get a dual channel configuration. This makes a noticeable difference.

The laptop stays responsive even with many browser tabs open. Application launches happen quickly. The fast NVMe SSD contributes to this snappy feel. You won’t spend time waiting for the computer to catch up.

Keyboard and Trackpad Experience

The keyboard on the EliteBook 845 uses HP’s Premium Keyboard design. The keys provide 1.5mm of travel. This depth gives satisfying feedback when typing. The keys feel crisp and responsive. You can type for hours without fatigue.

The key layout follows standard patterns. Full size arrow keys sit in their usual position. Some users criticize the power button placement. It sits on the keyboard deck between other keys. This can lead to accidental presses. HP included safeguards to prevent instant shutdown.

The backlit keyboard makes working in dim environments easier. The backlighting spreads evenly across all keys. You can adjust the brightness or turn it off completely. The function keys provide quick access to common features.

The trackpad uses a precision touchpad driver. This ensures good compatibility with Windows gestures. The surface feels smooth under your fingers. Multi finger gestures work reliably. The trackpad includes physical buttons at the top for the pointing stick.

Yes, the EliteBook 845 includes HP’s famous pointing stick. Some users love this input method. Others never touch it. The option provides flexibility for different work styles.

The trackpad size works well for most tasks. It’s large enough for comfortable navigation. The palm rejection works effectively. You won’t trigger accidental clicks while typing.

Battery Life That Gets You Through the Day

Battery performance matters for mobile professionals. The EliteBook 845 delivers in this area. Most configurations include a 51Wh battery. This capacity might sound modest. The efficient AMD processors make it work.

Real world battery life depends on your usage pattern. Light tasks like document editing and web browsing allow 12 to 14 hours of runtime. This assumes moderate screen brightness. You can work through a full workday and into the evening.

More demanding workloads drain the battery faster. Video editing or running virtual machines cut battery life significantly. Expect 6 to 8 hours under heavy load. This still beats many competitors.

The optional 120Hz display increases power consumption. The high refresh rate requires more energy. You can switch to 60Hz mode to extend battery life. This tradeoff lets you choose between smoothness and longevity.

HP includes fast charging capability. You can reach 50% charge in about 30 minutes. A lunch break provides enough power for the afternoon. The included USB C charger works with other USB C devices too.

Battery longevity remains good over time. HP uses quality cells that maintain capacity. After two years, you should still get 80% of original runtime. This beats cheaper laptops that degrade quickly.

Port Selection and Connectivity Options

The EliteBook 845 provides comprehensive connectivity. The left side includes two Thunderbolt 4 USB C ports. These support data transfer, charging, and display output. You can connect to dual 4K monitors through these ports.

The right side features two USB A 3.2 Gen 1 ports. These accommodate older peripherals. You won’t need dongles for standard USB devices. An HDMI 2.1 port provides direct monitor connection. The audio jack supports headphones and microphones.

Some configurations include an optional smart card reader. This matters for government and enterprise users. The reader sits on the side for easy access. Not all models include this feature.

The Wi Fi 6E wireless adapter provides fast network speeds. You get low latency for video calls. Bluetooth 5.3 connects to wireless headphones and mice. The wireless performance proves reliable in crowded offices.

An ethernet adapter isn’t built in. HP includes a USB C to ethernet dongle in some packages. This adds wired network capability when needed. The dongle works reliably for important presentations.

The port selection covers most business needs. Power users might want more Thunderbolt ports. Most people will find the available options sufficient.

Audio Quality for Video Calls and Media

The EliteBook 845 includes dual speakers. They fire upward from above the keyboard. This placement directs sound toward you. The speaker quality exceeds expectations for a business laptop.

The speakers produce clear mids and highs. Voices sound natural in video calls. You can understand everyone clearly. The bass response remains limited. Thin laptops can’t produce deep bass. The sound works well for business purposes.

Maximum volume reaches adequate levels. You can fill a small meeting room with sound. The speakers don’t distort at high volume. Background noise doesn’t drown out important calls.

The microphone array includes AI noise cancellation. This filters out keyboard clicks and background chatter. Your voice comes through clearly on calls. Colleagues won’t hear your noisy coffee shop environment.

For better audio quality, use headphones. The audio jack supports high quality wired headphones. Bluetooth headphones work well too. The laptop handles both options without issues.

Security Features for Business Users

Security matters in business environments. The EliteBook 845 includes comprehensive protection. HP Wolf Security provides hardware level defense against threats. This system protects below the operating system level.

The fingerprint reader sits on the keyboard deck. It works quickly and reliably. You can log in without typing passwords. Windows Hello facial recognition works with compatible webcam models.

The optional smart card reader supports government security requirements. This feature matters for contractors and federal workers. The implementation meets strict security standards.

A Trusted Platform Module 2.0 protects encryption keys. This hardware component secures BitLocker drive encryption. Your data stays protected even if someone steals the laptop.

The webcam privacy shutter provides physical security. You can block the camera when not in use. This prevents unauthorized access. The shutter mechanism feels solid and reliable.

BIOS level security prevents unauthorized modifications. HP includes features like Sure Start BIOS protection. This automatically recovers from BIOS attacks. Most users never think about these features. They work silently in the background.

Thermal Management and Noise Levels

The EliteBook 845 handles heat well. The cooling system includes a single fan and heat pipe. This setup keeps the AMD processor cool under load. The laptop rarely gets uncomfortably hot.

During light tasks, the fan often stays off completely. This creates a silent working environment. You can work in quiet spaces without disturbing others. The laptop remains cool to the touch.

Under sustained load, the fan spins up gradually. The noise level stays reasonable even at full speed. You’ll hear the fan but it won’t annoy you. The sound quality stays smooth without harsh tones.

The bottom panel warms up during intensive tasks. The temperature never reaches uncomfortable levels. You can use the laptop on your lap for extended periods.

The thermal design limits performance slightly during extreme workloads. This prevents overheating. Most users will never push the laptop hard enough to notice. The thermal throttling keeps temperatures safe.

HP’s cooling solution balances performance, noise, and temperature effectively. The laptop feels well engineered in daily use.

Software and Operating System Experience

The EliteBook 845 ships with Windows 11 Pro. This version includes features missing from Home edition. Domain joining, BitLocker encryption, and remote desktop matter for business users.

HP includes several utility applications. HP Support Assistant helps with updates and troubleshooting. The software checks for driver updates automatically. It also runs hardware diagnostics when problems occur.

HP QuickDrop enables easy file sharing with phones. You can transfer photos and documents wirelessly. The feature works better than email for quick transfers.

Some configurations include bloatware. Trial versions of antivirus and productivity software clutter the start menu. You can uninstall these programs easily. The core Windows experience remains good.

The laptop supports Linux well. Many users run Ubuntu or Fedora. The hardware compatibility proves excellent. This flexibility appeals to developers and IT professionals.

Windows updates install reliably on the EliteBook 845. HP tests updates before release. You won’t encounter the driver problems common on cheaper laptops.

Upgradeability and Maintenance

The EliteBook 845 allows user upgrades. The bottom panel removes with standard screws. You don’t need special tools. Inside, you find two SODIMM memory slots.

You can install up to 64GB of DDR5 RAM. This matters for virtual machines and heavy multitasking. The memory runs at DDR5 5600MHz speeds. Upgrading RAM makes a noticeable difference.

The M.2 2280 SSD slot accepts standard drives. You can upgrade to 2TB or 4TB easily. The laptop supports PCIe Gen 4 speeds. Faster storage improves load times for large files.

The battery connects with a standard connector. Replacement becomes easy after a few years. You can order genuine HP batteries. Third party options exist too.

The Wi Fi card sits in an accessible slot. You can upgrade to newer Wi Fi standards. The laptop uses standard M.2 wireless cards.

HP provides detailed service manuals online. These guides show every step clearly. You can perform your own repairs and upgrades. This saves money over time.

Real World Usage Scenarios

Let me share how the EliteBook 845 performs in actual work situations. You’re sitting in a coffee shop preparing a presentation. The anti glare display makes this possible. The bright screen cuts through ambient light.

You open PowerPoint and start creating slides. The laptop handles this easily. You add high resolution images without slowdown. The 8GB or 16GB of RAM keeps everything smooth.

A video call interrupts your work. You join the meeting using Microsoft Teams. Your colleagues see and hear you clearly. The 5MP webcam provides good image quality. The AI noise cancellation eliminates coffee shop sounds.

After the meeting, you continue working. The battery percentage barely dropped during the call. You know you’ll make it through the day without charging. This confidence changes how you work.

Later, you need to edit photos from a company event. Lightroom opens quickly on the Ryzen 7 processor. You adjust colors and crop images. The integrated graphics handle this well. You won’t edit professional video, but photos work fine.

Evening arrives and you’re still working. The backlit keyboard makes typing comfortable. Your eyes don’t feel strained from the display. The EliteBook 845 handled everything you threw at it.

Comparing Value Across the EliteBook 845 Lineup

Different EliteBook 845 models offer varying value propositions. The base G8 models start around $300 to $400 refurbished. These use older Ryzen 5000 series processors. They still perform well for basic tasks. This represents excellent value for budget conscious buyers.

The G9 generation costs slightly more. You get DDR5 memory and refined designs. Prices range from $500 to $800 depending on configuration. This generation offers good balance between cost and features.

The G10 models command premium prices when new. Expect to pay $1000 to $1500 for well equipped units. You get the latest Zen 4 processors and best displays. This investment makes sense for demanding users.

The newest G11 models cost the most. Starting prices exceed $1200 for base configurations. Top spec models reach $2000 or more. These machines compete with premium ThinkPads and Dell Latitudes.

Refurbished and used models provide significant savings. A one year old EliteBook 845 costs 50% less than new. The performance difference remains minimal. This makes the used market worth exploring.

Pros and Cons: The Honest Assessment

Advantages:

The build quality stands out immediately. The aluminum chassis feels premium and durable. You get a laptop that can handle years of daily use. The design looks professional without being boring.

AMD Ryzen performance impresses across all configurations. These processors deliver speed that matches or beats Intel alternatives. You get excellent value compared to Intel based competitors.

The battery life supports all day work. You can leave the charger at home for most trips. This freedom changes your workflow and reduces bag weight.

Multiple display options let you choose the right screen. Whether you want basic FHD or premium 120Hz, HP offers it. The display quality meets business standards.

Comprehensive security features protect your data. The combination of hardware and software security works well. Business IT departments appreciate these capabilities.

Disadvantages:

The power button placement frustrates some users. HP put it between keyboard keys. The safeguards prevent most accidental presses. The placement still feels awkward.

Single channel memory in some configurations limits graphics performance. The integrated GPU needs dual channel RAM to shine. Check your configuration carefully before buying.

The lack of dedicated graphics means no serious gaming or GPU intensive work. The EliteBook 845 targets business users. Those needs don’t include gaming.

Webcam quality varies by model. Base models use 720p cameras. These look mediocre in video calls. Upgrade to 5MP models for better quality.

The keyboard layout includes small arrow keys that some users dislike. The compressed layout saves space but requires adjustment. Touch typists adapt quickly.

Is the HP EliteBook 845 Right for You?

You should consider the EliteBook 845 if you need a reliable business laptop. The combination of performance, battery life, and build quality works well. Business professionals will appreciate the complete package.

The laptop suits consultants who travel frequently. The light weight and all day battery make travel easier. The durable construction survives constant movement.

IT professionals and developers find good value here. The laptop handles virtual machines and development tools. The upgrade options extend usefulness over time.

Students in business or engineering programs benefit from the EliteBook 845. The laptop handles demanding coursework. The battery life supports full days on campus.

You might skip this laptop if you need dedicated graphics. Gamers and video editors need more GPU power. The integrated graphics won’t satisfy those needs.

Mac users switching to Windows will find the transition smooth. The build quality matches MacBook standards. The trackpad and keyboard feel refined enough for former Mac users.

Budget conscious buyers should explore refurbished models. You get most of the experience for half the price. The older generations still perform well.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between EliteBook 845 G10 and G11?

The G11 uses newer AMD Ryzen 8000 series processors. These chips offer slightly better performance and efficiency. The G11 also includes updated wireless connectivity. Both generations share similar designs and features. The G10 offers better value right now due to lower prices.

Can I upgrade the RAM in HP EliteBook 845?

Yes, the EliteBook 845 includes two SODIMM slots. You can upgrade to 64GB of DDR5 memory. The bottom panel removes easily for access. This upgrade significantly improves multitasking performance. Make sure to match memory speeds for best results.

How long does the HP EliteBook 845 battery last?

Battery life depends on your configuration and usage. Light tasks allow 12 to 14 hours of runtime. Heavy workloads reduce this to 6 to 8 hours. The 120Hz display option decreases battery life noticeably. Most users achieve full workday battery life.

Does the HP EliteBook 845 support Thunderbolt 4?

Yes, the laptop includes two Thunderbolt 4 USB C ports. These support 40Gbps data transfer speeds. You can connect to dual 4K displays through these ports. They also support USB C charging. The Thunderbolt support adds significant versatility.

Is the HP EliteBook 845 good for programming?

The EliteBook 845 works well for software development. The Ryzen processors handle compiling efficiently. You can run Docker containers and virtual machines. The upgradeable RAM supports demanding development tools. Many developers prefer the keyboard for extended coding sessions.

Can the HP EliteBook 845 run Linux?

Yes, the laptop runs Linux distributions well. Ubuntu, Fedora, and other distros install without issues. Hardware compatibility proves excellent. The AMD graphics work better with Linux than some Nvidia options. Many developers choose this laptop for Linux development work.

What is the screen quality like on the HP EliteBook 845?

The screen quality varies by configuration. Base models use decent FHD panels. Premium options include 120Hz displays with 500+ nits brightness. All screens feature anti glare coating. Color accuracy meets business standards. Most users find the display quality satisfying.

How much does the HP EliteBook 845 weigh?

The laptop weighs approximately 3 pounds or 1.36 kg. This light weight makes it highly portable. You can carry it all day without fatigue. The compact 14 inch size fits in most bags. The weight includes the battery.

Does HP EliteBook 845 have a good webcam?

Webcam quality depends on your model. Base configurations use 720p cameras. These work but don’t look great. Higher end models feature 5MP cameras with AI enhancement. These provide much better image quality. All models include privacy shutters.

Is the HP EliteBook 845 worth the price?

The EliteBook 845 offers good value for business users. The combination of performance, build quality, and features justifies the cost. Refurbished models provide excellent value. New models compete well with ThinkPads and Latitudes. The laptop will serve you well for several years.

Last update on 2026-02-03 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API