HP EliteBook 840 G5 14" vs HP EliteBook 840 G8 14"

The HP EliteBook 840 G5 and the HP EliteBook 840 G8 are both 14-inch business-oriented laptops designed for productivity and security. Released in 2018, the G5 model features 8th-generation Intel processors, while the G8, launched in 2021, incorporates 11th-generation Intel processors, bringing advancements in performance, connectivity, and display technology. Both devices run on the Windows operating system, offering a familiar user experience for professionals.

The expected practical lifespan of a laptop is influenced by its release date and the duration of software support it receives.

• Release Timeline: The EliteBook 840 G5 was released in 2018, making it an older model compared to the EliteBook 840 G8, which debuted in 2021. This three-year difference in release directly impacts their respective software support lifecycles.
• Operating System Support: The EliteBook 840 G5 originally shipped with Windows 10. Mainstream support for Windows 10 ended on October 14, 2025, though Extended Security Updates (ESU) are available for consumers until October 13, 2026, and for businesses/schools until October 10, 2028. The EliteBook 840 G8, being a newer device, is fully compatible with Windows 11 and benefits from its Modern Lifecycle Policy, which provides continuous service and support as long as the system meets requirements and receives annual feature updates. This means the G8 will receive security and feature updates for a longer period.
• Repairability: Both models are designed with business users in mind, offering a degree of repairability. The G8, in particular, is noted for its relatively easy disassembly, allowing for upgrades to components like RAM and SSD, which can extend its usable life.

Performance differences between these two generations are notable, particularly in handling demanding applications and multitasking.

• Processor Capabilities: The EliteBook 840 G5 features 8th-generation Intel processors, which provide solid performance for everyday office tasks, web browsing, and light productivity. The EliteBook 840 G8, equipped with 11th-generation Intel processors, offers enhanced processing power, leading to smoother operation for more intensive workloads, faster application loading, and more efficient multitasking.
• Memory and Storage: The G5 supports up to 32GB of DDR4 RAM, while the G8 can be configured with up to 64GB of faster DDR4-3200MHz RAM, providing greater capacity for heavy multitasking and specialized applications. Both models utilize SSD storage, with the G8 often featuring faster NVMe SSDs, contributing to quicker boot times and data access.
• Battery Behavior: The EliteBook 840 G5 typically offers around 3 to 6.5 hours of real-world battery life, depending on usage. The EliteBook 840 G8 generally provides improved battery longevity, with users reporting 8 to 9 hours in daily business use and over 10 hours for lighter tasks, supported by a slightly larger 53 Whr battery and more power-efficient components.

Both laptops offer 14-inch displays, but the G8 introduces several advancements in display technology and options.

• Display Technology and Resolution: Both the G5 and G8 come with 14-inch Full HD (1920x1080) IPS displays, providing clear visuals and wide viewing angles. The G8, however, offers a wider range of panel options, including low-power and high-brightness variants.
• Brightness and Clarity: While the base model of the G5 could be considered dim, brighter options were available. The G8 offers display options with significantly higher brightness levels, including panels up to 1000 nits, which improves visibility in bright environments and enhances the overall viewing experience.
• Privacy Features: The EliteBook 840 G8 introduces HP Sure View Reflect, an integrated privacy screen technology that limits viewing angles to protect sensitive information from onlookers. This feature was also available on some G5 configurations, but the G8's implementation is generally more advanced.

The audio-visual experience, particularly for virtual meetings and media consumption, sees incremental improvements in the newer model.

• Webcam and Microphone: Both models typically feature an HD 720p webcam. While the G5's webcam was sometimes criticized for blurriness, the G8 often includes an IR camera for Windows Hello facial recognition and a physical privacy shutter for enhanced security. Microphone quality is generally suitable for calls on both devices.
• Speaker Output: Both the EliteBook 840 G5 and G8 incorporate Bang & Olufsen tuned speakers, providing a clear audio experience for video conferencing and media playback. User feedback suggests that while the G8's speakers are clear, they remain typical laptop speakers in terms of overall sound profile.
• Video Recording Quality: The 720p webcams on both devices are adequate for standard video calls. For higher quality video recording, external solutions would be more suitable.