HP EliteBook 840 G5 14" vs Microsoft Surface Pro 6 12"

The HP EliteBook 840 G5 14 and the Microsoft Surface Pro 6 12, both released in 2018, offer distinct computing experiences for users seeking a Windows-based device. While the EliteBook 840 G5 presents itself as a traditional business-oriented laptop, the Surface Pro 6 functions as a versatile 2-in-1 detachable tablet. These differences in form factor and design philosophy cater to varied user preferences, influencing portability, interaction methods, and overall utility.

Both devices were released in 2018, meaning they share a similar starting point for their operational lifespan. As Windows 10 devices, they are subject to Microsoft's support lifecycle, with mainstream support for Windows 10 ending in October 2025. Users can opt for Extended Security Updates (ESU) for an additional year, extending security updates until October 2026, with further options for businesses.

• OS Support Duration: Both devices run Windows 10, which officially reached end of support on October 14, 2025. While they will continue to function, security updates will cease unless users enroll in the Extended Security Updates (ESU) program, which can provide updates until October 2026 for consumers and potentially longer for businesses.
• Repairability: The HP EliteBook 840 G5 is generally considered to have better repairability, with components like RAM and storage often being accessible for upgrades or replacement. In contrast, the Microsoft Surface Pro 6 received a low repairability score from iFixit, largely due to its complex construction where the display must be carefully removed to access internal components, many of which are glued or soldered in place.
• Expected Practical Lifespan: The practical lifespan for both devices will be influenced by their ability to receive security updates and the availability of replacement parts. The EliteBook's more traditional laptop design and better repairability might offer a slightly longer practical hardware lifespan for users willing to perform upgrades or repairs.

Both the HP EliteBook 840 G5 and the Microsoft Surface Pro 6 are equipped with 8th Generation Intel Core i5 or i7 processors, providing capable performance for everyday computing tasks. The real-world experience of these devices varies based on their configurations and design.

• Storage Options: Both devices utilize Solid State Drives (SSDs) for storage, contributing to faster boot times and application loading compared to traditional hard drives. The EliteBook 840 G5 offered various M.2 PCIe NVMe SSD options, with potential for larger capacities. The Surface Pro 6 also came with SSD storage options, ranging from 128GB up to 1TB.
• Battery Behavior: The HP EliteBook 840 G5 typically offers a battery life ranging from 6 to 8 hours under typical usage, though HP claimed up to 14 hours in some configurations. The Surface Pro 6 generally provides a longer battery life, with users often experiencing around 9 to 14 hours in mixed usage scenarios, and up to 13.5 hours for local video playback.
• Processor Capabilities and Responsiveness: Both devices handle demanding applications and multitasking smoothly thanks to their current-generation processors. The EliteBook 840 G5, with configurations up to 32GB of RAM, offers more headroom for intensive multitasking and professional applications. The Surface Pro 6, typically configured with up to 16GB of RAM, provides a responsive experience for productivity, web browsing, and light creative work.

The display characteristics are a significant differentiator between these two devices, impacting visual experience and interaction methods.

• Display Technology and Resolution: The HP EliteBook 840 G5 features a 14-inch IPS display, commonly found in Full HD (1920x1080) resolution, with options for 4K UHD (3840x2160) and touch-enabled variants. The Microsoft Surface Pro 6 boasts a 12.3-inch PixelSense display with a higher resolution of 2736 x 1824 pixels, offering a sharper image due to its greater pixel density.
• Brightness and Clarity: The EliteBook 840 G5 offers various brightness levels, including options up to 400 nits and a 700-nit HP Sure View integrated privacy screen for enhanced security in public environments. The Surface Pro 6's display is known for its vibrant colors and clarity, performing well in various lighting conditions.
• Screen Size and Interaction: The EliteBook's larger 14-inch screen provides more screen real estate for traditional laptop use. The Surface Pro 6's 12.3-inch display, being a touchscreen with pen support, offers a more interactive and versatile experience, suitable for drawing, note-taking, and tablet-like usage.

The audio-visual capabilities of these devices cater to different primary uses, with the Surface Pro 6 emphasizing a more versatile camera experience due to its tablet form factor.

• Camera System Capabilities: The HP EliteBook 840 G5 includes an HD webcam, often with a privacy shutter, suitable for video conferencing. The Microsoft Surface Pro 6 features a 5-megapixel front-facing camera with Windows Hello facial recognition and an 8-megapixel rear-facing camera, capable of 1080p HD video recording.
• Photography and Video Recording: For casual photography and scanning documents, the Surface Pro 6's higher-resolution rear camera offers more utility. Both devices provide adequate front-facing cameras for video calls, though the Surface Pro 6's 5MP sensor generally offers a clearer image.
• Microphone and Speaker Quality: The EliteBook 840 G5 features Bang & Olufsen speakers and HP Noise Cancellation technology for clear audio during calls and media consumption. The Surface Pro 6 includes stereo speakers with Dolby Audio Premium and dual far-field studio microphones, designed to pick up voices clearly even from a distance.