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HP ProBook 450 G3 Notebook Review

Office all-rounder. The ProBook 450 G3's assets are found in low temperature development, quiet operating noise, decent input devices, and a good battery life. However, the matte, Full HD screen is a shortcoming. The total bundle is throughout affordable at a price of approximately 640 Euros (~$701). A Windows operating system is not preloaded.

For the original German review, see here.

After testing the 13.3-inch ProBook 430 G3 and 17.3-inch ProBook 470 G3 from HP's business entry-level lineup, the 15.6-inch ProBook 450 G3 model follows. A review of the ProBook 440 G3 (14-inches) will be published soon. The ProBook 450 G3 has also undergone some modifications compared with its predecessor. For example, the Broadwell processors have made way for the Skylake models. HP has also reworked the looks slightly.

The ProBook faces quite a few rivals, such as Lenovo's ThinkPad E550 and E555Acer's TravelMate P257-MFujitsu's Lifebook A514, and Dell's Latitude 3550.

HP ProBook 450 G3 (ProBook 450 G5 Series)
Processor
Intel Core i5-6200U 2 x 2.3 - 2.8 GHz, Skylake
Graphics adapter
Intel HD Graphics 520, Core: 950 MHz, single-channel, 10.18.15.4279
Memory
4 GB 
, DDR3, single-channel, two memory banks (one bank filled)
Display
15.60 inch 16:9, 1920 x 1080 pixel, AU Optronics, TN LED, glossy: no
Mainboard
Intel Skylake-U Premium PCH
Storage
Seagate ST500LM021-1KJ15, 500 GB 
, 5400 rpm, 420 GB free
Soundcard
Conexant @ Intel Skylake PCH - High Definition Audio Controller
Connections
2 USB 2.0, 2 USB 3.0 / 3.1 Gen1, 1 VGA, 1 HDMI, 1 Kensington Lock, Audio Connections: combo audio, Card Reader: SD, 1 Fingerprint Reader, Sensors: shock sensor, TPM 1.2
Networking
Realtek RTL8168/8111 Gigabit-LAN (10/100/1000MBit/s), Intel Dual Band Wireless-AC 3165 (a/b/g/n = Wi-Fi 4/ac = Wi-Fi 5/), Bluetooth 4.2
Optical drive
hp DVDRW GUB0N
Size
height x width x depth (in mm): 24.8 x 378 x 264.3 ( = 0.98 x 14.88 x 10.41 in)
Battery
44 Wh Lithium-Ion, removeable, 14.8 V, 2850 mAh
Operating System
FreeDos
Camera
Webcam: HD webcam
Additional features
Speakers: stereo, Keyboard: chiclet, Keyboard Light: yes, 12 Months Warranty
Weight
2.11 kg ( = 74.43 oz / 4.65 pounds), Power Supply: 290 g ( = 10.23 oz / 0.64 pounds)
Price
699 Euro
Note: The manufacturer may use components from different suppliers including display panels, drives or memory sticks with similar specifications.

 

What's new?

  • Skylake processors have replaced the Broadwell models.

  • The interface positioning has changed.

  • HP very slightly changed the design of the casing in the back part of the base unit.

  • The Wi-Fi and speaker buttons have been scaled down.

  • Two separate maintenance hatches on the laptop's underside.

  • The keyboard has been reworked. The flat keys of former models have been replaced with slightly concave keys. We find the key stroke of the new keyboard a bit crisper.
Left: Kensington lock slot, power-in, VGA, HDMI, 2x USB 3.0
Left: Kensington lock slot, power-in, VGA, HDMI, 2x USB 3.0
Right: DVD burner, combo audio, 2x USB 2.0, Ethernet
Right: DVD burner, combo audio, 2x USB 2.0, Ethernet
Front: memory-card reader
Front: memory-card reader

Display

Pixel grid
Pixel grid

The latest ProBook 450 model is also furnished with a matte, 15.6-inch screen. The panel in our review sample has a native resolution of 1920x1080 pixels. The rates are not awe-inspiring. A contrast ratio of 491:1 can at most be called still acceptable. In return, the brightness rate of 214 cd/m² is too low. The ProBook is optionally available with an HD screen (1366x768 pixels).

212
cd/m²
223
cd/m²
223
cd/m²
205
cd/m²
211
cd/m²
204
cd/m²
217
cd/m²
212
cd/m²
219
cd/m²
Distribution of brightness
AU Optronics tested with X-Rite i1Pro 2
Maximum: 223 cd/m² (Nits) Average: 214 cd/m²
Brightness Distribution: 91 %
Center on Battery: 212 cd/m²
Contrast: 491:1 (Black: 0.43 cd/m²)
ΔE Color 9.25 | 0.5-29.43 Ø5
ΔE Greyscale 9.83 | 0.57-98 Ø5.3
57.3% sRGB (Argyll 1.6.3 3D)
36.4% AdobeRGB 1998 (Argyll 1.6.3 3D)
39.37% AdobeRGB 1998 (Argyll 2.2.0 3D)
57.3% sRGB (Argyll 2.2.0 3D)
38.1% Display P3 (Argyll 2.2.0 3D)
Gamma: 2.82

Screen Flickering / PWM (Pulse-Width Modulation)

To dim the screen, some notebooks will simply cycle the backlight on and off in rapid succession - a method called Pulse Width Modulation (PWM) . This cycling frequency should ideally be undetectable to the human eye. If said frequency is too low, users with sensitive eyes may experience strain or headaches or even notice the flickering altogether.
Screen flickering / PWM not detected

In comparison: 53 % of all tested devices do not use PWM to dim the display. If PWM was detected, an average of 18110 (minimum: 5 - maximum: 3846000) Hz was measured.

The color reproduction is not compelling, either. The screen presents a DeltaE 2000 color shift of 9.25 in delivery state. A rate less than 3 would be desirable. Beyond that, it has an evident bluish tint. Calibrating the screen improves the color shift to 3.04 and also eliminates the bluish tint. The screen cannot reproduce either the AdobeRGB or the sRGB color spaces. The coverage rates are 36.4% (AdobeRGB) and 57.3% (sRGB).

ProBook vs. sRGB
ProBook vs. sRGB
ProBook vs. AdobeRGB
ProBook vs. AdobeRGB
CalMAN - ColorChecker
CalMAN - ColorChecker
CalMAN - Grayscale
CalMAN - Grayscale
CalMAN - Saturation Sweeps
CalMAN - Saturation Sweeps
CalMAN - ColorChecker (calibrated)
CalMAN - ColorChecker (calibrated)
CalMAN - Grayscale (calibrated)
CalMAN - Grayscale (calibrated)
CalMAN - Saturation Sweeps (calibrated)
CalMAN - Saturation Sweeps (calibrated)

HP installs a TN panel in our review sample. Thus, the screen is not legible from every position. Shifting the vertical viewing angle quickly causes image distortions. The horizontal viewing angle is more generous. Even several viewers can look at the screen simultaneously. It is quite possible to use the ProBook outdoors in overcast conditions.

Viewing angles: ProBook
Viewing angles: ProBook
The ProBook outdoors
The ProBook outdoors

Display Response Times

Display response times show how fast the screen is able to change from one color to the next. Slow response times can lead to afterimages and can cause moving objects to appear blurry (ghosting). Gamers of fast-paced 3D titles should pay special attention to fast response times.
       Response Time Black to White
28 ms ... rise ↗ and fall ↘ combined↗ 10 ms rise
↘ 18 ms fall
The screen shows relatively slow response rates in our tests and may be too slow for gamers.
In comparison, all tested devices range from 0.1 (minimum) to 240 (maximum) ms. » 67 % of all devices are better.
This means that the measured response time is worse than the average of all tested devices (21.6 ms).
       Response Time 50% Grey to 80% Grey
41.2 ms ... rise ↗ and fall ↘ combined↗ 22.4 ms rise
↘ 18.8 ms fall
The screen shows slow response rates in our tests and will be unsatisfactory for gamers.
In comparison, all tested devices range from 0.2 (minimum) to 636 (maximum) ms. » 61 % of all devices are better.
This means that the measured response time is worse than the average of all tested devices (33.9 ms).
HP ProBook 450 G3
TN LED, 1920x1080
HP ProBook 450 G2 L3Q27EA
TN LED, 1366x768
Acer TravelMate P257-M-56AX
TN LED, 1920x1080
Lenovo ThinkPad Edge E550-20DGS00300
TN-Panel, 1920x1080
Lenovo Thinkpad E555
TN LED, 1366x768
Fujitsu Lifebook A514
LCD, 1366x768
Dell Latitude 15 3550-0123
IPS, 1920x1080
Display
-0%
-1%
7%
6%
15%
56%
Display P3 Coverage
38.1
37.91
0%
37.78
-1%
40.69
7%
40.57
6%
43.77
15%
64.3
69%
sRGB Coverage
57.3
56.9
-1%
56.8
-1%
61.1
7%
61.1
7%
65.1
14%
83.3
45%
AdobeRGB 1998 Coverage
39.37
39.2
0%
39.04
-1%
42.06
7%
41.91
6%
45.24
15%
60.9
55%
Response Times
Response Time Grey 50% / Grey 80% *
41.2 ?(22.4, 18.8)
Response Time Black / White *
28 ?(10, 18)
PWM Frequency
Screen
-14%
-3%
-12%
-16%
8%
54%
Brightness middle
211
254
20%
205
-3%
228
8%
203
-4%
231
9%
353
67%
Brightness
214
225
5%
210
-2%
210
-2%
209
-2%
216
1%
335
57%
Brightness Distribution
91
84
-8%
71
-22%
89
-2%
85
-7%
84
-8%
88
-3%
Black Level *
0.43
0.72
-67%
0.4
7%
0.688
-60%
0.65
-51%
0.39
9%
0.31
28%
Contrast
491
353
-28%
513
4%
331
-33%
312
-36%
592
21%
1139
132%
Colorchecker dE 2000 *
9.25
10.73
-16%
9.76
-6%
10.04
-9%
11.01
-19%
8.08
13%
4.59
50%
Greyscale dE 2000 *
9.83
11.23
-14%
10.47
-7%
10.65
-8%
11.57
-18%
9.05
8%
3.73
62%
Gamma
2.82 78%
2.21 100%
2.56 86%
2.53 87%
2.09 105%
2.44 90%
2.42 91%
CCT
10890 60%
13321 49%
12103 54%
12807 51%
12849 51%
10926 59%
6268 104%
Color Space (Percent of AdobeRGB 1998)
36.4
36.2
-1%
36
-1%
38.8
7%
39
7%
55
51%
Color Space (Percent of sRGB)
57.3
57
-1%
83
45%
Total Average (Program / Settings)
-7% / -10%
-2% / -3%
-3% / -7%
-5% / -10%
12% / 10%
55% / 55%

* ... smaller is better

Performance

HP's ProBook is a 15.6-inch office laptop designed for professional and home use. The installed processor has more than enough computing power for routine. The integrated graphics core would allow playing computer games to a limited degree in dual-channel mode. Our review sample is sold for approximately 640 Euros (~$701). Other configurations are also available. Alternatives are models from the identically built ProBook 455 G3 lineup that feature AMD APUs. 

The diverse models from the ProBook 450 G2 and ProBook 455 G2 lines are still available. The buyer will find a bargain here. For example, HP's ProBook 455 G2 G6W45EA (A8-7100, 500 GB, 4 GB RAM, Windows 7/8.1 Pro) was sold at approximately 430 Euros (~$471) at test time. The latter is part of HP's Cashback campaign running until 01/31/2016. The buyer gets back 50 Euros (~$54) or can choose among diverse accessories when sending in the purchase receipt by this date. The most interesting item is a warranty upgrade to three years. This cashback promotion applies to many models of the ProBook 4X0 line - both for G2 and some G3 models alike. Detailed information can be found on HP's corresponding webpage. 

Another note: Our present review sample carries the product number P5T01ES. This model is found in many price search engines and online shops. However, an HD screen is often listed in the corresponding product description (1366x768 pixels). That is incorrect. The device sports a Full HD screen (1920x1080 pixels).

Processor

The Core i5-6200U (Skylake) dual-core mid-range processor has now found its way into the ProBook. It is a relatively frugal ULV model that can boast with a TDP of 15 watts. The processor has a base clock of 2.3 GHz that can be boosted to 2.7 GHz (both cores) or 2.8 GHz (one core only) via Turbo. Turbo is utilized in both AC and battery modes. The direct precursor Core i5-5200U (Broadwell) processor of the one here was installed in the ProBook 450 model that we last tested. The somewhat higher work speed and improvements in the Skylake architecture result in up to 12% better scores in the CPU test that we performed.

Cinebench R10 Shading 32Bit
7189
Cinebench R10 Rendering Multiple CPUs 32Bit
9907
Cinebench R10 Rendering Single 32Bit
4414
Cinebench R11.5 OpenGL 64Bit
21.4 fps
Cinebench R11.5 CPU Multi 64Bit
3.21 Points
Cinebench R11.5 CPU Single 64Bit
1.32 Points
Cinebench R15 Ref. Match 64Bit
97.9 %
Cinebench R15 OpenGL 64Bit
29.82 fps
Cinebench R15 CPU Multi 64Bit
288 Points
Cinebench R15 CPU Single 64Bit
116 Points
Help
Cinebench R15
CPU Multi 64Bit (sort by value)
HP ProBook 450 G3
HD Graphics 520, 6200U, Seagate ST500LM021-1KJ15
288 Points
HP ProBook 455 G2 G6C98EA
Radeon R4 (Kaveri), A6 Pro-7050B, 128 GB SATA SSD
81 Points -72%
HP ProBook 450 G2 L3Q27EA
HD Graphics 5500, 5200U, Samsung SSD PM851 128 GB MZ7TE128HMGR
260 Points -10%
Lenovo ThinkPad E550-20DF00CNGE
Radeon R7 M265, 5500U, WDC Slim WD10SPCX-22HWST0
282 Points -2%
Lenovo ThinkPad Edge E550-20DGS00300
HD Graphics 5500, 5005U, Hitachi Travelstar Z7K500 HTS725050A7E630
208 Points -28%
Lenovo Thinkpad E555
Radeon R5 (Kaveri), A8-7100, Seagate ST500LM021-1KJ15
140 Points -51%
Lenovo ThinkPad L540 20AV002YGE
HD Graphics 4600, 4200M, Hitachi Travelstar Z7K500 HTS725050A7E630
294 Points +2%
Toshiba Tecra A50-C1510W10
HD Graphics 5500, 5200U, Hitachi Travelstar Z7K500 HTS725050A7E630
257 Points -11%
Fujitsu Lifebook A514
HD Graphics 4400, 4005U, Samsung SSD PM871 MZ7LN128HCHP
171 Points -41%
Fujitsu LifeBook E554
HD Graphics 4600, 4210M, Samsung SSD PM851 128 GB MZ7TE128HMGR
307 Points +7%
Dell Latitude 15 3550-0123
GeForce 830M, 5500U, Toshiba MQ01ABD100
299 Points +4%
Acer TravelMate P257-M-56AX
HD Graphics 5500, 5200U, Kingston RBU-SC150S37256GD
260 Points -10%
CPU Single 64Bit (sort by value)
HP ProBook 450 G3
HD Graphics 520, 6200U, Seagate ST500LM021-1KJ15
116 Points
HP ProBook 455 G2 G6C98EA
Radeon R4 (Kaveri), A6 Pro-7050B, 128 GB SATA SSD
50 Points -57%
HP ProBook 450 G2 L3Q27EA
HD Graphics 5500, 5200U, Samsung SSD PM851 128 GB MZ7TE128HMGR
109 Points -6%
Lenovo ThinkPad E550-20DF00CNGE
Radeon R7 M265, 5500U, WDC Slim WD10SPCX-22HWST0
123 Points +6%
Lenovo ThinkPad Edge E550-20DGS00300
HD Graphics 5500, 5005U, Hitachi Travelstar Z7K500 HTS725050A7E630
82 Points -29%
Lenovo Thinkpad E555
Radeon R5 (Kaveri), A8-7100, Seagate ST500LM021-1KJ15
48 Points -59%
Lenovo ThinkPad L540 20AV002YGE
HD Graphics 4600, 4200M, Hitachi Travelstar Z7K500 HTS725050A7E630
115 Points -1%
Toshiba Tecra A50-C1510W10
HD Graphics 5500, 5200U, Hitachi Travelstar Z7K500 HTS725050A7E630
91 Points -22%
Fujitsu Lifebook A514
HD Graphics 4400, 4005U, Samsung SSD PM871 MZ7LN128HCHP
39 Points -66%
Fujitsu LifeBook E554
HD Graphics 4600, 4210M, Samsung SSD PM851 128 GB MZ7TE128HMGR
123 Points +6%
Dell Latitude 15 3550-0123
GeForce 830M, 5500U, Toshiba MQ01ABD100
124 Points +7%
Acer TravelMate P257-M-56AX
HD Graphics 5500, 5200U, Kingston RBU-SC150S37256GD
109 Points -6%
Cinebench R11.5
CPU Multi 64Bit (sort by value)
HP ProBook 450 G3
HD Graphics 520, 6200U, Seagate ST500LM021-1KJ15
3.21 Points
HP ProBook 455 G2 G6C98EA
Radeon R4 (Kaveri), A6 Pro-7050B, 128 GB SATA SSD
0.96 Points -70%
HP ProBook 450 G2 L3Q27EA
HD Graphics 5500, 5200U, Samsung SSD PM851 128 GB MZ7TE128HMGR
2.86 Points -11%
Lenovo ThinkPad E550-20DF00CNGE
Radeon R7 M265, 5500U, WDC Slim WD10SPCX-22HWST0
3.13 Points -2%
Lenovo ThinkPad Edge E550-20DGS00300
HD Graphics 5500, 5005U, Hitachi Travelstar Z7K500 HTS725050A7E630
2.27 Points -29%
Lenovo Thinkpad E555
Radeon R5 (Kaveri), A8-7100, Seagate ST500LM021-1KJ15
1.55 Points -52%
Lenovo ThinkPad L540 20AV002YGE
HD Graphics 4600, 4200M, Hitachi Travelstar Z7K500 HTS725050A7E630
3.25 Points +1%
Toshiba Tecra A50-C1510W10
HD Graphics 5500, 5200U, Hitachi Travelstar Z7K500 HTS725050A7E630
2.83 Points -12%
Fujitsu Lifebook A514
HD Graphics 4400, 4005U, Samsung SSD PM871 MZ7LN128HCHP
1.84 Points -43%
Fujitsu LifeBook E554
HD Graphics 4600, 4210M, Samsung SSD PM851 128 GB MZ7TE128HMGR
3.3 Points +3%
Dell Latitude 15 3550-0123
GeForce 830M, 5500U, Toshiba MQ01ABD100
3.29 Points +2%
Acer TravelMate P257-M-56AX
HD Graphics 5500, 5200U, Kingston RBU-SC150S37256GD
2.85 Points -11%
CPU Single 64Bit (sort by value)
HP ProBook 450 G3
HD Graphics 520, 6200U, Seagate ST500LM021-1KJ15
1.32 Points
HP ProBook 455 G2 G6C98EA
Radeon R4 (Kaveri), A6 Pro-7050B, 128 GB SATA SSD
0.58 Points -56%
HP ProBook 450 G2 L3Q27EA
HD Graphics 5500, 5200U, Samsung SSD PM851 128 GB MZ7TE128HMGR
1.29 Points -2%
Lenovo ThinkPad E550-20DF00CNGE
Radeon R7 M265, 5500U, WDC Slim WD10SPCX-22HWST0
1.42 Points +8%
Lenovo ThinkPad Edge E550-20DGS00300
HD Graphics 5500, 5005U, Hitachi Travelstar Z7K500 HTS725050A7E630
0.96 Points -27%
Lenovo Thinkpad E555
Radeon R5 (Kaveri), A8-7100, Seagate ST500LM021-1KJ15
0.56 Points -58%
Lenovo ThinkPad L540 20AV002YGE
HD Graphics 4600, 4200M, Hitachi Travelstar Z7K500 HTS725050A7E630
1.36 Points +3%
Toshiba Tecra A50-C1510W10
HD Graphics 5500, 5200U, Hitachi Travelstar Z7K500 HTS725050A7E630
1.03 Points -22%
Fujitsu Lifebook A514
HD Graphics 4400, 4005U, Samsung SSD PM871 MZ7LN128HCHP
0.75 Points -43%
Fujitsu LifeBook E554
HD Graphics 4600, 4210M, Samsung SSD PM851 128 GB MZ7TE128HMGR
1.41 Points +7%
Dell Latitude 15 3550-0123
GeForce 830M, 5500U, Toshiba MQ01ABD100
1.41 Points +7%
Acer TravelMate P257-M-56AX
HD Graphics 5500, 5200U, Kingston RBU-SC150S37256GD
1.24 Points -6%
Cinebench R10
Rendering Multiple CPUs 32Bit (sort by value)
HP ProBook 450 G3
HD Graphics 520, 6200U, Seagate ST500LM021-1KJ15
9907 Points
HP ProBook 455 G2 G6C98EA
Radeon R4 (Kaveri), A6 Pro-7050B, 128 GB SATA SSD
2785 Points -72%
HP ProBook 450 G2 L3Q27EA
HD Graphics 5500, 5200U, Samsung SSD PM851 128 GB MZ7TE128HMGR
8671 Points -12%
Lenovo ThinkPad E550-20DF00CNGE
Radeon R7 M265, 5500U, WDC Slim WD10SPCX-22HWST0
9676 Points -2%
Lenovo ThinkPad Edge E550-20DGS00300
HD Graphics 5500, 5005U, Hitachi Travelstar Z7K500 HTS725050A7E630
6837 Points -31%
Lenovo Thinkpad E555
Radeon R5 (Kaveri), A8-7100, Seagate ST500LM021-1KJ15
4103 Points -59%
Toshiba Tecra A50-C1510W10
HD Graphics 5500, 5200U, Hitachi Travelstar Z7K500 HTS725050A7E630
6550 Points -34%
Fujitsu Lifebook A514
HD Graphics 4400, 4005U, Samsung SSD PM871 MZ7LN128HCHP
5730 Points -42%
Fujitsu LifeBook E554
HD Graphics 4600, 4210M, Samsung SSD PM851 128 GB MZ7TE128HMGR
10389 Points +5%
Dell Latitude 15 3550-0123
GeForce 830M, 5500U, Toshiba MQ01ABD100
10119 Points +2%
Acer TravelMate P257-M-56AX
HD Graphics 5500, 5200U, Kingston RBU-SC150S37256GD
8689 Points -12%
Rendering Single 32Bit (sort by value)
HP ProBook 450 G3
HD Graphics 520, 6200U, Seagate ST500LM021-1KJ15
4414 Points
HP ProBook 455 G2 G6C98EA
Radeon R4 (Kaveri), A6 Pro-7050B, 128 GB SATA SSD
1790 Points -59%
HP ProBook 450 G2 L3Q27EA
HD Graphics 5500, 5200U, Samsung SSD PM851 128 GB MZ7TE128HMGR
4189 Points -5%
Lenovo ThinkPad E550-20DF00CNGE
Radeon R7 M265, 5500U, WDC Slim WD10SPCX-22HWST0
4563 Points +3%
Lenovo ThinkPad Edge E550-20DGS00300
HD Graphics 5500, 5005U, Hitachi Travelstar Z7K500 HTS725050A7E630
3116 Points -29%
Lenovo Thinkpad E555
Radeon R5 (Kaveri), A8-7100, Seagate ST500LM021-1KJ15
1287 Points -71%
Toshiba Tecra A50-C1510W10
HD Graphics 5500, 5200U, Hitachi Travelstar Z7K500 HTS725050A7E630
4168 Points -6%
Fujitsu Lifebook A514
HD Graphics 4400, 4005U, Samsung SSD PM871 MZ7LN128HCHP
2528 Points -43%
Fujitsu LifeBook E554
HD Graphics 4600, 4210M, Samsung SSD PM851 128 GB MZ7TE128HMGR
4582 Points +4%
Dell Latitude 15 3550-0123
GeForce 830M, 5500U, Toshiba MQ01ABD100
4573 Points +4%
Acer TravelMate P257-M-56AX
HD Graphics 5500, 5200U, Kingston RBU-SC150S37256GD
4103 Points -7%
Geekbench 3
32 Bit Single-Core Score (sort by value)
HP ProBook 450 G3
HD Graphics 520, 6200U, Seagate ST500LM021-1KJ15
2549 Points
HP ProBook 450 G2 L3Q27EA
HD Graphics 5500, 5200U, Samsung SSD PM851 128 GB MZ7TE128HMGR
2472 Points -3%
Lenovo ThinkPad E550-20DF00CNGE
Radeon R7 M265, 5500U, WDC Slim WD10SPCX-22HWST0
2674 Points +5%
Lenovo ThinkPad Edge E550-20DGS00300
HD Graphics 5500, 5005U, Hitachi Travelstar Z7K500 HTS725050A7E630
1912 Points -25%
Lenovo Thinkpad E555
Radeon R5 (Kaveri), A8-7100, Seagate ST500LM021-1KJ15
1459 Points -43%
Lenovo ThinkPad L540 20AV002YGE
HD Graphics 4600, 4200M, Hitachi Travelstar Z7K500 HTS725050A7E630
2688 Points +5%
Fujitsu LifeBook E554
HD Graphics 4600, 4210M, Samsung SSD PM851 128 GB MZ7TE128HMGR
2945 Points +16%
Dell Latitude 15 3550-0123
GeForce 830M, 5500U, Toshiba MQ01ABD100
2914 Points +14%
32 Bit Multi-Core Score (sort by value)
HP ProBook 450 G3
HD Graphics 520, 6200U, Seagate ST500LM021-1KJ15
5557 Points
HP ProBook 450 G2 L3Q27EA
HD Graphics 5500, 5200U, Samsung SSD PM851 128 GB MZ7TE128HMGR
4983 Points -10%
Lenovo ThinkPad E550-20DF00CNGE
Radeon R7 M265, 5500U, WDC Slim WD10SPCX-22HWST0
5526 Points -1%
Lenovo ThinkPad Edge E550-20DGS00300
HD Graphics 5500, 5005U, Hitachi Travelstar Z7K500 HTS725050A7E630
4016 Points -28%
Lenovo Thinkpad E555
Radeon R5 (Kaveri), A8-7100, Seagate ST500LM021-1KJ15
3355 Points -40%
Lenovo ThinkPad L540 20AV002YGE
HD Graphics 4600, 4200M, Hitachi Travelstar Z7K500 HTS725050A7E630
5641 Points +2%
Fujitsu LifeBook E554
HD Graphics 4600, 4210M, Samsung SSD PM851 128 GB MZ7TE128HMGR
6185 Points +11%
Dell Latitude 15 3550-0123
GeForce 830M, 5500U, Toshiba MQ01ABD100
6029 Points +8%
Sunspider - 1.0 Total Score (sort by value)
HP ProBook 450 G3
HD Graphics 520, 6200U, Seagate ST500LM021-1KJ15
89.6 ms *
HP ProBook 450 G2 L3Q27EA
HD Graphics 5500, 5200U, Samsung SSD PM851 128 GB MZ7TE128HMGR
122.4 ms * -37%
Lenovo ThinkPad E550-20DF00CNGE
Radeon R7 M265, 5500U, WDC Slim WD10SPCX-22HWST0
100.2 ms * -12%
Lenovo ThinkPad Edge E550-20DGS00300
HD Graphics 5500, 5005U, Hitachi Travelstar Z7K500 HTS725050A7E630
151.1 ms * -69%
Lenovo Thinkpad E555
Radeon R5 (Kaveri), A8-7100, Seagate ST500LM021-1KJ15
199.5 ms * -123%
Fujitsu Lifebook A514
HD Graphics 4400, 4005U, Samsung SSD PM871 MZ7LN128HCHP
182.1 ms * -103%
Fujitsu LifeBook E554
HD Graphics 4600, 4210M, Samsung SSD PM851 128 GB MZ7TE128HMGR
188.4 ms * -110%
Fujitsu LifeBook E554
HD Graphics 4600, 4210M, Samsung SSD PM851 128 GB MZ7TE128HMGR
161.4 ms * -80%
Fujitsu LifeBook E554
HD Graphics 4600, 4210M, Samsung SSD PM851 128 GB MZ7TE128HMGR
96.5 ms * -8%
Dell Latitude 15 3550-0123
GeForce 830M, 5500U, Toshiba MQ01ABD100
96.4 ms * -8%
Acer TravelMate P257-M-56AX
HD Graphics 5500, 5200U, Kingston RBU-SC150S37256GD
117.5 ms * -31%
JetStream 1.1 - Total Score (sort by value)
HP ProBook 450 G3
HD Graphics 520, 6200U, Seagate ST500LM021-1KJ15
190.4 Points
Lenovo ThinkPad E550-20DF00CNGE
Radeon R7 M265, 5500U, WDC Slim WD10SPCX-22HWST0
114.7 Points -40%
Mozilla Kraken 1.1 - Total (sort by value)
HP ProBook 450 G3
HD Graphics 520, 6200U, Seagate ST500LM021-1KJ15
1281 ms *
HP ProBook 450 G2 L3Q27EA
HD Graphics 5500, 5200U, Samsung SSD PM851 128 GB MZ7TE128HMGR
2532 ms * -98%
Lenovo ThinkPad E550-20DF00CNGE
Radeon R7 M265, 5500U, WDC Slim WD10SPCX-22HWST0
2263 ms * -77%
Lenovo ThinkPad Edge E550-20DGS00300
HD Graphics 5500, 5005U, Hitachi Travelstar Z7K500 HTS725050A7E630
3339 ms * -161%
Lenovo Thinkpad E555
Radeon R5 (Kaveri), A8-7100, Seagate ST500LM021-1KJ15
4950 ms * -286%
Fujitsu LifeBook E554
HD Graphics 4600, 4210M, Samsung SSD PM851 128 GB MZ7TE128HMGR
2240 ms * -75%
Fujitsu LifeBook E554
HD Graphics 4600, 4210M, Samsung SSD PM851 128 GB MZ7TE128HMGR
1304 ms * -2%
Fujitsu LifeBook E554
HD Graphics 4600, 4210M, Samsung SSD PM851 128 GB MZ7TE128HMGR
1272 ms * +1%
Dell Latitude 15 3550-0123
GeForce 830M, 5500U, Toshiba MQ01ABD100
2269 ms * -77%
Acer TravelMate P257-M-56AX
HD Graphics 5500, 5200U, Kingston RBU-SC150S37256GD
2551 ms * -99%
Octane V2 - Total Score (sort by value)
HP ProBook 450 G3
HD Graphics 520, 6200U, Seagate ST500LM021-1KJ15
27580 Points
HP ProBook 450 G2 L3Q27EA
HD Graphics 5500, 5200U, Samsung SSD PM851 128 GB MZ7TE128HMGR
13037 Points -53%
Lenovo ThinkPad E550-20DF00CNGE
Radeon R7 M265, 5500U, WDC Slim WD10SPCX-22HWST0
14711 Points -47%
Lenovo ThinkPad Edge E550-20DGS00300
HD Graphics 5500, 5005U, Hitachi Travelstar Z7K500 HTS725050A7E630
9551 Points -65%
Lenovo Thinkpad E555
Radeon R5 (Kaveri), A8-7100, Seagate ST500LM021-1KJ15
7421 Points -73%
Fujitsu LifeBook E554
HD Graphics 4600, 4210M, Samsung SSD PM851 128 GB MZ7TE128HMGR
27518 Points 0%
Fujitsu LifeBook E554
HD Graphics 4600, 4210M, Samsung SSD PM851 128 GB MZ7TE128HMGR
24097 Points -13%
Fujitsu LifeBook E554
HD Graphics 4600, 4210M, Samsung SSD PM851 128 GB MZ7TE128HMGR
14952 Points -46%
Dell Latitude 15 3550-0123
GeForce 830M, 5500U, Toshiba MQ01ABD100
14741 Points -47%
Acer TravelMate P257-M-56AX
HD Graphics 5500, 5200U, Kingston RBU-SC150S37256GD
13295 Points -52%
Peacekeeper - --- (sort by value)
HP ProBook 450 G3
HD Graphics 520, 6200U, Seagate ST500LM021-1KJ15
2546 Points
HP ProBook 450 G2 L3Q27EA
HD Graphics 5500, 5200U, Samsung SSD PM851 128 GB MZ7TE128HMGR
2325 Points -9%
Lenovo ThinkPad E550-20DF00CNGE
Radeon R7 M265, 5500U, WDC Slim WD10SPCX-22HWST0
2634 Points +3%
Lenovo ThinkPad Edge E550-20DGS00300
HD Graphics 5500, 5005U, Hitachi Travelstar Z7K500 HTS725050A7E630
1915 Points -25%
Fujitsu LifeBook E554
HD Graphics 4600, 4210M, Samsung SSD PM851 128 GB MZ7TE128HMGR
5154 Points +102%
Fujitsu LifeBook E554
HD Graphics 4600, 4210M, Samsung SSD PM851 128 GB MZ7TE128HMGR
4690 Points +84%
Fujitsu LifeBook E554
HD Graphics 4600, 4210M, Samsung SSD PM851 128 GB MZ7TE128HMGR
2781 Points +9%
Dell Latitude 15 3550-0123
GeForce 830M, 5500U, Toshiba MQ01ABD100
2655 Points +4%

* ... smaller is better

System Performance

The laptop runs smoothly, and we did not encounter problems. The PCMark benchmark scores are very good. The Broadwell ProBook with a weaker CPU-GPU combination scores better in some cases because it sports an SSD. Lenovo's ThinkPad E550 has a clear edge in the PCMark 8 Home partial benchmark owing to the AMD graphics core. The ProBook's overall performance can be increased: It would operate in dual-channel mode when a second working memory module is installed. The GPU could then be utilized better and would achieve a higher performance. Skylake is particularly suitable for this action since the installed HD Graphics 520 graphics core benefits considerably more from dual-channel mode than former Intel GPU models. Installing an SSD would lead to a much faster-running system. That would also be quick and easy to do thanks to an empty M.2 slot.

Two working memory banks are present
Two working memory banks are present
PCMark 7 Score
3075 points
PCMark 8 Home Score Accelerated v2
2910 points
PCMark 8 Creative Score Accelerated v2
3460 points
PCMark 8 Work Score Accelerated v2
3901 points
Help
PCMark 8 - Home Score Accelerated v2 (sort by value)
HP ProBook 450 G3
HD Graphics 520, 6200U, Seagate ST500LM021-1KJ15
2910 Points
HP ProBook 450 G2 L3Q27EA
HD Graphics 5500, 5200U, Samsung SSD PM851 128 GB MZ7TE128HMGR
2973 Points +2%
Lenovo ThinkPad E550-20DF00CNGE
Radeon R7 M265, 5500U, WDC Slim WD10SPCX-22HWST0
3960 Points +36%
Lenovo ThinkPad Edge E550-20DGS00300
HD Graphics 5500, 5005U, Hitachi Travelstar Z7K500 HTS725050A7E630
2544 Points -13%
Lenovo ThinkPad L540 20AV002YGE
HD Graphics 4600, 4200M, Hitachi Travelstar Z7K500 HTS725050A7E630
3008 Points +3%
Toshiba Tecra A50-C1510W10
HD Graphics 5500, 5200U, Hitachi Travelstar Z7K500 HTS725050A7E630
2909 Points 0%
Fujitsu LifeBook E554
HD Graphics 4600, 4210M, Samsung SSD PM851 128 GB MZ7TE128HMGR
2723 Points -6%
Dell Latitude 15 3550-0123
GeForce 830M, 5500U, Toshiba MQ01ABD100
3152 Points +8%
Acer TravelMate P257-M-56AX
HD Graphics 5500, 5200U, Kingston RBU-SC150S37256GD
3090 Points +6%
PCMark 7 - Score (sort by value)
HP ProBook 450 G3
HD Graphics 520, 6200U, Seagate ST500LM021-1KJ15
3075 Points
Lenovo ThinkPad E550-20DF00CNGE
Radeon R7 M265, 5500U, WDC Slim WD10SPCX-22HWST0
2819 Points -8%
Lenovo ThinkPad Edge E550-20DGS00300
HD Graphics 5500, 5005U, Hitachi Travelstar Z7K500 HTS725050A7E630
2784 Points -9%
Lenovo Thinkpad E555
Radeon R5 (Kaveri), A8-7100, Seagate ST500LM021-1KJ15
2150 Points -30%
Lenovo ThinkPad L540 20AV002YGE
HD Graphics 4600, 4200M, Hitachi Travelstar Z7K500 HTS725050A7E630
2805 Points -9%
Toshiba Tecra A50-C1510W10
HD Graphics 5500, 5200U, Hitachi Travelstar Z7K500 HTS725050A7E630
2956 Points -4%
Fujitsu Lifebook A514
HD Graphics 4400, 4005U, Samsung SSD PM871 MZ7LN128HCHP
3367 Points +9%
Fujitsu LifeBook E554
HD Graphics 4600, 4210M, Samsung SSD PM851 128 GB MZ7TE128HMGR
4451 Points +45%
Dell Latitude 15 3550-0123
GeForce 830M, 5500U, Toshiba MQ01ABD100
2714 Points -12%
Acer TravelMate P257-M-56AX
HD Graphics 5500, 5200U, Kingston RBU-SC150S37256GD
4293 Points +40%

Storage Device & Memory-Card Reader

The storage device in the ProBook comes from Seagate. It has a capacity of 500 GB and spins at 7200 revolutions per minute. The transfer rates did not show irregularities and range on a normal level for a 7200 rpm model. The ProBook also has an empty M.2 slot that supports a corresponding SSD. Here, either full-length models (2280) or half-length models (2240) can be installed. The necessary fastening thread for both versions is present.

The memory-card reader achieves a maximum transfer rate of almost 84 MB/s when copying large data blocks. Transferring 250 JPG image files (approx. 5 MB each) was performed at a speed of approximately 69.2 MB/s. Thus, the memory-card reader belongs to the fastest models. We always perform the copy tests with our Toshiba Exceria Pro SDXC 64 GB UHS-II reference SD card.

The hard drive is easy to replace
The hard drive is easy to replace
An empty M.2 slot is available
An empty M.2 slot is available
Seagate ST500LM021-1KJ15
Transfer Rate Minimum: 61 MB/s
Transfer Rate Maximum: 142 MB/s
Transfer Rate Average: 109.8 MB/s
Access Time: 16.9 ms
Burst Rate: 129.8 MB/s
CPU Usage: 5 %

Graphics Card

Intel's HD Graphics 520 graphics core is responsible for video output. It supports DirectX 12 and clocks at speeds of up to 950 MHz. The GPU has a considerably higher calculation performance than its predecessor - the HD Graphics 5500 graphics core. A look at our comparison diagram shows an edge of up to 32% in the various 3DMark benchmarks. Installing a second working memory module (= dual-channel mode active) would increase the computing performance. Intel's graphics core comes close to the results of dedicated graphics cores from the lower mid-range in dual-channel mode.

Intel's new GPU is not only much stronger, it also has a new feature: It can decode videos in H.265 format (successor of the H.265 codec). Videos in the new format need less storage at the same quality. However, their playback requires higher computing performance. Intel's GPU now clearly unloads the processor when rendering. The CPU load equaled about 6% while we played our test video (4k, 60 fps, H.265).

Note: The media player must support the hardware accelerated playback of H.265 material. Otherwise, these videos will stutter. The Movie & TV app in Windows 10 supports rendering H.265 videos unlike Windows Media Player. Installing alternative software will be required under Windows 7/8.1.

3DMark 06 Standard Score
6518 points
3DMark 11 Performance
1260 points
3DMark Ice Storm Standard Score
40691 points
3DMark Cloud Gate Standard Score
4847 points
3DMark Fire Strike Score
574 points
Help
3DMark 11 - 1280x720 Performance (sort by value)
HP ProBook 450 G3
HD Graphics 520, 6200U, Seagate ST500LM021-1KJ15
1260 Points
HP ProBook 455 G2 G6C98EA
Radeon R4 (Kaveri), A6 Pro-7050B, 128 GB SATA SSD
665 Points -47%
HP ProBook 450 G2 L3Q27EA
HD Graphics 5500, 5200U, Samsung SSD PM851 128 GB MZ7TE128HMGR
958 Points -24%
HP ProBook 450 G1 E9Y58EA
HD Graphics 4600, 4702MQ, Seagate Momentus ST750LM022 HN-M750MB
1042 Points -17%
Lenovo ThinkPad E550-20DF00CNGE
Radeon R7 M265, 5500U, WDC Slim WD10SPCX-22HWST0
2241 Points +78%
Lenovo ThinkPad Edge E550-20DGS00300
HD Graphics 5500, 5005U, Hitachi Travelstar Z7K500 HTS725050A7E630
909 Points -28%
Lenovo Thinkpad E555
Radeon R5 (Kaveri), A8-7100, Seagate ST500LM021-1KJ15
964 Points -23%
Lenovo ThinkPad L540 20AV002YGE
HD Graphics 4600, 4200M, Hitachi Travelstar Z7K500 HTS725050A7E630
849 Points -33%
Toshiba Tecra A50-C1510W10
HD Graphics 5500, 5200U, Hitachi Travelstar Z7K500 HTS725050A7E630
1189 Points -6%
Fujitsu Lifebook A514
HD Graphics 4400, 4005U, Samsung SSD PM871 MZ7LN128HCHP
752 Points -40%
Fujitsu LifeBook E554
HD Graphics 4600, 4210M, Samsung SSD PM851 128 GB MZ7TE128HMGR
1040 Points -17%
Dell Inspiron 15-5558
GeForce 920M, 5200U, Toshiba MQ01ABD100
1793 Points +42%
Dell Latitude 15 3550-0123
GeForce 830M, 5500U, Toshiba MQ01ABD100
2097 Points +66%
Acer TravelMate P257-M-56AX
HD Graphics 5500, 5200U, Kingston RBU-SC150S37256GD
1290 Points +2%
3DMark
1280x720 Ice Storm Standard Score (sort by value)
HP ProBook 450 G3
HD Graphics 520, 6200U, Seagate ST500LM021-1KJ15
40691 Points
HP ProBook 455 G2 G6C98EA
Radeon R4 (Kaveri), A6 Pro-7050B, 128 GB SATA SSD
22379 Points -45%
HP ProBook 450 G2 L3Q27EA
HD Graphics 5500, 5200U, Samsung SSD PM851 128 GB MZ7TE128HMGR
41489 Points +2%
HP ProBook 450 G1 E9Y58EA
HD Graphics 4600, 4702MQ, Seagate Momentus ST750LM022 HN-M750MB
48718 Points +20%
HP ProBook 450-H0V92EA
HD Graphics 4000, 3120M, Seagate Momentus Thin ST500LT0 12-9WS142
22863 Points -44%
Lenovo ThinkPad E550-20DF00CNGE
Radeon R7 M265, 5500U, WDC Slim WD10SPCX-22HWST0
35932 Points -12%
Lenovo ThinkPad Edge E550-20DGS00300
HD Graphics 5500, 5005U, Hitachi Travelstar Z7K500 HTS725050A7E630
37420 Points -8%
Lenovo Thinkpad E555
Radeon R5 (Kaveri), A8-7100, Seagate ST500LM021-1KJ15
24924 Points -39%
Lenovo ThinkPad L540 20AV002YGE
HD Graphics 4600, 4200M, Hitachi Travelstar Z7K500 HTS725050A7E630
36385 Points -11%
Toshiba Tecra A50-C1510W10
HD Graphics 5500, 5200U, Hitachi Travelstar Z7K500 HTS725050A7E630
42973 Points +6%
Fujitsu Lifebook A514
HD Graphics 4400, 4005U, Samsung SSD PM871 MZ7LN128HCHP
30090 Points -26%
Fujitsu LifeBook E554
HD Graphics 4600, 4210M, Samsung SSD PM851 128 GB MZ7TE128HMGR
47406 Points +17%
Dell Inspiron 15-5558
GeForce 920M, 5200U, Toshiba MQ01ABD100
44189 Points +9%
Dell Latitude 15 3550-0123
GeForce 830M, 5500U, Toshiba MQ01ABD100
43118 Points +6%
Acer TravelMate P257-M-56AX
HD Graphics 5500, 5200U, Kingston RBU-SC150S37256GD
51123 Points +26%
1280x720 Cloud Gate Standard Score (sort by value)
HP ProBook 450 G3
HD Graphics 520, 6200U, Seagate ST500LM021-1KJ15
4847 Points
HP ProBook 455 G2 G6C98EA
Radeon R4 (Kaveri), A6 Pro-7050B, 128 GB SATA SSD
2092 Points -57%
HP ProBook 450 G2 L3Q27EA
HD Graphics 5500, 5200U, Samsung SSD PM851 128 GB MZ7TE128HMGR
4399 Points -9%
HP ProBook 450 G1 E9Y58EA
HD Graphics 4600, 4702MQ, Seagate Momentus ST750LM022 HN-M750MB
5705 Points +18%
HP ProBook 450-H0V92EA
HD Graphics 4000, 3120M, Seagate Momentus Thin ST500LT0 12-9WS142
2688 Points -45%
Lenovo ThinkPad E550-20DF00CNGE
Radeon R7 M265, 5500U, WDC Slim WD10SPCX-22HWST0
6547 Points +35%
Lenovo ThinkPad Edge E550-20DGS00300
HD Graphics 5500, 5005U, Hitachi Travelstar Z7K500 HTS725050A7E630
3886 Points -20%
Lenovo Thinkpad E555
Radeon R5 (Kaveri), A8-7100, Seagate ST500LM021-1KJ15
2594 Points -46%
Lenovo ThinkPad L540 20AV002YGE
HD Graphics 4600, 4200M, Hitachi Travelstar Z7K500 HTS725050A7E630
4421 Points -9%
Toshiba Tecra A50-C1510W10
HD Graphics 5500, 5200U, Hitachi Travelstar Z7K500 HTS725050A7E630
4474 Points -8%
Fujitsu Lifebook A514
HD Graphics 4400, 4005U, Samsung SSD PM871 MZ7LN128HCHP
3276 Points -32%
Fujitsu LifeBook E554
HD Graphics 4600, 4210M, Samsung SSD PM851 128 GB MZ7TE128HMGR
5192 Points +7%
Dell Inspiron 15-5558
GeForce 920M, 5200U, Toshiba MQ01ABD100
5193 Points +7%
Dell Latitude 15 3550-0123
GeForce 830M, 5500U, Toshiba MQ01ABD100
6238 Points +29%
Acer TravelMate P257-M-56AX
HD Graphics 5500, 5200U, Kingston RBU-SC150S37256GD
5179 Points +7%
1280x720 Sky Diver Score (sort by value)
HP ProBook 450 G3
HD Graphics 520, 6200U, Seagate ST500LM021-1KJ15
2883 Points
HP ProBook 450 G2 L3Q27EA
HD Graphics 5500, 5200U, Samsung SSD PM851 128 GB MZ7TE128HMGR
2378 Points -18%
Lenovo Thinkpad E555
Radeon R5 (Kaveri), A8-7100, Seagate ST500LM021-1KJ15
2010 Points -30%
Fujitsu LifeBook E554
HD Graphics 4600, 4210M, Samsung SSD PM851 128 GB MZ7TE128HMGR
2888 Points 0%
Dell Inspiron 15-5558
GeForce 920M, 5200U, Toshiba MQ01ABD100
3984 Points +38%
Dell Latitude 15 3550-0123
GeForce 830M, 5500U, Toshiba MQ01ABD100
4779 Points +66%
1920x1080 Fire Strike Score (sort by value)
HP ProBook 450 G3
HD Graphics 520, 6200U, Seagate ST500LM021-1KJ15
574 Points
HP ProBook 455 G2 G6C98EA
Radeon R4 (Kaveri), A6 Pro-7050B, 128 GB SATA SSD
434 Points -24%
HP ProBook 450 G2 L3Q27EA
HD Graphics 5500, 5200U, Samsung SSD PM851 128 GB MZ7TE128HMGR
561 Points -2%
HP ProBook 450 G1 E9Y58EA
HD Graphics 4600, 4702MQ, Seagate Momentus ST750LM022 HN-M750MB
595 Points +4%
HP ProBook 450-H0V92EA
HD Graphics 4000, 3120M, Seagate Momentus Thin ST500LT0 12-9WS142
345 Points -40%
Lenovo ThinkPad E550-20DF00CNGE
Radeon R7 M265, 5500U, WDC Slim WD10SPCX-22HWST0
1302 Points +127%
Lenovo ThinkPad Edge E550-20DGS00300
HD Graphics 5500, 5005U, Hitachi Travelstar Z7K500 HTS725050A7E630
540 Points -6%
Lenovo Thinkpad E555
Radeon R5 (Kaveri), A8-7100, Seagate ST500LM021-1KJ15
527 Points -8%
Lenovo ThinkPad L540 20AV002YGE
HD Graphics 4600, 4200M, Hitachi Travelstar Z7K500 HTS725050A7E630
524 Points -9%
Toshiba Tecra A50-C1510W10
HD Graphics 5500, 5200U, Hitachi Travelstar Z7K500 HTS725050A7E630
619 Points +8%
Fujitsu Lifebook A514
HD Graphics 4400, 4005U, Samsung SSD PM871 MZ7LN128HCHP
446 Points -22%
Fujitsu LifeBook E554
HD Graphics 4600, 4210M, Samsung SSD PM851 128 GB MZ7TE128HMGR
653 Points +14%
Dell Inspiron 15-5558
GeForce 920M, 5200U, Toshiba MQ01ABD100
1050 Points +83%
Dell Latitude 15 3550-0123
GeForce 830M, 5500U, Toshiba MQ01ABD100
1209 Points +111%
3DMark 06 - 1280x1024 Standard Score AA:0x AF:0x (sort by value)
HP ProBook 450 G3
HD Graphics 520, 6200U, Seagate ST500LM021-1KJ15
6518 Points
HP ProBook 450-H0V92EA
HD Graphics 4000, 3120M, Seagate Momentus Thin ST500LT0 12-9WS142
3331 Points -49%
Lenovo ThinkPad E550-20DF00CNGE
Radeon R7 M265, 5500U, WDC Slim WD10SPCX-22HWST0
10622 Points +63%
Lenovo ThinkPad Edge E550-20DGS00300
HD Graphics 5500, 5005U, Hitachi Travelstar Z7K500 HTS725050A7E630
5458 Points -16%
Lenovo Thinkpad E555
Radeon R5 (Kaveri), A8-7100, Seagate ST500LM021-1KJ15
4317 Points -34%
Lenovo ThinkPad L540 20AV002YGE
HD Graphics 4600, 4200M, Hitachi Travelstar Z7K500 HTS725050A7E630
4489 Points -31%
Fujitsu LifeBook E554
HD Graphics 4600, 4210M, Samsung SSD PM851 128 GB MZ7TE128HMGR
6355 Points -3%
Dell Latitude 15 3550-0123
GeForce 830M, 5500U, Toshiba MQ01ABD100
11275 Points +73%

Gaming Performance

Since Intel's new GPU is considerably stronger than former models, the ProBook can render a surprising number of games smoothly - in low resolution and low quality settings. The frame rates increase even more when installing a second working memory module in the ProBook (= dual-channel mode active). The ProBook can then keep up with some laptops that feature a dedicated graphics core from the lower mid-range.

low med. high ultra
Tomb Raider (2013) 52 26.8 15.1 7.4
Dirt Rally (2015) 71.3 20 12.5 12.5
Fallout 4 (2015) 13.2 8.6

Emissions

System Noise

It cannot really be said that the ProBook produces noise. Not much is heard from it over the entire load range. The fan is normally inactive in idle and only the hard drive's whir and access noise is audible. An SSD would ensure silence. The fan does not increase its speed much under load, either. We measured a noise level of just 34.2 dB in the stress test. Some laptops already achieve that when idling. The noise development has not changed compared with the Broadwell ProBook.

Noise Level

Idle
29.7 / 29.7 / 29.7 dB(A)
HDD
30.4 dB(A)
Load
33.1 / 34.2 dB(A)
  red to green bar
 
 
30 dB
silent
40 dB(A)
audible
50 dB(A)
loud
 
min: dark, med: mid, max: light   Voltcraft SL-451 (15 cm distance)
HP ProBook 450 G3
44 Wh
HP ProBook 455 G2 G6C98EA
40 Wh
HP ProBook 450 G2 L3Q27EA
40 Wh
Acer TravelMate P257-M-56AX
37 Wh
Lenovo ThinkPad Edge E550-20DGS00300
48 Wh
Lenovo Thinkpad E555
48 Wh
Fujitsu Lifebook A514
48 Wh
Dell Latitude 15 3550-0123
58 Wh
Noise
-3%
2%
-7%
-3%
-14%
-5%
-18%
Idle Minimum *
29.7
30
-1%
28.9
3%
31.8
-7%
31.3
-5%
34.7
-17%
29.6
-0%
32.5
-9%
Idle Average *
29.7
31.2
-5%
28.9
3%
31.8
-7%
31.3
-5%
34.7
-17%
29.6
-0%
32.5
-9%
Idle Maximum *
29.7
31.2
-5%
28.9
3%
31.8
-7%
31.3
-5%
34.7
-17%
35
-18%
32.5
-9%
Load Average *
33.1
33.8
-2%
32.9
1%
35
-6%
32.8
1%
36.1
-9%
34.2
-3%
43.5
-31%
Load Maximum *
34.2
35.7
-4%
34.3
-0%
37.6
-10%
33.8
1%
37.9
-11%
35.1
-3%
45.3
-32%

* ... smaller is better

Temperature

The ProBook in the stress test
The ProBook in the stress test

The ProBook performed the stress test (Prime95 and Furmark run for at least one hour) in the same manner in both AC and battery modes. The processor starts the stress test at 2.1 to 2 GHz and is throttled to 1.9 to 2 GHz in the course of the test. Occasional peaks of 2.5 GHz are observed. The graphics core always operated at full speed (950 MHz). The casing does not get exceedingly warm. We only measure rates above 40 °C on two measuring points. The Skylake processor presents overall higher temperatures than its Broadwell predecessor. That is not surprising since the CPU and GPU in the Broadwell models throttled more strongly. In other words: The Skylake model can permanently provide more computing power under full load than its predecessor.

Max. Load
 36.8 °C
98 F
40.2 °C
104 F
25.4 °C
78 F
 
 31.2 °C
88 F
36.6 °C
98 F
25.6 °C
78 F
 
 25.8 °C
78 F
27 °C
81 F
25.9 °C
79 F
 
Maximum: 40.2 °C = 104 F
Average: 30.5 °C = 87 F
25.7 °C
78 F
27.2 °C
81 F
32.2 °C
90 F
26.5 °C
80 F
34.3 °C
94 F
42 °C
108 F
26.7 °C
80 F
28.4 °C
83 F
29.3 °C
85 F
Maximum: 42 °C = 108 F
Average: 30.3 °C = 87 F
Power Supply (max.)  40.3 °C = 105 F | Room Temperature 21.2 °C = 70 F | Fluke 62 Max
(+) The average temperature for the upper side under maximal load is 30.5 °C / 87 F, compared to the average of 29.5 °C / 85 F for the devices in the class Office.
(±) The maximum temperature on the upper side is 40.2 °C / 104 F, compared to the average of 34.2 °C / 94 F, ranging from 21.2 to 62.5 °C for the class Office.
(±) The bottom heats up to a maximum of 42 °C / 108 F, compared to the average of 36.7 °C / 98 F
(+) In idle usage, the average temperature for the upper side is 28.4 °C / 83 F, compared to the device average of 29.5 °C / 85 F.
(+) The palmrests and touchpad are cooler than skin temperature with a maximum of 27 °C / 80.6 F and are therefore cool to the touch.
(±) The average temperature of the palmrest area of similar devices was 27.7 °C / 81.9 F (+0.7 °C / 1.3 F).
HP ProBook 450 G3
44 Wh
HP ProBook 455 G2 G6C98EA
40 Wh
HP ProBook 450 G2 L3Q27EA
40 Wh
Acer TravelMate P257-M-56AX
37 Wh
Lenovo ThinkPad Edge E550-20DGS00300
48 Wh
Lenovo Thinkpad E555
48 Wh
Fujitsu Lifebook A514
48 Wh
Dell Latitude 15 3550-0123
58 Wh
Heat
3%
14%
10%
11%
-3%
-1%
-16%
Maximum Upper Side *
40.2
36.8
8%
32.7
19%
34.3
15%
32.7
19%
39.2
2%
40.4
-0%
50.5
-26%
Maximum Bottom *
42
40.3
4%
34.5
18%
42.1
-0%
34.3
18%
37
12%
46.5
-11%
54
-29%
Idle Upper Side *
32.5
31.1
4%
29.1
10%
26.7
18%
29
11%
33.7
-4%
29.2
10%
34.1
-5%
Idle Bottom *
31
32.6
-5%
28
10%
29.2
6%
32.5
-5%
37.5
-21%
31.7
-2%
31.6
-2%

* ... smaller is better

Energy Management

Power Consumption

The ProBook 450 G3 has an almost twice as high energy requirement than its Broadwell predecessor in idle. That might be surprising at first, but a look at the technical specs of both laptops explains why: While the Skylake ProBook is furnished with a Full HD screen and a conventional hard drive, our reviewed Broadwell model had an HD screen and SSD. Also, different motherboards are installed. Thus, the Broadwell ProBook has an advantage also during medium load. Both devices are first on par under full load (stress test).

Power Consumption
Off / Standbydarklight 0.4 / 0.5 Watt
Idledarkmidlight 4.9 / 8.2 / 9 Watt
Load midlight 30.1 / 36.1 Watt
 color bar
Key: min: dark, med: mid, max: light        Metrahit Energy
Currently we use the Metrahit Energy, a professional single phase power quality and energy measurement digital multimeter, for our measurements. Find out more about it here. All of our test methods can be found here.
HP ProBook 450 G3
44 Wh
HP ProBook 455 G2 G6C98EA
40 Wh
HP ProBook 450 G2 L3Q27EA
40 Wh
Acer TravelMate P257-M-56AX
37 Wh
Lenovo ThinkPad Edge E550-20DGS00300
48 Wh
Lenovo Thinkpad E555
48 Wh
Fujitsu Lifebook A514
48 Wh
Dell Latitude 15 3550-0123
58 Wh
Power Consumption
-32%
32%
20%
17%
-58%
24%
-43%
Idle Minimum *
4.9
7.4
-51%
2.4
51%
3.2
35%
3.3
33%
10.9
-122%
3.8
22%
5.9
-20%
Idle Average *
8.2
10.6
-29%
4.4
46%
5.5
33%
6.5
21%
14.3
-74%
6.3
23%
11.5
-40%
Idle Maximum *
9
19.3
-114%
5
44%
6.4
29%
7
22%
14.9
-66%
6.4
29%
11.6
-29%
Load Average *
30.1
26.6
12%
23.8
21%
31.8
-6%
27.3
9%
34.1
-13%
22.9
24%
49
-63%
Load Maximum *
36.1
28.7
20%
36.2
-0%
33
9%
35.6
1%
41.5
-15%
27.3
24%
58
-61%

* ... smaller is better

Battery Runtime

In total, the ProBook 450 G3 can boast with very decent battery runtimes. It achieves 5:37 hours in our video playback test. We determine the video playback time by running the short clip Big Buck Bunny (H.264 encoding, 1920x1080 pixels) in a loop. The wireless modules are disabled, and the screen's brightness is set to roughly 150 cd/m². We simulate the load needed for opening websites in our real-world Wi-Fi test. The "Balanced" profile is enabled, and the screen's brightness is set to approximately 150 cd/m². The ProBook manages a runtime of 5:09 hours here. Thus, it is far remote from the superb runtime of its Broadwell predecessor (7:36 h). We provided an explanation for this above. The Broadwell model consumes less power in idle thanks to its different hardware configuration and therefore lasts longer.

The battery has a capacity of 44 Wh
The battery has a capacity of 44 Wh
Battery Runtime
Idle (without WLAN, min brightness)
9h 35min
WiFi Websurfing (Edge 25.10586.0.0)
5h 9min
Big Buck Bunny H.264 1080p
5h 37min
Load (maximum brightness)
1h 30min
HP ProBook 450 G3
44 Wh
HP ProBook 455 G2 G6C98EA
40 Wh
HP ProBook 450 G2 L3Q27EA
40 Wh
Acer TravelMate P257-M-56AX
37 Wh
Lenovo ThinkPad Edge E550-20DGS00300
48 Wh
Lenovo Thinkpad E555
48 Wh
Toshiba Tecra A50-C1510W10
45 Wh
Fujitsu Lifebook A514
48 Wh
Dell Latitude 15 3550-0123
58 Wh
Battery Runtime
-44%
6%
17%
-24%
7%
13%
36%
Reader / Idle
575
323
-44%
703
22%
748
30%
404
-30%
607
6%
775
35%
H.264
337
328
-3%
193
-43%
474
41%
WiFi v1.3
309
321
4%
310
0%
294
-5%
350
13%
379
23%
Load
90
83
-8%
128
42%
91
1%
109
21%
129
43%
WiFi
226
456
395
238
350

Pros

+ matte, Full HD screen
+ empty M.2 slot
+ decent battery life
+ quiet operating noise
+ low temperature development
+ two maintenance hatches

Cons

- dark screen
- 12-month warranty only

Verdict

In review: HP ProBook 450 G3. Test model provided by Cyberport.de
In review: HP ProBook 450 G3. Test model provided by Cyberport.de

The new Skylake SoC results in a higher CPU and GPU performance compared with the predecessor. It can even be called conditionally gaming suitable when a second working memory module is installed. The laptop is always quiet and barely heats up. The battery life is also satisfactory. The good input devices and maintenance-friendliness add to that.

All in all, the ProBook is compelling also in the new G3 incarnation. However, there is still room for improvement.

Once again, the screen has to be criticized: HP installs a matte, viewing-angle dependent, Full HD model that can only offer low brightness and middling contrast. That is a bit wanting. Again, the only one-year warranty has to be reproached. HP should also improve the idle power consumption. The former model was a showpiece in this aspect.

HP ProBook 450 G3 - 03/03/2016 v5(old)
Sascha Mölck

Chassis
83 / 98 → 85%
Keyboard
83%
Pointing Device
83%
Connectivity
49 / 80 → 61%
Weight
62 / 20-67 → 89%
Battery
83%
Display
78%
Games Performance
56 / 68 → 82%
Application Performance
68 / 92 → 73%
Temperature
90%
Noise
95%
Audio
59%
Camera
40 / 85 → 47%
Average
72%
82%
Office - Weighted Average

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Sascha Mölck, 2015-12- 9 (Update: 2018-05-15)