HP EliteBook 6 G1q 14 is missing one key feature available on most other business laptops

The Snapdragon-powered EliteBook 6 G1q ships with a respectable level of performance and features especially for what is essentially one of the least expensive models in the EliteBook lineup. In fact, it integrates more ports when compared to even the more expensive EliteBook 8 14. The one feature it lacks, however, is an integrated Smart Card reader no matter the configuration or SKU.

As noted in our recent review of the system, the Qualcomm-powered EliteBook 6 G1q 14 cannot be configured with an integrated Smart Card reader even though the AMD and Intel versions of this very same model can. It also lacks support for a discrete GPU whereas the Intel version can be configured with the optional GeForce RTX 3050. The overt lack of a Smart Card option is likely due to the Snapdragon processor itself as it must run Windows ARM instead of the usual x64 which impacts compatibility.

In return, the EliteBook 6 G1q 14 features a much more capable integrated NPU topping out at 45 TOPS compared to less than half on the Intel or AMD variants. The Snapdragon system is therefore faster and more efficient when it comes to running Co-Pilot+, HP Poly Cam Pro, and other AI-accelerated features. The system has its advantages depending on how much or little your office depends on the Smart Card reader.

More benchmark comparisons can be found on our review of the EliteBook 6 G1q 14.