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HP EliteBook 820 G4 (7500U, Full HD) Notebook Review

With stamina. The latest 12.5-inch EliteBook model comes with a Kaby Lake processor, ensuring a significantly better battery life. We also liked the other features: IPS display, NVMe SSD, 16 GB of RAM, and an LTE modem. However, the device has also some weaknesses.

For the original German review, see here.

The models of the EliteBook 8X0 series are premium business notebooks. With the EliteBook 820 G4, we have the latest 12.5-inch model of the series at hand. It looks the same as its predecessor, the EliteBook 820 G3. Changes can be found inside: Skylake has been replaced by Kaby Lake. The price is well over 1000 Euros (~$1053). Hence, buyers can expect high-end materials, excellent build quality, and very good components. The latter is often missing: For example, the displays used are often not appropriate in view of the price. Our review will reveal whether this is also true of our test model. The EliteBook competes with devices such as the Dell Latitude 12 E7270, the Lenovo ThinkPad X260, and the Toshiba Portégé Z30-C.

HP EliteBook 820 G4 Z2V72ET (EliteBook 820 Series)
Processor
Intel Core i7-7500U 2 x 2.7 - 3.5 GHz, Kaby Lake
Graphics adapter
Intel HD Graphics 620, Core: 1000 MHz, Single-Channel, 21.20.16.4541
Memory
16 GB 
, DDR4-2400, Single-Channel, two RAM slots (one slot used)
Display
12.50 inch 16:9, 1920 x 1080 pixel 176 PPI, Chi Mei, IPS, glossy: no
Mainboard
Intel Kaby Lake-U Premium PCH
Storage
Samsung PM951 NVMe MZVLV512, 512 GB 
, 430 GB free
Soundcard
Conexant
Connections
3 USB 3.0 / 3.1 Gen1, 1 VGA, 1 DisplayPort, 1 Kensington Lock, 1 Docking Station Port, Audio Connections: audio combo, Card Reader: SD, 1 SmartCard, 1 Fingerprint Reader, Brightness Sensor, TPM 2.0
Networking
Intel Ethernet Connection I219-V (10/100/1000MBit/s), Intel Dual Band Wireless-AC 8265 (a/b/g/n = Wi-Fi 4/ac = Wi-Fi 5/), Bluetooth 4.2, HP lt4120 Snapdragon X$ LTE, LTE, GPS
Size
height x width x depth (in mm): 18.9 x 310 x 218.9 ( = 0.74 x 12.2 x 8.62 in)
Battery
49 Wh, 4250 mAh Lithium-Ion, 11.55 V
Operating System
Microsoft Windows 10 Pro 64 Bit
Camera
Webcam: HD
Additional features
Speakers: Stereo, Keyboard: Chiclet, Keyboard Light: yes, Microsoft Office 365 (trial), 36 Months Warranty
Weight
1.26 kg ( = 44.45 oz / 2.78 pounds), Power Supply: 296 g ( = 10.44 oz / 0.65 pounds)
Price
2099 Euro
Note: The manufacturer may use components from different suppliers including display panels, drives or memory sticks with similar specifications.

 

Case

HP has adopted the case of the EliteBook 820 G3 without any changes. The lid and the top side of the base unit are silver-colored while the underside and the display frame are black. The subnotebook lacks a maintenance hatch. In order to get to the hardware components, you will need to remove the underside. We will discuss this later. The battery is fixed.

The case of the EliteBook is made of stable magnesium alloy. The base unit proved to be quite pressure resistant. A lot of force is required in order to dent it. In addition, it does not twist. The lid can be twisted to a small extent, but the display does not show any image distortions. Furthermore, pressure against the lid does also not cause any image distortions. The build quality is beyond reproach: The gaps are even and you cannot find protruding material and/or sharp edges anywhere. The hinges hold the display securely. They teeter only slightly if at all. It is possible to open the lid with one hand. The maximum opening angle is about 140 degrees.

All things considered, the EliteBook is on par with its competitors in terms of size and weight.

Size Comparison

316 mm / 12.4 inch 227 mm / 8.94 inch 17.9 mm / 0.705 inch 1.2 kg2.69 lbs311 mm / 12.2 inch 219 mm / 8.62 inch 18.9 mm / 0.744 inch 1.3 kg2.82 lbs311 mm / 12.2 inch 218.9 mm / 8.62 inch 18.9 mm / 0.744 inch 1.3 kg2.78 lbs310 mm / 12.2 inch 218.9 mm / 8.62 inch 18.9 mm / 0.744 inch 1.3 kg2.78 lbs310 mm / 12.2 inch 215 mm / 8.46 inch 18 mm / 0.709 inch 1.4 kg3.05 lbs305.5 mm / 12 inch 208.5 mm / 8.21 inch 20.3 mm / 0.799 inch 1.4 kg3.17 lbs297 mm / 11.7 inch 210 mm / 8.27 inch 1 mm / 0.03937 inch 5.7 g0.01257 lbs

Connectivity

The interfaces have also remained unchanged compared with the EliteBook 820 G3. Apart from a DisplayPort, it still features a VGA out. The three USB ports (2x Type-A, 1x Type-C) use the USB 3.1 Gen-1 standard. In addition, the computer delivers a docking port, which allows connecting proprietary HP docking stations. The interface layout is alright. The space beside the palm rest usually remains free of cables.

left: security lock slot, VGA out, USB 3.0 (Type-A), Smartcard reader
left: security lock slot, VGA out, USB 3.0 (Type-A), Smartcard reader
right: USB 3.1 Gen 1 (Type-C), Displayport, audio combo, USB 3.0 (Type-A), memory card reader (SD), Gigabit Ethernet, docking port, SIM card slot, power-in
right: USB 3.1 Gen 1 (Type-C), Displayport, audio combo, USB 3.0 (Type-A), memory card reader (SD), Gigabit Ethernet, docking port, SIM card slot, power-in

SD Card Reader

The built-in card reader is one of the faster representatives of its kind. It achieves a maximum transfer rate of 86.6 MB/s when copying large data blocks. Moving 250 jpg files (about 5 MP each) is done at 77.8 MB/s. Therefore, the card reader is on par with the models in most competitors. Only the Dell Latitude 12 E7270 achieves significantly higher transfer rates. We test memory card readers with a reference card (Toshiba Exceria Pro SDXC 64 GB UHS-II).

SD Card Reader
average JPG Copy Test (av. of 3 runs)
Dell Latitude 12 E7270
 
130.5 MB/s +68%
HP EliteBook 820 G4 Z2V72ET
 
77.8 MB/s
HP EliteBook 820 G3
 
73.7 MB/s -5%
Toshiba Portege Z30-C-138
 
73.3 MB/s -6%
Lenovo ThinkPad X260-20F6007RGE
 
63.2 MB/s -19%
HP EliteBook 725 G3-P4T48EA
 
54.2 MB/s -30%
maximum AS SSD Seq Read Test (1GB)
Dell Latitude 12 E7270
 
202.6 MB/s +134%
HP EliteBook 820 G3
 
86.9 MB/s 0%
HP EliteBook 820 G4 Z2V72ET
 
86.6 MB/s
Toshiba Portege Z30-C-138
 
85.8 MB/s -1%
Lenovo ThinkPad X260-20F6007RGE
 
83.5 MB/s -4%
HP EliteBook 725 G3-P4T48EA
 
81.8 MB/s -6%

Communication

HP has equipped the EliteBook with a Wi-Fi module from Intel (Dual Band Wireless-AC 8265). Not only does it support the 802.11 a/b/g/n Wi-Fi standards, it also supports the fast ac standard (2.4 and 5 GHz). The transfer rates, which we recorded under ideal conditions (no other Wi-Fi devices close by, short distance between notebook and server PC), are very good. The Gigabit Ethernet chip (I219-V) also stems from Intel. It works flawlessly.

There is no shortage in terms of networking options. The computer also has an LTE modem on board. The SIM card slot sits on the right side of the case and allows comfortable insertion or replacement of SIM cards.

Wi-Fi module
Wi-Fi module
LTE modem
LTE modem
Networking
iperf3 transmit AX12
HP EliteBook 820 G4 Z2V72ET
Intel Dual Band Wireless-AC 8265 (jseb)
474 MBit/s
iperf3 receive AX12
HP EliteBook 820 G4 Z2V72ET
Intel Dual Band Wireless-AC 8265 (jseb)
506 MBit/s
iperf Client (transmit) TCP 1 m
Apple MacBook 12 (Early 2016) 1.1 GHz
Broadcom 802.11ac
397 MBit/s
iperf Server (receive) TCP 1 m
Apple MacBook 12 (Early 2016) 1.1 GHz
Broadcom 802.11ac
570 MBit/s

Security

Since it is a business notebook, the device delivers many security features as a matter of course. For example, it comes with a Trusted Platform Module (2.0). There is a smartcard reader as well as a fingerprint reader for biometric access control. In addition, HP's security software (HP Client Security) is pre-installed.

Web Cam

The web cam produces images with a maximum resolution of 1280x720 pixels. It is obvious that the images lack sharpness. Positive: The camera even produces quite bright images in low-light scenarios.

Accessories

Apart from usual documents (quick start guide, warranty information), the computer does not include any accessories. However, HP has optional accessories in its line-up. The docking station might be the most interesting. The HP 2013 UltraSlim docking station can be connected to the EliteBook's docking port. It costs about 120 Euros (~$126). Due to the fact that the docking port is also compatible with the predecessor models, you can continue using an existing docking station. As an alternative, HP also offers several USB docking stations.

HP 2013 UltraSlim
HP 2013 UltraSlim
HP 2013 UltraSlim
HP 2013 UltraSlim

Maintenance

In order to get to the innards of the EliteBook, you will have to remove the underside - a feasible undertaking. In order to do so, you will have to remove all the screws on the underside of the computer. Before you can do so, the rubber stoppers covering the screws have to be removed. These are only plugged and not glued. Another screw is in the memory card reader slot. You can reach it after taking the dummy out. Afterwards, the underside can be taken off and you can get access to the two RAM slots, the SSD, the battery, the LTE modem, the Wi-Fi module, and the fan.

Innards
Innards

Warranty

The EliteBook includes a three-year warranty, including pick-up service. Coverage and duration can be extended. HP offers many options, for example a five-year warranty with on-site service on the next working day for about 320 Euros (~$337).

Please see our Guarantees, Return Policies and Warranties FAQ for country-specific information.

Several warranty extension are available.
Several warranty extension are available.

Input Devices

Keyboard

We are already familiar with the splash-proof Chiclet keyboard from the EliteBook 820 G3. It features a backlight, which can be controlled via a function key. Two brightness levels are available. The smooth keys feature a short travel and a crisp pressure point. During typing, the central part of the keyboard, right beside the TrackPoint yields visibly. Hence, the pressure point is slightly more spongy there. However, this can be viewed as nit-picking on a high level. Overall, HP delivers a well-made keyboard, which is also suitable for prolific writers.

Touchpad and TrackPoint

The multi-touch capable touchpad of the computer occupies about 8.2 x 4.6 cm (~3.2 x 1.8 in). Hence, the space for gesture control is quite limited. Fingers glide easily on the smooth surface. The pad is even responsive in the corners. It can be enabled and disabled by double clicking the upper left corner. An LED indicates the state. There are two separate mouse buttons in front of the pad. They feature a medium travel and a crisp pressure point. Two additional mouse buttons sit above the touchpad. These are primarily meant for use with the TrackPoint. The TrackPoint appears to be good and allows quite a precise cursor control.

Input devices
Input devices

Display

Pixel grid
Pixel grid

The matte 12.5-inch screen features a native resolution of 1920x1080 pixels. Brightness (304 cd/m2) and contrast (1124:1) are pleasing. We can seldom say this about displays in HP business notebooks. Positive: The display never shows PWM flickering.

Apart from the Full HD display in our test model, the maintenance guide of the computer also lists two other display models: a Full HD touchscreen and an HD display (1366x768 pixels). Most probably, the latter is identical to the one used in our EliteBook 820 G3 test model - dark, low-contrast display with narrow viewing angles.

282
cd/m²
316
cd/m²
320
cd/m²
288
cd/m²
326
cd/m²
324
cd/m²
265
cd/m²
303
cd/m²
312
cd/m²
Distribution of brightness
Chi Mei tested with X-Rite i1Pro 2
Maximum: 326 cd/m² (Nits) Average: 304 cd/m² Minimum: 15.5 cd/m²
Brightness Distribution: 81 %
Center on Battery: 328 cd/m²
Contrast: 1124:1 (Black: 0.29 cd/m²)
ΔE Color 6.49 | 0.5-29.43 Ø5
ΔE Greyscale 6.16 | 0.57-98 Ø5.3
65% sRGB (Argyll 1.6.3 3D)
42% AdobeRGB 1998 (Argyll 1.6.3 3D)
46.04% AdobeRGB 1998 (Argyll 2.2.0 3D)
65.5% sRGB (Argyll 2.2.0 3D)
44.45% Display P3 (Argyll 2.2.0 3D)
Gamma: 2.32
HP EliteBook 820 G4 Z2V72ET
IPS, 1920x1080, 12.50
HP EliteBook 820 G3
TN LED, 1366x768, 12.50
HP EliteBook 725 G3-P4T48EA
TN LED, 1366x768, 12.50
Lenovo ThinkPad X260-20F6007RGE
IPS, 1920x1080, 12.50
Toshiba Portege Z30-C-138
IPS, 1920x1080, 13.30
Dell Latitude 12 E7270
IPS LED, 1920x1080, 12.50
Apple MacBook 12 (Early 2016) 1.1 GHz
IPS, 2304x1440, 12.00
Display
-12%
7%
1%
52%
-11%
48%
Display P3 Coverage
44.45
38.9
-12%
47.15
6%
44.71
1%
67.9
53%
39.7
-11%
66.8
50%
sRGB Coverage
65.5
58.5
-11%
71
8%
66.1
1%
98
50%
59.2
-10%
95.4
46%
AdobeRGB 1998 Coverage
46.04
40.2
-13%
48.71
6%
46.23
0%
69.8
52%
41.07
-11%
68
48%
Response Times
-39%
-18%
1%
-14%
-11%
-18%
Response Time Grey 50% / Grey 80% *
35 ?(16, 19)
58 ?(24.8, 33.2)
-66%
50 ?(27, 23)
-43%
32.8 ?(15.6, 17.2)
6%
42 ?(18, 24)
-20%
38.4 ?(17.2, 21.2)
-10%
41.2 ?(15.6, 25.6)
-18%
Response Time Black / White *
26 ?(7, 19)
29.2 ?(12, 17.2)
-12%
24 ?(20, 4)
8%
27.2 ?(12.4, 14.8)
-5%
28 ?(7, 21)
-8%
28.8 ?(10.8, 18)
-11%
30.4 ?(6.8, 23.6)
-17%
PWM Frequency
217 ?(40)
Screen
-33%
-24%
4%
13%
-12%
26%
Brightness middle
326
244
-25%
241
-26%
337
3%
300
-8%
353
8%
387
19%
Brightness
304
240
-21%
240
-21%
322
6%
280
-8%
334
10%
358
18%
Brightness Distribution
81
84
4%
83
2%
91
12%
87
7%
91
12%
88
9%
Black Level *
0.29
0.6
-107%
0.54
-86%
0.32
-10%
0.31
-7%
0.47
-62%
0.47
-62%
Contrast
1124
407
-64%
446
-60%
1053
-6%
968
-14%
751
-33%
823
-27%
Colorchecker dE 2000 *
6.49
9
-39%
8.04
-24%
5.71
12%
4.9
24%
7.79
-20%
1.6
75%
Colorchecker dE 2000 max. *
15.95
15.73
1%
13.9
13%
15.39
4%
8.91
44%
15.19
5%
4
75%
Greyscale dE 2000 *
6.16
9.48
-54%
9.52
-55%
5.15
16%
6.69
-9%
7.38
-20%
1
84%
Gamma
2.32 95%
2.44 90%
2.42 91%
2.38 92%
2.33 94%
2.43 91%
2.26 97%
CCT
7575 86%
11116 58%
11362 57%
6881 94%
6487 100%
6158 106%
6680 97%
Color Space (Percent of AdobeRGB 1998)
42
37.18
-11%
45.03
7%
42.38
1%
63
50%
37.72
-10%
61.6
47%
Color Space (Percent of sRGB)
65
58.63
-10%
71.12
9%
65.62
1%
98
51%
58.87
-9%
82.2
26%
Total Average (Program / Settings)
-28% / -29%
-12% / -17%
2% / 3%
17% / 17%
-11% / -11%
19% / 25%

* ... smaller is better

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.

EliteBook vs. sRGB
EliteBook vs. sRGB
EliteBook vs. AdobeRGB
EliteBook vs. AdobeRGB

The colors are quite good out-of-the-box. For example, the DeltaE 2000 color shift is 6.49. A value lower than 3 would be desirable. A slight blue tint is visible. Calibration can help here. It decreases the color shift to 4.22 and the blue tint disappears. In addition, gray scales become significantly more balanced. The display cannot cover AdobeRGB and sRGB. The coverage is 65% (sRGB) and 42% (sRGB), respectively.

The colors can be improved with the color profile that we provide, which has been created in our calibration. Please note: the display model (manufacturer + model number) has to be the same as in our test model. Otherwise, colors can turn out even worse. Often, displays from different manufacturers are used within a notebook model series.

CalMAN - Color Checker
CalMAN - Color Checker
CalMAN - Grayscales
CalMAN - Grayscales
CalMAN - Color Saturation
CalMAN - Color Saturation
CalMAN - Color Checker (calibrated)
CalMAN - Color Checker (calibrated)
CalMAN - Grayscales (calibrated)
CalMAN - Grayscales (calibrated)
CalMAN - Color Saturation (calibrated)
CalMAN - Color Saturation (calibrated)

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
26 ms ... rise ↗ and fall ↘ combined↗ 7 ms rise
↘ 19 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. » 57 % 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
35 ms ... rise ↗ and fall ↘ combined↗ 16 ms rise
↘ 19 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. » 42 % of all devices are better.
This means that the measured response time is similar to the average of all tested devices (33.9 ms).

HP has used a viewing-angle-stable IPS panel in the EliteBook. Thus, it is possible to read from the screen from every position. The subnotebook can be used outdoors. However, the sun should not shine too brightly.

Outdoor use (direct sun)
Outdoor use (direct sun)
Outdoor use (direct sun; different viewing angle)
Outdoor use (direct sun; different viewing angle)
Outdoor use (sun behind the device)
Outdoor use (sun behind the device)
Viewing angles
Viewing angles

Performance

The EliteBook 820 G4 is one of the premium 12.5-inch business notebooks. The used Kaby Lake processors deliver more than enough performance for all usual fields of applications. The computer comes with typical business features such as a docking port and TPM. Even an LTE modem is on board. At the time of testing, the notebook cost between 1900 and 2000 Euros (~$2001 and ~$2106). Other configurations are available. The cheapest model currently costs just under 1400 Euros (~$1474).

CPU-Z
CPU-Z
CPU-Z
CPU-Z
CPU-Z
GPU-Z
HWInfo
LatencyMon

Processor

The EliteBook features an Intel Core i7-7500U (Kaby Lake) dual core processor. This is one of the most powerful ULV CPUs (TDP: 15-watt), which Intel currently has in its line-up. The processor should be more than enough for most user requirements. Those who want to save money can buy an EliteBook model with a Core i5-7200U processor. It brings a slightly lower maximum performance in favor of a significantly lower price.

The used Core i7 processor works at a base clock of 2.7 GHz. Thanks to Turbo, the clock rate can increase to up to 3.5 GHz (both cores). Thus, the 7500U clocks 200 to 400 MHz higher than its Skylake predecessor (Core i7-6500U). The higher clock rates are responsible for the better performance in the CPU tests. In terms of technology, Kaby Lake and Skylake do not differ. Effectively, Kaby Lake is an optimized Skylake.

However, the performance gain is lower than possible in the Multithread tests. The reason is quickly found: The clock rate quickly falls to 3 GHz during the multi-thread tests. The CPU works at 3.5 GHz in the single thread tests.

Single Thread
Single Thread
Multithread
Multithread
The CPU is soldered.
The CPU is soldered.
Cinebench R10 Shading 32Bit
7819
Cinebench R10 Rendering Multiple CPUs 32Bit
11385
Cinebench R10 Rendering Single 32Bit
5601
Cinebench R11.5 OpenGL 64Bit
23.21 fps
Cinebench R11.5 CPU Multi 64Bit
3.66 Points
Cinebench R11.5 CPU Single 64Bit
1.65 Points
Cinebench R15 Ref. Match 64Bit
97.7 %
Cinebench R15 OpenGL 64Bit
23.86 fps
Cinebench R15 CPU Multi 64Bit
329 Points
Cinebench R15 CPU Single 64Bit
139 Points
Help
Cinebench R15
CPU Single 64Bit
HP EliteBook 820 G4 Z2V72ET
Intel Core i7-7500U
139 Points
Lenovo ThinkPad X260-20F6007RGE
Intel Core i7-6500U
128 Points -8%
Dell Latitude 12 E7270
Intel Core i5-6300U
124 Points -11%
HP EliteBook 820 G3
Intel Core i5-6300U
123 Points -12%
Apple MacBook 12 (Early 2016) 1.1 GHz
Intel Core m3-6Y30
91 Points -35%
Apple MacBook 12 (Early 2016) 1.1 GHz
Intel Core m3-6Y30
90 Points -35%
Toshiba Portege Z30-C-138
Intel Core i7-6500U
84 Points -40%
HP EliteBook 725 G3-P4T48EA
AMD Pro A10-8700B
70 Points -50%
CPU Multi 64Bit
HP EliteBook 820 G4 Z2V72ET
Intel Core i7-7500U
329 Points
Lenovo ThinkPad X260-20F6007RGE
Intel Core i7-6500U
324 Points -2%
HP EliteBook 820 G3
Intel Core i5-6300U
311 Points -5%
Dell Latitude 12 E7270
Intel Core i5-6300U
311 Points -5%
Toshiba Portege Z30-C-138
Intel Core i7-6500U
288 Points -12%
Apple MacBook 12 (Early 2016) 1.1 GHz
Intel Core m3-6Y30
218 Points -34%
HP EliteBook 725 G3-P4T48EA
AMD Pro A10-8700B
192 Points -42%
Cinebench R11.5
CPU Single 64Bit
HP EliteBook 820 G4 Z2V72ET
Intel Core i7-7500U
1.65 Points
Lenovo ThinkPad X260-20F6007RGE
Intel Core i7-6500U
1.47 Points -11%
Dell Latitude 12 E7270
Intel Core i5-6300U
1.42 Points -14%
Apple MacBook 12 (Early 2016) 1.1 GHz
Intel Core m3-6Y30
1 Points -39%
Apple MacBook 12 (Early 2016) 1.1 GHz
Intel Core m3-6Y30
0.95 Points -42%
HP EliteBook 725 G3-P4T48EA
AMD Pro A10-8700B
0.82 Points -50%
CPU Multi 64Bit
HP EliteBook 820 G4 Z2V72ET
Intel Core i7-7500U
3.66 Points
Lenovo ThinkPad X260-20F6007RGE
Intel Core i7-6500U
3.57 Points -2%
Dell Latitude 12 E7270
Intel Core i5-6300U
3.47 Points -5%
Apple MacBook 12 (Early 2016) 1.1 GHz
Intel Core m3-6Y30
2.35 Points -36%
Apple MacBook 12 (Early 2016) 1.1 GHz
Intel Core m3-6Y30
2.29 Points -37%
HP EliteBook 725 G3-P4T48EA
AMD Pro A10-8700B
2.29 Points -37%
Geekbench 3
32 Bit Single-Core Score
HP EliteBook 820 G4 Z2V72ET
Intel Core i7-7500U
3234 Points
Lenovo ThinkPad X260-20F6007RGE
Intel Core i7-6500U
2956 Points -9%
HP EliteBook 725 G3-P4T48EA
AMD Pro A10-8700B
950 Points -71%
32 Bit Multi-Core Score
HP EliteBook 820 G4 Z2V72ET
Intel Core i7-7500U
7216 Points
Lenovo ThinkPad X260-20F6007RGE
Intel Core i7-6500U
6395 Points -11%
HP EliteBook 725 G3-P4T48EA
AMD Pro A10-8700B
2728 Points -62%
Geekbench 4.0
64 Bit Single-Core Score
HP EliteBook 820 G4 Z2V72ET
Intel Core i7-7500U
4046 Points
64 Bit Multi-Core Score
HP EliteBook 820 G4 Z2V72ET
Intel Core i7-7500U
7671 Points
JetStream 1.1 - Total Score
HP EliteBook 820 G4 Z2V72ET
Intel Core i7-7500U
242.4 Points
Toshiba Portege Z30-C-138
Intel Core i7-6500U
220 Points -9%
Lenovo ThinkPad X260-20F6007RGE
Intel Core i7-6500U
217.3 Points -10%
Dell Latitude 12 E7270
Intel Core i5-6300U
210.7 Points -13%
HP EliteBook 820 G3
Intel Core i5-6300U
188 Points -22%
Apple MacBook 12 (Early 2016) 1.1 GHz
Intel Core m3-6Y30
143 Points -41%
Apple MacBook 12 (Early 2016) 1.1 GHz
Intel Core m3-6Y30
130.7 Points -46%
HP EliteBook 725 G3-P4T48EA
AMD Pro A10-8700B
111.2 Points -54%
HP EliteBook 725 G3-P4T48EA
AMD Pro A10-8700B
66.4 Points -73%

System Performance

Our test model is not lacking in performance. A lightning fast SSD and a powerful processor ensure a responsive system. Applications are quickly loaded and Windows 10 is ready for use in a very short time. The subjective impression is emphasized by very good results in the PC Mark benchmarks. It is possible to improve the performance slightly. Adding a second RAM module will activate dual channel mode.

Two RAM slots are available.
Two RAM slots are available.
PCMark 7 Score
5376 points
PCMark 8 Home Score Accelerated v2
3660 points
PCMark 8 Creative Score Accelerated v2
4631 points
PCMark 8 Work Score Accelerated v2
4824 points
Help
PCMark 8
Home Score Accelerated v2
HP EliteBook 820 G4 Z2V72ET
HD Graphics 620, i7-7500U, Samsung PM951 NVMe MZVLV512
3660 Points
Dell Latitude 12 E7270
HD Graphics 520, 6300U, Liteon L8H-256V2G
3420 Points -7%
HP EliteBook 820 G3
HD Graphics 520, 6300U, Samsung SM951 MZVPV256HDGL m.2 PCI-e
3400 Points -7%
Lenovo ThinkPad X260-20F6007RGE
HD Graphics 520, 6500U, Liteonit LCH-512V2S
3284 Points -10%
Toshiba Portege Z30-C-138
HD Graphics 520, 6500U, Toshiba HG6 THNSNJ512G8NY
3271 Points -11%
HP EliteBook 725 G3-P4T48EA
Radeon R6 (Carrizo), Pro A10-8700B, Hitachi Travelstar Z7K500 HTS725050A7E630
2706 Points -26%
Apple MacBook 12 (Early 2016) 1.1 GHz
HD Graphics 515, 6Y30, Apple SSD AP0256
2550 Points -30%
Work Score Accelerated v2
HP EliteBook 820 G4 Z2V72ET
HD Graphics 620, i7-7500U, Samsung PM951 NVMe MZVLV512
4824 Points
HP EliteBook 820 G3
HD Graphics 520, 6300U, Samsung SM951 MZVPV256HDGL m.2 PCI-e
4581 Points -5%
Dell Latitude 12 E7270
HD Graphics 520, 6300U, Liteon L8H-256V2G
4395 Points -9%
Lenovo ThinkPad X260-20F6007RGE
HD Graphics 520, 6500U, Liteonit LCH-512V2S
4341 Points -10%
HP EliteBook 725 G3-P4T48EA
Radeon R6 (Carrizo), Pro A10-8700B, Hitachi Travelstar Z7K500 HTS725050A7E630
3691 Points -23%
Apple MacBook 12 (Early 2016) 1.1 GHz
HD Graphics 515, 6Y30, Apple SSD AP0256
3550 Points -26%

Storage Devices

It is possible to replace the SSD.
It is possible to replace the SSD.

HP has equipped our test model with one of the fastest SSDs offered for the EliteBook. It is an NVMe model (M.2 2280) from Samsung with a total capacity of 512 GB. About 430 GB is available to the user. The rest is used by the Windows installation and the recovery partition. The transfer rates are significantly better than those of SATA III SSDs. The connection of the used NVMe SSD via PCI Express x4 allows significantly higher transfer rates than the SATA III standard. However, we have already come across faster NVMe SSDs.

The EliteBook can also be equipped with a 2.5-inch drive instead of an M.2 SSD. A compatible slot is available. However, the necessary drive bracket is missing and has to be bought separately in the HP shop for replacement parts.

Samsung PM951 NVMe MZVLV512
Sequential Read: 1315 MB/s
Sequential Write: 594 MB/s
512K Read: 661 MB/s
512K Write: 594 MB/s
4K Read: 42.87 MB/s
4K Write: 151.6 MB/s
4K QD32 Read: 568 MB/s
4K QD32 Write: 491.7 MB/s
HP EliteBook 820 G4 Z2V72ET
Samsung PM951 NVMe MZVLV512
HP EliteBook 820 G3
Samsung SM951 MZVPV256HDGL m.2 PCI-e
Lenovo ThinkPad X260-20F6007RGE
Liteonit LCH-512V2S
Toshiba Portege Z30-C-138
Toshiba HG6 THNSNJ512G8NY
Dell Latitude 12 E7270
Liteon L8H-256V2G
Apple MacBook 12 (Early 2016) 1.1 GHz
Apple SSD AP0256
CrystalDiskMark 3.0
23%
-44%
-48%
-50%
-29%
Read Seq
1315
1255
-5%
499.6
-62%
518
-61%
498.4
-62%
754
-43%
Write Seq
594
1240
109%
403
-32%
423.3
-29%
286.7
-52%
638
7%
Read 512
661
1131
71%
322.9
-51%
414.8
-37%
616
-7%
Write 512
594
811
37%
372.4
-37%
379.9
-36%
678
14%
Read 4k
42.87
51
19%
27.22
-37%
21.17
-51%
24.89
-42%
14.6
-66%
Write 4k
151.6
134.1
-12%
83.6
-45%
86.3
-43%
88
-42%
20.5
-86%
Read 4k QD32
568
549
-3%
316.5
-44%
227.3
-60%
280.5
-51%
464
-18%
Write 4k QD32
491.7
343.9
-30%
273.1
-44%
174.7
-64%
241.9
-51%
315
-36%

Graphics Card

HP does not offer dedicated graphics cards for the EliteBook. Only integrated solutions from Intel are available. Our test model comes with an HD Graphics 620. It supports DirectX 12 and works at up to 1050 MHz. Our comparison table shows that the CPU performs better than the Skylake predecessor in the 3D Mark benchmarks. Adding a second RAM module will give even better results, since dual channel mode will improve graphic performance.

3DMark 06 Standard Score
7375 points
3DMark 11 Performance
1645 points
3DMark Ice Storm Standard Score
56060 points
3DMark Cloud Gate Standard Score
6084 points
3DMark Fire Strike Score
822 points
3DMark Fire Strike Extreme Score
370 points
Help
3DMark 11 - 1280x720 Performance GPU
HP EliteBook 725 G3-P4T48EA
AMD Radeon R6 (Carrizo), AMD Pro A10-8700B
1767 Points +17%
HP EliteBook 725 G3-P4T48EA
AMD Radeon R6 (Carrizo), AMD Pro A10-8700B
1432 Points -5%
HP EliteBook 820 G4 Z2V72ET
Intel HD Graphics 620, Intel Core i7-7500U
1515 Points
Toshiba Portege Z30-C-138
Intel HD Graphics 520, Intel Core i7-6500U
1377 Points -9%
Dell Latitude 12 E7270
Intel HD Graphics 520, Intel Core i5-6300U
1307 Points -14%
HP EliteBook 820 G3
Intel HD Graphics 520, Intel Core i5-6300U
1280 Points -16%
Lenovo ThinkPad X260-20F6007RGE
Intel HD Graphics 520, Intel Core i7-6500U
1268 Points -16%
Apple MacBook 12 (Early 2016) 1.1 GHz
Intel HD Graphics 515, Intel Core m3-6Y30
1186 Points -22%
3DMark
1280x720 Cloud Gate Standard Graphics
HP EliteBook 820 G4 Z2V72ET
Intel HD Graphics 620, Intel Core i7-7500U
7618 Points
Lenovo ThinkPad X260-20F6007RGE
Intel HD Graphics 520, Intel Core i7-6500U
6287 Points -17%
Dell Latitude 12 E7270
Intel HD Graphics 520, Intel Core i5-6300U
6248 Points -18%
HP EliteBook 820 G3
Intel HD Graphics 520, Intel Core i5-6300U
6131 Points -20%
Apple MacBook 12 (Early 2016) 1.1 GHz
Intel HD Graphics 515, Intel Core m3-6Y30
6078 Points -20%
HP EliteBook 725 G3-P4T48EA
AMD Radeon R6 (Carrizo), AMD Pro A10-8700B
4717 Points -38%
1920x1080 Fire Strike Graphics
HP EliteBook 725 G3-P4T48EA
AMD Radeon R6 (Carrizo), AMD Pro A10-8700B
983 Points +11%
HP EliteBook 725 G3-P4T48EA
AMD Radeon R6 (Carrizo), AMD Pro A10-8700B
769 Points -13%
HP EliteBook 820 G4 Z2V72ET
Intel HD Graphics 620, Intel Core i7-7500U
886 Points
Lenovo ThinkPad X260-20F6007RGE
Intel HD Graphics 520, Intel Core i7-6500U
791 Points -11%
HP EliteBook 820 G3
Intel HD Graphics 520, Intel Core i5-6300U
755 Points -15%
Dell Latitude 12 E7270
Intel HD Graphics 520, Intel Core i5-6300U
748 Points -16%
Apple MacBook 12 (Early 2016) 1.1 GHz
Intel HD Graphics 515, Intel Core m3-6Y30
735 Points -17%

Gaming Performance

Gaming capability is not important for business devices such as the EliteBook. Nevertheless, it is possible to play several games. The performance of the current iGPUs from Intel is sufficient for games with not too high hardware requirements, for example “Overwatch”, “Farming Simulator 2017”, “The Sims 4” and “Dota 2 Reborn”. However, resolution and quality level should not be set to high. Adding a second RAM module (= dual channel mode) would pay off here too and result in higher frame rates.

low med. high ultra
Tomb Raider (2013) 70.3 36.2 21.3 10.4
BioShock Infinite (2013) 41.9 25.9 21.3 6.9
Battlefield 4 (2013) 33 26.9 17.4 6.1

Emissions

System Noise

Fan
Fan

The fan often stands still when the system is idling or under low load and the system falls silent - this is how a work device should behave. When the fan does not stand still, it works at low speed and is not really audible. You have to get closer to the device in order to notice the fan. It does not even get particularly loud under load. We measured a noise level of 35.7 dB(A) during the stress test. Unfortunately, the fan emits a quiet whistling noise. This should not happen in a notebook of this price range. We could not hear this noise during normal use. Occasionally, the EliteBook emits additional noises. If you put your ear close to the device, you can hear a quiet, low-frequency rustling sound from the inside.

Noise Level

Idle
30.7 / 30.7 / 30.7 dB(A)
Load
35.3 / 33.7 dB(A)
  red to green bar
 
 
30 dB
silent
40 dB(A)
audible
50 dB(A)
loud
 
min: dark, med: mid, max: light   Audix TM1, Arta (15 cm distance)   environment noise: 30.7 dB(A)
HP EliteBook 820 G4 Z2V72ET
i7-7500U, HD Graphics 620
HP EliteBook 820 G3
6300U, HD Graphics 520
HP EliteBook 725 G3-P4T48EA
Pro A10-8700B, Radeon R6 (Carrizo)
Lenovo ThinkPad X260-20F6007RGE
6500U, HD Graphics 520
Toshiba Portege Z30-C-138
6500U, HD Graphics 520
Dell Latitude 12 E7270
6300U, HD Graphics 520
Noise
2%
-2%
2%
-10%
4%
off / environment *
30.7
29.2
5%
28.9
6%
29
6%
31.2
-2%
28.9
6%
Idle Minimum *
30.7
29.2
5%
30.5
1%
29
6%
31.2
-2%
28.9
6%
Idle Average *
30.7
29.2
5%
30.5
1%
29
6%
31.2
-2%
28.9
6%
Idle Maximum *
30.7
29.2
5%
30.5
1%
29
6%
31.2
-2%
28.9
6%
Load Average *
35.3
35.6
-1%
38.2
-8%
35.1
1%
43.3
-23%
31.3
11%
Load Maximum *
33.7
37
-10%
38.4
-14%
37.8
-12%
43.3
-28%
37.6
-12%

* ... smaller is better

dB(A) 0102030405060708090Deep BassMiddle BassHigh BassLower RangeMidsHigher MidsLower HighsMid HighsUpper HighsSuper Highs2036.936.633.235.836.92534.236.833.633.334.23132.832.131.932.632.84030.931.331.531.330.95029.230.930.329.929.26329.130.830.931.129.18028.828.428.228.228.810027.227.72828.327.212525.826.326.725.325.816026.125.925.825.626.12002425.125.424.92425023.624.523.523.523.631523.123.922.922.923.140021.52321.821.821.550020.9222220.920.963020.221.321.119.920.280019.622.722.119.319.6100019.224.52318.919.2125018.321.920.718.218.316001823.321.818.218200017.724.522.917.817.7250017.827.724.217.617.8315017.72421.717.617.7400017.521.520.117.617.5500017.721.720.717.617.7630017.720.218.817.817.7800017.919.118.317.817.91000017.918.317.917.717.91250017.718.617.817.517.71600017.918.717.917.717.9SPL30.835.433.730.830.8N1.52.221.51.5median 18.3median 23median 21.8median 18.2median 18.3Delta2.31.71.92.42.3hearing rangehide median Fan NoiseHP EliteBook 820 G4 Z2V72ET

Temperature

the EliteBook during the stress test
the EliteBook during the stress test

The EliteBook behaves differently in our stress test (Prime95 and FurMark run for at least one hour) in mains operation and on battery. In mains operation, the processor works at 1.5 to 1.6 GHz and the graphics core at 900 to 1000 MHz. On battery, the clock rates are 1.4 to 1.8 GHz (CPU) and 450 MHz (GPU). The computer only gets moderately warm. We recorded temperatures of under 40 °C (~104 °F) in all measurement segments.

Although the processor throttles heavily during our stress test, you do not need to be concerned. The CPU uses its Turbo during everyday tasks. Our stress test is an extreme scenario, which will not occur in this form in everyday use.

Max. Load
 36.2 °C
97 F
37 °C
99 F
30.7 °C
87 F
 
 32.1 °C
90 F
33.2 °C
92 F
29.2 °C
85 F
 
 27.8 °C
82 F
27.1 °C
81 F
27.6 °C
82 F
 
Maximum: 37 °C = 99 F
Average: 31.2 °C = 88 F
31.4 °C
89 F
38.9 °C
102 F
34.6 °C
94 F
29.8 °C
86 F
31.2 °C
88 F
30 °C
86 F
27.1 °C
81 F
27.5 °C
82 F
28 °C
82 F
Maximum: 38.9 °C = 102 F
Average: 30.9 °C = 88 F
Power Supply (max.)  34.9 °C = 95 F | Room Temperature 22 °C = 72 F | FIRT 550-Pocket
(+) The average temperature for the upper side under maximal load is 31.2 °C / 88 F, compared to the average of 30.7 °C / 87 F for the devices in the class Subnotebook.
(+) The maximum temperature on the upper side is 37 °C / 99 F, compared to the average of 35.9 °C / 97 F, ranging from 21.4 to 59 °C for the class Subnotebook.
(+) The bottom heats up to a maximum of 38.9 °C / 102 F, compared to the average of 39.4 °C / 103 F
(+) In idle usage, the average temperature for the upper side is 25.7 °C / 78 F, compared to the device average of 30.7 °C / 87 F.
(+) The palmrests and touchpad are cooler than skin temperature with a maximum of 27.8 °C / 82 F and are therefore cool to the touch.
(±) The average temperature of the palmrest area of similar devices was 28.3 °C / 82.9 F (+0.5 °C / 0.9 F).
HP EliteBook 820 G4 Z2V72ET
i7-7500U, HD Graphics 620
HP EliteBook 820 G3
6300U, HD Graphics 520
HP EliteBook 725 G3-P4T48EA
Pro A10-8700B, Radeon R6 (Carrizo)
Lenovo ThinkPad X260-20F6007RGE
6500U, HD Graphics 520
Toshiba Portege Z30-C-138
6500U, HD Graphics 520
Dell Latitude 12 E7270
6300U, HD Graphics 520
Apple MacBook 12 (Early 2016) 1.1 GHz
6Y30, HD Graphics 515
Heat
-9%
-29%
-27%
3%
-27%
-15%
Maximum Upper Side *
37
39.6
-7%
42.8
-16%
47.5
-28%
40.6
-10%
44.3
-20%
39
-5%
Maximum Bottom *
38.9
40.1
-3%
54.3
-40%
43.6
-12%
37
5%
52.6
-35%
44
-13%
Idle Upper Side *
26.3
29.4
-12%
33.2
-26%
34.9
-33%
24.5
7%
32.3
-23%
32
-22%
Idle Bottom *
27
30.6
-13%
36.5
-35%
35.9
-33%
24.9
8%
35.1
-30%
32
-19%

* ... smaller is better

Temperature on the top side (load)
Temperature on the top side (load)
Temperature on the underside (load)
Temperature on the underside (load)
Temperature on the top side (idle)
Temperature on the top side (idle)
Temperature on the underside (idle)
Temperature on the underside (idle)

Speakers

The stereo speakers of the EliteBook sit above the keyboard beneath a perforated cover. They produce a very decent, rich sound, which is nice to listen to for a prolonged period. You can only complain about the low maximum volume.

dB(A) 0102030405060708090Deep BassMiddle BassHigh BassLower RangeMidsHigher MidsLower HighsMid HighsUpper HighsSuper Highs2037.235.837.2253833.3383136.532.636.5403631.3365037.229.937.26339.231.139.28037.828.237.810038.828.338.812538.725.338.716042.125.642.120044.424.944.425046.323.546.331556.222.956.240058.221.858.250058.220.958.26306019.96080059.519.359.5100063.818.963.812505918.259160058.318.258.3200059.517.859.5250064.717.664.731506317.663400064.817.664.8500064.917.664.9630065.617.865.6800067.117.867.11000063.717.763.71250058.217.558.21600057.317.757.3SPL75.130.875.1N35.91.535.9median 59median 18.2median 59Delta6.82.46.835.335.132.931.831.83236.535.132.428.93328.936.328.848.32761.52752.924.860.92462.822.763.32269.521.267.82174.82075.919.472.718.97117.770.117.86917.671.817.668.117.671.417.673.717.670.417.571.617.671.617.669.617.459.717.583.630.662.51.5median 69.6median 17.84.72.4hearing rangehide median Pink NoiseHP EliteBook 820 G4 Z2V72ETApple MacBook 12 (Early 2016) 1.1 GHz
HP EliteBook 820 G4 Z2V72ET audio analysis

(-) | not very loud speakers (66 dB)
Bass 100 - 315 Hz
(±) | reduced bass - on average 14.6% lower than median
(±) | linearity of bass is average (7.6% delta to prev. frequency)
Mids 400 - 2000 Hz
(+) | balanced mids - only 1.1% away from median
(+) | mids are linear (4.7% delta to prev. frequency)
Highs 2 - 16 kHz
(±) | higher highs - on average 5.8% higher than median
(+) | highs are linear (5% delta to prev. frequency)
Overall 100 - 16.000 Hz
(±) | linearity of overall sound is average (17.6% difference to median)
Compared to same class
» 42% of all tested devices in this class were better, 8% similar, 50% worse
» The best had a delta of 5%, average was 19%, worst was 53%
Compared to all devices tested
» 29% of all tested devices were better, 8% similar, 63% worse
» The best had a delta of 4%, average was 25%, worst was 134%

Apple MacBook 12 (Early 2016) 1.1 GHz audio analysis

(+) | speakers can play relatively loud (83.6 dB)
Bass 100 - 315 Hz
(±) | reduced bass - on average 11.3% lower than median
(±) | linearity of bass is average (14.2% delta to prev. frequency)
Mids 400 - 2000 Hz
(+) | balanced mids - only 2.4% away from median
(+) | mids are linear (5.5% delta to prev. frequency)
Highs 2 - 16 kHz
(+) | balanced highs - only 2% away from median
(+) | highs are linear (4.5% delta to prev. frequency)
Overall 100 - 16.000 Hz
(+) | overall sound is linear (10.2% difference to median)
Compared to same class
» 5% of all tested devices in this class were better, 2% similar, 93% worse
» The best had a delta of 5%, average was 19%, worst was 53%
Compared to all devices tested
» 3% of all tested devices were better, 1% similar, 96% worse
» The best had a delta of 4%, average was 25%, worst was 134%

Frequency diagram in comparison (check boxes above can be turned on/off!)

 

 

Energy Management

Power Consumption

As with the Skylake predecessor, the EliteBook 820 G4 is also energy efficient in idle mode. We measured a maximum power consumption of 6.6 watts in this scenario - a very good value. During the stress test, the power consumption only increases to 29 watts, since the CPU throttles heavily in this test. The power adapter is rated at 45 watts.

Power Consumption
Off / Standbydarklight 0.44 / 0.49 Watt
Idledarkmidlight 2.7 / 4.8 / 6.6 Watt
Load midlight 28.5 / 29 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 EliteBook 820 G4 Z2V72ET
i7-7500U, HD Graphics 620
HP EliteBook 820 G3
6300U, HD Graphics 520
HP EliteBook 725 G3-P4T48EA
Pro A10-8700B, Radeon R6 (Carrizo)
Lenovo ThinkPad X260-20F6007RGE
6500U, HD Graphics 520
Toshiba Portege Z30-C-138
6500U, HD Graphics 520
Dell Latitude 12 E7270
6300U, HD Graphics 520
Apple MacBook 12 (Early 2016) 1.1 GHz
6Y30, HD Graphics 515
Power Consumption
-14%
-70%
-19%
-37%
-18%
17%
Idle Minimum *
2.7
3.5
-30%
5.4
-100%
3.5
-30%
3.2
-19%
3.8
-41%
2.7
-0%
Idle Average *
4.8
5.4
-13%
7.5
-56%
5.5
-15%
7.8
-63%
6.7
-40%
2.7
44%
Idle Maximum *
6.6
6.2
6%
13
-97%
6.7
-2%
8.7
-32%
7.2
-9%
7.2
-9%
Load Average *
28.5
27.3
4%
41.2
-45%
28.9
-1%
42.2
-48%
27.2
5%
22
23%
Load Maximum *
29
39.5
-36%
44.7
-54%
42.1
-45%
35.7
-23%
30.2
-4%
20.5
29%

* ... smaller is better

Battery Life

The EliteBook achieves a battery life of 9:26 h on a single charge in our realistic Wi-Fi test. It lasts over three hours longer than its predecessor. We simulate web site browsing via a script. The profile "Balanced" is active, the energy saving options are off and the display brightness is set to approximately 150 cd/m². The battery is empty after 8:52 h (predecessor: 8:15 h) in our video test. For this test, the short film Big Buck Bunny (H.264 coding, 1920x1080 pixels) runs in a loop. The radio modules as well as the energy saving options are disabled; the display brightness is set to 150 cd/m².

The EliteBook 820 G4 performs significantly better than its Skylake predecessor. The maximum battery runtimes are significantly different. It is about 10 hours better. You might assume that HP has drastically increased the battery capacity. This is not true. The battery capacity has increased by only 5 Wh (from 44 to 49 Wh). The longer battery runtimes are primarily due to the Kaby Lake processor.

The battery is rated at 49 Wh.
The battery is rated at 49 Wh.
Battery Runtime
Idle (without WLAN, min brightness)
22h 26min
WiFi Websurfing (Edge 38)
9h 26min
Big Buck Bunny H.264 1080p
8h 52min
Load (maximum brightness)
3h 25min
HP EliteBook 820 G4 Z2V72ET
i7-7500U, HD Graphics 620, 49 Wh
HP EliteBook 820 G3
6300U, HD Graphics 520, 44 Wh
HP EliteBook 725 G3-P4T48EA
Pro A10-8700B, Radeon R6 (Carrizo), 44 Wh
Lenovo ThinkPad X260-20F6007RGE
6500U, HD Graphics 520, 46 Wh
Toshiba Portege Z30-C-138
6500U, HD Graphics 520, 52 Wh
Dell Latitude 12 E7270
6300U, HD Graphics 520, 55 Wh
Apple MacBook 12 (Early 2016) 1.1 GHz
6Y30, HD Graphics 515, 41.4 Wh
Battery Runtime
-28%
-55%
-27%
-39%
-19%
-1%
Reader / Idle
1346
826
-39%
553
-59%
953
-29%
1050
-22%
H.264
532
495
-7%
258
-52%
466
-12%
512
-4%
WiFi v1.3
566
373
-34%
281
-50%
501
-11%
345
-39%
508
-10%
501
-11%
Load
205
144
-30%
83
-60%
92
-55%
153
-25%
231
13%

Pros

+ IPS display
+ Full HD resolution
+ sturdy, well-made chassis
+ good input devices
+ NVMe SSD
+ LTE modem
+ very good battery runtimes
+ three-years warranty

Cons

- A quiet whistling noise becomes audible when the fan rotates at higher speed.
- steep price
- CPU Turbo is not used to maximum under multi-thread load.

Verdict

In review: HP EliteBook 820 G4 Z2V72ET. Test model provided by Notebooksbilliger.de
In review: HP EliteBook 820 G4 Z2V72ET. Test model provided by Notebooksbilliger.de

Even if the HP EliteBook 820 G4 is primarily a Kaby Lake update, it might be interesting for owners of the predecessor. However, this is not due to the low performance gain of Kaby Lake compared to Skylake.

Significantly longer battery runtimes make the computer (more) attractive.

Regardless of the load, the computer remains cool and works quietly most of the time. The latter is true as long as the fan stands still or works at very low speed. Otherwise, you can hear a quiet whistling sound. This should not occur in computers of this price range; even more so as we have already criticized this in the predecessor.

The lightning fast NVMe-SSD ensures a responsive system. It is possible to replace the SSD. This requires removing the underside of the notebook - which does not take too much effort. Case and keyboard have remained unchanged: HP delivers the quality we are used to.

We can seldom say good things about the displays in HP's business notebooks. However, things are different this time: HP has incorporated a bright, contrast-rich, viewing-angle-stable IPS panel. Even the colors are quite decent out-of-the-box.

HP EliteBook 820 G4 Z2V72ET - 02/24/2017 v6(old)
Sascha Mölck

Chassis
91 /  98 → 93%
Keyboard
87%
Pointing Device
89%
Connectivity
63 / 80 → 79%
Weight
72 / 35-78 → 86%
Battery
91%
Display
85%
Games Performance
55 / 68 → 81%
Application Performance
89 / 87 → 100%
Temperature
94 / 91 → 100%
Noise
93%
Audio
64 / 91 → 70%
Camera
40 / 85 → 47%
Average
78%
88%
Subnotebook - Weighted Average

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> Expert Reviews and News on Laptops, Smartphones and Tech Innovations > Reviews > HP EliteBook 820 G4 (7500U, Full HD) Notebook Review
Sascha Mölck, 2017-03- 1 (Update: 2019-04-13)