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HP EliteBook 840 G5 (i5-8250U, SSD, Full HD) Laptop Review

A lot of changes! After HP only gave its business notebook a quick brush-up last year, a lot of changes have been made to the new EliteBook 840. There is the Kaby Lake Refresh processor and a new case redesign. This does not necessarily mean that new is always better. Find out what changes have been made and how the new business companion fares in our set of tests below.

The HP EliteBooks of the 800 series are premium business notebooks that position themselves just below top models such as the HP EliteBook Folio 1040 G4. Today, we will be taking a look at the fifth-generation of the HP EliteBook 840, which has been given a technical and optical overhaul and is quite different from its predecessor, the HP EliteBook 840 G4.  

Our test unit (model number 3JX66EA) is positioned in the center field compared to devices from other manufacturers. It is equipped with an up-to-date Intel Core i5-8250U with 8 GB of RAM, a 256-GB NVMe SSD and a Full HD IPS display. Our test configuration of the HP EliteBook 840 G5 is available for $1400 and also offers many security features, which business devices cannot go without nowadays.  

Alternatively, the device can also be equipped with a faster Intel Core i7-8650U, although this bumps the price up quite a bit. There is another, cheaper version of the HP EliteBook 840 G5 in the configuration with the Intel Core i5-7200U. However, this model offers significantly lower performance compared to eighth-generation chips. There are also different storage device and RAM configurations available. According to the technical specifications, the maximum is a 1-TB SSD and 32 GB of RAM.  

Will these changes suffice to beat the competition? The probably toughest competitor is the Lenovo ThinkPad T480s, which has a similar configuration. All comparison devices, including our test unit's predecessor, can be found in the table below.

HP EliteBook 840 G4 Lenovo ThinkPad T480s Fujitsu LifeBook U747 Dell Latitude 7480 Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Acer TravelMate P648
CPU Intel Core i5-7200U Intel Core i5-8250U Intel Core i5-7200U Intel Core i7-7600U Intel Core i7-8550U Intel Core i7-7500U
GPU Intel HD Graphics 620 Intel UHD Graphics 620 Intel HD Graphics 620 Intel HD Graphics 620 Intel UHD Graphics 620 Intel HD Graphics 620
Display 14-inch 1920 x 1080 (TN) 14- inch 2560 x 1440 (IPS) 14-inch 1920 x 1080(IPS) 14-inch 1920 x 1080 (IPS) 14-inch 2560 x 1440 (IPS) 14-inch 1920 x 1080(IPS)
RAM 8 GB DDR4 8 GB DDR4 8 GB DDR4 8 GB DDR4 16 GB DDR4 8 GB DDR4
Storage 256 GB SSD 512 GB SSD 256 GB SSD 256 GB SSD 512 GB SSD 256 GB SSD
Rating 87% 91% 87% 87% 90% 90%
HP EliteBook 840 G5-3JX66EA (EliteBook 840 G5 Series)
Processor
Intel Core i5-8250U 4 x 1.6 - 3.4 GHz, Kaby Lake Refresh
Graphics adapter
Intel UHD Graphics 620, 23.20.16.4877
Memory
8 GB 
, DDR4-2400, 1 of 2 slots occupied, max. 32 GB
Display
14.00 inch 16:9, 1920 x 1080 pixel 157 PPI, AUO3B3D, IPS, glossy: no
Mainboard
Intel Kaby Lake-U + iHDCP 2.2 Base PCH
Storage
Toshiba XG5 KXG50ZNV256G, 256 GB 
, M.2 2280, SSD, 174 GB free
Soundcard
Conexant ISST Audio
Connections
2 USB 3.0 / 3.1 Gen1, 1 USB 3.1 Gen2, 1 Thunderbolt, 1 HDMI, 1 Kensington Lock, 1 Docking Station Port, Audio Connections: 3.5 mm, 1 SmartCard, 1 Fingerprint Reader
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
Size
height x width x depth (in mm): 17.9 x 326 x 234 ( = 0.7 x 12.83 x 9.21 in)
Battery
50 Wh, 4330 mAh Lithium-Ion
Operating System
Microsoft Windows 10 Pro 64 Bit
Camera
Webcam: HDSecondary Camera: HD-IR
Additional features
Speakers: Stereo, Keyboard: Chiclet, Keyboard Light: yes, power supply, HP Client Security, HP Velocity, HP Sure Click, HP LAN Protection, HP Connection Optimizer, HP JumpStart, HP PhoneWise, HP Noise Cancellation Software, HP 3D DriveGuard, HP ePrint driver + JetAdvantage, HP Hotkey Support, HP Recovery Manager, Bang & Olufs, 36 Months Warranty
Weight
1.541 kg ( = 54.36 oz / 3.4 pounds), Power Supply: 334 g ( = 11.78 oz / 0.74 pounds)
Price
1500 EUR
Note: The manufacturer may use components from different suppliers including display panels, drives or memory sticks with similar specifications.

 

Case - the HP EliteBook in a new look

The elegant silver aluminum case of the HP EliteBook 840 G5 looks very different to its predecessor (HP EliteBook 840 G4). The display cover has a contrasting edge at the top and the new HP logo emphasizes the elegant design. The new EliteBook 840 looks more angular, as the rounded corners at the back of the base have disappeared. The business notebook appears cleaner and of higher quality - both in look and feel. Its perfect workmanship is just as convincing as its stability - you need to apply strong pressure to warp the base unit. The display cover is easier to warp but is still acceptable. The pressure test shows that the case gives way slightly in the center of the base unit, but this is no reason for criticism. We would like to praise the display cover for not showing any waves on the screen under pressure.

Opening the device is quite easy and can be done with one hand. Despite the smooth hinges, the display hardly wobbles when typing. Optically, the HP EliteBook 840 G5 is very convincing and small features such as the webcam cover show that the manufacturer has also paid attention to functionality.

HP EliteBook 840 G5
HP EliteBook 840 G5
HP EliteBook 840 G5
HP EliteBook 840 G5
HP EliteBook 840 G5
HP EliteBook 840 G5
HP EliteBook 840 G5
HP EliteBook 840 G5
HP EliteBook 840 G5
HP EliteBook 840 G5
HP EliteBook 840 G5
HP EliteBook 840 G5
HP EliteBook 840 G5
HP EliteBook 840 G5
HP EliteBook 840 G5
HP EliteBook 840 G5
HP EliteBook 840 G5
HP EliteBook 840 G5
HP EliteBook 840 G5

Size Comparison

Except for the Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Carbon, all comparison devices have very similar footprints. With a width of 32.6 cm (~12.8 in) and a depth of 23.4 cm (~9.1 in), the HP EliteBook 840 G5 does not take up too much space. The device is also relatively slim at 17.9 mm (~7.0 in) and does not appear bulky. The weight of our test unit is average for our comparison devices at about 1.5 kg (~3.3 lbs). The Acer TravelMate P648 is a bit heavier at 1.7 kg (~3.7 lbs). The power supply of the HP EliteBook 840 G5 adds another 334 grams (~11.7 oz) to the package. 

338 mm / 13.3 inch 237 mm / 9.33 inch 18.9 mm / 0.744 inch 1.5 kg3.26 lbs332.6 mm / 13.1 inch 234 mm / 9.21 inch 19 mm / 0.748 inch 1.4 kg3.17 lbs328.7 mm / 12.9 inch 235.5 mm / 9.27 inch 21.2 mm / 0.835 inch 1.7 kg3.75 lbs331 mm / 13 inch 226.8 mm / 8.93 inch 18.45 mm / 0.726 inch 1.4 kg3.01 lbs331 mm / 13 inch 220.9 mm / 8.7 inch 17.05 mm / 0.671 inch 1.5 kg3.34 lbs326 mm / 12.8 inch 234 mm / 9.21 inch 17.9 mm / 0.705 inch 1.5 kg3.4 lbs323.5 mm / 12.7 inch 217.1 mm / 8.55 inch 15.95 mm / 0.628 inch 1.1 kg2.48 lbs297 mm / 11.7 inch 210 mm / 8.27 inch 1 mm / 0.03937 inch 5.7 g0.01257 lbs

Connectivity - HP 840 G5 has USB Type-C but no card reader

The port selection of the HP EliteBook 840 G5 is good and bad at the same time. But let us start with the positive: Finally, the HP EliteBook 840 offers a USB Type-C port, which not only supports image output but can also supply the device with power. The ports are positioned on the sides of the device, although most of them have been placed on the right side. Aside from the already mentioned USB Type-C port, the device also has two conventional USB 3.1 ports (one on each side). The notebook also offers an HDMI port and an Ethernet connector. On the right side you will also find the proprietary docking station port, which enables you to easily connect to all devices at work. There is a Micro-SIM slot, but our test unit does not have a suitable WWAN module.

What we cannot understand is why HP has removed the SD card reader. Devices have sometimes been equipped with a microSD, but even this seems to have been deemed unnecessary here. Other well-known manufacturers have done it before, however - and it works. So the end user is left to fiddle around with adapters - USB ports are still available after all.

Left: Kensington lock, air vents, USB 3.1 Gen 1, SmartCard reader
Left: Kensington lock, air vents, USB 3.1 Gen 1, SmartCard reader
Right: Micro-SIM, combined headphone and microphone jack, USB 3.1 Gen 1, HDMI 1.4b, RJ-45, docking port, Thunderbolt (USB Type-C), power supply
Right: Micro-SIM, combined headphone and microphone jack, USB 3.1 Gen 1, HDMI 1.4b, RJ-45, docking port, Thunderbolt (USB Type-C), power supply
Front: status LEDs
Front: status LEDs
Back: no ports
Back: no ports

Communication

Wi-Fi module and a free WWAN slot
Wi-Fi module and a free WWAN slot

The wireless communication is taken care of by a 2x2 dual-band AC-Wi-Fi module from Intel, which also supports Bluetooth 4.2. During our measurements, which take place in ideal conditions, our test unit managed to attain very good results. We measured an average transfer rate of 523 Mbit/s when sending and 644 Mbit/s when receiving. HP has managed to improve the device's performance compared to its predecessor, and the fifth-generation EliteBook 840 also does well when confronted with its comparison devices. The Ethernet port offers an alternative network connection and can transmit data at up to 1 Gbit/s (sending and receiving). Both network connectors work reliably and we did not encounter any issues during our period of testing.

If you want to use the device to surf while on the go, you will have to add a suitable WWAN module. There is a free space for it next to the Wi-Fi module.

Networking
iperf3 transmit AX12
Average of class Office
  (280 - 1332, n=6, last 2 years)
810 MBit/s +55%
HP EliteBook 840 G5-3JX66EA
Intel Dual Band Wireless-AC 8265
523 MBit/s
Lenovo ThinkPad T480s-20L8S02D00
Intel Dual Band Wireless-AC 8265
519 MBit/s -1%
Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Carbon 2018-20KGS03900
Intel Dual Band Wireless-AC 8265
511 MBit/s -2%
HP EliteBook 840 G4-Z2V49ET ABD
Intel Dual Band Wireless-AC 8265 (jseb)
509 MBit/s -3%
Fujitsu LifeBook U747
Intel Dual Band Wireless-AC 8265
509 MBit/s -3%
Acer TravelMate P648-G2-M-73T0
Intel Dual Band Wireless-AC 7265
509 MBit/s -3%
iperf3 receive AX12
Average of class Office
  (348 - 1690, n=6, last 2 years)
852 MBit/s +32%
Acer TravelMate P648-G2-M-73T0
Intel Dual Band Wireless-AC 7265
688 MBit/s +7%
Fujitsu LifeBook U747
Intel Dual Band Wireless-AC 8265
655 MBit/s +2%
HP EliteBook 840 G5-3JX66EA
Intel Dual Band Wireless-AC 8265
644 MBit/s
Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Carbon 2018-20KGS03900
Intel Dual Band Wireless-AC 8265
633 MBit/s -2%
Lenovo ThinkPad T480s-20L8S02D00
Intel Dual Band Wireless-AC 8265
618 MBit/s -4%
HP EliteBook 840 G4-Z2V49ET ABD
Intel Dual Band Wireless-AC 8265 (jseb)
579 MBit/s -10%

Security

HP Client Security
HP Client Security

Particularly business users rely strongly on their device's security features. Like its predecessor, the HP EliteBook 840 G5 offers a nice selection including a fingerprint reader, a SmartCard reader and the well-known slot for a security lock. Apart from the webcam, the EliteBook 840 G5 also has an infrared camera, which means it supports authentication via face recognition. After an easy setup, a quick look at the login screen will give you immediate access to your Windows account. HP has not only thought of hardware, however, and it has equipped our device with a variety of security programs including HP SureStart and HP Client Security, which enables you to manage all settings relevant to security.

Accessories

HP docking station
HP docking station

Apart from the device itself and its 65-watt power supply, the box only contains the obligatory safety and warranty information. If you would like additional accessories, you will have to purchase these separately. This includes the HP docking station with which you can easily connect the notebook to a good number of peripheral devices. The HP UltraSlim docking station costs another $135.

Maintenance

Maintenance work is relatively easy despite the missing maintenance hatch. Although you have to remove the entire bottom of the base unit, the HP EliteBook 840 G5 does not make this too difficult. We would still recommend using a plastic lever to avoid damaging the base unit. Once the bottom is removed, you can access all the important components. It is also easy to add a WWAN module, as all cables are already in place. Overall, the notebook is quite clearly constructed. Out test unit has a free slot for a second RAM module.

The HP EliteBook 840 G5 without the bottom cover
The HP EliteBook 840 G5 without the bottom cover

Warranty

Buyers will receive a 36-month limited warranty for parts and labor. You can also upgrade to a five-year on-site service (HP Care Pack).

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

Input Devices - comfortable keyboard and a good touchpad

Keyboard

Keyboard of the HP EliteBook 840 G5
Keyboard of the HP EliteBook 840 G5
HP EliteBook 840 G5 (backlit)
HP EliteBook 840 G5 (backlit)

Not only the HP EliteBook 840 G5 has been redesigned - its chiclet keyboard has also been given an overhaul. The keys have a nice size at 16 x 15 mm (~0.6 x 0.59 in) and their matte surface offers enough grip for fast typing. The keyboard still has crisp feedback, which is accompanied by good travel, and it remains protected from drops of water. Unlike Dell or Lenovo, the keys of the HP EliteBook 840 G5 are flat and do not have a conic shape. The arrow keys (up and down) are a little difficult to use and you are more likely to mistype due to their size.

Overall, we are pleased with the keyboard and the lettering is very easy to read. The device is also equipped with white backlighting that can be regulated in two levels. You can adjust the backlighting in the BIOS, by setting a timeout for the keyboard backlighting (5, 10, 30, 60 or 300 seconds). If you do not like timers, you can deactivate the feature. Backlighting can be turned on and off with a key combination. 

Touchpad/PointStick

The touchpad of the HP EliteBook 840 G5
The touchpad of the HP EliteBook 840 G5
The PointStick: A touchpad alternative
The PointStick: A touchpad alternative

The touchpad is higher and wider than its predecessor's was and now measures 11 x 6 cm (4.3 x 2.3 in) while the old version was 10 x 5.5 cm (~3.9 x 2.1 in). For this increase in size, HP had to get rid of the bottom mouse keys, which turns the touchpad into a ClickPad. The input area is smooth and the device reacted precisely to our inputs in all areas - even the corners. The two integrated mouse keys make a quiet clicking noise. The touchpad appears to be of high quality and fits nicely to the device's general impression.

Another feature of the HP EliteBook 840 G5, which the competition from Lenovo and Dell also features, is a point stick. With a little practice, this enables you to navigate quickly. The accompanying plastic keys above the ClickPad appear a little rickety, however. Compared to the overall concept, aluminum keys would have been a better choice.

Display - IPS for the EliteBook 840 G5

Subpixel array
Subpixel array
Low clouding in the top left corner
Low clouding in the top left corner

HP has made only IPS displays available for the HP EliteBook 840 G5, which offer a significant improvement compared to TN panels. If you look at the technical specifications, you can see that EliteBooks will also be available with a touch display. But it is not clear whether this option is limited to certain regions. The matte panel in our test unit comes from AU Optronics and offers a resolution of 1920x1080 pixels. This results in a pixel density of 157 PPI. During our measurements, the screen reached an average brightness of 387 cd/m², which places the HP EliteBook 840 G5 in second place behind the Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Carbon (533 cd/m²). But thanks to its low black value (0.25), the display still offers the best contrast ratio (1656:1).

The brightness distribution is not the best at 87%, but we did not notice any bothersome shadowing which would indicate irregular illumination. We did notice slight clouding in the top left corner, but this does not influence everyday office use. The EliteBook 840 G5 does not use PWM to regulate display brightness - good news.

360
cd/m²
396
cd/m²
384
cd/m²
369
cd/m²
414
cd/m²
391
cd/m²
387
cd/m²
390
cd/m²
396
cd/m²
Distribution of brightness
AUO3B3D tested with X-Rite i1Pro 2
Maximum: 414 cd/m² (Nits) Average: 387.4 cd/m² Minimum: 33.7 cd/m²
Brightness Distribution: 87 %
Center on Battery: 414 cd/m²
Contrast: 1656:1 (Black: 0.25 cd/m²)
ΔE Color 5.5 | 0.5-29.43 Ø5, calibrated: 2.3
ΔE Greyscale 6.4 | 0.57-98 Ø5.3
88.1% sRGB (Argyll 1.6.3 3D)
56.9% AdobeRGB 1998 (Argyll 1.6.3 3D)
61.3% AdobeRGB 1998 (Argyll 2.2.0 3D)
88.2% sRGB (Argyll 2.2.0 3D)
60.2% Display P3 (Argyll 2.2.0 3D)
Gamma: 2.31
HP EliteBook 840 G5-3JX66EA
AUO3B3D, 1920x1080, 14.00
Lenovo ThinkPad T480s-20L8S02D00
LP140QH2-SPB1, 2560x1440, 14.00
Fujitsu LifeBook U747
LG LP140WF3, 1920x1080, 14.00
HP EliteBook 840 G4-Z2V49ET ABD
AUO123D, 1920x1080, 14.00
Dell Latitude 7480
LG Philips LGD0557, 1920x1080, 14.00
Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Carbon 2018-20KGS03900
B140QAN02.0, 2560x1440, 14.00
Acer TravelMate P648-G2-M-73T0
1920x1080, 14.00
Display
18%
2%
-7%
7%
41%
8%
Display P3 Coverage
60.2
72.8
21%
66.1
10%
55.8
-7%
65.4
9%
87.7
46%
67.2
12%
sRGB Coverage
88.2
97.9
11%
84.8
-4%
80.7
-9%
92.3
5%
100
13%
90.8
3%
AdobeRGB 1998 Coverage
61.3
74.1
21%
62
1%
57.7
-6%
65.8
7%
99.9
63%
66.4
8%
Response Times
10%
21%
18%
3%
-25%
16%
Response Time Grey 50% / Grey 80% *
42.4 ?(19.6, 22.8)
38.4 ?(19.6, 18.8)
9%
36 ?(16.4, 19.6)
15%
39 ?(20, 19, Plateau)
8%
40.8 ?(19.2, 21.6)
4%
59.2 ?(28.4, 30.8)
-40%
38 ?(20, 18)
10%
Response Time Black / White *
31.6 ?(18, 13.6)
28.4 ?(15.6, 12.8)
10%
23.2 ?(12.4, 10.8)
27%
23 ?(6, 17, Plateau)
27%
31.2 ?(18.8, 12.4)
1%
34.4 ?(16.4, 18)
-9%
25 ?(14, 11)
21%
PWM Frequency
Screen
-5%
-6%
-54%
6%
30%
-1%
Brightness middle
414
352
-15%
291
-30%
346
-16%
344
-17%
578
40%
275
-34%
Brightness
387
343
-11%
296
-24%
317
-18%
321
-17%
533
38%
253
-35%
Brightness Distribution
87
91
5%
84
-3%
86
-1%
85
-2%
84
-3%
85
-2%
Black Level *
0.25
0.46
-84%
0.32
-28%
0.86
-244%
0.32
-28%
0.38
-52%
0.25
-0%
Contrast
1656
765
-54%
909
-45%
402
-76%
1075
-35%
1521
-8%
1100
-34%
Colorchecker dE 2000 *
5.5
3.3
40%
4.3
22%
8.64
-57%
2.6
53%
1.9
65%
3.49
37%
Colorchecker dE 2000 max. *
9.9
7.3
26%
7.5
24%
13.58
-37%
7.8
21%
3.8
62%
6.77
32%
Colorchecker dE 2000 calibrated *
2.3
0.8
65%
Greyscale dE 2000 *
6.4
5.3
17%
4.3
33%
11.24
-76%
2.6
59%
3
53%
4.91
23%
Gamma
2.31 95%
2.22 99%
2.31 95%
2.62 84%
2.28 96%
2.14 103%
2.39 92%
CCT
7811 83%
6452 101%
6529 100%
12530 52%
7050 92%
6377 102%
6271 104%
Color Space (Percent of AdobeRGB 1998)
56.9
68.4
20%
55.46
-3%
52
-9%
65.82
16%
88.8
56%
59
4%
Color Space (Percent of sRGB)
88.1
98
11%
84.77
-4%
80
-9%
92.27
5%
100
14%
91
3%
Total Average (Program / Settings)
8% / 2%
6% / -1%
-14% / -35%
5% / 5%
15% / 25%
8% / 3%

* ... smaller is better

HP EliteBook 840 G5 vs. sRGB (88.1%)
HP EliteBook 840 G5 vs. sRGB (88.1%)
HP EliteBook 840 G5 vs. AdobeRGB (56.9%)
HP EliteBook 840 G5 vs. AdobeRGB (56.9%)

The image quality is acceptable ex-works, but the EliteBook 840 G5 has a significant blue cast. The measured DeltaE 2000 deviation is also way too high. Calibration improves this and reduces the DeltaE 2000 deviation as well as the blue cast. You can find our ICC profile available for download above. The color-space coverage is decent at 88.1% of the sRGB and 56.9% of the AdobeRGB color space. The competition from Dell and Lenovo offers significantly better results. Compared to the HP EliteBook 840 G4, the fifth-generation shows visible improvements.

CalMAN: grayscales (before calibration)
CalMAN: grayscales (before calibration)
CalMAN: ColorChecker (before calibration)
CalMAN: ColorChecker (before calibration)
CalMAN: color saturation (before calibration)
CalMAN: color saturation (before calibration)
CalMAN: grayscales (after calibration)
CalMAN: grayscales (after calibration)
CalMAN: ColorChecker (after calibration)
CalMAN: ColorChecker (after calibration)
CalMAN: color saturation (after calibration)
CalMAN: color saturation (after calibration)
The HP EliteBook 840 G5 under overcast sky
The HP EliteBook 840 G5 under overcast sky

The matte display surface and the good brightness are great conditions for outdoor use. You can use the device outdoors when the sun is shining, although we would recommend finding a spot in the shade. Here, you can work freely as the matte surface prevents bothersome reflections. To be even better equipped for outdoor use, the manufacturer also offers special displays with up to 700 cd/m².

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
31.6 ms ... rise ↗ and fall ↘ combined↗ 18 ms rise
↘ 13.6 ms fall
The screen shows slow response rates in our tests and will be unsatisfactory for gamers.
In comparison, all tested devices range from 0.1 (minimum) to 240 (maximum) ms. » 83 % 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
42.4 ms ... rise ↗ and fall ↘ combined↗ 19.6 ms rise
↘ 22.8 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. » 65 % of all devices are better.
This means that the measured response time is worse than the average of all tested devices (33.9 ms).

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 viewing-angle test of the Full HD panel is very convincing and the test image can be seen very well from almost all angles. There are slight changes in color in the four corner images, but this will not lead to any limitations in everyday use.

Viewing angles of the HP EliteBook 840 G5
Viewing angles of the HP EliteBook 840 G5

Performance - the Core i5-8250U is the minimum

Most users will do fine with the performance that our test configuration can offer. Although HP does have the fifth-generation EliteBook 840 G5 available with the older Intel Core i5-7200U as an entry-level version, we would suggest going for the Intel Core i5-8250U, which our unit is equipped with. The advantage in performance due to the double amount of cores is noticeable even in everyday use. Our 8 GB of RAM is also sufficient and can be expanded to up to 32 GB if necessary. The device has two RAM slots and neither is soldered on. Overall, the components in our test unit work together nicely, which the LatencyMon results confirm.

Processor

Intel Core i5-8250U
Intel Core i5-8250U

The processor is the well-known Intel Core i5-8250U, which is now used in many devices and is the successor of the Intel Core i5-7200U. It has a TDP of 15 watts and has four physical cores that can work up to eight threads simultaneously. The base clock rate is 1.6 GHz and can be overclocked to up to 3.4 GHz depending on the load. The HP EliteBook 840 G5 reaches similar results to the Lenovo ThinkPad T480s in the single-core benchmark but cannot quite keep up with it in our multithread test. This is due to the higher TDP limit. The HP EliteBook 840 G5 still has good results compared to the class average. It is interesting to see the results of the HP EliteBook 840 G4, as this is equipped with the Intel Core i5-7200U. Due to this difference in performance, we would not recommend buying the HP EliteBook 840 G5 equipped with the older i5 processor.

You can find further benchmarks for the Intel Core i5-8250U here.

The good cooling system means that the device can work quickly even under constant load. The HP EliteBook 840 G5 reaches 582 points in the first round of our Cinebench R15 Multi loop. Due to the perpetual thermal load, the results drop continuously over the next 10 rounds, until they settle down to around 505 points. This equates to a loss in performance of 13%, which is still acceptable.

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Cinebench R15 CPU Multi 64 Bit
Cinebench R15
CPU Single 64Bit
Average of class Office
  (82.6 - 284, n=118, last 2 years)
215 Points +50%
Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Carbon 2018-20KGS03900
Intel Core i7-8550U
168 Points +17%
Dell Latitude 7480
Intel Core i7-7600U
162 Points +13%
Lenovo ThinkPad T480s-20L8S02D00
Intel Core i5-8250U
143 Points 0%
HP EliteBook 840 G5-3JX66EA
Intel Core i5-8250U
143 Points
Acer TravelMate P648-G2-M-73T0
Intel Core i7-7500U
142 Points -1%
Average Intel Core i5-8250U
  (81 - 147, n=97)
141.1 Points -1%
Fujitsu LifeBook U747
Intel Core i5-7200U
130 Points -9%
HP EliteBook 840 G4-Z2V49ET ABD
Intel Core i5-7200U
119 Points -17%
CPU Multi 64Bit
Average of class Office
  (160.8 - 2642, n=120, last 2 years)
1380 Points +137%
Lenovo ThinkPad T480s-20L8S02D00
Intel Core i5-8250U
724 Points +24%
Lenovo ThinkPad T480s-20L8S02D00
Intel Core i5-8250U
716 Points +23%
Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Carbon 2018-20KGS03900
Intel Core i7-8550U
708 Points +21%
Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Carbon 2018-20KGS03900
Intel Core i7-8550U
648 Points +11%
HP EliteBook 840 G5-3JX66EA
Intel Core i5-8250U
583 Points
Average Intel Core i5-8250U
  (320 - 730, n=101)
570 Points -2%
Dell Latitude 7480
Intel Core i7-7600U
343 Points -41%
Acer TravelMate P648-G2-M-73T0
Intel Core i7-7500U
341.4 Points -41%
Fujitsu LifeBook U747
Intel Core i5-7200U
331 Points -43%
HP EliteBook 840 G4-Z2V49ET ABD
Intel Core i5-7200U
329 Points -44%
Cinebench R11.5
CPU Single 64Bit
Average of class Office
  (0.99 - 2.97, n=12, last 2 years)
2.31 Points +41%
Dell Latitude 7480
Intel Core i7-7600U
1.85 Points +13%
HP EliteBook 840 G5-3JX66EA
Intel Core i5-8250U
1.64 Points
Average Intel Core i5-8250U
  (0.91 - 1.79, n=35)
1.615 Points -2%
CPU Multi 64Bit
Average of class Office
  (1.93 - 20.3, n=12, last 2 years)
12.5 Points +96%
HP EliteBook 840 G5-3JX66EA
Intel Core i5-8250U
6.39 Points
Average Intel Core i5-8250U
  (3.15 - 7.76, n=35)
6.02 Points -6%
Dell Latitude 7480
Intel Core i7-7600U
3.78 Points -41%
Cinebench R10
Rendering Single CPUs 64Bit
Average of class Office
  (5904 - 13680, n=7, last 2 years)
10180 Points +42%
HP EliteBook 840 G5-3JX66EA
Intel Core i5-8250U
7179 Points
Average Intel Core i5-8250U
  (5163 - 8153, n=13)
6972 Points -3%
Rendering Multiple CPUs 64Bit
Average of class Office
  (22075 - 62930, n=7, last 2 years)
41047 Points +60%
HP EliteBook 840 G5-3JX66EA
Intel Core i5-8250U
25723 Points
Average Intel Core i5-8250U
  (11245 - 28932, n=13)
23585 Points -8%
JetStream 1.1 - Total Score
Average of class Office
  (117.1 - 544, n=19, last 2 years)
369 Points +76%
Lenovo ThinkPad T480s-20L8S02D00
Intel Core i5-8250U
216.4 Points +3%
Average Intel Core i5-8250U
  (151.5 - 256, n=78)
215 Points +3%
HP EliteBook 840 G5-3JX66EA
Intel Core i5-8250U
209.5 Points
Acer TravelMate P648-G2-M-73T0
Intel Core i7-7500U
170.5 Points -19%
Fujitsu LifeBook U747
Intel Core i5-7200U
161.4 Points -23%
Octane V2 - Total Score
Average of class Office
  (21416 - 93596, n=52, last 2 years)
69674 Points +137%
Acer TravelMate P648-G2-M-73T0
Intel Core i7-7500U
32417 Points +10%
Lenovo ThinkPad T480s-20L8S02D00
Intel Core i5-8250U
31763 Points +8%
Average Intel Core i5-8250U
  (22772 - 35817, n=54)
30123 Points +3%
HP EliteBook 840 G5-3JX66EA
Intel Core i5-8250U
29339 Points
Fujitsu LifeBook U747
Intel Core i5-7200U
21890 Points -25%
Mozilla Kraken 1.1 - Total
HP EliteBook 840 G5-3JX66EA
Intel Core i5-8250U
1300 ms *
Lenovo ThinkPad T480s-20L8S02D00
Intel Core i5-8250U
1254 ms * +4%
Average Intel Core i5-8250U
  (986 - 1532, n=59)
1221 ms * +6%
Fujitsu LifeBook U747
Intel Core i5-7200U
1200 ms * +8%
Acer TravelMate P648-G2-M-73T0
Intel Core i7-7500U
1033 ms * +21%
Average of class Office
  (479 - 1966, n=111, last 2 years)
742 ms * +43%

* ... smaller is better

Cinebench R10
Cinebench R10
Cinebench R11.5
Cinebench R11.5
Cinebench R15
Cinebench R15
Jetstream 1.1
Jetstream 1.1
Octane V2
Octane V2
Mozilla Kraken 1.1
Mozilla Kraken 1.1
Cinebench R10 Shading 32Bit
8044
Cinebench R10 Rendering Single CPUs 64Bit
7179 Points
Cinebench R10 Rendering Multiple CPUs 64Bit
25723 Points
Cinebench R10 Shading 64Bit
7756 Points
Cinebench R10 Rendering Single 32Bit
5519
Cinebench R10 Rendering Multiple CPUs 32Bit
19335
Cinebench R11.5 CPU Multi 32Bit
5.96 Points
Cinebench R11.5 OpenGL 32Bit
39.89 fps
Cinebench R11.5 CPU Single 64Bit
1.64 Points
Cinebench R11.5 CPU Multi 64Bit
6.39 Points
Cinebench R11.5 OpenGL 64Bit
38.46 fps
Cinebench R11.5 CPU Single 32Bit
1.46 Points
Cinebench R15 CPU Single 64Bit
143 Points
Cinebench R15 Ref. Match 64Bit
97.8 %
Cinebench R15 OpenGL 64Bit
43.64 fps
Cinebench R15 CPU Multi 64Bit
583 Points
Help

System Performance

The overall system performance of the HP EliteBook 840 G5 is fast and we encountered no issues. As you can see from the PCMark benchmark results, our test sample even managed to beat the Lenovo ThinkPad T480s, although this offered significantly better CPU performance (multithread). During our test period, the EliteBook 840 G5 showed great system performance and we enjoyed working on this laptop.

PCMark 8 Home
PCMark 8 Home
PCMark 8 Creative
PCMark 8 Creative
PCMark 8 Work
PCMark 8 Work
PCMark 8 Storage
PCMark 8 Storage
PCMark 10
PCMark 10
PCMark 8
Home Score Accelerated v2
Average of class Office
  (2304 - 4830, n=12, last 2 years)
4261 Points +17%
Dell Latitude 7480
HD Graphics 620, i7-7600U, Intel SSDSCKKF256H6
3985 Points +9%
Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Carbon 2018-20KGS03900
UHD Graphics 620, i5-8550U, Samsung SSD PM981 MZVLB512HAJQ
3752 Points +3%
HP EliteBook 840 G5-3JX66EA
UHD Graphics 620, i5-8250U, Toshiba XG5 KXG50ZNV256G
3652 Points
Average Intel Core i5-8250U, Intel UHD Graphics 620
  (2986 - 4458, n=69)
3584 Points -2%
Acer TravelMate P648-G2-M-73T0
HD Graphics 620, i7-7500U, SK Hynix HFS256G39TND-N210A
3515 Points -4%
Fujitsu LifeBook U747
HD Graphics 620, i5-7200U, Samsung MZYTY256HDHP
3506 Points -4%
Lenovo ThinkPad T480s-20L8S02D00
UHD Graphics 620, i5-8250U, Samsung SSD PM981 MZVLB512HAJQ
3503 Points -4%
HP EliteBook 840 G4-Z2V49ET ABD
HD Graphics 620, i5-7200U, Samsung PM961 MZVLW256HEHP
3486 Points -5%
Work Score Accelerated v2
Dell Latitude 7480
HD Graphics 620, i7-7600U, Intel SSDSCKKF256H6
5052 Points +5%
HP EliteBook 840 G5-3JX66EA
UHD Graphics 620, i5-8250U, Toshiba XG5 KXG50ZNV256G
4832 Points
Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Carbon 2018-20KGS03900
UHD Graphics 620, i5-8550U, Samsung SSD PM981 MZVLB512HAJQ
4664 Points -3%
Fujitsu LifeBook U747
HD Graphics 620, i5-7200U, Samsung MZYTY256HDHP
4653 Points -4%
Average Intel Core i5-8250U, Intel UHD Graphics 620
  (2699 - 5106, n=58)
4646 Points -4%
Acer TravelMate P648-G2-M-73T0
HD Graphics 620, i7-7500U, SK Hynix HFS256G39TND-N210A
4639 Points -4%
HP EliteBook 840 G4-Z2V49ET ABD
HD Graphics 620, i5-7200U, Samsung PM961 MZVLW256HEHP
4572 Points -5%
Lenovo ThinkPad T480s-20L8S02D00
UHD Graphics 620, i5-8250U, Samsung SSD PM981 MZVLB512HAJQ
4508 Points -7%
Average of class Office
  (1854 - 5610, n=12, last 2 years)
3746 Points -22%
PCMark 10
Score
Average of class Office
  (2325 - 7157, n=105, last 2 years)
5312 Points +119%
Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Carbon 2018-20KGS03900
UHD Graphics 620, i5-8550U, Samsung SSD PM981 MZVLB512HAJQ
3905 Points +61%
Lenovo ThinkPad T480s-20L8S02D00
UHD Graphics 620, i5-8250U, Samsung SSD PM981 MZVLB512HAJQ
3602 Points +48%
Average Intel Core i5-8250U, Intel UHD Graphics 620
  (3358 - 4081, n=67)
3296 Points +36%
HP EliteBook 840 G5-3JX66EA
UHD Graphics 620, i5-8250U, Toshiba XG5 KXG50ZNV256G
2429 Points
Productivity
Average of class Office
  (3041 - 10198, n=105, last 2 years)
7439 Points +27%
Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Carbon 2018-20KGS03900
UHD Graphics 620, i5-8550U, Samsung SSD PM981 MZVLB512HAJQ
6727 Points +15%
HP EliteBook 840 G5-3JX66EA
UHD Graphics 620, i5-8250U, Toshiba XG5 KXG50ZNV256G
5844 Points
Lenovo ThinkPad T480s-20L8S02D00
UHD Graphics 620, i5-8250U, Samsung SSD PM981 MZVLB512HAJQ
5739 Points -2%
Average Intel Core i5-8250U, Intel UHD Graphics 620
  (3851 - 6653, n=67)
5725 Points -2%
PCMark 8 Home Score Accelerated v2
3652 points
PCMark 8 Creative Score Accelerated v2
4726 points
PCMark 8 Work Score Accelerated v2
4832 points
PCMark 10 Score
2429 points
Help

Storage Devices

M.2 SSD from Toshiba
M.2 SSD from Toshiba
The Toshiba SSD with 256 GB of storage
The Toshiba SSD with 256 GB of storage

The storage device comes from Toshiba and offers 256 GB of space. Minus the system requirements, this leaves the user with about 174 GB available for free use. The M.2 SSD uses the fast NVMe protocol, which makes it speedier than regular SSDs that only use a SATA interface. However, our SSD could only convince us in its read rates during our test, although these do not fit to the manufacturer specifications from Toshiba (read: 2700 MB/s, write: 1050 MB/s). Its write rates were closer to SATA speeds. We assume that this is due to an issue with the drivers which can still be dealt with. A future BIOS update might also improve the SSD's performance a little.

But this does not mean that the performance is bad. You will not notice the "low" write rates in everyday use. We were pleased with the 4K read rate, which is around 30 MB/s. The boot times will benefit from this, as this is when many small files have to be loaded.

AS SSD
AS SSD
CrystalDiskMark 3
CrystalDiskMark 3
CrystalDiskMark 5
CrystalDiskMark 5
CrystalDiskInfo
CrystalDiskInfo
HP EliteBook 840 G5-3JX66EA
Toshiba XG5 KXG50ZNV256G
Lenovo ThinkPad T480s-20L8S02D00
Samsung SSD PM981 MZVLB512HAJQ
Fujitsu LifeBook U747
Samsung MZYTY256HDHP
HP EliteBook 840 G4-Z2V49ET ABD
Samsung PM961 MZVLW256HEHP
Dell Latitude 7480
Intel SSDSCKKF256H6
Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Carbon 2018-20KGS03900
Samsung SSD PM981 MZVLB512HAJQ
Acer TravelMate P648-G2-M-73T0
SK Hynix HFS256G39TND-N210A
CrystalDiskMark 3.0
139%
-5%
92%
-16%
118%
-16%
Read Seq
1929
1540
-20%
504
-74%
1819
-6%
486.5
-75%
2327
21%
518
-73%
Write Seq
340
1613
374%
497.8
46%
1263
271%
418.6
23%
1808
432%
267.2
-21%
Read 512
908
835
-8%
396.7
-56%
922
2%
354.3
-61%
419.3
-54%
562
-38%
Write 512
286.1
1716
500%
283.4
-1%
804
181%
306.8
7%
1272
345%
263.5
-8%
Read 4k
30.94
66.9
116%
35.73
15%
61.4
98%
29.25
-5%
60.6
96%
32.88
6%
Write 4k
94.5
160.6
70%
87.8
-7%
157.1
66%
90.5
-4%
132.9
41%
85.6
-9%
Read 4k QD32
244.7
444.9
82%
399.1
63%
513
110%
280.2
15%
340.7
39%
351.3
44%
Write 4k QD32
351.3
343
-2%
249.7
-29%
410.2
17%
252.8
-28%
439.7
25%
265.2
-25%
Toshiba XG5 KXG50ZNV256G
Sequential Read: 1929 MB/s
Sequential Write: 340 MB/s
512K Read: 908 MB/s
512K Write: 286.1 MB/s
4K Read: 30.94 MB/s
4K Write: 94.5 MB/s
4K QD32 Read: 244.7 MB/s
4K QD32 Write: 351.3 MB/s

Graphics

The Intel UHD Graphics 620 takes care of the graphics department and can take a burden off the processor when displaying high-resolution videos thanks to its integrated hardware encoder. In the 3DMark comparison, the HP EliteBook 840 G5 can beat the Lenovo ThinkPad T480s once again. Performance can be increased even more by adding a second RAM module. However, the dual-channel mode cannot create miracles. If you require higher 3D performance, you should look for a device that is equipped with a dedicated graphics card - the HP EliteBook 840 G5 is also available with the discrete GPU AMD Radeon RX 540.

You can find further benchmarks for the Intel UHD Graphics 620 here.

3DMark
1280x720 Cloud Gate Standard Graphics
Average of class Office
  (5681 - 58068, n=98, last 2 years)
23871 Points +192%
Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Carbon 2018-20KGS03900
Intel UHD Graphics 620, Intel Core i7-8550U
10123 Points +24%
Average Intel UHD Graphics 620
  (6205 - 16400, n=225)
9262 Points +13%
Dell Latitude 7480
Intel HD Graphics 620, Intel Core i7-7600U
8555 Points +5%
HP EliteBook 840 G5-3JX66EA
Intel UHD Graphics 620, Intel Core i5-8250U
8181 Points
Lenovo ThinkPad T480s-20L8S02D00
Intel UHD Graphics 620, Intel Core i5-8250U
7658 Points -6%
Acer TravelMate P648-G2-M-73T0
Intel HD Graphics 620, Intel Core i7-7500U
7264 Points -11%
HP EliteBook 840 G4-Z2V49ET ABD
Intel HD Graphics 620, Intel Core i5-7200U
6864 Points -16%
Fujitsu LifeBook U747
Intel HD Graphics 620, Intel Core i5-7200U
6803 Points -17%
1920x1080 Fire Strike Graphics
Average of class Office
  (712 - 8815, n=117, last 2 years)
4072 Points +304%
Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Carbon 2018-20KGS03900
Intel UHD Graphics 620, Intel Core i7-8550U
1283 Points +27%
Average Intel UHD Graphics 620
  (557 - 2608, n=213)
1161 Points +15%
HP EliteBook 840 G5-3JX66EA
Intel UHD Graphics 620, Intel Core i5-8250U
1009 Points
Dell Latitude 7480
Intel HD Graphics 620, Intel Core i7-7600U
1008 Points 0%
Lenovo ThinkPad T480s-20L8S02D00
Intel UHD Graphics 620, Intel Core i5-8250U
963 Points -5%
Acer TravelMate P648-G2-M-73T0
Intel HD Graphics 620, Intel Core i7-7500U
821 Points -19%
Fujitsu LifeBook U747
Intel HD Graphics 620, Intel Core i5-7200U
799 Points -21%
HP EliteBook 840 G4-Z2V49ET ABD
Intel HD Graphics 620, Intel Core i5-7200U
738 Points -27%
3DMark 11 - 1280x720 Performance GPU
Average of class Office
  (1474 - 12230, n=115, last 2 years)
5878 Points +256%
Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Carbon 2018-20KGS03900
Intel UHD Graphics 620, Intel Core i7-8550U
1901 Points +15%
Average Intel UHD Graphics 620
  (1144 - 3432, n=244)
1749 Points +6%
HP EliteBook 840 G5-3JX66EA
Intel UHD Graphics 620, Intel Core i5-8250U
1653 Points
Dell Latitude 7480
Intel HD Graphics 620, Intel Core i7-7600U
1648 Points 0%
Lenovo ThinkPad T480s-20L8S02D00
Intel UHD Graphics 620, Intel Core i5-8250U
1633 Points -1%
Acer TravelMate P648-G2-M-73T0
Intel HD Graphics 620, Intel Core i7-7500U
1462 Points -12%
HP EliteBook 840 G4-Z2V49ET ABD
Intel HD Graphics 620, Intel Core i5-7200U
1413 Points -15%
Fujitsu LifeBook U747
Intel HD Graphics 620, Intel Core i5-7200U
1409 Points -15%
3DMark Ice Storm
3DMark Ice Storm
3DMark Ice Storm Unlimited
3DMark Ice Storm Unlimited
3DMark Ice Storm Extreme
3DMark Ice Storm Extreme
3DMark Cloud Gate
3DMark Cloud Gate
3DMark Sky Diver
3DMark Sky Diver
3DMark Fire Strike
3DMark Fire Strike
3DMark Fire Strike Extreme
3DMark Fire Strike Extreme
3DMark Fire Strike Ultra
3DMark Fire Strike Ultra
3DMark Time Spy
3DMark Time Spy
3DMark 11
3DMark 11
3DMark 11 Performance
1791 points
3DMark Ice Storm Standard Score
61742 points
3DMark Cloud Gate Standard Score
7535 points
3DMark Fire Strike Score
941 points
3DMark Fire Strike Extreme Score
440 points
3DMark Time Spy Score
364 points
Help

Gaming Performance

The low 3D performance of the Intel UHD Graphics 620 is not enough to display demanding games smoothly. If you are looking for a device that you can play games on, you might want to take a look at the version of the HP EliteBook 840 G5 that offers a dedicated graphics card.

low med. high ultra
BioShock Infinite (2013) 41.9 26 21.4 7.3
The Witcher 3 (2015) 14.8 9.4 5.3
Rise of the Tomb Raider (2016) 18.1 10.9 6.3

Emissions - a quiet HP 840

System Noise

The cooling unit of the HP EliteBook 840 G5
The cooling unit of the HP EliteBook 840 G5

Without load, the HP EliteBook 840 G5 is completely silent and we did not hear the usual coil whine in our test unit, either. Only under load does the small cooling fan set to work and reach a maximum volume of 35.2 dB(A). This makes our test unit a little quieter than the Lenovo ThinkPad T480s. However, the devices from Fujitsu and Dell are even quieter than our test unit.

Noise Level

Idle
28.8 / 28.8 / 33.1 dB(A)
Load
35.2 / 35.2 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: 28.8 dB(A)
dB(A) 0102030405060708090Deep BassMiddle BassHigh BassLower RangeMidsHigher MidsLower HighsMid HighsUpper HighsSuper Highs2032.830.630.134.42526.927.629.429.13130.930.330.231.54028.828.229.330.45033.133.831.6346326.126.12626.1802525.225.525.210025.324.526.725.412524.223.125.523.616023.223.224.423.220022.422.422.824.125021.521.422.321.631520.519.719.620.140018.418.918.519.850019.81917.620.363020.519.117.120.280020.319.416.220.8100021.22016.320.9125022.821.515.921.7160024.222.915.422.9200024.222.815.522.825002924.215.528.8315024.321.815.824.7400021.119.916.120.7500019.718.516.619.5630018.117.716.817.6800018.318.317.217.61000017.717.917.417.41250017.618.417.417.31600017.818.417.317.4SPL35.233.128.834.8N21.71.21.9median 21.1median 19.9median 17.2median 20.8Delta2.71.71.92.2hearing rangehide median Fan NoiseHP EliteBook 840 G5-3JX66EA
HP EliteBook 840 G5-3JX66EA
UHD Graphics 620, i5-8250U, Toshiba XG5 KXG50ZNV256G
Lenovo ThinkPad T480s-20L8S02D00
UHD Graphics 620, i5-8250U, Samsung SSD PM981 MZVLB512HAJQ
Fujitsu LifeBook U747
HD Graphics 620, i5-7200U, Samsung MZYTY256HDHP
HP EliteBook 840 G4-Z2V49ET ABD
HD Graphics 620, i5-7200U, Samsung PM961 MZVLW256HEHP
Dell Latitude 7480
HD Graphics 620, i7-7600U, Intel SSDSCKKF256H6
Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Carbon 2018-20KGS03900
UHD Graphics 620, i5-8550U, Samsung SSD PM981 MZVLB512HAJQ
Acer TravelMate P648-G2-M-73T0
HD Graphics 620, i7-7500U, SK Hynix HFS256G39TND-N210A
Noise
-1%
6%
-2%
8%
0%
-0%
off / environment *
28.8
28.9
-0%
28.2
2%
31
-8%
28.9
-0%
30.6
-6%
Idle Minimum *
28.8
28.9
-0%
28.2
2%
31
-8%
28.6
1%
28.9
-0%
30.6
-6%
Idle Average *
28.8
28.9
-0%
28.2
2%
31
-8%
28.6
1%
28.9
-0%
30.6
-6%
Idle Maximum *
33.1
28.9
13%
28.2
15%
31
6%
28.6
14%
32.5
2%
31
6%
Load Average *
35.2
36.9
-5%
31.2
11%
33.5
5%
30.2
14%
35.1
-0%
34.5
2%
Load Maximum *
35.2
38.9
-11%
33
6%
33.7
4%
31.2
11%
35.1
-0%
32.4
8%

* ... smaller is better

Temperature

3DMark 11 after stress test
3DMark 11 after stress test

The HP EliteBook 840 G5 has good case temperatures and only reaches 39.5 °C (~103.1 °F) under load. All other comparison devices become a lot hotter and often reach surface temperatures of 50 °C (~122 °F) and more. The temperatures are great on the inside, too. The processor reached a maximum of 83 °C (~181.4 °F) in our load test. The Intel Core i5-8250U also clocks at a good rate of 2.4 GHz, which is significantly higher than the base rate of 1.6 GHz. However, the processor cannot keep this up when the CPU and GPU are put under load at the same time, as both have to share the TDP of 15 watts. The CPU therefore only reaches an average clock rate of 1.4 GHz in the stress test (Prime95 and FurMark). The continuous load does not affect 3D performance negatively.

Stress test: Prime95 alone
Stress test: Prime95 alone
Stress test: FurMark alone
Stress test: FurMark alone
Stress test: FurMark+Prime95
Stress test: FurMark+Prime95
Max. Load
 35.5 °C
96 F
36.6 °C
98 F
34.6 °C
94 F
 
 35 °C
95 F
34.6 °C
94 F
34.2 °C
94 F
 
 26 °C
79 F
25.6 °C
78 F
25.9 °C
79 F
 
Maximum: 36.6 °C = 98 F
Average: 32 °C = 90 F
36 °C
97 F
39.5 °C
103 F
32 °C
90 F
32.4 °C
90 F
34.5 °C
94 F
28.8 °C
84 F
26.9 °C
80 F
27.1 °C
81 F
26.5 °C
80 F
Maximum: 39.5 °C = 103 F
Average: 31.5 °C = 89 F
Power Supply (max.)  33 °C = 91 F | Room Temperature 19.6 °C = 67 F | Voltcraft IR-900
(±) The average temperature for the upper side under maximal load is 32 °C / 90 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 36.6 °C / 98 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 39.5 °C / 103 F, compared to the average of 36.7 °C / 98 F
(+) In idle usage, the average temperature for the upper side is 23.2 °C / 74 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 26 °C / 78.8 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 (+1.7 °C / 3.1 F).
HP EliteBook 840 G5-3JX66EA
UHD Graphics 620, i5-8250U, Toshiba XG5 KXG50ZNV256G
Lenovo ThinkPad T480s-20L8S02D00
UHD Graphics 620, i5-8250U, Samsung SSD PM981 MZVLB512HAJQ
Fujitsu LifeBook U747
HD Graphics 620, i5-7200U, Samsung MZYTY256HDHP
HP EliteBook 840 G4-Z2V49ET ABD
HD Graphics 620, i5-7200U, Samsung PM961 MZVLW256HEHP
Dell Latitude 7480
HD Graphics 620, i7-7600U, Intel SSDSCKKF256H6
Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Carbon 2018-20KGS03900
UHD Graphics 620, i5-8550U, Samsung SSD PM981 MZVLB512HAJQ
Acer TravelMate P648-G2-M-73T0
HD Graphics 620, i7-7500U, SK Hynix HFS256G39TND-N210A
Heat
-10%
-2%
-4%
-18%
-15%
-8%
Maximum Upper Side *
36.6
50.1
-37%
42.6
-16%
37
-1%
39
-7%
52.6
-44%
39.1
-7%
Maximum Bottom *
39.5
46.1
-17%
34.4
13%
39.4
-0%
47.2
-19%
48.2
-22%
35
11%
Idle Upper Side *
23.8
22.2
7%
25.1
-5%
25.9
-9%
27.6
-16%
23.6
1%
29.4
-24%
Idle Bottom *
24.7
22.6
9%
24.6
-0%
25.6
-4%
32
-30%
23
7%
27.8
-13%

* ... smaller is better

Heat development top (load)
Heat development top (load)
Heat development bottom (load)
Heat development bottom (load)
The HP EliteBook 840 G5 during the stress test
The HP EliteBook 840 G5 during the stress test

Speakers

Bang & Olufsen audio settings
Bang & Olufsen audio settings
Bang & Olufsen audio settings
Bang & Olufsen audio settings
the speakers of the HP EliteBook 840 G5
the speakers of the HP EliteBook 840 G5
 

The two stereo speakers are positioned above the keyboard. This means that the sound output is not blocked or reflected by a table. Due to the device's small size, the membranes do not offer a lot of bass. Highs and mids take center stage and there is nothing the Bang & Olufsen software can do about it. Nonetheless, the integrated speakers are suitable for audio transmission and video-telephoning as speech output is clear and precise. Even at maximum volume we did not notice any distortions. For a better sound experience, we would still recommend using an external sound system that can be connected via the 3.5-mm audio jack.

dB(A) 0102030405060708090Deep BassMiddle BassHigh BassLower RangeMidsHigher MidsLower HighsMid HighsUpper HighsSuper Highs2030.131.32529.430.33130.229.94029.331.45031.632.56326278025.526.610026.729.512525.529.616024.438.620022.848.925022.351.731519.656.940018.563.750017.665.763017.167.280016.266.6100016.371.1125015.973.7160015.472.7200015.572.4250015.572.7315015.872.5400016.175.6500016.679630016.877.4800017.271.31000017.471.81250017.467.21600017.356SPL28.885.8N1.264.1median 17.2median 67.2Delta1.98.534.838.130.330.335.433.930.331.926.626.425.825.324.724.323.924.824.828.824.137.423.945.721.850.620.154.318.256.217.3641773.416.572.616.56715.859.115.760.615.461.815.558.81659.516.264.916.768.51767.317.26017.457.217.354.117.24828.978.11.240.7median 17.2median 59.127.9hearing rangehide median Pink NoiseHP EliteBook 840 G5-3JX66EALenovo ThinkPad T480s-20L8S02D00
HP EliteBook 840 G5-3JX66EA audio analysis

(+) | speakers can play relatively loud (85.8 dB)
Bass 100 - 315 Hz
(-) | nearly no bass - on average 24.7% lower than median
(±) | linearity of bass is average (10.1% delta to prev. frequency)
Mids 400 - 2000 Hz
(+) | balanced mids - only 3.3% away from median
(+) | mids are linear (4.9% delta to prev. frequency)
Highs 2 - 16 kHz
(±) | higher highs - on average 7.1% higher than median
(+) | highs are linear (4.3% delta to prev. frequency)
Overall 100 - 16.000 Hz
(±) | linearity of overall sound is average (20.6% difference to median)
Compared to same class
» 41% of all tested devices in this class were better, 11% similar, 49% worse
» The best had a delta of 7%, average was 22%, worst was 53%
Compared to all devices tested
» 49% of all tested devices were better, 8% similar, 42% worse
» The best had a delta of 4%, average was 25%, worst was 134%

Lenovo ThinkPad T480s-20L8S02D00 audio analysis

(±) | speaker loudness is average but good (78.1 dB)
Bass 100 - 315 Hz
(-) | nearly no bass - on average 18.9% lower than median
(±) | linearity of bass is average (11.9% delta to prev. frequency)
Mids 400 - 2000 Hz
(±) | higher mids - on average 5.9% higher than median
(±) | linearity of mids is average (10.8% delta to prev. frequency)
Highs 2 - 16 kHz
(+) | balanced highs - only 3.9% away from median
(±) | linearity of highs is average (8.2% delta to prev. frequency)
Overall 100 - 16.000 Hz
(±) | linearity of overall sound is average (23% difference to median)
Compared to same class
» 60% of all tested devices in this class were better, 8% similar, 32% worse
» The best had a delta of 7%, average was 22%, worst was 53%
Compared to all devices tested
» 63% of all tested devices were better, 6% similar, 30% worse
» The best had a delta of 4%, average was 25%, worst was 134%

Frequency diagram in comparison (checkboxes can be turned on/off!)

Energy Management - the EliteBook is not an energy-saving wonder

Power Consumption

65-watt power supply
65-watt power supply
65-watt power supply
65-watt power supply

The HP EliteBook 840 G5 is not very energy-efficient. Although its consumption of 3.2 - 9.5 watts while idling is still OK, it climbs up to 65.5 watts for a short time under load. On average, the consumption settles down to around 36.2 watts. The included power supply offers a maximum of 65 watts and can supply sufficient power as the maximum consumption rate drops after about 10 seconds. The Lenovo ThinkPad T480s cannot offer better rates, however. It actually consumes about 8% more energy with a similar configuration. 

Power Consumption
Off / Standbydarklight 0.39 / 0.49 Watt
Idledarkmidlight 3.2 / 6.6 / 9.5 Watt
Load midlight 36.2 / 65.6 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 840 G5-3JX66EA
i5-8250U, UHD Graphics 620, Toshiba XG5 KXG50ZNV256G, IPS, 1920x1080, 14.00
Lenovo ThinkPad T480s-20L8S02D00
i5-8250U, UHD Graphics 620, Samsung SSD PM981 MZVLB512HAJQ, IPS, 2560x1440, 14.00
Fujitsu LifeBook U747
i5-7200U, HD Graphics 620, Samsung MZYTY256HDHP, IPS LED, 1920x1080, 14.00
HP EliteBook 840 G4-Z2V49ET ABD
i5-7200U, HD Graphics 620, Samsung PM961 MZVLW256HEHP, TN, 1920x1080, 14.00
Dell Latitude 7480
i7-7600U, HD Graphics 620, Intel SSDSCKKF256H6, IPS, 1920x1080, 14.00
Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Carbon 2018-20KGS03900
i5-8550U, UHD Graphics 620, Samsung SSD PM981 MZVLB512HAJQ, IPS, 2560x1440, 14.00
Acer TravelMate P648-G2-M-73T0
i7-7500U, HD Graphics 620, SK Hynix HFS256G39TND-N210A, IPS, 1920x1080, 14.00
Power Consumption
-8%
6%
21%
15%
-18%
-6%
Idle Minimum *
3.2
3.1
3%
4.11
-28%
2.9
9%
4.32
-35%
3.8
-19%
4.8
-50%
Idle Average *
6.6
6.8
-3%
7.87
-19%
5.6
15%
6.27
5%
8.9
-35%
7.9
-20%
Idle Maximum *
9.5
10.1
-6%
8.74
8%
8.15
14%
6.35
33%
11.9
-25%
10.7
-13%
Load Average *
36.2
48.4
-34%
30.2
17%
30.6
15%
29.82
18%
47.5
-31%
35
3%
Load Maximum *
65.6
67.1
-2%
32.4
51%
31
53%
30.64
53%
52.5
20%
31.6
52%

* ... smaller is better

Battery Runtimes

3DMark 11 on battery
3DMark 11 on battery
50-Wh battery
50-Wh battery

The battery runtimes are not as good as the HP EliteBook 840 G5's competition. The 50-Wh battery is not removable and can sustain the business device for about 7.5 hours during our Wi-Fi test. This is tight if you are hoping to manage a whole workday without having to recharge. The fast charging times offer a little consolation: It only takes just over 2 hours to fully recharge. We noticed that 3D performance is not as good on battery, but this is not very important.

Battery Runtime
Idle (without WLAN, min brightness)
18h 58min
WiFi Websurfing (EDGE 41.16299.248.0)
7h 27min
Big Buck Bunny H.264 1080p
6h 39min
Load (maximum brightness)
2h 36min
Maximum battery runtime
Maximum battery runtime
Minimum battery runtime
Minimum battery runtime
Wi-Fi battery runtime
Wi-Fi battery runtime
H.264 battery runtime
H.264 battery runtime
Charging time
Charging time
HP EliteBook 840 G5-3JX66EA
i5-8250U, UHD Graphics 620, 50 Wh
Lenovo ThinkPad T480s-20L8S02D00
i5-8250U, UHD Graphics 620, 57 Wh
Fujitsu LifeBook U747
i5-7200U, HD Graphics 620, 50 Wh
HP EliteBook 840 G4-Z2V49ET ABD
i5-7200U, HD Graphics 620, 51 Wh
Dell Latitude 7480
i7-7600U, HD Graphics 620, 60 Wh
Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Carbon 2018-20KGS03900
i5-8550U, UHD Graphics 620, 57 Wh
Acer TravelMate P648-G2-M-73T0
i7-7500U, HD Graphics 620, 54 Wh
Battery Runtime
27%
-9%
24%
39%
11%
7%
Reader / Idle
1138
782
-31%
1155
1%
1662
46%
1328
17%
1087
-4%
H.264
399
721
81%
490
23%
591
48%
566
42%
WiFi v1.3
447
537
20%
430
-4%
571
28%
719
61%
519
16%
672
50%
Load
156
124
-21%
117
-25%
184
18%
171
10%
106
-32%
115
-26%

Verdict - great design, overhauled port selection and a lot of security features

Pros

+ good looking, stable case
+ bright, matte IPS
+ no PWM
+ many security features
+ good system performance
+ comfortable input devices
+ USB Type-C with Thunderbolt
+ case temperatures remain low
+ docking port

Cons

- display has a strong blue cast ex-works
- SSD not as good as we expected
- average battery runtimes
- no card reader
- processor cannot reach its full potential
Review: HP EliteBook 840 G5. Test unit provided by Campuspoint
Review: HP EliteBook 840 G5. Test unit provided by Campuspoint

The HP EliteBook 840 G5 is a high-quality business device, now in its fifth generation. The successor of the HP EliteBook 840 G4 has been given a new design and an up-to-date Kaby Lake Refresh processor, although this cannot reach its full potential. Buyers should also be aware of which configuration they purchase, as the HP EliteBook 840 G5 is also available with seventh-generation Intel processors.

Our test unit is equipped with an Intel Core i5-8250U, 8 GB of RAM and a 256-GB SSD, and the device provides very good system performance. HP has also decided to only offer IPS panels in this version, which has significant advantages. At a price of $1400, the device offers perfect workmanship, good performance and many security features, which are a must for any business laptop.

The new HP EliteBook 840 G5 is impressive with its fancy design and perfect workmanship. The good input devices are just as important as the many security features the EliteBook 840 G5 has to offer.

The HP EliteBook 840 G5 loses several points in the areas of power consumption and battery runtime. Its competition proves that it could do better. But if you do not have to deal with long stretches of time without access to sockets, you will be very pleased with the HP EliteBook 840 G5. We were a lot more bothered by the missing SD card reader, which does not make any sense. Luckily, the business companion does offer a USB Type-C port that supports Thunderbolt.

HP EliteBook 840 G5-3JX66EA - 04/03/2018 v6(old)
Sebastian Bade

Chassis
92 / 98 → 94%
Keyboard
89%
Pointing Device
89%
Connectivity
62 / 80 → 77%
Weight
69 / 20-67 → 100%
Battery
89%
Display
87%
Games Performance
56 / 68 → 82%
Application Performance
87 / 92 → 94%
Temperature
94%
Noise
94%
Audio
68%
Camera
27 / 85 → 32%
Average
77%
89%
Office - Weighted Average

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> Expert Reviews and News on Laptops, Smartphones and Tech Innovations > Reviews > HP EliteBook 840 G5 (i5-8250U, SSD, Full HD) Laptop Review
Sebastian Bade, 2018-04- 6 (Update: 2019-03-20)