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HP ProBook 430 G3 Notebook Review

Now with Skylake. Skylake ensures a decent CPU and GPU performance gain, but not at the expense of battery life. Unfortunately, HP has still not incorporated a good display in the third generation of ProBooks.

For the original German review, see here.

HP's ProBook 4X0 series represent cheap entry-level notebooks in the business sector. With the ProBook 430 G3, we have the 13.3-inch model of the series under review. Apart from several other adjustments, the most important change in the third ProBook generation is the Skylake processor. The competition includes the Lenovo ThinkPad E450, the Acer TravelMate P236-M, the Dell Latitude 3340, and the Fujitsu LifeBook E544.

HP ProBook 430 G3 P5T00ES (ZBook 14u G6 Series)
Processor
Intel Core i5-6200U 2 x 2.3 - 2.8 GHz, Skylake
Graphics adapter
Intel HD Graphics 520, Core: 950 MHz, single channel, 10.18.15.4279
Memory
4 GB 
, DDR3-1600, single channel, one of two RAM slots used
Display
13.30 inch 16:9, 1366 x 768 pixel, Samsung, TN LED, glossy: no
Mainboard
Intel Skylake-U Premium PCH
Storage
Hitachi Travelstar Z7K500 HTS725050A7E630, 500 GB 
, 7200 rpm, 500 GB free
Connections
1 USB 2.0, 2 USB 3.0 / 3.1 Gen1, 1 VGA, 1 HDMI, 1 Kensington Lock, Audio Connections: combo audio, Card Reader: SD, 1 Fingerprint Reader, Sensors: Erschütterungssensor, TPM 1.2
Networking
Realtek RTL8168/8111 Gigabit-LAN (10/100/1000MBit/s), Intel Dual Band Wireless-AC 3165 (a/b/g/n = Wi-Fi 4/ac = Wi-Fi 5/), Bluetooth Bluetooth 4.2
Size
height x width x depth (in mm): 21 x 326 x 234 ( = 0.83 x 12.83 x 9.21 in)
Battery
44 Wh Lithium-Ion, 14.8 V, 2790 mAh
Operating System
FreeDos
Camera
Webcam: HD webcam
Additional features
Speakers: Stereo, Keyboard: Chiclet, Keyboard Light: yes, 12 Months Warranty
Weight
1.5 kg ( = 52.91 oz / 3.31 pounds), Power Supply: 280 g ( = 9.88 oz / 0.62 pounds)
Price
629 Euro
Note: The manufacturer may use components from different suppliers including display panels, drives or memory sticks with similar specifications.

 

What is new?

Although there are many changes, he biggest change is the new Skylake processor. At a first glance, the computer looks like its predecessor, but on closer inspection you will find several differences.

  • Number and selection of interfaces have remained the same, but their layout is different.
  • HP  has changed the design of the rear part of the base unit slightly.
  • The speaker grille is now slightly thinner.
  • The Wi-Fi and the speaker buttons have shrunk.
  • The maintenance hatch on the underside has a different shape and the inner components are positioned differently.
  • There is a new keyboard in the ProBook 430 G3. Slightly concave ones with a smooth surface have replaced the flat keys of the predecessor. Overall, we feel that the stroke of the new keyboard is slightly crisper.
left side: power-in, USB 2.0, audio combo, memory card reader
left side: power-in, USB 2.0, audio combo, memory card reader
right side: 2x USB 3.0, HDMI, VGA, Ethernet, Kensington lock slot
right side: 2x USB 3.0, HDMI, VGA, Ethernet, Kensington lock slot

Display

Pixel grid
Pixel grid

The G3 model of the ProBook 430 comes with a matte 13.3-inch display and a native resolution of 1366x768 pixels. Brightness (205 cd/m²) and contrast (299:1) are too low. We expect more from a mobile computer for work. Finally, it is to be expected that the ambient light varies. HP does not offer other display options.

193
cd/m²
208
cd/m²
201
cd/m²
206
cd/m²
212
cd/m²
200
cd/m²
215
cd/m²
206
cd/m²
204
cd/m²
Distribution of brightness
Samsung tested with X-Rite i1Pro 2
Maximum: 215 cd/m² (Nits) Average: 205 cd/m²
Brightness Distribution: 90 %
Center on Battery: 212 cd/m²
Contrast: 299:1 (Black: 0.71 cd/m²)
ΔE Color 12.06 | 0.5-29.43 Ø5
ΔE Greyscale 13.41 | 0.57-98 Ø5.3
54.2% sRGB (Argyll 1.6.3 3D)
34.3% AdobeRGB 1998 (Argyll 1.6.3 3D)
37.06% AdobeRGB 1998 (Argyll 2.2.0 3D)
54% sRGB (Argyll 2.2.0 3D)
35.87% Display P3 (Argyll 2.2.0 3D)
Gamma: 2.41

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 detected 192 Hz ≤ 90 % brightness setting
≤ 176 cd/m² brightness

The display backlight flickers at 192 Hz (worst case, e.g., utilizing PWM) Flickering detected at a brightness setting of 90 % (176 cd/m²) and below. There should be no flickering or PWM above this brightness setting.

The frequency of 192 Hz is relatively low, so sensitive users will likely notice flickering and experience eyestrain at the stated brightness setting and below.

Flickering occurs even at high brightness setting and may have an effect on the user during everyday use.

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.

ProBook vs. sRGB
ProBook vs. sRGB
ProBook vs. AdobeRGB
ProBook vs. AdobeRGB

The display cannot cover sRGB or AdobeRGB. The coverage is about 54% (sRGB) and 34% (AdobeRBG). The colors are normal for the budget segment. With a DeltaE 2000 shift of 12.06, the display clearly misses the target range (DeltaE smaller than 3). In addition, the display has a distinct bluish tint. Calibration can improve the colors significantly. For example, the color deviation reduces to 3.39, the gray levels become more balanced and the blue tint disappears.

CalMAN - Color Checker
CalMAN - Color Checker
CalMAN - Gray levels
CalMAN - Gray levels
CalMAN - Color saturation
CalMAN - Color saturation
CalMAN - Color Checker (after calibration)
CalMAN - Color Checker (after calibration)
CalMAN - Gray levels (after calibration)
CalMAN - Gray levels (after calibration)
CalMAN - Color saturation (after calibration)
CalMAN - Color saturation (after calibration)

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
32.8 ms ... rise ↗ and fall ↘ combined↗ 18 ms rise
↘ 14.8 ms fall
The screen shows slow response rates in our tests and will be unsatisfactory for gamers.
In comparison, all tested devices range from 0.1 (minimum) to 240 (maximum) ms. » 87 % 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
54.4 ms ... rise ↗ and fall ↘ combined↗ 33.2 ms rise
↘ 21.2 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. » 90 % of all devices are better.
This means that the measured response time is worse than the average of all tested devices (33.9 ms).

The integrated TN panel features narrow viewing angles. Thus, it is not possible to read from the screen from every position. It is possible to use the ProBook outdoors, albeit in the shade or when the sky is overcast. Otherwise, brightness and contrast of the display are too low.

Viewing angles: ProBook
Viewing angles: ProBook
The ProBook outdoors (image shot when sky was overcast)
The ProBook outdoors (image shot when sky was overcast)
HP ProBook 430 G3 P5T00ES
TN LED, 1366x768
HP ProBook 430 G2 L3Q21EA
TN LED, 1366x768
HP ProBook 430-G1
TN LED, 1366x768
Dell Latitude 13 3340 Education Series
TN LED, 1366x768
Lenovo ThinkPad E450 20DDS01E00
TN, 1920x1080
Dell Latitude 3450-9723
IPS, 1920x1080
Lenovo Thinkpad L450 20DS0001GE
IPS, 1920x1080
Fujitsu Lifebook E544
TN, 1600x900
Display
-2%
9%
23%
13%
80%
9%
13%
Display P3 Coverage
35.87
35.31
-2%
39.15
9%
43.98
23%
40.37
13%
66.3
85%
39.24
9%
40.58
13%
sRGB Coverage
54
53.2
-1%
58.5
8%
65.9
22%
60.8
13%
93.4
73%
58.9
9%
60.6
12%
AdobeRGB 1998 Coverage
37.06
36.48
-2%
40.52
9%
45.47
23%
41.71
13%
67.9
83%
40.56
9%
42
13%
Response Times
Response Time Grey 50% / Grey 80% *
54.4 ?(33.2, 21.2)
Response Time Black / White *
32.8 ?(18, 14.8)
PWM Frequency
192 ?(90, 176)
Screen
-18%
-4%
1%
10%
53%
28%
14%
Brightness middle
212
176
-17%
228
8%
232
9%
218
3%
303
43%
206
-3%
252
19%
Brightness
205
171
-17%
202
-1%
211
3%
211
3%
273
33%
202
-1%
255
24%
Brightness Distribution
90
87
-3%
72
-20%
85
-6%
76
-16%
83
-8%
91
1%
67
-26%
Black Level *
0.71
1
-41%
1.029
-45%
0.94
-32%
0.53
25%
0.445
37%
0.39
45%
0.696
2%
Contrast
299
176
-41%
222
-26%
247
-17%
411
37%
681
128%
528
77%
362
21%
Colorchecker dE 2000 *
12.06
13.62
-13%
9.81
19%
10.35
14%
11.16
7%
3.94
67%
6.63
45%
9.1
25%
Greyscale dE 2000 *
13.41
14.51
-8%
9.94
26%
11.79
12%
12.58
6%
4.28
68%
6.29
53%
9.44
30%
Gamma
2.41 91%
2.8 79%
2.33 94%
2.38 92%
2.34 94%
2.5 88%
2.48 89%
2.56 86%
CCT
15382 42%
18849 34%
11631 56%
14957 43%
14940 44%
7325 89%
5823 112%
10890 60%
Color Space (Percent of AdobeRGB 1998)
34.3
33.8
-1%
37.5
9%
42
22%
39
14%
37.3
9%
38.6
13%
Color Space (Percent of sRGB)
54.2
61
13%
Total Average (Program / Settings)
-10% / -13%
3% / -0%
12% / 7%
12% / 11%
67% / 61%
19% / 23%
14% / 13%

* ... smaller is better

Performance

The ProBook 430 G3 is a 13.3-inch office notebook aimed at private and business users alike. Our test model costs about 630 Euros (~$673) without Windows OS. Anyone wishing to save money can select a model of the ProBook 430 G2 series. For example, the HP ProBook 430 G2 K9J77EA (Core i3-5010U, Windows 7 Pro + Windows 8.1 Pro) was available for about 430 Euros (~$459) at the time of testing. In addition, there are ProBook variants with a built-in LTE/3G modem. However, our test model is not one of them. Furthermore, it is not possible to retrofit such a modem, since both the slot and the antennas are missing.

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

Processor

The G3 models of the ProBook 430 series are equipped with new generation Skylake processors from Intel. Our test model is equipped with a Core i5-6200U dual core processor. This is a mid-range CPU, which delivers sufficient CPU performance for most application scenarios. The processor features a base clock of 2.3 GHz. Using Turbo, the clock rate can increase to 2.7 GHz (both cores) or 2.8 GHz (one core). The Turbo is used in mains operation. However, the CPU works at 2.3 GHz on battery. If the Turbo is also required in battery mode, you have to enable the option "Enable Turbo Boost on DC" in the BIOS.

According to Intel's naming scheme, the Core i5-5200U (Broadwell) processor is the predecessor of the used Skylake CPU. The latter delivers up to 13% better results in our CPU tests. This is due to the improvements in the Skylake architecture and slightly higher clock rates.

The CPU is soldered.
The CPU is soldered.
Cinebench R10 Shading 32Bit
7520
Cinebench R10 Rendering Multiple CPUs 32Bit
9948
Cinebench R10 Rendering Single 32Bit
4391
Cinebench R11.5 OpenGL 64Bit
21.72 fps
Cinebench R11.5 CPU Multi 64Bit
3.2 Points
Cinebench R11.5 CPU Single 64Bit
1.32 Points
Cinebench R15 Ref. Match 64Bit
97.9 %
Cinebench R15 OpenGL 64Bit
29.56 fps
Cinebench R15 CPU Multi 64Bit
286 Points
Cinebench R15 CPU Single 64Bit
115 Points
Help
Cinebench R15
CPU Multi 64Bit (sort by value)
HP ProBook 430 G3 P5T00ES
HD Graphics 520, 6200U, Hitachi Travelstar Z7K500 HTS725050A7E630
286 Points
HP ProBook 430 G2 L3Q21EA
HD Graphics 5500, 5200U, Samsung SSD PM851 128 GB MZ7TE128HMGR
260 Points -9%
Acer TravelMate P236-M-57R4
HD Graphics 5500, 5200U, Kingston RBU-SC100S37240GE
257 Points -10%
Dell Latitude 13 3340 Education Series
HD Graphics 4400, 4200U, Seagate ST500LM000 Solid State Hybrid Drive
229 Points -20%
Lenovo ThinkPad E450 20DDS01E00
Radeon R7 M260, 5200U, Samsung CM871 MZ7LF192HCGS
250 Points -13%
Dell Latitude 3450-9723
HD Graphics 5500, 5200U, Toshiba MQ01ABD100
260 Points -9%
Lenovo Thinkpad L450 20DS0001GE
HD Graphics 5500, 5300U, Seagate ST500LM021-1KJ15
270 Points -6%
Fujitsu Lifebook E544
HD Graphics 4600, 4210M, Seagate ST500LM000 Solid State Hybrid Drive
304 Points +6%
CPU Single 64Bit (sort by value)
HP ProBook 430 G3 P5T00ES
HD Graphics 520, 6200U, Hitachi Travelstar Z7K500 HTS725050A7E630
115 Points
HP ProBook 430 G2 L3Q21EA
HD Graphics 5500, 5200U, Samsung SSD PM851 128 GB MZ7TE128HMGR
109 Points -5%
Acer TravelMate P236-M-57R4
HD Graphics 5500, 5200U, Kingston RBU-SC100S37240GE
107 Points -7%
Dell Latitude 13 3340 Education Series
HD Graphics 4400, 4200U, Seagate ST500LM000 Solid State Hybrid Drive
100 Points -13%
Lenovo ThinkPad E450 20DDS01E00
Radeon R7 M260, 5200U, Samsung CM871 MZ7LF192HCGS
97 Points -16%
Dell Latitude 3450-9723
HD Graphics 5500, 5200U, Toshiba MQ01ABD100
105 Points -9%
Lenovo Thinkpad L450 20DS0001GE
HD Graphics 5500, 5300U, Seagate ST500LM021-1KJ15
115 Points 0%
Fujitsu Lifebook E544
HD Graphics 4600, 4210M, Seagate ST500LM000 Solid State Hybrid Drive
121 Points +5%
Cinebench R11.5
CPU Multi 64Bit (sort by value)
HP ProBook 430 G3 P5T00ES
HD Graphics 520, 6200U, Hitachi Travelstar Z7K500 HTS725050A7E630
3.2 Points
HP ProBook 430 G2 L3Q21EA
HD Graphics 5500, 5200U, Samsung SSD PM851 128 GB MZ7TE128HMGR
2.83 Points -12%
HP ProBook 430-G1
HD Graphics 4400, 4200U, Hitachi Travelstar Z5K500 HTS545050A7E380
2.5 Points -22%
Acer TravelMate P236-M-57R4
HD Graphics 5500, 5200U, Kingston RBU-SC100S37240GE
2.51 Points -22%
Dell Latitude 13 3340 Education Series
HD Graphics 4400, 4200U, Seagate ST500LM000 Solid State Hybrid Drive
2.52 Points -21%
Lenovo ThinkPad E450 20DDS01E00
Radeon R7 M260, 5200U, Samsung CM871 MZ7LF192HCGS
2.79 Points -13%
Dell Latitude 3450-9723
HD Graphics 5500, 5200U, Toshiba MQ01ABD100
2.74 Points -14%
Lenovo Thinkpad L450 20DS0001GE
HD Graphics 5500, 5300U, Seagate ST500LM021-1KJ15
3.01 Points -6%
Fujitsu Lifebook E544
HD Graphics 4600, 4210M, Seagate ST500LM000 Solid State Hybrid Drive
3.35 Points +5%
CPU Single 64Bit (sort by value)
HP ProBook 430 G3 P5T00ES
HD Graphics 520, 6200U, Hitachi Travelstar Z7K500 HTS725050A7E630
1.32 Points
HP ProBook 430 G2 L3Q21EA
HD Graphics 5500, 5200U, Samsung SSD PM851 128 GB MZ7TE128HMGR
1.25 Points -5%
Acer TravelMate P236-M-57R4
HD Graphics 5500, 5200U, Kingston RBU-SC100S37240GE
1.21 Points -8%
Dell Latitude 13 3340 Education Series
HD Graphics 4400, 4200U, Seagate ST500LM000 Solid State Hybrid Drive
1.04 Points -21%
Lenovo ThinkPad E450 20DDS01E00
Radeon R7 M260, 5200U, Samsung CM871 MZ7LF192HCGS
1.23 Points -7%
Dell Latitude 3450-9723
HD Graphics 5500, 5200U, Toshiba MQ01ABD100
1.23 Points -7%
Lenovo Thinkpad L450 20DS0001GE
HD Graphics 5500, 5300U, Seagate ST500LM021-1KJ15
1.34 Points +2%
Fujitsu Lifebook E544
HD Graphics 4600, 4210M, Seagate ST500LM000 Solid State Hybrid Drive
1.39 Points +5%
Cinebench R10
Rendering Multiple CPUs 32Bit (sort by value)
HP ProBook 430 G3 P5T00ES
HD Graphics 520, 6200U, Hitachi Travelstar Z7K500 HTS725050A7E630
9948 Points
HP ProBook 430 G2 L3Q21EA
HD Graphics 5500, 5200U, Samsung SSD PM851 128 GB MZ7TE128HMGR
8691 Points -13%
HP ProBook 430-G1
HD Graphics 4400, 4200U, Hitachi Travelstar Z5K500 HTS545050A7E380
7796 Points -22%
Lenovo Thinkpad L450 20DS0001GE
HD Graphics 5500, 5300U, Seagate ST500LM021-1KJ15
9284 Points -7%
Fujitsu Lifebook E544
HD Graphics 4600, 4210M, Seagate ST500LM000 Solid State Hybrid Drive
10144 Points +2%
Rendering Single 32Bit (sort by value)
HP ProBook 430 G3 P5T00ES
HD Graphics 520, 6200U, Hitachi Travelstar Z7K500 HTS725050A7E630
4391 Points
HP ProBook 430 G2 L3Q21EA
HD Graphics 5500, 5200U, Samsung SSD PM851 128 GB MZ7TE128HMGR
4111 Points -6%
HP ProBook 430-G1
HD Graphics 4400, 4200U, Hitachi Travelstar Z5K500 HTS545050A7E380
3795 Points -14%
Lenovo ThinkPad E450 20DDS01E00
Radeon R7 M260, 5200U, Samsung CM871 MZ7LF192HCGS
4059 Points -8%
Lenovo Thinkpad L450 20DS0001GE
HD Graphics 5500, 5300U, Seagate ST500LM021-1KJ15
4360 Points -1%
Fujitsu Lifebook E544
HD Graphics 4600, 4210M, Seagate ST500LM000 Solid State Hybrid Drive
4585 Points +4%
Geekbench 3
32 Bit Single-Core Score (sort by value)
HP ProBook 430 G3 P5T00ES
HD Graphics 520, 6200U, Hitachi Travelstar Z7K500 HTS725050A7E630
2563 Points
HP ProBook 430 G2 L3Q21EA
HD Graphics 5500, 5200U, Samsung SSD PM851 128 GB MZ7TE128HMGR
2454 Points -4%
Lenovo Thinkpad L450 20DS0001GE
HD Graphics 5500, 5300U, Seagate ST500LM021-1KJ15
2607 Points +2%
32 Bit Multi-Core Score (sort by value)
HP ProBook 430 G3 P5T00ES
HD Graphics 520, 6200U, Hitachi Travelstar Z7K500 HTS725050A7E630
5590 Points
HP ProBook 430 G2 L3Q21EA
HD Graphics 5500, 5200U, Samsung SSD PM851 128 GB MZ7TE128HMGR
4953 Points -11%
Lenovo Thinkpad L450 20DS0001GE
HD Graphics 5500, 5300U, Seagate ST500LM021-1KJ15
5214 Points -7%
Sunspider - 1.0 Total Score (sort by value)
HP ProBook 430 G3 P5T00ES
HD Graphics 520, 6200U, Hitachi Travelstar Z7K500 HTS725050A7E630
107.6 ms *
HP ProBook 430 G2 L3Q21EA
HD Graphics 5500, 5200U, Samsung SSD PM851 128 GB MZ7TE128HMGR
123.8 ms * -15%
Lenovo ThinkPad E450 20DDS01E00
Radeon R7 M260, 5200U, Samsung CM871 MZ7LF192HCGS
109 ms * -1%
Dell Latitude 3450-9723
HD Graphics 5500, 5200U, Toshiba MQ01ABD100
116.2 ms * -8%
Lenovo Thinkpad L450 20DS0001GE
HD Graphics 5500, 5300U, Seagate ST500LM021-1KJ15
114.3 ms * -6%
Fujitsu Lifebook E544
HD Graphics 4600, 4210M, Seagate ST500LM000 Solid State Hybrid Drive
164.7 ms * -53%
JetStream 1.1 - Total Score (sort by value)
HP ProBook 430 G3 P5T00ES
HD Graphics 520, 6200U, Hitachi Travelstar Z7K500 HTS725050A7E630
102.3 Points
Mozilla Kraken 1.1 - Total (sort by value)
HP ProBook 430 G3 P5T00ES
HD Graphics 520, 6200U, Hitachi Travelstar Z7K500 HTS725050A7E630
2391 ms *
HP ProBook 430 G2 L3Q21EA
HD Graphics 5500, 5200U, Samsung SSD PM851 128 GB MZ7TE128HMGR
2522 ms * -5%
Lenovo ThinkPad E450 20DDS01E00
Radeon R7 M260, 5200U, Samsung CM871 MZ7LF192HCGS
2558 ms * -7%
Lenovo Thinkpad L450 20DS0001GE
HD Graphics 5500, 5300U, Seagate ST500LM021-1KJ15
2405 ms * -1%
Fujitsu Lifebook E544
HD Graphics 4600, 4210M, Seagate ST500LM000 Solid State Hybrid Drive
1320 ms * +45%
Octane V2 - Total Score (sort by value)
HP ProBook 430 G3 P5T00ES
HD Graphics 520, 6200U, Hitachi Travelstar Z7K500 HTS725050A7E630
13992 Points
HP ProBook 430 G2 L3Q21EA
HD Graphics 5500, 5200U, Samsung SSD PM851 128 GB MZ7TE128HMGR
13248 Points -5%
Lenovo ThinkPad E450 20DDS01E00
Radeon R7 M260, 5200U, Samsung CM871 MZ7LF192HCGS
12357 Points -12%
Lenovo Thinkpad L450 20DS0001GE
HD Graphics 5500, 5300U, Seagate ST500LM021-1KJ15
13315 Points -5%
Fujitsu Lifebook E544
HD Graphics 4600, 4210M, Seagate ST500LM000 Solid State Hybrid Drive
26941 Points +93%
Peacekeeper - --- (sort by value)
HP ProBook 430 G3 P5T00ES
HD Graphics 520, 6200U, Hitachi Travelstar Z7K500 HTS725050A7E630
2499 Points
HP ProBook 430 G2 L3Q21EA
HD Graphics 5500, 5200U, Samsung SSD PM851 128 GB MZ7TE128HMGR
2396 Points -4%
Lenovo Thinkpad L450 20DS0001GE
HD Graphics 5500, 5300U, Seagate ST500LM021-1KJ15
2585 Points +3%

* ... smaller is better

System Performance

The system runs smoothly and the results of the PC Mark benchmarks are very good. However, owners of the ProBook can further increase the performance. For example, the GPU would benefit most from a second RAM module for activating dual channel mode. It could deliver more performance as it is used more efficiently. However, an SSD would increase the system performance even more significantly. Windows would boot faster and the system would be more responsive overall. Thanks to a free M.2 slot, it is easy and quick to do so.

PCMark 7 Score
2984 points
PCMark 8 Home Score Accelerated v2
3043 points
PCMark 8 Creative Score Accelerated v2
3390 points
PCMark 8 Work Score Accelerated v2
4106 points
Help
PCMark 8 - Work Score Accelerated v2 (sort by value)
HP ProBook 430 G3 P5T00ES
HD Graphics 520, 6200U, Hitachi Travelstar Z7K500 HTS725050A7E630
4106 Points
HP ProBook 430 G2 L3Q21EA
HD Graphics 5500, 5200U, Samsung SSD PM851 128 GB MZ7TE128HMGR
4135 Points +1%
Dell Latitude 13 3340 Education Series
HD Graphics 4400, 4200U, Seagate ST500LM000 Solid State Hybrid Drive
2738 Points -33%
Lenovo ThinkPad E450 20DDS01E00
Radeon R7 M260, 5200U, Samsung CM871 MZ7LF192HCGS
4186 Points +2%
Lenovo Thinkpad L450 20DS0001GE
HD Graphics 5500, 5300U, Seagate ST500LM021-1KJ15
3704 Points -10%
Fujitsu Lifebook E544
HD Graphics 4600, 4210M, Seagate ST500LM000 Solid State Hybrid Drive
3774 Points -8%
PCMark 7 - Score (sort by value)
HP ProBook 430 G3 P5T00ES
HD Graphics 520, 6200U, Hitachi Travelstar Z7K500 HTS725050A7E630
2984 Points
HP ProBook 430-G1
HD Graphics 4400, 4200U, Hitachi Travelstar Z5K500 HTS545050A7E380
2683 Points -10%
Acer TravelMate P236-M-57R4
HD Graphics 5500, 5200U, Kingston RBU-SC100S37240GE
4097 Points +37%
Dell Latitude 13 3340 Education Series
HD Graphics 4400, 4200U, Seagate ST500LM000 Solid State Hybrid Drive
2928 Points -2%
Lenovo ThinkPad E450 20DDS01E00
Radeon R7 M260, 5200U, Samsung CM871 MZ7LF192HCGS
4797 Points +61%
Dell Latitude 3450-9723
HD Graphics 5500, 5200U, Toshiba MQ01ABD100
2856 Points -4%
Lenovo Thinkpad L450 20DS0001GE
HD Graphics 5500, 5300U, Seagate ST500LM021-1KJ15
2753 Points -8%
Fujitsu Lifebook E544
HD Graphics 4600, 4210M, Seagate ST500LM000 Solid State Hybrid Drive
3439 Points +15%

Storage Device

The ProBook uses a conventional 2.5-inch hard drive from Hitachi as the system drive. It has a capacity of 500 GB and works at 7200 rpm. The transfer rates are on par with 7200 rpm drives. In addition, the ProBook provides a free M.2 slots (2280) for a compatible SSD.

The memory card reader of the ProBook achieves a maximum transfer rate of 85.7 MB/s when copying large data blocks. Moving 250 jpg files (about 5 MB each) is done at about 72.3 MB/s. In this test, we always use our reference SD card (Toshiba Exceria Pro SDXC 64 GB UHS-II) to compare the memory card readers of different notebooks .

It is easy to replace the hard drive.
It is easy to replace the hard drive.
A free M.2 slot is available.
A free M.2 slot is available.
Hitachi Travelstar Z7K500 HTS725050A7E630
Transfer Rate Minimum: 64.6 MB/s
Transfer Rate Maximum: 129.3 MB/s
Transfer Rate Average: 104.2 MB/s
Access Time: 15.9 ms
Burst Rate: 248.5 MB/s
CPU Usage: 3.3 %

Graphics Card

The graphics performance increases if a second RAM module is added.
The graphics performance increases if a second RAM module is added.

Apart from the Skylake processor, the ProBook also has a new GPU. The HD Graphics 520 supports DirectX 12 and works at a speed of up to 950 MHz. It performs significantly better than its HD Graphics 5550 predecessor in the 3D Mark benchmarks with a performance gain of up to 30%. It is possible to further increase the graphics performance by adding a second RAM module (= active dual channel mode). The following table lists the 3D Mark results of the HP in single and dual channel mode.

However, the new graphics core brings further advantages: For example, it is able to play 4k streams and decode videos in H.265 format (successor of the H.264). H.264 coded streams will be replaced by H.265 coded streams in the coming years, since videos in this format require less space at the same quality. For example, Netflix already uses H.265 for transferring 4k streams. Thus, the ProBook is future-proof in this respect.

Currently, not every media player supports hardware accelerated playback of H.265 streams. Under Windows 10, the Film & TV app does, while the Windows Media Player does not. Under Windows 8.1 and Windows 7, an alternative program is required - for example the DivX Player. During playback of a 4k H.265 video on the ProBook with the DivX Players, the CPU load was below 20%.

3DMark 06 Standard Score
6472 points
3DMark 11 Performance
1222 points
3DMark Ice Storm Standard Score
44992 points
3DMark Cloud Gate Standard Score
4932 points
3DMark Fire Strike Score
589 points
Help
3DMark 11 - 1280x720 Performance (sort by value)
HP ProBook 430 G3 P5T00ES
HD Graphics 520, 6200U, Hitachi Travelstar Z7K500 HTS725050A7E630
1222 Points
HP ProBook 430 G3 P5T00ES
HD Graphics 520, 6200U, Hitachi Travelstar Z7K500 HTS725050A7E630
1477 Points +21%
HP ProBook 430 G2 L3Q21EA
HD Graphics 5500, 5200U, Samsung SSD PM851 128 GB MZ7TE128HMGR
941 Points -23%
HP ProBook 430-G1
HD Graphics 4400, 4200U, Hitachi Travelstar Z5K500 HTS545050A7E380
784 Points -36%
Acer TravelMate P236-M-57R4
HD Graphics 5500, 5200U, Kingston RBU-SC100S37240GE
1014 Points -17%
Dell Latitude 13 3340 Education Series
HD Graphics 4400, 4200U, Seagate ST500LM000 Solid State Hybrid Drive
774 Points -37%
Lenovo ThinkPad E450 20DDS01E00
Radeon R7 M260, 5200U, Samsung CM871 MZ7LF192HCGS
2042 Points +67%
Dell Latitude 3450-9723
HD Graphics 5500, 5200U, Toshiba MQ01ABD100
1100 Points -10%
Lenovo Thinkpad L450 20DS0001GE
HD Graphics 5500, 5300U, Seagate ST500LM021-1KJ15
910 Points -26%
Fujitsu Lifebook E544
HD Graphics 4600, 4210M, Seagate ST500LM000 Solid State Hybrid Drive
838 Points -31%
3DMark
1280x720 Ice Storm Standard Score (sort by value)
HP ProBook 430 G3 P5T00ES
HD Graphics 520, 6200U, Hitachi Travelstar Z7K500 HTS725050A7E630
44992 Points
HP ProBook 430 G3 P5T00ES
HD Graphics 520, 6200U, Hitachi Travelstar Z7K500 HTS725050A7E630
59176 Points +32%
HP ProBook 430 G2 L3Q21EA
HD Graphics 5500, 5200U, Samsung SSD PM851 128 GB MZ7TE128HMGR
37800 Points -16%
HP ProBook 430-G1
HD Graphics 4400, 4200U, Hitachi Travelstar Z5K500 HTS545050A7E380
33312 Points -26%
Acer TravelMate P236-M-57R4
HD Graphics 5500, 5200U, Kingston RBU-SC100S37240GE
41862 Points -7%
Dell Latitude 13 3340 Education Series
HD Graphics 4400, 4200U, Seagate ST500LM000 Solid State Hybrid Drive
35351 Points -21%
Lenovo ThinkPad E450 20DDS01E00
Radeon R7 M260, 5200U, Samsung CM871 MZ7LF192HCGS
42260 Points -6%
Dell Latitude 3450-9723
HD Graphics 5500, 5200U, Toshiba MQ01ABD100
47312 Points +5%
Lenovo Thinkpad L450 20DS0001GE
HD Graphics 5500, 5300U, Seagate ST500LM021-1KJ15
32331 Points -28%
Fujitsu Lifebook E544
HD Graphics 4600, 4210M, Seagate ST500LM000 Solid State Hybrid Drive
34337 Points -24%
1280x720 Cloud Gate Standard Score (sort by value)
HP ProBook 430 G3 P5T00ES
HD Graphics 520, 6200U, Hitachi Travelstar Z7K500 HTS725050A7E630
4932 Points
HP ProBook 430 G3 P5T00ES
HD Graphics 520, 6200U, Hitachi Travelstar Z7K500 HTS725050A7E630
5908 Points +20%
HP ProBook 430 G2 L3Q21EA
HD Graphics 5500, 5200U, Samsung SSD PM851 128 GB MZ7TE128HMGR
4388 Points -11%
HP ProBook 430-G1
HD Graphics 4400, 4200U, Hitachi Travelstar Z5K500 HTS545050A7E380
3937 Points -20%
Acer TravelMate P236-M-57R4
HD Graphics 5500, 5200U, Kingston RBU-SC100S37240GE
4560 Points -8%
Dell Latitude 13 3340 Education Series
HD Graphics 4400, 4200U, Seagate ST500LM000 Solid State Hybrid Drive
3828 Points -22%
Lenovo ThinkPad E450 20DDS01E00
Radeon R7 M260, 5200U, Samsung CM871 MZ7LF192HCGS
4884 Points -1%
Dell Latitude 3450-9723
HD Graphics 5500, 5200U, Toshiba MQ01ABD100
4842 Points -2%
Lenovo Thinkpad L450 20DS0001GE
HD Graphics 5500, 5300U, Seagate ST500LM021-1KJ15
4322 Points -12%
Fujitsu Lifebook E544
HD Graphics 4600, 4210M, Seagate ST500LM000 Solid State Hybrid Drive
4396 Points -11%
1280x720 Sky Diver Score (sort by value)
HP ProBook 430 G3 P5T00ES
HD Graphics 520, 6200U, Hitachi Travelstar Z7K500 HTS725050A7E630
2918 Points
HP ProBook 430 G3 P5T00ES
HD Graphics 520, 6200U, Hitachi Travelstar Z7K500 HTS725050A7E630
3512 Points +20%
Lenovo Thinkpad L450 20DS0001GE
HD Graphics 5500, 5300U, Seagate ST500LM021-1KJ15
2304 Points -21%
1920x1080 Fire Strike Score (sort by value)
HP ProBook 430 G3 P5T00ES
HD Graphics 520, 6200U, Hitachi Travelstar Z7K500 HTS725050A7E630
589 Points
HP ProBook 430 G3 P5T00ES
HD Graphics 520, 6200U, Hitachi Travelstar Z7K500 HTS725050A7E630
803 Points +36%
HP ProBook 430 G2 L3Q21EA
HD Graphics 5500, 5200U, Samsung SSD PM851 128 GB MZ7TE128HMGR
544 Points -8%
HP ProBook 430-G1
HD Graphics 4400, 4200U, Hitachi Travelstar Z5K500 HTS545050A7E380
550 Points -7%
Dell Latitude 13 3340 Education Series
HD Graphics 4400, 4200U, Seagate ST500LM000 Solid State Hybrid Drive
502 Points -15%
Lenovo ThinkPad E450 20DDS01E00
Radeon R7 M260, 5200U, Samsung CM871 MZ7LF192HCGS
1036 Points +76%
Dell Latitude 3450-9723
HD Graphics 5500, 5200U, Toshiba MQ01ABD100
702 Points +19%
Lenovo Thinkpad L450 20DS0001GE
HD Graphics 5500, 5300U, Seagate ST500LM021-1KJ15
541 Points -8%
3DMark 06 - 1280x1024 Standard Score AA:0x AF:0x (sort by value)
HP ProBook 430 G3 P5T00ES
HD Graphics 520, 6200U, Hitachi Travelstar Z7K500 HTS725050A7E630
6472 Points
HP ProBook 430 G3 P5T00ES
HD Graphics 520, 6200U, Hitachi Travelstar Z7K500 HTS725050A7E630
9006 Points +39%
HP ProBook 430-G1
HD Graphics 4400, 4200U, Hitachi Travelstar Z5K500 HTS545050A7E380
4649 Points -28%

Gaming Performance

Although the ProBook is primarily a device for work, the new Skylake processor and its integrated graphics chip make it gaming capable to some extent. In real world gaming, this combination achieves on average 30% higher frame rates than the predecessor. With active dual channel mode, the ProBook can partially achieve the results of notebooks with dedicated graphics cores of the lower mid-range, for example the Radeon R5 M240.

low med. high ultra
Diablo III (2012) 68.2 45.1 36.1 21.5
Counter-Strike: GO (2012) 71 45.3 30.8 16.7
Tomb Raider (2013) 50.1 26.6 15.3 7.5
GRID: Autosport (2014) 73.4 28.7 14 12.5
Sims 4 (2014) 164.8 40.5 16.6 11.3
Alien: Isolation (2014) 32.8 20.7
F1 2014 (2014) 48 31 16 12.5
Dragon Age: Inquisition (2014) 17.2 11.7 4.5 2.1
Evolve (2015) 11.1 8
Battlefield Hardline (2015) 30.6 21.7 7.3 3.9
Dirt Rally (2015) 70.6 19.9 12.5 12.5
Metal Gear Solid V (2015) 28.6 18.3
World of Warships (2015) 45.2 32.1 15.9 11.8
FIFA 16 (2015) 36.9 25
Anno 2205 (2015) 8.2 5.3
Call of Duty: Black Ops 3 (2015) 17.2 9.7
Fallout 4 (2015) 13.6 9.1
Tomb Raider
1024x768 Low Preset (sort by value)
HP ProBook 430 G3 P5T00ES
HD Graphics 520, 6200U, Hitachi Travelstar Z7K500 HTS725050A7E630
50.1 fps
HP ProBook 430 G3 P5T00ES
HD Graphics 520, 6200U, Hitachi Travelstar Z7K500 HTS725050A7E630
74.2 fps +48%
HP ProBook 430 G2 L3Q21EA
HD Graphics 5500, 5200U, Samsung SSD PM851 128 GB MZ7TE128HMGR
39.7 fps -21%
Dell Latitude 3450-9723
HD Graphics 5500, 5200U, Toshiba MQ01ABD100
54.6 fps +9%
Lenovo Thinkpad L450 20DS0001GE
HD Graphics 5500, 5300U, Seagate ST500LM021-1KJ15
39.9 fps -20%
Fujitsu Lifebook E544
HD Graphics 4600, 4210M, Seagate ST500LM000 Solid State Hybrid Drive
40.6 fps -19%
Asus X555LD-XX283H
GeForce 820M, 4010U, Hitachi Travelstar Z5K500 HTS545050A7E680
76.6 fps +53%
Dell Inspiron 15 3542-2293
GeForce 820M, 4210U, Seagate Momentus Thin ST500LT012-1DG142
74.8 fps +49%
Dell Inspiron 15-5558
GeForce 920M, 5200U, Toshiba MQ01ABD100
83.8 fps +67%
Asus F555LJ-XX110H
GeForce 920M, 5010U, Hitachi Travelstar Z5K500 HTS545050A7E680
84.6 fps +69%
HP 350 G2 L8B05ES
Radeon R5 M240, 5200U, Seagate Momentus ST750LM022 HN-M750MB
62.8 fps +25%
Lenovo IdeaPad 305-15IBD
Radeon R5 M330, 5200U, Seagate Momentus SpinPoint M8 ST1000LM024
51.5 fps +3%
1366x768 Normal Preset AA:FX AF:4x (sort by value)
HP ProBook 430 G3 P5T00ES
HD Graphics 520, 6200U, Hitachi Travelstar Z7K500 HTS725050A7E630
26.6 fps
HP ProBook 430 G3 P5T00ES
HD Graphics 520, 6200U, Hitachi Travelstar Z7K500 HTS725050A7E630
39.4 fps +48%
HP ProBook 430 G2 L3Q21EA
HD Graphics 5500, 5200U, Samsung SSD PM851 128 GB MZ7TE128HMGR
20.8 fps -22%
Dell Latitude 3450-9723
HD Graphics 5500, 5200U, Toshiba MQ01ABD100
28.1 fps +6%
Lenovo Thinkpad L450 20DS0001GE
HD Graphics 5500, 5300U, Seagate ST500LM021-1KJ15
20.9 fps -21%
Fujitsu Lifebook E544
HD Graphics 4600, 4210M, Seagate ST500LM000 Solid State Hybrid Drive
20.2 fps -24%
Asus X555LD-XX283H
GeForce 820M, 4010U, Hitachi Travelstar Z5K500 HTS545050A7E680
39.6 fps +49%
Dell Inspiron 15 3542-2293
GeForce 820M, 4210U, Seagate Momentus Thin ST500LT012-1DG142
40 fps +50%
Dell Inspiron 15-5558
GeForce 920M, 5200U, Toshiba MQ01ABD100
43.3 fps +63%
Asus F555LJ-XX110H
GeForce 920M, 5010U, Hitachi Travelstar Z5K500 HTS545050A7E680
42.9 fps +61%
HP 350 G2 L8B05ES
Radeon R5 M240, 5200U, Seagate Momentus ST750LM022 HN-M750MB
31.6 fps +19%
Lenovo IdeaPad 305-15IBD
Radeon R5 M330, 5200U, Seagate Momentus SpinPoint M8 ST1000LM024
26.8 fps +1%
GRID: Autosport
1024x768 Ultra Low Preset (sort by value)
HP ProBook 430 G3 P5T00ES
HD Graphics 520, 6200U, Hitachi Travelstar Z7K500 HTS725050A7E630
73.4 fps
HP ProBook 430 G3 P5T00ES
HD Graphics 520, 6200U, Hitachi Travelstar Z7K500 HTS725050A7E630
105.1 fps +43%
Lenovo Thinkpad L450 20DS0001GE
HD Graphics 5500, 5300U, Seagate ST500LM021-1KJ15
63 fps -14%
Dell Inspiron 15 3542-2293
GeForce 820M, 4210U, Seagate Momentus Thin ST500LT012-1DG142
111.8 fps +52%
Asus F555LJ-XX110H
GeForce 920M, 5010U, Hitachi Travelstar Z5K500 HTS545050A7E680
128.5 fps +75%
HP 350 G2 L8B05ES
Radeon R5 M240, 5200U, Seagate Momentus ST750LM022 HN-M750MB
104.8 fps +43%
Lenovo IdeaPad 305-15IBD
Radeon R5 M330, 5200U, Seagate Momentus SpinPoint M8 ST1000LM024
104.5 fps +42%
1366x768 Medium Preset (sort by value)
HP ProBook 430 G3 P5T00ES
HD Graphics 520, 6200U, Hitachi Travelstar Z7K500 HTS725050A7E630
28.7 fps
HP ProBook 430 G3 P5T00ES
HD Graphics 520, 6200U, Hitachi Travelstar Z7K500 HTS725050A7E630
43.7 fps +52%
Lenovo Thinkpad L450 20DS0001GE
HD Graphics 5500, 5300U, Seagate ST500LM021-1KJ15
22.1 fps -23%
Dell Inspiron 15 3542-2293
GeForce 820M, 4210U, Seagate Momentus Thin ST500LT012-1DG142
43.4 fps +51%
Asus F555LJ-XX110H
GeForce 920M, 5010U, Hitachi Travelstar Z5K500 HTS545050A7E680
51.9 fps +81%
HP 350 G2 L8B05ES
Radeon R5 M240, 5200U, Seagate Momentus ST750LM022 HN-M750MB
46.7 fps +63%
Lenovo IdeaPad 305-15IBD
Radeon R5 M330, 5200U, Seagate Momentus SpinPoint M8 ST1000LM024
38.9 fps +36%
Dirt Rally
1024x768 Ultra Low Preset (sort by value)
HP ProBook 430 G3 P5T00ES
HD Graphics 520, 6200U, Hitachi Travelstar Z7K500 HTS725050A7E630
70.6 fps
HP ProBook 430 G3 P5T00ES
HD Graphics 520, 6200U, Hitachi Travelstar Z7K500 HTS725050A7E630
113.3 fps +60%
Dell Inspiron 15-5558
GeForce 920M, 5200U, Toshiba MQ01ABD100
136.1 fps +93%
Asus F555LJ-XX110H
GeForce 920M, 5010U, Hitachi Travelstar Z5K500 HTS545050A7E680
136.6 fps +93%
HP 350 G2 L8B05ES
Radeon R5 M240, 5200U, Seagate Momentus ST750LM022 HN-M750MB
122.7 fps +74%
Lenovo IdeaPad 305-15IBD
Radeon R5 M330, 5200U, Seagate Momentus SpinPoint M8 ST1000LM024
106.2 fps +50%
1366x768 Medium Preset (sort by value)
HP ProBook 430 G3 P5T00ES
HD Graphics 520, 6200U, Hitachi Travelstar Z7K500 HTS725050A7E630
19.9 fps
HP ProBook 430 G3 P5T00ES
HD Graphics 520, 6200U, Hitachi Travelstar Z7K500 HTS725050A7E630
25.7 fps +29%
Dell Inspiron 15-5558
GeForce 920M, 5200U, Toshiba MQ01ABD100
33.1 fps +66%
Asus F555LJ-XX110H
GeForce 920M, 5010U, Hitachi Travelstar Z5K500 HTS545050A7E680
33.2 fps +67%
HP 350 G2 L8B05ES
Radeon R5 M240, 5200U, Seagate Momentus ST750LM022 HN-M750MB
31.1 fps +56%
Lenovo IdeaPad 305-15IBD
Radeon R5 M330, 5200U, Seagate Momentus SpinPoint M8 ST1000LM024
26.3 fps +32%
World of Warships
1366x768 Low Preset AF:Trilinear (sort by value)
HP ProBook 430 G3 P5T00ES
HD Graphics 520, 6200U, Hitachi Travelstar Z7K500 HTS725050A7E630
45.2 fps
HP ProBook 430 G3 P5T00ES
HD Graphics 520, 6200U, Hitachi Travelstar Z7K500 HTS725050A7E630
69.2 fps +53%
HP 350 G2 L8B05ES
Radeon R5 M240, 5200U, Seagate Momentus ST750LM022 HN-M750MB
51.6 fps +14%
Lenovo IdeaPad 305-15IBD
Radeon R5 M330, 5200U, Seagate Momentus SpinPoint M8 ST1000LM024
49.1 fps +9%
1366x768 Medium Preset AF:Trilinear (sort by value)
HP ProBook 430 G3 P5T00ES
HD Graphics 520, 6200U, Hitachi Travelstar Z7K500 HTS725050A7E630
32.1 fps
HP ProBook 430 G3 P5T00ES
HD Graphics 520, 6200U, Hitachi Travelstar Z7K500 HTS725050A7E630
47 fps +46%
HP 350 G2 L8B05ES
Radeon R5 M240, 5200U, Seagate Momentus ST750LM022 HN-M750MB
36.1 fps +12%
Lenovo IdeaPad 305-15IBD
Radeon R5 M330, 5200U, Seagate Momentus SpinPoint M8 ST1000LM024
34.7 fps +8%
Battlefield Hardline - 1024x768 Low Graphics Quality (DX11) (sort by value)
HP ProBook 430 G3 P5T00ES
HD Graphics 520, 6200U, Hitachi Travelstar Z7K500 HTS725050A7E630
30.6 fps
HP ProBook 430 G3 P5T00ES
HD Graphics 520, 6200U, Hitachi Travelstar Z7K500 HTS725050A7E630
47.7 fps +56%
Lenovo ThinkPad E450 20DDS01E00
Radeon R7 M260, 5200U, Samsung CM871 MZ7LF192HCGS
49.3 fps +61%
Dell Inspiron 15-5558
GeForce 920M, 5200U, Toshiba MQ01ABD100
51.2 fps +67%
Asus F555LJ-XX110H
GeForce 920M, 5010U, Hitachi Travelstar Z5K500 HTS545050A7E680
40.9 fps +34%
HP 350 G2 L8B05ES
Radeon R5 M240, 5200U, Seagate Momentus ST750LM022 HN-M750MB
45.1 fps +47%

Emissions

System Noise

A work device like the ProBook should produce low or even no noise at all. HP does not disappoint in this respect: While idling, often the fan stops and only the quiet noise of the hard drive is audible. Even during our stress test (Prime95 and FurMark run for at least one hour), the fan does not have to do much. Although the graphics core works at full speed and the CPU at very high speed, the system noise is only 37.4 dB(A). During medium load such as computer games, the noise is about 33.3 dB(A). Many notebooks reach such a value while idling. All things considered, the noise has remained unchanged compared to the Broadwell ProBook.

Noise Level

Idle
29.8 / 29.8 / 30.9 dB(A)
HDD
29.8 dB(A)
Load
33.3 / 37.4 dB(A)
  red to green bar
 
 
30 dB
silent
40 dB(A)
audible
50 dB(A)
loud
 
min: dark, med: mid, max: light   Voltcraft SL-451 (15 cm distance)
HP ProBook 430 G3 P5T00ES
6200U, HD Graphics 520
HP ProBook 430 G2 L3Q21EA
5200U, HD Graphics 5500
HP ProBook 430-G1
4200U, HD Graphics 4400
Dell Latitude 13 3340 Education Series
4200U, HD Graphics 4400
Lenovo ThinkPad E450 20DDS01E00
5200U, Radeon R7 M260
Dell Latitude 3450-9723
5200U, HD Graphics 5500
Lenovo Thinkpad L450 20DS0001GE
5300U, HD Graphics 5500
Fujitsu Lifebook E544
4210M, HD Graphics 4600
Noise
-1%
-1%
-0%
-11%
-8%
-0%
-6%
Idle Minimum *
29.8
29.2
2%
30.8
-3%
31.3
-5%
29.6
1%
32.7
-10%
30.8
-3%
30.3
-2%
Idle Average *
29.8
29.2
2%
30.8
-3%
31.3
-5%
34.5
-16%
32.7
-10%
30.8
-3%
30.3
-2%
Idle Maximum *
30.9
31.6
-2%
30.8
-0%
31.3
-1%
34.8
-13%
32.7
-6%
30.8
-0%
32.5
-5%
Load Average *
33.3
36
-8%
34.6
-4%
31.6
5%
40.3
-21%
34.4
-3%
34.3
-3%
36.2
-9%
Load Maximum *
37.4
37.1
1%
34.6
7%
35.7
5%
40.3
-8%
41.9
-12%
34.3
8%
41.5
-11%

* ... smaller is better

Temperature

The ProBook during the stress test.
The ProBook during the stress test.

During our stress test (Prime95 and FurMark run for at least one hour), the graphics core runs at full speed (950 MHz) in mains operation as well as on battery. The processor works at 2.3 GHz (on battery) and 2.4 to 2.5 GHz (mains operated). The computer does not get too hot, but the 40 °C (~104 °F) mark is exceeded on several spots. The ProBook gets slightly warmer than its Broadwell predecessor, since the latter's CPU and GPU throttle significantly during the stress test. Thus, the Skylake ProBook is able to deliver its full performance for a longer period.

Max. Load
 38 °C
100 F
42.1 °C
108 F
32.1 °C
90 F
 
 35.7 °C
96 F
40.9 °C
106 F
31.3 °C
88 F
 
 27.4 °C
81 F
29.3 °C
85 F
29.5 °C
85 F
 
Maximum: 42.1 °C = 108 F
Average: 34 °C = 93 F
33.6 °C
92 F
38.2 °C
101 F
41.8 °C
107 F
33.1 °C
92 F
41.2 °C
106 F
44.1 °C
111 F
29.5 °C
85 F
32.4 °C
90 F
26 °C
79 F
Maximum: 44.1 °C = 111 F
Average: 35.5 °C = 96 F
Power Supply (max.)  49.6 °C = 121 F | Room Temperature 21.3 °C = 70 F | Fluke 62 Max
(±) The average temperature for the upper side under maximal load is 34 °C / 93 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 42.1 °C / 108 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 44.1 °C / 111 F, compared to the average of 36.7 °C / 98 F
(+) In idle usage, the average temperature for the upper side is 29.6 °C / 85 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 29.5 °C / 85.1 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 (-1.8 °C / -3.2 F).
HP ProBook 430 G3 P5T00ES
6200U, HD Graphics 520
HP ProBook 430 G2 L3Q21EA
5200U, HD Graphics 5500
HP ProBook 430-G1
4200U, HD Graphics 4400
Dell Latitude 13 3340 Education Series
4200U, HD Graphics 4400
Lenovo ThinkPad E450 20DDS01E00
5200U, Radeon R7 M260
Dell Latitude 3450-9723
5200U, HD Graphics 5500
Lenovo Thinkpad L450 20DS0001GE
5300U, HD Graphics 5500
Fujitsu Lifebook E544
4210M, HD Graphics 4600
Heat
1%
9%
7%
-1%
6%
10%
14%
Maximum Upper Side *
42.1
39.1
7%
33.2
21%
41.1
2%
48.9
-16%
41.1
2%
36.9
12%
32.6
23%
Maximum Bottom *
44.1
46.2
-5%
44.4
-1%
43.5
1%
54.3
-23%
41.4
6%
39.6
10%
34.6
22%
Idle Upper Side *
31.1
30.2
3%
26.8
14%
26.8
14%
25.6
18%
28.5
8%
28.7
8%
28.7
8%
Idle Bottom *
32.9
33
-0%
32.9
-0%
30.1
9%
26.6
19%
30.1
9%
30.1
9%
31.6
4%

* ... smaller is better

Speakers

The stereo speakers still sit above the keyboard behind a perforated cover. The sound is not impressive. However, this does not matter, since it is an office device. The sound lacks bass and tends to clank. However, voice is clearly understandable.

Energy Management

Power Consumption

While idling, the power consumption of the ProBook is up to 8.3 watts and therefore it is higher than that of the Broadwell sibling. This is because the latter has been equipped with a darker display and an SSD. In addition, we used a new gauge for the ProBook 430 G3. Under full load, the Skylake ProBook performs better: It requires just under 6 watts less energy. The power adapter is rated at 45 watts.

Power Consumption
Off / Standbydarklight 0.4 / 0.5 Watt
Idledarkmidlight 4.7 / 7.2 / 8.3 Watt
Load midlight 26.4 / 32 Watt
 color bar
Key: min: dark, med: mid, max: light        Metrahit Energy
Currently we use the Metrahit Energy, a professional single phase power quality and energy measurement digital multimeter, for our measurements. Find out more about it here. All of our test methods can be found here.
HP ProBook 430 G3 P5T00ES
6200U, HD Graphics 520
HP ProBook 430 G2 L3Q21EA
5200U, HD Graphics 5500
HP ProBook 430-G1
4200U, HD Graphics 4400
Dell Latitude 13 3340 Education Series
4200U, HD Graphics 4400
Lenovo ThinkPad E450 20DDS01E00
5200U, Radeon R7 M260
Dell Latitude 3450-9723
5200U, HD Graphics 5500
Lenovo Thinkpad L450 20DS0001GE
5300U, HD Graphics 5500
Fujitsu Lifebook E544
4210M, HD Graphics 4600
Power Consumption
22%
13%
5%
-14%
-17%
3%
-37%
Idle Minimum *
4.7
2.7
43%
3.9
17%
4.7
-0%
2.6
45%
6.1
-30%
3.4
28%
5.4
-15%
Idle Average *
7.2
4.4
39%
6
17%
6.3
12%
7.7
-7%
8.4
-17%
6.1
15%
9.3
-29%
Idle Maximum *
8.3
5
40%
8.3
-0%
7.1
14%
8.7
-5%
9.4
-13%
7
16%
10.2
-23%
Load Average *
26.4
25.4
4%
23.9
9%
28.8
-9%
43.1
-63%
32.2
-22%
29
-10%
41
-55%
Load Maximum *
32
37.6
-18%
25
22%
28.8
10%
45.4
-42%
33.6
-5%
42.4
-33%
52.4
-64%

* ... smaller is better

Battery Life

Overall, the battery runtimes of the ProBook 430 G3 are decent. In our realistic Wi-Fi test, the ProBook lasts 6:17 h, and therefore on par with its Broadwell predecessor (6:05 h). The ProBook also lasts just under 6 hours during video playback. Therefore, it is possible to watch several videos or several episodes of your favorite show during a train ride. We tested the battery runtime during video playback by running the short film Big Buck Bunny (H.264 coded, 1920x1080 pixels) in a loop. The Wi-Fi modules are disabled and the display brightness is set to about 150 cd/m².

Battery Runtime
Idle (without WLAN, min brightness)
7h 29min
WiFi Websurfing (IE 11)
6h 17min
Big Buck Bunny H.264 1080p
5h 37min
Load (maximum brightness)
1h 58min
HP ProBook 430 G3 P5T00ES
44 Wh
HP ProBook 430 G2 L3Q21EA
44 Wh
HP ProBook 430-G1
44 Wh
Dell Latitude 13 3340 Education Series
65 Wh
Lenovo ThinkPad E450 20DDS01E00
47 Wh
Dell Latitude 3450-9723
58 Wh
Lenovo Thinkpad L450 20DS0001GE
48 Wh
Fujitsu Lifebook E544
72 Wh
Battery Runtime
29%
71%
42%
28%
4%
27%
Reader / Idle
449
672
50%
1145
155%
999
122%
798
78%
771
72%
H.264
337
539
60%
264
-22%
WiFi v1.3
377
409
8%
484
28%
288
-24%
Load
118
128
8%
116
-2%
115
-3%
97
-18%
95
-19%
WiFi
365
257
871
262

Pros

+ matte display
+ high-end case
+ works quietly
+ good battery life
+ maintenance hatch
+ free M.2 slot
+ good keyboard

Cons

- dark, low-contrast display with narrow viewing angles
- only 12-month warranty

Verdict

In review: HP ProBook 430 G3. Test model provided by Cyberport.de
In review: HP ProBook 430 G3. Test model provided by Cyberport.de

The new Skylake processor of the HP ProBook 430 G3 provides a decent performance gain.

Thereby, the GPU performance has increased more than the CPU performance. However, the computer does not require more energy under load. Thus, the battery runtimes in our practical scenarios did not change compared to those of the Broadwell ProBook. Only the idle battery life is relatively short due to a rather too high-energy demand while idling.

The G3 model has inherited the advantages of its predecessor: For example, the computer works quietly and gets only moderately warm. The integrated hard drive is one of the fastest of its kind. Unfortunately, 7200-rpm drives are quite rare. If you want to incorporate an SSD, you need not do without the hard drive - thanks to a free M.2 slot. The new keyboard features a slightly crisper stroke.

Unfortunately, HP has also carried over the weaknesses of the predecessor. For example, once again, HP has incorporated a poor display. It is dark, low-contrast and viewing-angle dependent. Hewlett Packard does not appear to realize that a 13.3-inch notebook is used on the move and  under all kinds of lighting condition. The warranty of only 1 year is also a point of critique. Unfortunately, the latter is normal in the budget segment.

HP ProBook 430 G3 P5T00ES - 02/25/2016 v5(old)
Sascha Mölck

Chassis
80 / 98 → 82%
Keyboard
84%
Pointing Device
81%
Connectivity
48 / 80 → 60%
Weight
69 / 20-67 → 100%
Battery
86%
Display
73%
Games Performance
56 / 68 → 83%
Application Performance
65 / 92 → 71%
Temperature
88%
Noise
93%
Audio
50%
Camera
40 / 85 → 47%
Average
70%
81%
Office - Weighted Average

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Sascha Mölck, 2015-11-19 (Update: 2018-05-15)