HP ZBook Power 15 G8 test: Entry-level workstation with a clumsy AI
The ZBook Power 15 G8 is an affordable workstation with high-end characteristics. While Intel's Core i7-11800H offers a lot of performance, it is limited in our test unit, probably by HP's "Z-Algorithms" AI for thermal and performance control.
At almost 400 nits, the FHD IPS panel is sufficiently bright and offers a good contrast as well as saturated black. However, similar to the 4K option (according to the data sheet), it only offers a limited color accuracy for professional tasks. The Nvidia T600 should not be underestimated in workstation-related tasks, and it is also able to handle FHD gaming at medium detail settings.
At the same time, the ZBook offers an excellent battery life and also doesn't get as loud anymore as with the old BIOS. Other attractive points are the optional charging via USB-C, the compact and robust aluminum case with MIL STD-810H certification, and the very good input devices. In addition, HP values very strong security features both in terms of hardware and software.
If the AI were managed better, the ZBook Power would almost have no other real but only minor disadvantages: It lacks an SD card reader, the fast Intel AX201 Wi-Fi 6 module is soldered in, the sound and webcam are meager, and the fans turn on a bit too often. There also is no option for Xeon CPUs, ECC RAM, or a DreamColor display.
A usable configuration with a Core i7 and Nvidia T600 is already available from about 1300 Euros (~$1324), and you can get a 4K display and more RAM/SSD storage starting from 1649 Euros (~$1680)https://www.notebooksbilliger.de/hp+zbook+power+g8+452u6es+745242?&nbb=pn.&nbbct=1002_11#Q0Snews_deC11.
You can find more details and analyses with numerous benchmark results in our review of the HP ZBook Power 15 G8.