HP EliteDesk 600 G9 review Powerful Business Desktop with Intel i7 and 32GB RAM

Description

Sleek Design and Compact Build

The HP EliteDesk 600 G9 Small Form Factor desktop stands out with its compact dimensions of 6.1 x 11.7 x 12.8 inches, making it an excellent choice for users who value space-saving solutions. Its minimalist black design fits seamlessly into any workspace, whether at home or in an office. Despite its small footprint, this desktop doesn’t compromise on durability. Weighing just 11 pounds, it’s sturdy enough to handle daily use without showing wear and tear. I personally appreciated how it fit snugly on my desk without occupying too much real estate, leaving room for other essentials.

However, I did notice that the small form factor limits expandability, which might be an issue for users who plan on upgrading components later. While the design is sleek and functional, those who need extensive customization may find this a slight drawback.

Performance Powerhouse

Equipped with the Intel Core i7-13700 processor, this desktop delivers blazing speeds of up to 5.2GHz, making multitasking a breeze. With 16 cores and 24 threads, it handled everything I threw at it, from intense data analysis to running multiple virtual machines. The 30MB Smart Cache further amplified its performance, ensuring quick responses across applications.

Pairing this with 32GB of DDR5 RAM, I found switching between programs seamless, with no noticeable lag even during resource-heavy tasks. The 2TB PCIe SSD deserves a specific shoutout—it’s incredibly fast, reducing boot times to mere seconds and making file transfers almost instantaneous. As someone who deals with large media files regularly, this was a game-changer.

Still, the integrated Intel UHD Graphics 770 might not appeal to gamers or professionals in graphic-intensive fields. While it’s sufficient for business tasks and casual multimedia use, it lacks the punch of dedicated GPUs for high-end gaming or 3D rendering.

Comprehensive Connectivity

One of the standout features of this desktop is its impressive array of connectivity options. The front panel hosts 1 headphone/microphone combo port, 4 USB Type-A ports with 10Gbps speeds, and 1 USB Type-C port capable of 20Gbps. On the rear, you’ll find 3 USB 2.0 ports, an HDMI 1.4b port, 2 DisplayPorts 1.4a, and RJ-45 Ethernet, among others. This variety ensures compatibility with virtually any peripheral.

I connected two 4K monitors via the DisplayPorts, and the triple 4K display support worked flawlessly, enhancing productivity. The inclusion of Wi-Fi and a wired USB keyboard and mouse felt like thoughtful touches, although the keyboard felt a bit basic for my liking.

Key Benefits

• Intel Core i7-13700 processor ensures smooth multitasking with speeds up to 5.2GHz.
• 32GB DDR5 RAM and 2TB PCIe SSD provide exceptional speed and storage capacity.
• Compact and durable build makes it ideal for small workspaces.
• Extensive USB and video output options, including support for triple 4K displays.

Areas of Concern

• Integrated graphics limit performance for gaming and graphic-intensive tasks.
• Basic keyboard and mouse might not meet every user’s preferences.
• Limited expandability due to the small form factor design.

Boons of Security

Running on Windows 11 Pro, the desktop is preloaded with security features that ensure peace of mind. The TPM 2.0 chip and HP Wolf Security deliver robust protection against cyber threats, which is critical for businesses. I found the system’s intuitive navigation and multitasking capabilities to be a step up from previous editions. It’s ideal for professionals looking for a secure and organized platform.

It’s worth mentioning that the lack of a webcam might inconvenience users who rely on video conferencing. While external webcams are easy to add, this omission feels like a missed opportunity, especially in today’s remote work environment.

Product Rivals

In comparison to competitors like the Dell OptiPlex 7000 SFF and Lenovo ThinkCentre M90q, the HP EliteDesk holds its own in terms of processing power and storage options. The Dell OptiPlex, for instance, offers similar performance but lacks the extensive connectivity options that this desktop boasts. On the other hand, the Lenovo ThinkCentre includes a discrete GPU option, making it more appealing for users with specific graphic needs.

However, where the EliteDesk shines is in its combination of compact design, performance, and connectivity. It’s a middle ground for users who need power but don’t want to compromise on desk space.

Price Performance

Evaluating its value proposition, this desktop offers outstanding features for its price point. While it’s not the most budget-friendly option, the performance-to-price ratio is impressive. The high-speed RAM, ample storage, and robust processor make it worth the investment for professionals and power users.

I’d say this product is tailored for business professionals, content creators, and anyone who values speed and reliability in a compact package. Although it’s not the cheapest option, the quality for price justifies spending a little extra if these features align with your needs.

Additional information