HP FAST EliteDesk 800 G3 SFF PC - Intel Core i7 6th Gen vs HP EliteDesk 800 G4 Mini Desktop PC

Overview of the Products

In this comparison, we are examining the HP FAST EliteDesk 800 G3 SFF PC and the HP EliteDesk 800 G4 Mini Desktop PC. The former is priced at £139.99, while the latter comes at a higher price of £266.03. Both products are tailored for users seeking reliable performance for office or home use, but they come with distinct specifications and features that cater to different computing needs.

The HP FAST EliteDesk 800 G3 SFF PC features an Intel Core i7 6th Generation processor, while the EliteDesk 800 G4 Mini boasts the more advanced Intel Core i7 8700, which provides a significant boost in performance. Evaluating these differences will help prospective buyers determine which model best fits their needs.

Performance Comparison

The HP EliteDesk 800 G4 Mini Desktop PC offers superior performance due to its Intel Core i7 8700 six-core processor, which can reach speeds of up to 4.1GHz. This setup allows for greater multitasking capabilities compared to the G3's four-core i7 6th Generation, which peaks at 4.00GHz.

With two additional cores, the G4 Mini is better suited for demanding applications and multitasking scenarios, making it a more future-proof choice for users who may need to run more complex software over time. The price difference reflects this enhanced performance, with the G4 Mini costing £126.04 more than the G3.

Memory and Storage

Both products are equipped with 16GB of RAM, but the HP EliteDesk 800 G4 Mini offers DDR4 memory compared to the DDR3 in the G3. This difference is significant, as DDR4 provides faster data transfer speeds and improved power efficiency.

Furthermore, the G4 Mini includes a 512GB M.2 NVMe Solid State Drive, delivering faster boot times and data access compared to the G3's SSD options. The G3 offers either 512GB or 1TB of SSD storage, but the latter is not an NVMe option, which could impact performance. Overall, while both models provide ample storage, the G4 Mini’s storage technology gives it an edge in speed and efficiency.

Connectivity Features

When it comes to wireless connectivity, the HP EliteDesk 800 G4 Mini outperforms the G3 with its Intel 9560 Wireless Network card. This modern card supports data speeds of up to 1.73Gbps, which is significantly faster than the G3’s 150Mbps USB WiFi Adapter.

Additionally, the G4 Mini features Bluetooth 5, offering four times the range and double the speed of previous versions, making it capable of connecting to multiple devices simultaneously. This makes the G4 Mini a better choice for users who rely heavily on wireless connections or have multiple devices to connect.

Operating System

The HP FAST EliteDesk 800 G3 SFF PC comes with Windows 11 Pro, while the HP EliteDesk 800 G4 Mini is equipped with Windows 10 Pro. The inclusion of Windows 11 on the G3 means it benefits from the latest features, security updates, and user interface enhancements offered by Microsoft.

Conversely, while Windows 10 Pro is still robust and secure, it may not have the same future-proofing advantages as Windows 11. Users who prefer to have the latest operating system with updated features might find the G3 more appealing, despite the G4's stronger hardware performance.

Design and Form Factor

The HP FAST EliteDesk 800 G3 SFF PC features a small form factor design, which is compact and saves desk space while delivering full desktop performance. The G4 Mini also boasts a compact design, but its mini form factor is even smaller, making it an excellent option for users with limited workspace.

While both models are designed to be space-efficient, the G4 Mini's design is particularly suited for those who value portability and minimalism, further enhancing its appeal for modern office environments.

Pricing and Value

At £139.99, the HP FAST EliteDesk 800 G3 SFF PC is significantly more affordable than the HP EliteDesk 800 G4 Mini, which is priced at £266.03. This price difference of £126.04 may be a critical factor for budget-conscious buyers seeking a reliable desktop solution without the need for cutting-edge performance.

However, those willing to invest more for enhanced performance, multitasking capabilities, and superior connectivity features would find the G4 Mini to be a valuable investment in the long run. The pricing reflects the performance and features, making it essential to weigh the benefits against the budget.

Which should you buy?

Choosing between the HP FAST EliteDesk 800 G3 SFF PC and the HP EliteDesk 800 G4 Mini Desktop PC ultimately depends on your specific needs and budget. If you require a cost-effective and reliable desktop for basic tasks, the G3 offers solid performance with a modern operating system at an attractive price of £139.99.

However, for users seeking advanced performance capabilities, enhanced multitasking potential, and superior connectivity, the G4 Mini at £266.03 represents a worthwhile investment. Its advanced specifications will serve well in demanding environments, making it a better long-term choice for power users.