HP EliteBook 840 G8 review

Where the EliteBook 840 G8 stands

The HP EliteBook 840 G8 is a 2020 business ultrabook positioned at the upper edge of the budget tier — roughly $309, slightly above the category median of $297. As a more recent vintage, it carries hardware that comprehensively outperforms older EliteBook generations: a mainstream-tier GPU, professional memory ceiling, and no serious weak spots flagged against the category. This is a workstation-class machine at a budget-class price.

Graphics: mainstream-tier performance

The 840 G8's GPU score of 44.7 places it in mainstream graphics territory — more than ten times the category median of 3.8. This is the tier usually associated with entry-level dedicated graphics or recent integrated platforms with strong GPU compute. In practical terms, the machine handles casual gaming at moderate-to-high settings, video editing, and GPU-accelerated creative work without difficulty. For a business ultrabook, this is exceptional headroom.

Memory and overall performance: the supporting strengths

The 64 GB memory ceiling is 60% above the category median of 40 GB, placing the 840 G8 firmly in professional territory. The performance index of 65 is 56% above the category median of 41 — a broad indicator that the machine outperforms its category on general compute, not just graphics. Combined, these strengths make the 840 G8 a credible workstation replacement for technical professionals who do not need the absolute latest silicon.

Price trajectory

From its launch price to $309 today, the 840 G8 has depreciated meaningfully but retains more value than older EliteBook generations. As a 2020 machine, the depreciation curve is past its steepest phase but the remaining service horizon is healthy. The projected price two years out represents a moderate further decline.

How it compares

In the $290-$330 refurbished business range, the 840 G8 sits among 2020-2021 alternatives with similar vintage. The Lenovo ThinkPad L14 at $328 and the Lenovo ThinkPad T14 at $331 are direct competitors, but neither matches the 840 G8's combination of mainstream GPU, professional memory ceiling, and above-median overall performance. For buyers seeking a workstation-class machine at a budget-class price, the 840 G8 is the strongest pick in its band.

Bottom line

The EliteBook 840 G8 is a 2020 business ultrabook that comprehensively outperforms its category. Its mainstream-tier GPU, professional memory ceiling, and above-median overall performance make it a credible workstation for the budget tier. At $309, it sits near the category median, but the combination of capabilities justifies the price. For buyers who need a single machine to handle productivity, light creative work, and casual gaming, it is fairly priced for its class.