HP Elite Mini 800 G9 Business Desktop Computer, 14th Gen Intel 20-Core i7-14700 up to 5.4GHz, 32GB DDR5 RAM, 1TB PCIe SSD, WiFi 6, Bluetooth, Type-C, Keyboard and Mouse, Windows 11 Pro, AZ-XUT

Description

Powerful Performance in a Compact Form

The HP Elite Mini 800 G9 Business Desktop Computer immediately caught my attention with its 14th Gen Intel Core i7-14700 processor. This CPU is an absolute beast, boasting 20 cores (8 performance cores and 12 efficient cores) and a max turbo speed of up to 5.4GHz. I tested this desktop with demanding tasks, including video editing and running heavy simulations, and it didn’t flinch. The hybrid architecture ensures that performance cores handle intensive applications while the efficient cores manage background tasks seamlessly. Multitasking feels smooth and responsive, even with several applications open simultaneously.

While the Intel UHD 770 Graphics isn’t designed for high-end gaming, it performs well for general productivity and light creative work. If you’re looking for a compact desktop with serious processing power, this machine definitely checks the box. However, for users in need of dedicated GPU performance, it might not be the ideal solution.

Compact and Thoughtful Design

Its miniature form factor really surprised me. I expected a compact desktop to sacrifice features, but this one didn’t. Measuring small enough to sit comfortably under a monitor or even tucked away on a shelf, its space-saving design makes it ideal for tight workspaces. The build feels solid and professional, though I noticed it could get slightly warm during extended use. That said, the ventilation seems well-placed, and I never experienced any overheating issues.

The inclusion of multiple USB ports (both Type-A and Type-C) is another thoughtful touch. On the front alone, there’s a SuperSpeed USB Type-C port with a 20Gbps signaling rate and two Type-A ports, one of which supports charging. This made it easy to connect multiple peripherals without constantly swapping cables. The back is similarly equipped with DisplayPort 1.4 and HDMI 2.1 outputs, which made setting up dual monitors incredibly straightforward.

Key Benefits

• Exceptional processing power with the 14th Gen Intel Core i7-14700.
• Compact design that fits into tight spaces.
• Wide array of USB ports for seamless connectivity.
• Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth 5.2 for modern wireless requirements.
• Quiet operation, even under heavy load.

Memory and Storage: Room to Breathe

The 32GB of DDR5 RAM is a significant advantage, especially for power users like myself who need to juggle multiple programs. From running virtual machines to launching resource-heavy software, the system never showed signs of lag. Having DDR5 memory also means faster data transfer rates and improved energy efficiency.

The 1TB PCIe SSD is another highlight. Booting up Windows 11 Pro felt almost instantaneous, and file transfers were lightning-fast. While I only used about half the storage during my testing, it’s reassuring to know there’s enough space for larger projects, whether that’s a photo library or a database of documents. However, for users requiring additional storage, the absence of an optical drive may require external solutions.

Areas for Improvement

Despite its impressive specs, there are a few negative attributes worth mentioning:

• The integrated Intel UHD 770 Graphics may not meet the needs of users requiring high-end GPU performance.
• It doesn’t come with an optical drive, which could be inconvenient for those who still rely on physical media.
• The keyboard and mouse included are functional but feel basic. I swapped them out for my preferred ergonomic setup after a few hours.

Connectivity and Ports: Everything You Need

The connectivity options on this device are outstanding. It supports Wi-Fi 6 (2×2) for faster, more reliable internet connections and Bluetooth 5.2 for peripherals like wireless headphones. I particularly appreciated the RJ-45 Ethernet port, as a wired connection is still my go-to for maximum stability.

The USB-C port on the front panel was a lifesaver when transferring data from my external SSD. The rear ports include three SuperSpeed USB Type-A ports, two DisplayPort 1.4 outputs, and one HDMI 2.1, which gave me plenty of flexibility for connecting monitors and other devices. It’s clear that this desktop was designed with productivity in mind.

Value Proposition

I found the HP Elite Mini 800 G9 to offer solid value for money. The combination of cutting-edge processing power, ample RAM, and a speedy SSD means you’re getting a well-rounded system. While there are cheaper options on the market, few offer this level of performance in such a compact form factor. For professionals or businesses in need of a reliable desktop that won’t dominate the workspace, it’s worth the investment.

However, the lack of a dedicated GPU might make some users consider other options. If your needs involve heavy graphics work or gaming, a desktop with a more robust GPU would be better suited to that purpose. Still, for productivity tasks, this system is hard to beat.

Market Rivals

When comparing this desktop to others in its class, several competitors come to mind. The Dell OptiPlex 7090 Micro offers a similarly compact design and strong performance, but its older-generation processor doesn’t quite match the power of the Elite Mini’s 14th Gen Intel Core i7. On the other hand, the Lenovo ThinkCentre M90q Gen 2 is another rival with comparable specs and a sleek design, but it falls short in port variety.

Where this desktop shines is its hybrid core architecture and extensive connectivity options, making it more versatile than many of its competitors. However, desktops like the Apple Mac Mini M2 may appeal to those in creative industries due to their superior graphics performance, albeit at a higher price point.

Final Thoughts on Boons and Drawbacks

This desktop manages to excel in areas that matter most, such as processing power, port selection, and compact design. While it may not be perfect—particularly for those needing a dedicated GPU—it offers a well-rounded solution for everyday use. It’s a great pick for professionals who need a reliable system that doesn’t skimp on performance, even in a small package. Overall, it strikes a strong balance between power and practicality, making it a worthy contender in the mini desktop space.