HP Elite Mini 800 G9 review compact desktop with powerful Intel i5 processor

Description

Compact and Versatile Design

The HP Elite Mini 800 G9 MFF combines compactness with power, making it a solid choice for anyone who needs a reliable desktop computer without taking up too much space. Its ultra-small chassis, measuring just 6.97 x 6.89 x 1.34 inches, fits perfectly on cluttered desks or tucked neatly behind a monitor using a VESA mount. I personally found this feature extremely helpful, especially in a shared workspace where desk real estate is a premium. The minimalist design also ensures neat cable management, which is a blessing if tangled wires drive you crazy.

While portability isn’t usually a highlight for desktops, this mini PC defies expectations. It’s light enough to carry between home and office setups, making it perfect for hybrid workers. The inclusion of a bundled wired keyboard and mouse adds convenience, though they are fairly basic and might not meet the preferences of users seeking premium peripherals.

Performance: A Beast in a Small Package

I honestly didn’t expect such a powerful performance from such a tiny system. Powered by the 14th Gen Intel Core i5-14500 processor with 14 cores (6 performance and 8 efficient), this mini desktop handles multitasking like a champ. Whether I was juggling multiple browser tabs, running spreadsheets, or streaming high-quality videos, the system didn’t skip a beat. Turbo speeds of up to 5.0GHz on the performance cores meant that even demanding tasks ran smoothly.

The 32GB DDR5 RAM paired with a 1TB PCIe SSD makes a noticeable difference in speed. Boot times are lightning-fast, and applications open in mere seconds. This combination is ideal for users who need reliable performance for work-related tasks, data analysis, or even light content creation. However, heavy gamers or video editors might find the Intel UHD 770 Graphics to be limiting. While it’s capable of supporting up to four 4K displays with its dual DisplayPorts, HDMI, and USB Type-C, it’s not geared towards high-end gaming or intensive 3D rendering.

Boons

• Compact design that saves space and offers portability.
• 14-core processor for seamless multitasking and impressive speeds.
• 32GB DDR5 RAM ensures smooth performance even with resource-heavy applications.
• 1TB PCIe SSD for blazing-fast storage and ample capacity.
• Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth capabilities for better connectivity options.

Areas for Improvement

• Integrated graphics might not meet the needs of power users like gamers or designers.
• The bundled keyboard and mouse feel basic and not ergonomic for prolonged use.
• Lack of an optical drive, though this might not be a dealbreaker for most users.

Connectivity and Expansion Options

One of the standout features of this machine is its array of ports. On the front, you get SuperSpeed USB Type-A 10Gbps ports (including one with charging capabilities) and a Type-C port with a 20Gbps signaling rate. This was a lifesaver for me when transferring large files or charging devices quickly. The rear panel offers a mix of DisplayPort 1.4, HDMI 2.1, and RJ-45 Ethernet, which ensures compatibility with multiple monitor setups and reliable wired networking.

Bluetooth worked flawlessly when I paired my wireless headphones, and Wi-Fi 6 provided steady, fast internet, even in rooms with typically weak signals. While the absence of an optical drive might disappoint a select few, it’s understandable given the compact form factor.

Product Competitors

Compared to Intel NUCs or Lenovo ThinkCentre Tiny desktops, the HP Elite Mini 800 G9 offers a better processor with 14 cores and DDR5 memory, which gives it a performance edge. However, Intel NUCs often come with additional customization options, like swappable components, which might appeal to tech-savvy users. On the other hand, Lenovo ThinkCentre Tiny desktops focus heavily on security features like TPM chips and BIOS-level protections, making them a strong contender for businesses that prioritize data protection.

The graphics performance of the HP Elite Mini 800 G9 is on par with its competitors, but it might fall short for users requiring discrete GPU options, which some Intel NUC variants offer. However, the HP Elite Mini’s compact design and bundled accessories make it a more complete package for those looking for a ready-to-use solution.

Value for Money

For the features and performance it delivers, this mini PC offers excellent value for its price. The combination of high-speed DDR5 memory, spacious SSD storage, and cutting-edge Wi-Fi 6 connectivity justifies the investment for users who need a compact yet high-performing desktop. While it’s not the cheapest mini PC on the market, the premium build quality and reliable performance make it a worthwhile purchase for professionals and home users alike.

To sum it up, this mini desktop fits the bill for anyone looking for a powerful, space-saving solution. While it’s not perfect, the trade-offs are minimal, and the benefits far outweigh the limitations for most use cases.

Additional information