When it comes to business laptops, the HP EliteBook series has consistently delivered high-quality, reliable, and efficient machines designed to meet the demands of professionals. The HP EliteBook 820 G3 is no exception. With a combination of powerful performance, portability, and robust security features, this laptop aims to cater to the needs of business users who are always on the go. In this review, we will delve into various aspects of the HP EliteBook 820 G3, covering its design, performance, features, and overall value.
Design and Build Quality
The HP EliteBook 820 G3 boasts a sleek and professional design. Its magnesium-aluminum chassis gives it a premium look and feel while ensuring durability. Weighing just under 3 pounds and measuring 12.44 x 8.58 x 0.74 inches, this laptop is highly portable, making it an ideal companion for frequent travelers and mobile professionals.
The laptop features a 12.5-inch display, which strikes a good balance between screen real estate and portability. The display comes with options for HD (1366 x 768) or FHD (1920 x 1080) resolution, providing crisp and clear visuals. The anti-glare coating is a welcome addition, reducing reflections and making it easier to work in bright environments.
Performance
Under the hood, the HP EliteBook 820 G3 is powered by Intel’s 6th generation Core processors, with options ranging from Core i3 to Core i7. Paired with up to 16GB of DDR4 RAM and a variety of storage options, including fast SSDs, the laptop delivers robust performance for everyday business tasks. Whether you are multitasking, working on large spreadsheets, or running demanding applications, the EliteBook 820 G3 handles it all with ease.
The integrated Intel HD Graphics 520 provides adequate performance for general productivity tasks and light multimedia usage. However, it is not suited for heavy graphics-intensive workloads or gaming.
Keyboard and Trackpad
The keyboard on the HP EliteBook 820 G3 is one of its standout features. The spill-resistant design ensures durability, while the backlit keys provide visibility in low-light conditions. The keys themselves offer a comfortable typing experience with good travel and tactile feedback, which is essential for long typing sessions.
The trackpad is responsive and supports multi-touch gestures, making navigation smooth and efficient. Additionally, the laptop includes a pointing stick, catering to users who prefer this alternative input method.
Connectivity and Ports
Connectivity is a strong point for the HP EliteBook 820 G3. It comes equipped with a variety of ports to support a wide range of peripherals and external devices. These include:
- Two USB 3.0 ports
- One USB Type-C port
- VGA and DisplayPort for external displays
- Ethernet port
- SD card reader
- Headphone/microphone combo jack
The inclusion of USB Type-C is particularly noteworthy, as it ensures future-proofing and compatibility with modern devices and accessories.
Security Features
As a business laptop, the HP EliteBook 820 G3 places a strong emphasis on security. It comes with several features designed to protect sensitive data and ensure secure computing. These include:
- HP Sure Start, which provides BIOS protection and self-healing capabilities
- Fingerprint reader for secure and convenient login
- TPM 1.2/2.0 for hardware-based encryption
- Optional smart card reader
These security features make the EliteBook 820 G3 a reliable choice for professionals who handle confidential information.
Battery Life
Battery life is a critical factor for mobile professionals, and the HP EliteBook 820 G3 does not disappoint. With its 3-cell (44 Wh) Li-ion battery, the laptop can comfortably last through a typical workday on a single charge. The power-efficient hardware and various power management features contribute to its impressive battery performance.
Audio and Webcam
The laptop’s audio quality is decent, thanks to the dual stereo speakers tuned by Bang & Olufsen. While it may not deliver audiophile-grade sound, it is more than adequate for video calls, presentations, and casual media consumption.
The built-in webcam is HD quality and performs well in good lighting conditions. It is suitable for video conferencing, an essential feature for remote work and virtual meetings.
Conclusion
The HP EliteBook 820 G3 is a well-rounded business laptop that excels in several key areas. Its sleek and durable design, robust performance, excellent keyboard, and comprehensive security features make it a compelling choice for professionals. While it may not be the best option for heavy multimedia tasks or gaming, it shines as a reliable and efficient tool for productivity and business use.
For those seeking a portable, secure, and high-performing laptop, the HP EliteBook 820 G3 is definitely worth considering. It combines the right mix of features and performance to meet the needs of today’s demanding business environment.
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