The HP EliteBook 745 G5 is a business-class laptop that combines power, portability, and enterprise features into a sleek and efficient package. This review will cover the key aspects of the device, including its design, performance, display, keyboard, connectivity, battery life, and overall value for business users.
Design and Build Quality
The HP EliteBook 745 G5 boasts a professional and durable design. It features a brushed aluminum chassis with a silver finish, giving it a sophisticated and high-end appearance. The laptop is relatively slim and lightweight, measuring around 13.1 x 9.1 x 0.8 inches and weighing approximately 3.7 pounds. This makes it a good choice for frequent travelers who need a robust and portable machine.
The build quality is excellent, with a sturdy hinge and a solid feel throughout the laptop. The EliteBook 745 G5 meets MIL-STD 810G standards, which means it has been tested for durability against various environmental conditions, including vibrations, shocks, and extreme temperatures.
Display
The HP EliteBook 745 G5 features a 14-inch display with a resolution of 1920 x 1080 pixels (Full HD). The screen is bright and offers good color accuracy and sharpness, making it suitable for various professional tasks, from document editing to presentations. The anti-glare coating ensures that reflections are minimized, which is beneficial for working in different lighting conditions.
One of the standout features is the optional HP Sure View integrated privacy screen, which helps protect sensitive information from prying eyes by narrowing the viewing angles. This feature is particularly useful in open or public spaces.
Performance
Under the hood, the HP EliteBook 745 G5 is powered by AMD’s Ryzen Pro processors, specifically the Ryzen 5 2500U or Ryzen 7 2700U. These processors provide strong performance for everyday business tasks, including multitasking, office applications, and light media editing. Coupled with 8GB to 16GB of RAM, the laptop handles most professional workloads with ease.
For storage, the device offers options ranging from 256GB to 512GB of SSD, providing fast boot times and quick access to files. The SSD also contributes to overall system responsiveness and reliability.
Keyboard and Touchpad
The EliteBook 745 G5 comes equipped with a full-size, backlit keyboard that is comfortable and responsive. The keys have a good amount of travel and tactile feedback, which enhances typing accuracy and speed. The inclusion of a dedicated number pad is a plus for users who frequently work with numerical data.
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The touchpad is spacious and supports multi-touch gestures, such as pinch-to-zoom and two-finger scrolling. It is accurate and responsive, though some users might prefer the optional TrackPoint for precise navigation.
Also Read: HP EliteBook Folio 1020 G1 Review
Connectivity
Connectivity options on the HP EliteBook 745 G5 are comprehensive and cater to a range of business needs. The laptop includes:
- Two USB 3.1 Gen 1 Type-A ports
- One USB Type-C 3.1 Gen 2 port (with Power Delivery and DisplayPort 1.2 support)
- One HDMI 1.4 port
- One RJ-45 Ethernet port
- A headphone/microphone combo jack
- One Smart Card reader (optional)
Wireless connectivity includes Intel 802.11ac Wi-Fi and Bluetooth 4.2, ensuring stable and fast connections to networks and peripherals. The inclusion of optional LTE mobile broadband provides added flexibility for users who need internet access on the go.
Also Read: HP EliteBook x360 830 G6 Laptop: A Comprehensive Review
Battery Life
The HP EliteBook 745 G5 is equipped with a 50Wh lithium-ion battery, which delivers impressive battery life. Depending on usage and configuration, users can expect around 8 to 10 hours of battery life on a single charge. This makes it suitable for a full day of work without needing to recharge, although real-world performance may vary based on specific tasks and settings.
Security Features
Given its focus on business users, the EliteBook 745 G5 comes with several security features to protect sensitive information. These include:
- HP Sure Start Gen4, which provides BIOS protection against attacks and corruption
- HP Sure Click, which isolates and protects against web-based threats
- HP Sure View privacy screen (optional)
- A fingerprint reader for biometric authentication
Value and Conclusion
The HP EliteBook 745 G5 is a well-rounded business laptop that offers a strong combination of performance, durability, and security features. Its design is professional and durable, and it provides ample connectivity options for various business needs. The display quality is good, and the battery life is sufficient for a full day of work.
While the price might be on the higher side compared to some consumer laptops, the EliteBook 745 G5’s enterprise features and build quality justify the investment for business users who need a reliable and secure laptop. Overall, it is a solid choice for professionals who require a robust and high-performing machine for their daily tasks.
Additional Considerations
While the HP EliteBook 745 G5 offers a lot of positive attributes, it’s worth noting a few considerations that might influence your decision:
- Performance Variability: Depending on the configuration, performance can vary. The higher-end models with Ryzen 7 processors and maximum RAM and SSD options will deliver superior performance, while entry-level configurations might be less suited for intensive tasks.
- Upgradeability: One of the strengths of the EliteBook 745 G5 is its ease of upgradeability. Users can upgrade the RAM and storage, which can extend the laptop’s lifespan and adapt it to changing needs over time. However, always ensure that upgrades are done by professionals to maintain warranty coverage.
- Price: As a business-oriented laptop, the EliteBook 745 G5 is priced higher than many consumer laptops. It’s important to weigh the cost against the benefits of its enterprise features, such as the advanced security options and durability.
- Heat and Noise: During heavy use, the laptop can generate noticeable heat and fan noise. While this is typical of high-performance laptops, it’s something to consider if you’re working in quiet environments.
- Software Compatibility: The EliteBook 745 G5 runs Windows 10 Pro, which is ideal for business environments. Ensure that all the software and tools you need are compatible with this operating system to avoid any disruptions in workflow.
Summary
In summary, the HP EliteBook 745 G5 stands out as a robust, secure, and efficient business laptop. Its combination of AMD Ryzen processors, a high-quality display, and extensive security features make it a compelling choice for professionals who need a reliable device for work.
Pros:
- Durable Build: Meets MIL-STD 810G standards for durability.
- Strong Performance: Ryzen Pro processors and SSD storage ensure smooth performance for business tasks.
- High-Quality Display: Bright and sharp, with optional privacy screen.
- Comprehensive Connectivity: Includes a range of ports and optional LTE.
- Security Features: Advanced security options for protecting sensitive data.
Cons:
- Higher Price: More expensive than consumer laptops, reflecting its business-oriented features.
- Heat and Noise: Can become warm and noisy under heavy load.
- Variable Performance: Performance varies with configuration; higher specs are recommended for demanding tasks.
The HP EliteBook 745 G5 is a well-engineered business laptop that delivers on several fronts, making it a strong contender for professionals looking for a reliable, secure, and powerful computing solution.
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