HP Elite Mini 800 G9 review is this the ultimate business desktop?

Description

Compact Yet Powerful Design

The HP Elite Mini 800 G9 truly lives up to its “Mini” title. At just 6.97 x 6.89 x 1.34 inches, this desktop is unbelievably compact. I couldn’t believe how it managed to pack so much power into such a small frame. It fits snugly on my desk without taking up valuable space, which is a huge plus if you’re working in a cluttered environment like mine. The sleek and minimalist design gives it a professional aesthetic that complements any workspace. Despite its size, the build feels solid and durable, and at 6.34 pounds, it’s portable enough to move around if needed.

The design also incorporates thoughtful ventilation, which kept the system cool even during heavy multitasking. However, the lack of an optical drive might be a drawback for those who still rely on physical media. I didn’t miss it, but it’s worth noting if that’s part of your workflow.

Blazing Performance with 14th Gen Intel Core i9

As soon as I powered on the system, the 24-core Intel Core i9-14900 processor stole the show. With a maximum turbo speed of 5.8GHz, this desktop handled everything I threw at it. From editing 4K videos to running multiple virtual machines, the performance never lagged. The P-core and E-core architecture ensured smooth multitasking, and I could feel the difference compared to older processors I’ve used.

The 64GB DDR5 RAM is equally impressive. I had over 30 tabs open in my browser, a video editing app running, and a game on pause—all without a single hiccup. Storage is another win here, with the 2TB PCIe SSD offering lightning-fast read/write speeds. Booting up the device and loading files was nearly instantaneous. That said, the system isn’t intended for heavy gaming, as the Intel UHD 770 Graphics can’t compete with dedicated GPUs. Casual gaming? Sure. Hardcore gaming? Not so much.

Connectivity at Its Finest

One of the standout features of this desktop is its Wi-Fi 6 capability. I tested it in various locations, and the internet speed remained consistently fast, even in areas with weaker signals. Pairing devices using Bluetooth was a breeze, whether it was my wireless headphones or a Bluetooth mouse.

The array of ports is another highlight. The front panel includes USB Type-C and Type-A ports with impressive data transfer rates, and the rear panel offers additional connectivity options, including Dual DisplayPort 1.4 and an HDMI 2.1. I connected two 4K monitors, and the visuals were crisp and vibrant. However, an external antenna connector might seem outdated to some users, though it ensures better network reception.

Key Benefits

• Compact design: Perfect for small desks or tight spaces.
• Lightning-fast processor: The Intel Core i9-14900 is a multitasking beast.
• Ample storage: 2TB SSD ensures you never run out of space.
• Exceptional RAM: 64GB DDR5 allows seamless multitasking.
• Wide range of ports: Connect multiple devices with ease.

Areas for Improvement

• Integrated graphics: The Intel UHD 770 Graphics isn’t ideal for gaming or advanced graphical tasks.
• No optical drive: May inconvenience users who still use physical media.
• Price point: While justifiable, it could be a barrier for budget-conscious buyers.

Product Comparisons

When stacked against competitors like the Dell OptiPlex 7090 Micro and the Lenovo ThinkCentre M90q Tiny, the HP Elite Mini 800 G9 holds a strong position. Its 14th Gen Intel processor outperforms the 11th and 12th Gen processors found in many alternatives. The 64GB of DDR5 RAM is also a rare find in this category, making it a standout choice for power users.

That said, the Dell OptiPlex offers more flexible upgrade options, while the Lenovo ThinkCentre excels in energy efficiency and quiet operation. The Elite Mini’s graphics capabilities fall short compared to desktops with dedicated GPUs, but for everyday tasks and productivity, it easily takes the lead.

Value Proposition

Is it worth the investment? Absolutely, if you’re looking for a compact yet powerful desktop. The HP Elite Mini 800 G9 delivers a combination of performance, storage, and RAM that outshines many competitors. While the price may seem steep initially, the long-term value it provides makes it a smart choice for professionals and power users.

If you’re someone who values efficiency and performance in a small form factor, this desktop is hard to beat. Its reliable connectivity, ample ports, and future-proof specs make it a strong contender in the mini desktop market.

Additional information