HP ZBook 8 Gli 14-Inch: A Workstation Falls Short

Rating: 5 out of 10

Creating a portable workstation isn't a newfound or particularly complex concept. The idea is to equip a laptop with high-end components to maximize its strength and longevity, accepting some extra weight and bulk. These devices are crafted for tasks that require substantial processing power, like video rendering or CAD applications. Historically, price has not been a constraint for mobile workstations; the expectation was that these powerful tools would come at a premium, typically absorbed by employers.

HP's latest model meets those traditional expectations but with an unusual twist. It arrives with a substantial discount slashing $2,500 from the initial over $4,000 price tag, aligning its cost closer to standard laptop prices. Definitely intriguing.

Bulky Build, Firm Design

If not for its notable thickness (27 mm) and substantial weight (3.8 pounds), this model could easily blend in with the crowd. A 16-inch variant is also offered. Its design doesn’t stand out, featuring a standard metallic gray finish with HP branding, made partly from recycled materials. While the rounded edges and thick bezels around the screen are uninspired, the keyboard and trackpad are serviceable but lack flair. If you received this as work equipment back in 2014, excitement would have likely been high.

The ZBook 8 is about performance, though the specs surprise. While boasting 64 GB of RAM is commendable, its Intel Core Ultra 7 265H processor choice is puzzling, neither top-tier nor cutting-edge. I expected at least a Core Ultra 9. My test unit had a 1-terabyte SSD, but the 2560 x 1600 resolution on the 14-inch screen isn't extraordinary.

The system includes discrete graphics, a staple for workstations, but boasts an Nvidia GPU variant that remains largely unseen in the wild. Nearly two years old, the 500 Ada is essentially a slimmer version of the GeForce RTX 4060, performing on par with the older GTX 1000 series. Another perplexing decision from HP.

Performance Lacks Impact

Performance is a pivotal aspect of purchasing a mobile workstation, so scrutiny was necessary. The specifications were surprisingly modest, resulting in merely acceptable benchmark results. Standard office applications achieved performance levels similar to some of this year’s favorite laptops.

In terms of graphics, the performance was subpar. Compared to other laptops like the Nvidia GeForce RTX 5090-laden ProArt, the G1i’s scores were significantly lower. For AI-related tasks, it outperformed machines with integrated graphics but fell behind contemporary devices, making it insufficient for intensive use.

Overall, the G1i performs adequately, handling video rendering and moderate gaming without lag. However, nothing justifies labeling it as a true 'workstation.'

Day-to-day experiences are average. The typing experience is satisfying with well-spaced keys, while the smaller trackpad is notably responsive and clear in layout. The display’s brightness is on point, though the audio doesn't receive much attention, with volume loud enough to override cooling fan noise.

Battery life was a pleasant surprise at over 9 hours for full-screen YouTube playback, albeit possibly from the emphasis on battery weight. Port options are favorable, including full-size HDMI, USB-A, and three USB-C ports, two supporting Thunderbolt 4, plus Ethernet. Charging through a lower watt adapter slows down the process significantly.

Pricing and Availability

The standout feature of the ZBook 8 is its significant price cut to $1,609, potentially a good deal for a workstation. However, the advertised price was elusive; searching led only to a drastically stripped-down version lacking workstation capabilities (offering Core Ultra 5, integrated graphics, and less memory and storage). The claimed $1,609 price had already increased to $2,069 during this review’s completion.

Ultimately, I located my test unit priced at $2,739 directly from HP. This doesn’t reach the height of options like the $4,000 ProArt or other similar devices but is approaching that league, without the expected level of performance.