Dell Latitude 5420 14" Vs HP EliteBook 840 G8 14"

Dell Latitude 5420 14"
Dell Latitude 5420 14"
Starting at

Refurbished price:263.52

Versus €986.84 new

See options
HP EliteBook 840 G8 14"
HP EliteBook 840 G8 14"
Starting at

Refurbished price:350.00

Versus €696.00 new

See options

Ratings

The Dell Latitude 5420 and the HP EliteBook 840 G8 are 14-inch business-oriented laptops, both released in 2021. They cater to professionals and students seeking reliable performance and robust features for productivity and daily tasks. While sharing a common foundation as Windows-based machines, these models present distinct approaches to design, security, and user experience, offering different strengths for various professional needs.

Scores

Durability

Both the Dell Latitude 5420 and the HP EliteBook 840 G8, having been released in 2021, benefit from ongoing software support for the Windows operating system. Users can expect several more years of updates, contributing to their practical lifespan. The longevity of these devices is also influenced by their repairability and build quality.

  • Software Support: As 2021 models, both laptops are compatible with Windows 10 and Windows 11, ensuring continued security updates and feature enhancements for the foreseeable future.
  • Repairability & Upgradability: The Dell Latitude 5420 is noted for its good upgradeability, with accessible RAM and SSD slots, allowing users to extend its useful life by enhancing components. The HP EliteBook 840 G8 also offers upgradable RAM, which can contribute to its long-term usability.
  • Expected Lifespan: Both models are designed for business use, implying a focus on durability and sustained performance over several years. Their robust construction and component accessibility support a practical lifespan suitable for professional environments.

Year of Release

2020

2020

OS

Windows 11

Windows 11

Performance

Both laptops are equipped to handle demanding business applications and multitasking efficiently, thanks to their similar internal architectures. Their performance is well-suited for typical office work, web browsing, and video conferencing.

  • Processing Power: Both the Latitude 5420 and EliteBook 840 G8 feature current-generation processors from their release era, providing smooth operation for everyday tasks and responsive handling of multiple applications simultaneously.
  • Memory and Storage: Both devices offer configurations with ample DDR4 RAM and fast NVMe SSD storage, contributing to quick boot times, rapid application loading, and efficient data access. The Dell Latitude 5420 can be configured with up to 64GB of RAM, and the HP EliteBook 840 G8 also supports up to 64GB of DDR4 memory.
  • Battery Performance: The Dell Latitude 5420 is available with 42Wh or 63Wh battery options, with the larger capacity often providing sufficient power for a full workday. The HP EliteBook 840 G8 typically comes with a 53Wh battery, with users reporting around 9-10 hours of use for light business tasks.

Memory (GB)

16 GB

16 GB

Processor

Core i5-1135G7

Core i5-1145G7

Graphic card

Integrated Graphics

Integrated Graphics

Screen quality

The visual experience on both laptops is designed for productivity, offering clear displays suitable for extended work sessions, though with some variations in brightness and panel options.

  • Display Technology and Resolution: Both the Dell Latitude 5420 and HP EliteBook 840 G8 commonly feature 14-inch Full HD (1920x1080) IPS anti-glare displays, providing clear visuals and good viewing angles for general use.
  • Brightness Levels: The Latitude 5420 typically offers 250 nits of brightness, with some configurations reaching 400 nits. The EliteBook 840 G8 also starts at 250 nits, but higher-end options can include 400 nits or even 1000 nits with HP Sure View Reflect integrated privacy screens, which can be beneficial for working in varied lighting conditions or sensitive environments.
  • Viewing Experience: The anti-glare properties on both devices help reduce reflections, making them comfortable for use in brightly lit offices or outdoors. The IPS panels ensure consistent color and contrast across wider viewing angles.

Audiovisual

For communication and media consumption, both laptops offer integrated solutions, with HP emphasizing its audio experience and Dell providing a functional setup for business needs.

  • Webcam Quality: The Dell Latitude 5420 typically includes a 720p webcam, though a 1080p option is available, often accompanied by a manual privacy shutter. The HP EliteBook 840 G8 also features a webcam, often with a physical privacy shutter, suitable for video conferencing.
  • Microphone Quality: Both laptops incorporate dual-array microphones designed to capture clear audio for calls and virtual meetings.
  • Speaker Output: The Dell Latitude 5420 provides decent speaker quality, with clear mids and highs, though bass response may be limited. The HP EliteBook 840 G8 features Bang & Olufsen tuned speakers, which are often praised for producing loud and clear sound with good range, enhancing the media consumption and conference call experience.

Miscellaneous

Beyond core performance, several practical elements differentiate these laptops, from their physical design to their connectivity and security features.

  • Weight and Dimensions: The Dell Latitude 5420 starts at approximately 1.37 kg to 1.5 kg, with a thickness of around 19.3mm to 20.9mm. The HP EliteBook 840 G8 is generally lighter, starting from about 1.13 kg to 1.35 kg, and is slightly thinner at around 17.8mm. This difference can impact portability for users who frequently travel.
  • Build Materials: The Latitude 5420 features a chassis constructed with carbon fiber and magnesium reinforcement, with some models incorporating bioplastics, offering a robust and durable feel. The EliteBook 840 G8 often utilizes an aluminum or magnesium alloy chassis, contributing to a premium and sturdy build.
  • Connectivity and Security: Both laptops offer a comprehensive selection of ports, including Thunderbolt 4 USB-C, USB-A, and HDMI. The Dell Latitude 5420 also includes an RJ-45 Ethernet port and a microSD card reader. The HP EliteBook 840 G8 provides similar port options and is known for its strong security features like HP Wolf Security, HP Sure View privacy screens, and integrated fingerprint readers. Both support Wi-Fi 6 and optional LTE/5G connectivity.

Weight

1400 g

2500 g

Screen size

14

14

Both the Dell Latitude 5420 and the HP EliteBook 840 G8 stand as capable 14-inch business laptops from their 2021 release, each with a strong focus on productivity and reliability. User feedback for the Dell Latitude 5420 often highlights its robust and durable build, good port selection, and solid performance for everyday business tasks. Some users appreciate its upgradeability for extending its lifespan. Criticisms sometimes point to its somewhat utilitarian design and, in some configurations, a less vibrant display or average webcam quality.

The HP EliteBook 840 G8 is frequently praised for its premium aluminum chassis, lighter weight, and enhanced security features like HP Sure View and HP Wolf Security. Its Bang & Olufsen speakers are also a common point of positive feedback, offering a more immersive audio experience. Some users, however, have noted that certain display options might be average in brightness, and while generally good, battery life can vary with usage.

Users prioritizing a highly durable machine with extensive port options and strong internal upgradeability may find the Dell Latitude 5420 well-suited to their needs. Conversely, those who value a more premium, lighter design, advanced security features, and superior audio for communication and media consumption might lean towards the HP EliteBook 840 G8. Both models offer a reliable computing experience for professionals and students. For those considering these devices, exploring quality-assured refurbished options can provide an eco-friendly alternative, extending the life cycle of these capable business tools.

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