HP EliteBook 840 G6 14" Vs Lenovo ThinkPad T490s 14"

The HP EliteBook 840 G6 and the Lenovo ThinkPad T490s are 14-inch business-oriented laptops, both released in 2019. While sharing a focus on professional use, they present distinct approaches to design, upgradeability, and feature sets. Both devices operate on the Windows platform, offering a familiar environment for most users.

Both the HP EliteBook 840 G6 and the Lenovo ThinkPad T490s were introduced in 2019, placing them in a similar generation of business laptops. This means they benefit from comparable ongoing software support from Microsoft for the Windows operating system. Business-grade laptops are generally constructed for durability, aiming for a practical lifespan that extends beyond consumer models.

• Software Longevity: Both models, having been released in 2019, are expected to receive Windows operating system updates for a similar duration, typically ensuring several more years of supported use.
• Repairability: The HP EliteBook 840 G6 generally allows for user access to components like RAM and storage for upgrades or repairs. The Lenovo ThinkPad T490s, while robust, features soldered RAM in many configurations, which limits memory upgrade options after purchase.
• Build Durability: The ThinkPad T490s is noted for its MIL-STD testing, indicating a design built to withstand various environmental stresses, including drops and spills. The EliteBook 840 G6 also features a sturdy aluminum chassis, contributing to its overall resilience.

Both laptops are equipped with processors from the same generation, providing capable performance for typical business applications and multitasking. Their configurations vary in terms of memory and storage, influencing overall system responsiveness.

• Processing Power: Both the EliteBook 840 G6 and the ThinkPad T490s utilize efficient processors that handle common productivity software, web browsing, and moderate multitasking smoothly. Users engaging in more demanding tasks like complex data analysis or light content creation will find these processors capable.
• Memory Configuration: The HP EliteBook 840 G6 offers up to 64GB of DDR4 RAM across two accessible slots, allowing for future memory upgrades. In contrast, the Lenovo ThinkPad T490s typically features soldered DDR4 RAM, with configurations up to 32GB, meaning memory cannot be upgraded post-purchase.
• Storage and Responsiveness: Both models come with fast NVMe PCIe SSD storage options, contributing to quick boot times and rapid application loading. The EliteBook 840 G6 supports up to 2TB of storage, while the ThinkPad T490s offers up to 1TB.
• Battery Behavior: The ThinkPad T490s is often highlighted for its extended battery life, with some configurations claiming up to 20 hours on a single charge, particularly with its low-power display options. The EliteBook 840 G6 also provides solid battery performance for a full workday, though user reports suggest the ThinkPad might offer longer endurance in certain scenarios.

The visual experience on these 14-inch laptops can vary significantly depending on the specific display panel chosen, with both offering a range of options to suit different user needs.

• Display Technology and Resolution: Both the EliteBook 840 G6 and the ThinkPad T490s primarily feature 14-inch Full HD (1920x1080) IPS displays, providing clear visuals and good viewing angles. The EliteBook also has configurations with a higher resolution UHD (3840x2160) display. The ThinkPad T490s offers a WQHD (2560x1440) Dolby Vision HDR option for enhanced color and contrast.
• Brightness and Clarity: Display brightness levels vary across configurations for both models. The EliteBook 840 G6 offers options ranging from 250 nits up to 1000 nits with HP's Sure View privacy screen. The ThinkPad T490s also has panels from 250 nits up to 500 nits, including a low-power FHD option designed for battery efficiency.
• Special Features: The HP EliteBook 840 G6 can be configured with a Sure View privacy screen, which limits viewing angles to protect sensitive information from onlookers. The Lenovo ThinkPad T490s offers a similar Privacy Guard option. Both models also have optional touchscreen configurations.

For communication and media consumption, both laptops integrate standard features, with some distinctions in their audio and camera capabilities.

• Webcam Quality: Both the HP EliteBook 840 G6 and the Lenovo ThinkPad T490s typically include a 720p HD webcam, suitable for video conferencing and online meetings. The ThinkPad T490s often includes a physical ThinkShutter for camera privacy, a feature also available as an option on the EliteBook.
• Microphone and Speakers: The EliteBook 840 G6 features Bang & Olufsen dual stereo speakers and three multi-array microphones with HP Noise Cancellation, aiming for clear audio during calls. The ThinkPad T490s comes with dual 1W speakers with Dolby Audio Premium and dual array far-field microphones, designed to pick up voice commands from a distance.
• Video Recording: The integrated graphics in both laptops support standard video recording quality for everyday use. Neither is designed for professional-grade video production, but they are adequate for general communication and content consumption.