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HP Z240 Small Form Computer Review

  • MiniPC
  • 13 min read
compact workstation performance review

The HP Z240 Small Form Computer offers robust performance through its Intel Core i5-6500 processor and 16GB DDR4 RAM, making it suitable for demanding applications and gaming alike. Its compact design, measuring 13.3 x 4 x 14.9 inches, maximizes workspace efficiency while housing powerful AMD Radeon RX-550 graphics, capable of delivering impressive frame rates in popular games. Despite limitations in upgrade options and the absence of an optical drive, customer feedback highlights its reliable performance and versatility. This machine serves both casual users and professionals effectively, providing a compelling choice in a small package; further insights await exploration.

Key Takeaways

  • The HP Z240 features a powerful Intel Core i5-6500 processor and 16GB DDR4 RAM, ensuring robust multitasking and performance for various applications.
  • It includes an AMD Radeon RX-550 graphics card, providing solid gaming performance with frame rates up to 96 FPS in popular titles.
  • The compact design measures 13.3 x 4 x 14.9 inches, making it ideal for users with limited workspace while maintaining functionality.
  • The system offers extensive connectivity with ten USB ports and comes with essential peripherals like a wired keyboard and mouse included.
  • While it excels in performance and compactness, limited upgrade options and the absence of an optical drive may concern some users.

Performance Analysis of the HP Z240 Small Form Computer reveals a robust performance profile suitable for both professional applications and gaming. The Intel Core i5-6500 processor, combined with 16GB of DDR4 RAM and an AMD Radeon RX-550 graphics card, positions the Z240 favorably against performance benchmarks typical for its category. In fact, its performance is comparable to that of high-end compact systems like the A8 Gaming Mini PC, which features impressive specs such as an AMD Ryzen 7 8845HS processor and Radeon 780M GPU, offering high performance for gaming. In gaming scenarios, it delivers an impressive experience, achieving 53 FPS in Metro Exodus and Need for Speed Heat, while reaching 71 FPS in Call of Duty: Ops Cold War. Other titles, such as Doom Eternal and Fortnite, also benefit from smooth frame rates, demonstrating the system's ability to handle demanding graphics. Overall, the HP Z240 Small Form Computer provides a balanced performance that meets the needs of diverse users.

Features and Benefits

The HP Z240 Small Form Computer offers a compact design that effectively maximizes space while maintaining high performance. With its powerful AMD graphics card and superior multitasking capabilities, it guarantees smooth gaming and multitasking capabilities, making it suitable for both professional and recreational use. Additionally, the versatile USB port configuration and included brand new peripherals enhance user convenience and connectivity options.

Compact Design, Space-Saving Dimensions

HP's Z240 Small Form Computer exemplifies a compact design that is ideal for users seeking a space-saving solution without compromising on performance. Its dimensions of 13.3 x 4 x 14.9 inches allow for flexible placement in various environments, making it particularly suitable for small offices or home setups. The design promotes compact efficiency, ensuring that users can maximize their workspace while enjoying robust computing capabilities. Additionally, the ergonomic placement of ports and connectivity options enhances usability, allowing for easy access to USB and audio jacks. This thoughtful design not only facilitates an organized workspace but also contributes to better airflow and cooling, which is essential for maintaining peak performance during demanding tasks.

High-Performance AMD Graphics Card

Equipped with a dedicated AMD Radeon RX-550 graphics card, the HP Z240 Small Form Computer delivers impressive visual capabilities that enhance both gaming and professional applications. This GPU is designed to offer robust AMD performance, making it suitable for a variety of tasks, from graphic design to gaming. With its 4GB memory, the RX-550 efficiently handles modern titles, providing a smooth gaming experience at respectable frame rates; for instance, it achieves 71 FPS in Call of Duty Ops Cold War and 96 FPS in Project Cars. Additionally, the graphics card supports advanced features such as DirectX 12, ensuring compatibility with the latest software. Overall, the HP Z240's graphics capabilities considerably elevate its performance in demanding scenarios.

Versatile USB Port Configuration

Frequently, users seek systems that offer flexibility in connectivity, and the HP Z240 Small Form Computer excels in this regard with its versatile USB port configuration. Equipped with a total of ten USB ports—six USB 2.0 and four USB 3.0—the Z240 provides ample connection options for various peripherals and devices. This USB versatility guarantees that users can easily connect multiple devices simultaneously, enhancing productivity and workflow efficiency. The inclusion of both USB 2.0 and USB 3.0 ports caters to a broad range of accessories, from legacy devices to high-speed external storage solutions. Consequently, the HP Z240 stands out as an ideal choice for professionals and gamers alike, who require seamless connectivity for their demanding tasks.

Brand New Peripherals Included

Enhancing the overall user experience, the HP Z240 Small Form Computer comes with brand new peripherals, specifically a wired keyboard and mouse. These accessories are designed to guarantee seamless peripheral compatibility, making the setup process straightforward and efficient. The wired connection eliminates latency, which is particularly beneficial for users engaged in a gaming setup, where responsiveness is essential.

The inclusion of these peripherals signifies HP's commitment to delivering a complete package, reducing the need for additional purchases. The keyboard features a standard layout, enhancing typing accuracy, while the mouse is ergonomically designed for comfort during extended use. Overall, these brand new peripherals enhance productivity and gaming performance, aligning well with the computer's capabilities and user expectations.

Product Quality

One might consider the HP Z240 Small Form Computer as a prime example of quality engineering in the compact desktop market. The build quality is robust, featuring a sturdy chassis that not only enhances durability but also aids in effective thermal management. This design choice supports sustained performance, critical for demanding tasks, and is similar to the space-saving design found in mini PCs, which optimize limited retail environments. A reliability assessment reveals that the Z240 is engineered with high-quality components, ensuring consistent operation over extended periods. Additionally, the compact dimensions do not compromise its functionality or expandability, which is often a challenge in small form factor systems. Overall, the HP Z240 stands out for its emphasis on reliability and superior build quality, making it a smart choice for users seeking a dependable desktop solution.

What It's Used For

The HP Z240 Small Form Computer is versatile, catering to a range of applications from gaming to everyday productivity tasks and creative work. Its robust gaming performance, demonstrated through impressive frame rates in popular titles, positions it as a suitable option for gamers. Additionally, the adequate specifications support productivity and creative software, making it a valuable tool for both casual users and professionals alike.

Gaming Performance Metrics

Gaming performance metrics serve as critical indicators for evaluating how well a computer system can handle modern gaming titles. For the HP Z240, frame rates are essential benchmarks that highlight its capability across various popular games. For instance, it achieves an impressive 96 FPS in Project Cars, while maintaining around 53 FPS in Metro Exodus and Need for Speed Heat. Additionally, frame rates in competitive titles like Fortnite and Apex Legends hover around 59 FPS and 63 FPS, respectively. These results demonstrate the system's ability to deliver a solid gaming experience for both casual and more demanding gamers. By analyzing these gaming benchmarks, potential buyers can make informed decisions regarding the HP Z240's suitability for their gaming needs.

Everyday Productivity Tasks

While the HP Z240 Small Form Computer showcases commendable gaming performance, its capabilities extend beyond the domain of entertainment into everyday productivity tasks. Equipped with an Intel Core i5 processor and 16GB of RAM, it excels in office productivity, handling typical applications such as word processing, spreadsheets, and web browsing with ease. The system's solid-state drive enhances boot times and file access, further supporting efficient workflows. Additionally, the HP Z240's multitasking efficiency is significant; users can seamlessly switch between multiple applications without experiencing lag. Its ample USB ports and connectivity options make it versatile for various peripherals, ensuring that it meets the demands of modern office environments effectively. To summarize, the Z240 is a reliable choice for everyday productivity.

Creative Work Applications

Frequently utilized in creative work applications, the HP Z240 Small Form Computer demonstrates versatility that appeals to graphic designers, video editors, and other professionals in creative fields. With its Intel Core i5 processor and 16GB of DDR4 RAM, the Z240 efficiently handles demanding software such as Adobe Creative Suite and video editing programs like Adobe Premiere Pro. The dedicated AMD Radeon RX-550 graphics card enhances rendering capabilities, providing smooth playback and high-quality visuals essential for graphic design and video editing tasks. Its compact form factor allows for easy integration into any workspace, making it an ideal choice for professionals seeking a powerful yet space-efficient solution. Overall, the HP Z240 delivers reliable performance tailored to the needs of creative users.

Product Specifications

The HP Z240 Small Form Computer is designed to deliver robust performance in a compact package, making it an appealing option for both professional and casual users. Its specifications highlight impressive performance benchmarks and hardware compatibility, ensuring it meets diverse user needs.

SpecificationDetails
ProcessorIntel Core i5-6500, 3.20GHz
RAM16GB DDR4
GraphicsAMD Radeon RX-550 4GB

With a total of 10 USB ports and dedicated video output options, the HP Z240 is versatile for various peripherals and displays. This computer's compact dimensions (13.3 x 4 x 14.9 inches) further enhance its adaptability for workspace configurations.

Who Needs This

Professionals in need of a reliable and compact computing solution will find the HP Z240 Small Form Computer to be an ideal choice. This machine is particularly suited for creative professionals, engineers, and small business users who require powerful performance without occupying substantial workspace. Its compact design makes it an excellent fit for scenarios where desk space is limited, such as in design studios or home offices. The HP Z240 effectively handles demanding applications, including graphic design software and CAD programs, appealing to its target audience. Additionally, users in need of a versatile system for light gaming or multimedia tasks will benefit from its adequate graphics capabilities, making it a well-rounded option for diverse user scenarios.

Pros

Designed with versatility in mind, the HP Z240 Small Form Computer boasts several advantages that cater to its target audience. This compact machine delivers an impressive user experience, particularly appealing to professionals and casual gamers alike.

  1. Strong Performance: The Intel Core i5-6500 processor and 16GB DDR4 RAM guarantee efficient multitasking and smooth performance, making it suitable for various applications.
  2. Gaming Capability: With the AMD Radeon RX-550 graphics card, users can enjoy solid gaming performance, as evidenced in performance comparisons with popular titles.
  3. Compact Design: Its small form factor allows for easy placement in limited spaces, enhancing accessibility without compromising functionality.

Cons

While the HP Z240 Small Form Computer offers several advantages, it is not without its drawbacks. Users have reported certain limitations that may affect overall satisfaction and usability:

  1. Limited Upgrade Options: The compact design restricts space for additional components, which may inhibit future enhancements.
  2. No Optical Drive: The absence of an optical drive can be a significant inconvenience for users requiring physical media access.
  3. Mixed User Experiences: Some users have encountered performance issues during resource-intensive tasks, indicating that the hardware may not meet the demands of all applications.

These cons highlight essential considerations for potential buyers, particularly regarding the machine's expandability and adaptability to evolving technology needs.

What Customers Are Saying

Customers have expressed a range of opinions regarding the HP Z240 Small Form Computer, reflecting both satisfaction and concerns. Many users praise its compact design and powerful performance, particularly for gaming and multitasking, highlighting the smooth experience in titles like Doom Eternal and Grand Theft Auto V. Customer feedback often notes the value of the dedicated AMD Radeon RX-550 graphics, which enhances gaming experiences. However, some user experiences reveal frustrations with limited upgrade options due to the small form factor and the absence of an optical drive. Additionally, a few customers reported issues with the pre-installed software, despite the system being free of bloatware. Overall, these insights provide an extensive view of the product's strengths and weaknesses.

Overall Value

The HP Z240 Small Form Computer presents a compelling option for users seeking a balance between performance and compactness. With respect to value assessment, this machine provides robust specifications, including an Intel Core i5 processor and dedicated AMD Radeon graphics, making it suitable for both professional applications and casual gaming. When conducting a cost comparison against similar models, the Z240 often emerges as a more economical choice, particularly in the renewed category, where it is free from excessive pre-installed software. The compact design enhances its appeal for users with limited space, while the included peripherals add to its overall value. Ultimately, the HP Z240 represents a well-rounded investment for those prioritizing performance in a small footprint.

Tips and Tricks For Best Results

To maximize the performance and longevity of the HP Z240 Small Form Computer, users can implement several key strategies. First, regular system maintenance is vital; verify that the operating system and drivers are consistently updated to enhance performance optimization. Additionally, utilizing disk cleanup tools can free up storage space, improving system responsiveness. Monitoring the temperature and dust accumulation within the unit can prevent overheating and hardware degradation. For enhanced performance, consider upgrading the RAM or adding a secondary storage drive, as this can greatly boost multitasking capabilities. Finally, using high-quality surge protectors can safeguard against power fluctuations, further extending the life of the computer. By following these guidelines, users can guarantee ideal operation of their HP Z240.

Conclusion

Maximizing performance and ensuring longevity are key considerations for any user of the HP Z240 Small Form Computer. This compact desktop excels in delivering reliable performance, powered by its Intel Core i5 processor and dedicated AMD Radeon graphics. The 16GB DDR4 RAM and 256GB SSD contribute to an impressive user experience, particularly for multitasking and casual gaming. Additionally, the system's design allows for future upgrades, ensuring that users can enhance their capabilities as technology evolves. With ample USB ports and versatile connectivity options, the Z240 remains adaptable to various peripherals and accessories. Overall, this small form factor computer is a solid investment for users seeking efficiency without compromising on performance, making it suitable for both professional and personal use.

Frequently Asked Questions

How Does the HP Z240 Compare to Similar Models?

In performance benchmarks, the HP Z240 excels with games like Doom Eternal achieving 68 FPS, while its compact design aesthetics contrast with bulkier models, making it an attractive option for space-constrained environments without sacrificing performance.

What Is the Warranty Coverage for This Renewed Model?

The renewed model typically offers a limited warranty, covering hardware defects for a specified period. Coverage details may vary by retailer, so it's advisable to review the specific terms provided at the time of purchase.

Can the RAM Be Upgraded Beyond 16gb?

The HP Z240 supports RAM compatibility for upgrades beyond 16GB, with options available for expansion. It is advisable to consult the motherboard specifications to determine the maximum supported RAM capacity for ideal performance enhancement.

What Is the Power Consumption of the HP Z240?

The HP Z240 demonstrates commendable power efficiency, typically consuming around 300 watts under load. This efficient design contributes to significant energy savings over time, making it an excellent choice for performance-oriented users concerned about operational costs.

Is the Graphics Card Suitable for VR Gaming?

The AMD Radeon RX-550, akin to a sturdy bridge, provides adequate graphics capabilities for VR performance; however, its limitations may hinder ideal experiences in more demanding virtual environments, necessitating caution for enthusiasts seeking immersive gameplay.

Disclosure: As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.

Author

Hi, I'm the author behind Mini PC Reviewer. With a passion for technology and a deep fascination for mini PCs, I created this website to help you make informed decisions when it comes to choosing the perfect pint-sized computer. As our tagline suggests, we believe in big power in a tiny package. At Mini PC Reviewer, I aim to provide you with all the necessary information about mini PCs, their functionalities, comparisons to other devices, and the essential features to consider when purchasing one. From budget-friendly options to top-of-the-line models, let me be your trusted source for all things mini PC.