HP Pro Tower 290 G9 Desktop Computer Review: Intel Core i3-12100, 4GB RAM, 1TB HDD – 884W8EA#BH5
Table of Contents:
Introduction
The HP Pro Tower 290 G9 is a desktop computer designed for everyday tasks and light productivity. It features the Intel Core i3-12100 processor, 4GB of DDR4 RAM, and a 1TB HDD, making it a budget-friendly option for home and office users. This review aims to analyze its performance, features, and overall value, helping you decide if it’s the right choice for your needs.
Features
The HP Pro Tower 290 G9 comes equipped with a range of features that cater to basic computing needs. Some key features include:
- Intel Core i3-12100 Processor: Provides adequate processing power for everyday tasks like web browsing, email, and light multitasking.
- 4GB DDR4 RAM: Allows for smooth multitasking and efficient operation with several applications open simultaneously.
- 1TB 7200 RPM HDD: Offers ample storage space for documents, files, and applications.
- Intel UHD Graphics 730: Supports basic graphics tasks like video playback and casual gaming.
- FreeDOS: The computer comes with FreeDOS operating system, allowing users to install their preferred OS.
- HP 125 Wired Keyboard & Mouse: Provides basic input functionality with a comfortable design.
- Expansion Options: Features multiple expansion slots for future upgrades, including an M.2 slot for SSD installation.
- Connectivity: Equipped with multiple USB ports, HDMI, VGA, and RJ-45 network connections.
- Security Features: Includes security features like TPM 2.0 and a padlock loop for physical security.
Performance
The HP Pro Tower 290 G9 delivers acceptable performance for everyday tasks. The Intel Core i3-12100 processor handles basic tasks like browsing the web, checking emails, and using office applications smoothly. However, you might encounter some lag when dealing with more demanding tasks, like video editing or resource-intensive games. The 4GB RAM is sufficient for light multitasking but can become a bottleneck when running multiple demanding programs simultaneously.
The 1TB HDD provides ample storage space for files and applications but lacks the speed of an SSD. Boot times and loading times for applications can be longer compared to systems with SSDs. The integrated Intel UHD Graphics 730 is adequate for basic graphics tasks like video playback but is not suitable for demanding gaming.
Pros & Cons
Here’s a breakdown of the pros and cons of the HP Pro Tower 290 G9:
- Pros:
- Affordable price point.
- Adequate performance for everyday tasks.
- Ample storage with 1TB HDD.
- Expansion options for future upgrades.
- Comes with basic peripherals (keyboard and mouse).
- Cons:
- Limited RAM (4GB) might hinder performance for demanding tasks.
- HDD storage is slower than SSDs.
- Integrated graphics is not suitable for demanding games.
- Comes with FreeDOS, requiring users to install their preferred OS.
Final Verdict
The HP Pro Tower 290 G9 is a budget-friendly desktop computer that offers acceptable performance for basic tasks. It’s suitable for users who require a machine for everyday activities like web browsing, emails, document editing, and light multitasking. However, if you require more demanding performance for tasks like video editing, gaming, or resource-intensive applications, you might need to consider a system with more RAM, faster storage, and dedicated graphics.
Overall, the HP Pro Tower 290 G9 is a decent option for those seeking an affordable desktop computer for basic use. However, it might not be the ideal choice for users who need a powerful machine for demanding tasks.
Specifications
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Operating system | FreeDOS |
| Processor family | 12th Generation Intel® Core™ i3 processor |
| Processor | Intel® Core™ i3-12100 (up to 4.3 GHz with Intel® Turbo Boost Technology, 12 MB L3 cache, 4 cores, 8 threads) |
| Chipset | Intel® H670 |
| Graphics | Integrated, Intel® UHD Graphics 730 |
| Memory | 4 GB DDR4-3200 MHz RAM (1 x 4 GB) |
| Memory Slots | 2 DIMM |
| Internal Storage | 1 TB 7200 rpm SATA HDD |
| Minimum dimensions (W x D x H) | 15.5 x 30.3 x 33.7 cm (System dimensions may fluctuate due to configuration and manufacturing variances.) |
| Weight | 4.7 kg (Exact weight depends on configuration.) |
| Software included | HP Audio Switch; HP Documentation; HP Setup Integrated OOBE Win10; HP Support Assistant; HP System Event Utility; McAfee LiveSafe™; Buy Office (sold separately); HP JumpStarts; Xerox® DocuShare® 90 day free trial offer |
| Form factor | Tower |
| Keyboard | HP 125 Wired Keyboard |
| Audio | Realtek ALC3867 codec, universal audio jack with CTIA headset support, audio line-out rear ports (3.5 mm), multi-streaming capable |
| Pointing device | HP 125 Wired Mouse |
| Expansion slots | 2 M.2; 1 PCIe 3 x1; 1 PCIe 4 x16 (1 M.2 slot for WLAN and 1 M.2 2242/2280 slot for storage.) |
| Ports | Front: 4 USB Type-A 5Gbps signaling rate; 1 headphone/microphone combo Rear: 4 USB 2.0 Type-A; 1 HDMI; 1 RJ-45; 1 VGA; 1 power connector; 1 line in; 1 line out; 1 Serial (optional) |
| Internal drive bays | Two 3.5″ HDD |
| Power | 180 W external power adapter, up to 90% efficiency, active PFC |
| Security management | Padlock loop; Trusted Platform Module (TPM) 2.0; Integrated accessories cable lock; Slim cable lock |
| Sustainable impact specifications | 15% post-consumer recycled plastic; 80 Plus® Gold power supplies available |