HP Pro Tower 400 G9 Desktop Computer Review: Intel Core i5-13500, 8GB RAM, 512GB SSD – Tech Blog
HP Pro Tower 400 G9 Desktop Computer Review: Intel Core i5-13500, 8GB RAM, 512GB SSD
Table of Contents
Introduction
The HP Pro Tower 400 G9 desktop computer is a solid choice for users looking for a reliable and capable system for everyday tasks, work, and light gaming. This review will delve into its features, performance, and overall value, providing an in-depth look at what this desktop has to offer.
Features
The HP Pro Tower 400 G9 comes equipped with an Intel Core i5-13500 processor, 8GB of DDR4 RAM, and a 512GB PCIe NVMe SSD. This combination of components ensures a smooth and responsive user experience. The integrated Intel UHD Graphics 770 is capable of handling casual gaming and everyday graphics needs.
Here’s a closer look at the key features:
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Operating System | FreeDOS |
| Processor Family | 13th Generation Intel® Core™ i5 processor |
| Processor | Intel® Core™ i5-13500 (up to 4.8 GHz with Intel® Turbo Boost Technology, 24 MB L3 cache, 14 cores, 20 threads) |
| Chipset | Intel® Q670 |
| Graphics | Integrated, Intel® UHD Graphics 770 |
| Memory | 8 GB DDR4-3200 MHz non-ECC RAM (1 x 8 GB) |
| Memory Slots | 2 DIMM |
| Internal Storage | 512 GB PCIe® NVMe™ SSD |
| Minimum Dimensions (W x D x H) | 15.5 x 30.8 x 33.7 cm |
| Weight | 5.31 kg (Weight will vary by configuration) |
| Software Included | HP Notifications; HP PC Hardware Diagnostics UEFI; HP Support Assistant; HP Connection Optimizer; HP Privacy Settings; HP Desktop Support Utilities; HP Easy Clean; HP Setup Integrated OOBE; Buy Microsoft Office (sold separately); HP Services Scan; HPX for CMIT |
| Available Software | HP Smart Support |
| Management Features | HP Client Catalog (download); HP Driver Packs (download); HP Cloud Recovery; HP Image Assistant Gen 5 (download); HP Client Management Script Library (download); HP Manageability Integration Kit (download); HP Patch Assistant (download); HP Connect 4 |
| Form Factor | Tower |
| Keyboard | HP 125 Wired Keyboard |
| Audio | Realtek ALC3252 codec, universal audio jack with CTIA and OMTP headset support |
| Pointing Device | HP 125 Wired Mouse |
| Expansion Slots | 1 M.2 2230; 1 M.2 2280; 1 PCIe x1; 1 PCI; 1 PCIe 4 x16 (1 M.2 2230 slot for WLAN and 1 M.2 2280 slot for storage.) |
| Ports | Front: 1 headphone/microphone combo; 1 SuperSpeed USB Type-C® 10Gbps signaling rate; 3 SuperSpeed USB Type-A 10Gbps signaling rate Rear: 1 audio-out; 1 power connector; 1 RJ-45; 1 HDMI 1.4; 3 SuperSpeed USB Type-A 5Gbps signaling rate; 1 DisplayPort™ 1.4; 2 USB Type-A 480Mbps signaling rate |
| Internal Drive Bays | Two 3.5″ HDD |
| Power | 260 W internal power adapter, up to 92% efficiency, active PFC |
| Security Management | Trusted Platform Module (TPM) 2.0 Embedded Security Chip shipped with Windows 10 (Common Criteria EAL4+ Certified)(FIPS 140-2 Level 2 Certified); HP Secure Erase; HP Sure Click; Absolute Persistence module; HP Sure Admin; HP Tamper Lock; HP Sure Start Gen7; HP Sure Sense; HP Platform Certificate On Device Installation |
Performance
In real-world usage, the HP Pro Tower 400 G9 delivers solid performance. The Intel Core i5-13500 processor handles multi-tasking efficiently, switching between applications with ease. The NVMe SSD ensures quick boot times and fast application loading. The 8GB of RAM is sufficient for everyday tasks, but power users may want to consider upgrading to 16GB or more for more demanding workloads.
I tested the system with a variety of tasks, including web browsing, document editing, video streaming, and some light gaming. The desktop handled all of these tasks without any noticeable lag or stuttering. While not a gaming powerhouse, the integrated graphics were capable of delivering smooth gameplay at lower resolutions and settings for casual games.
Pros & Cons
Here is a summary of the strengths and weaknesses of the HP Pro Tower 400 G9:
Pros:
- Reliable performance from the Intel Core i5-13500 processor.
- Fast boot times and application loading thanks to the NVMe SSD.
- Good selection of ports, including USB Type-C.
- Compact design and easy to upgrade.
Cons:
- Only 8GB of RAM, which may be limiting for power users.
- Integrated graphics are not suitable for demanding gaming.
- FreeDOS operating system requires users to purchase a separate OS.
Final Verdict
The HP Pro Tower 400 G9 is a solid desktop computer that offers good performance and a range of features at an attractive price point. It’s a great choice for everyday users, professionals, and those looking for a reliable system for work and casual gaming. However, if you need more RAM or dedicated graphics for demanding applications, you might consider a higher-spec model or consider upgrading after purchase.
