HP EliteBook Ultra G1i review: a versatile business laptop for all, at a cost

      HP EliteBook Ultra G1i

      **MSRP**: $24,320.00

      **Description**: “The HP EliteBook Ultra G1i is well-constructed, visually appealing, and loaded with business functionalities.”

      **Pros**:

      - Industry-leading design

      - Attractive aesthetic

      - Impressive OLED display

      - Superior keyboard and touchpad

      - Lightweight and slim

      - Good battery performance

      **Cons**:

      - High price point

      - Performance isn't remarkable

      The finest business laptops offer exceptional durability, understated elegance, rapid performance, and impressive battery life. While these are qualities that consumers also desire, companies like HP include numerous features that enhance business laptops' appeal to enterprises needing effective management and security. This feature set increases the cost, which can place these devices beyond the reach of many consumers. This is unfortunate for the HP EliteBook Ultra G1i, a fantastic 14-inch laptop that would appeal to many users if only its price were more reasonable. However, for business users, it remains a top option.

      **Specifications and Configuration**:

      **HP EliteBook Ultra G1i**

      - **Dimensions**: 12.35 x 8.45 x 0.36-0.48 inches

      - **Weight**: 2.63 pounds

      - **Display**: 14.0-inch 16:10 2.8K (1880 x 1800) OLED, 120Hz

      - **CPU Options**: Intel Core Ultra 5 226V, Intel Core Ultra 7 256V, Intel Core Ultra 7 268V vPro

      - **GPU Options**: Intel Arc 130V, Intel Arc 140V

      - **Memory**: 16GB, 32GB

      - **Storage Options**: 256GB SSD, 512GB SSD, 1TB SSD

      - **Ports**: 3 x USB-C with Thunderbolt 4, 1 x USB-A 3.2 Gen 1, 1 x 3.5mm headphone jack

      - **Camera**: 9MP with infrared for Windows 11 Hello

      - **Wi-Fi**: Wi-Fi 7 and Bluetooth 5.4

      - **Battery**: 64 watt-hour

      - **Operating System**: Windows 11

      - **Price**: Starting at $1,849

      Business laptops like the EliteBook Ultra G1i are typically acquired under group contracts, meaning the prices seen in online stores—which are already significantly discounted—may not represent what business customers actually pay. Currently, the EliteBook begins at $1,849 with an Intel Core Ultra 5 226V processor, 16GB RAM, a 256GB SSD, and a 14.0-inch 2.8K OLED display as the sole option. For $2,432, you can upgrade to a Core Ultra 7 268V with 32GB RAM and a 512GB SSD among other available configurations. Thus, the EliteBook Ultra G1i is positioned as a high-end business laptop. The similarly equipped HP OmniBook Ultra Flip 14, targeting consumers, is priced lower at about $1,100 on sale and goes up to $1,730 (also on sale). Comparatively, the Apple MacBook Air 13 (M4) starts at $1,000 and caps out slightly above $2,000.

      **Design**:

      Mark Coppock / Digital Trends

      I previously commented on how Apple's meticulous attention to detail has produced outstanding hardware, but they are not the only brand capable of creating laptops that feel exceptional in hand. The EliteBook Ultra G1i provides a similar experience, leaving a high-quality impression the moment it is unboxed.

      To start, its size is just right; while its display bezels may not be the slimmest, they are sufficiently small that the 14-inch display results in a compact design. The laptop is incredibly thin, measuring a maximum of 0.48 inches at the back—almost on par with the extremely thin Apple MacBook Air 13 at 0.45 inches (and even thinner at the front at 0.36 inches). The weight of 2.63 pounds is comparable to the MacBook, imparting a certain density that ensures it feels sturdy rather than flimsy. This weight also makes it easily portable.

      The distribution of weight is balanced well, making it comfortable to carry, whether open or closed. Its rounded edges provide a pleasant feel, superior to the slightly sharp edges of the MacBook. However, the hinge isn't as smooth and requires both hands to open. Overall, the all-aluminum construction feels solid, with no flexing or twisting in the chassis, keyboard deck, or lid—it's genuinely a well-designed, well-built laptop.

      In terms of aesthetics, the design is sleek, showcasing modern minimalism without being