Initial thoughts on the HP Elite Mini 800 G9

I have a strong affinity for small form factor (SFF) PCs, and the HP Elite Mini 800 G9 is a perfect example of why. It strikes a balance between large, bulky desktop PCs and less expandable portable PCs, making use of a compact and silent design to provide optimal performance and expandability.

Although readers may immediately think of the Intel (now ASUS) NUCs, there is something to be said for the more traditional SFF PC, such as the Acer Veriton Vero Mini, the ROG NUC ASUS just announced, or Apple’s Mac Mini. The HP Elite Mini 800 G9 falls into this category: Its compact form factor resembles a pizza box, but at 25 percent scale.

Despite this, the mini HP is remarkably versatile, offering a range of expansion ports, including two of the HP Flex expansion ports found on the PC maker’s larger desktop PCs and workstations. These ports are game-changing for this PC.

The front of the Elite Mini features a USB Type-C port, two USB Type-A ports, a combo headphone/microphone jack, and the power button. Meanwhile, the rear houses a comprehensive set of ports, including Dual-Mode DisplayPort 1.4a ports, an HDMI 2.1 port, USB Type-A ports, an Ethernet port, and others. The inclusion of HP Flex ports is particularly intriguing.

The center port can be configured with a USB Type-C port, while the upper-right HP Flex port remains unused. However, both can be configured with various options, depending on your specific needs. The technology behind these HP Flex ports is truly incredible.

When it comes to processing, the HP Elite Mini can be configured with T-series processors, as well as more traditional 65-watt Core i3, i5, and i7 processors. In addition, it supports 8 GB to 64 GB of DDR5-4800 RAM and a wide range of storage options, including M.2 internal slots and SATA drive brackets.

Utilized for daily productivity workloads, the HP Elite Mini delivers solid performance with minimal fan noise. The ability to expand storage via a SATA drive bracket and 2.5-inch SATA HDD means you will not run out of storage.

In summary, the HP Elite Mini 800 G9 is a true desktop PC option with remarkable expansion capabilities. The pricing, starting at approximately $1350 and going up to $2125 for the review unit, reflects the device’s future-proof nature. I will continue to use it regularly and report back on my experience in the coming weeks.