HP EliteBook 820 G3 vs 840 G3 Kenya: Compact 12.5-inch or 14-inch?
Updated October 2026 · Infinite Tech Kenya buying analysis. This guide compares specific published configurations and the decisions a Kenyan shopper actually faces. It is a researched comparison, not a claim that every refurbished unit has been physically benchmarked.
Which should you choose?
Take the 820 G3 if size and carrying convenience dominate and the smaller display is comfortable. Choose the 840 G3 for long reading or spreadsheet sessions on the laptop screen. If ongoing Windows 11 support matters, compare an eligible newer-generation laptop as well.
Price comparison at Infinite Tech Kenya
| Listed configuration | Catalogue price | Before buying |
|---|---|---|
| 820 G3 Core i5 6th 8/256 Non-Touch | KSh 22,500 | Verify exact unit condition, CPU and warranty |
| 840 G3 Core i7 6th 8/256 Non-Touch | KSh 24,450 | Verify exact unit condition, CPU and warranty |
Prices are WooCommerce snapshots, not permanent offers. The products can differ in CPU tier, RAM, touch input or physical condition; this is not a controlled performance benchmark.
Four important differences
Processor and generation
The defining difference is footprint. The 820 G3 uses a compact 12.5-inch class, while the 840 G3 offers a larger 14-inch display that is easier for long spreadsheets and side-by-side documents.
What the configuration really buys
The compared stock entries use i5 and i7 variants respectively; this is not a pure chassis test. With two common sixth-generation low-voltage processors, perceived everyday performance may be closer than the badges suggest.
Display, battery and day-to-day use
Portability is meaningful if you carry a laptop across Nairobi each day. Conversely, a larger display, roomier palm rest and more comfortable viewing angle may suit a fixed office desk better.
Refurbished ownership risks
Both are older business machines. Battery age, replacement charger, Windows support and SSD condition should be checked before paying a premium for an old Core i7.
Our practical buying recommendation
Take the 820 G3 if size and carrying convenience dominate and the smaller display is comfortable. Choose the 840 G3 for long reading or spreadsheet sessions on the laptop screen. If ongoing Windows 11 support matters, compare an eligible newer-generation laptop as well. Do not choose solely by model naming. For a better comparison, inspect two real machines on the same day, open a document, run a video call, test keyboard and trackpad, and look at the battery health report before paying.
Five checks to do before paying for a refurbished laptop
- Processor identity: Open Settings → System → About or System Information to verify the processor model rather than accepting an ambiguous seller title.
- Display: Check native resolution, brightness, dead pixels, dim spots and touch registration where touch is advertised.
- Battery: Run
powercfg /batteryreporton Windows to compare design capacity with current full-charge capacity. A report is a diagnostic clue, not a promise of hours. - Storage and memory: Confirm actual SSD capacity and RAM in Task Manager and check disk health before relying on the advertised specification.
- Warranty and accessories: Ask about charger, keyboard layout, returns, grading and specific warranty conditions in writing.
Frequently asked questions
How big is the 820 G3 screen?
It belongs to HP’s 12.5-inch business notebook family.
How big is the 840 G3 screen?
It belongs to HP’s 14-inch EliteBook notebook family.
Are both laptops brand-new?
These are being compared as refurbished supplier-list configurations; verify condition.
Should I buy i7 840 G3 solely for the higher CPU label?
No. Consider actual CPU SKU, OS eligibility, screen and battery condition first.
Can I compare these prices with a supplier’s quotation?
Supplier quotations are not the Infinite Tech retail offer. The table shows live catalogue prices at the time of this comparison; check the product page again before ordering.
What do I check when collecting an ex-UK laptop in Nairobi?
Confirm the laptop model in BIOS or Windows System Information, battery report, screen pixels and touch input where advertised, charger, ports, Wi-Fi, keyboard and included warranty.
Does Windows 10 still receive standard support?
No. Standard Windows 10 support ended on 14 October 2025; where a laptop cannot meet Windows 11 requirements, plan for an appropriate supported alternative or approved extended security updates.
Does a higher Intel generation always guarantee better performance?
No. Compare the exact processor SKU, number of cores, sustained cooling, RAM and intended applications; generation is a guide, not an absolute benchmark.
Where can I see these models in Nairobi?
Infinite Tech is at Rehema House, Standard Street, behind Sarova Stanley Hotel, Nairobi CBD, 1st Floor Shop No. 2. WhatsApp 0720450148 to confirm current stock and collection.
Related reading and shopping
For another view, read our related laptop comparison, HP EliteBook comparison and buying guide or Lenovo ThinkPad prices and model comparison. For checking a used laptop in person, see our Used laptop inspection checklist. Select the exact product from the price table for current specifications.
Technical reference and transparency
Product-family specifications can be independently checked at the manufacturer’s support/specifications pages. Microsoft’s Windows 10 end-of-support notice explains the security implications of older machines. This article combines the linked store catalogue with manufacturer-family documentation; no hands-on comparative benchmark was performed for this article.
Order assistance: Infinite Tech, Rehema House, Standard Street, behind Sarova Stanley Hotel, Nairobi CBD. Call or WhatsApp 0720450148 to verify availability, battery grade and warranty before placing an order.
