Rated 5 out of
5
by
Anonymous from
Amazing machine.
I've owned pcs since the late 90s. I've built many of my own towers. I've used those machines for many different applications over the years. I've been a pro photographer, graphic designer, web designer, drone pilot, copywriter, and last but definitely not least a gamer. I'm always absolutely floored when my hands come into contact with pro level gear. There's just a feel to it that's worlds apart. It's something about the heft of the item. The way it balances in your hands, or the way the seams between materials are tight and don't creak. In my 'old age' I've come to scorn luxury items that are so just for the sake of a name brand. I've found that intentionally well made tools are not only a luxury but also a good investment.
I've stayed away from mini pcs in the past because I feared that I wouldn't be able to replace parts, or that they would overheat because of their small size. HP has changed my mind in both of those regards. This small pc comes with an external power supply. Some might see this as a negative, but keeping all the heat normally generated by the psu far away from the case is a stroke of genius design. Notebooks have been doing this for decades.
The first thing I did when I unboxed this machine was to slide the cover off the top of the case. The fit and finish is stunning. It slides off like butter. Inside is a huge copper heat sink that presumably covers the i7 chipset and a large fan that takes care of pulling the heat away from the motherboard. The other side of the case is literally mostly graphics card. I was happy to see that the graphics card is standard and replaceable.
I've never had a pc that used DisplayPort or Mini DisplayPort before, so that was a new thing. The machine is really easy to set up though. Plug it in, turn it on and it does most of the work for you. I was happy to see that it had an antivirus package already installed and ready to go. HP Wolf seems really intuitive and easy to use.
The mouse and keyboard that are included are honestly a bit better than I was expecting. Normally these freebies are bottom of the barrel. These aren't amazing, but do seem to be of better quality than most peripherals that come packaged with a computer.
Performance is what I'd expect from state of the art components and the machine's MSRP. It's very responsive. I tested it with some drone footage and was very happy with the output. I think it might even put my gaming pc to shame.
This has changed my opinion of mini pcs for the better.
Date published: 2022-09-27
Rated 5 out of
5
by
Amelaa21 from
Great speed and performance
What an excellent computer this is . My husband loves the speed and performance. Excellent for his website and his work from home job. He's a writer and helps people expand their businesses and helps them built their websites. This little workstation had made his job so much easier. Speed is behind our expectations and performance is great. I will highly recommend this computer and will definitely consider purchase in the future . You get it all in one small box. Plus side is great keyboard that is very easy to operate. Charger and mouse included as well.
Date published: 2022-09-26
Rated 5 out of
5
by
Bbjniles from
Huge power, small package!
I wasn’t exactly sure what to expect from the HP Z2 Mini G9 Workstation…as I’ve gotten older, it’s become more and more difficult to parse the differences in the iterations of processors and video cards, etc. Often it’s hard to compare one to another, particularly across platforms, and quite frankly, the options can become overwhelming…that’s why I rely on HP, knowing they will use well made, state of the art components to make a computer that performs exceptionally. I don’t mind customization, but I do like to stay within a range that will insure my workflow will be enhanced rather than be hindered. And that’s what I have in the HP Z2 Mini G9 Workstation, a beast that performs lightening fast, without errors, with a small, clean footprint.
I am a 15 year professional photographer and a more recent drone video pilot, so I need my workstations to be able to handle large files without lag so that I can do my job efficiently. And that’s what the Z2 offers, in spades. My photography editing programs are responsive and quick on both import and export, and rendering videos (generally I export sub 5 minute clips) takes only a few minutes. There is nothing worse for me as a creator having spent hours editing for a program to lag or lock, and me to fear losing valuable hours and work, and with the Z2 I haven’t yet had to deal with that issue. Too, my son plays games on it, and even at the highest game video settings, this HP doesn’t drop frame rate. I really couldn’t be happier with this workstation from both a personal and professional perspective.
I should say that the Z2 came in perfect condition, well packaged with all the cords and basic peripherals I’d need to get going…all you need is a monitor. And while the included mouse and keyboard are rather basic, they do work well, and have the same clean, minimalistic style as does the workstation itself. I have HP wireless versions of both mouse and keyboard, but I used the included versions for the scope of this review.
And I really love the size of the Z2, and if you have a limited work space, this is the computer for you. I’ve included a picture with a soda can for reference, but sufficed to say, this doesn’t take up too much real estate. Even so, it can be easily opened and upgraded, so I don’t feel like it is a buy and use and discard when it’s time to expand, but rather it can grow with your needs, which is reassuring, especially if you aren’t using this to make money. Too there are plenty of inputs, so upgrading hard drive storage is simple with externals.
It isn’t overly loud too…you will hear it when you are putting the processor through its paces, but it isn’t overly noisy, and it lets me know it’s not going to overheat. I’d rather hear it cooling, than fear it getting over warm.
One thing I would like, (and perhaps there are optional components to accomplish this), but I would love if the case itself had a way that I could mount it on the wall. This isn’t a criticism, but rather just a handy upgrade, and, for this review, a place to say that the Z2 pretty much checks every box I want for it to do, and this is coming from someone who makes his living using this workstation.
They’ve really put a great deal of thought into this workstation, even going so far that the Z on the face of the case can be rotated for both horizontal and vertical configurations. A tiny thing, yes, but further proof that HP isn’t trying to squeeze out every penny of profit. And as a side note from someone in the profession of aesthetics, it’s a wonderful addition!
A last note, it does come with Wolf Security preinstalled, so you are protected the minute you fire the Z2 up, offering peace-of-mind from the get-go.
HP is putting out wonderful, innovative, simple and small computers that directly impact my time and bottomline, and both for the better. I couldn’t be more pleased, and am curious for what the company has in store next. Huge recommendation from me!
Date published: 2022-09-25
Rated 5 out of
5
by
Booberka from
Great comp
I'm just an average user but my son is the expert. This computer comes with a keyboard and a mouse but we had to purchase a display port to HDMI cable so that we can plug it in. The processor is powerful, great for any office work, digital rendering. Plenty of RAM. Great for small desks.
Date published: 2022-09-24
Rated 5 out of
5
by
MrsRogers310 from
Great Computer
I am super excited to get to review this for you today!
If you are in the market for a new desktop computer this HP Z2 G9 workstation is mini but mighty. This tiny beast comes with a 12 Gen Intel Core Processor, 32GB of installed RAM, 64 Bit Operating system, an X64-based processor, and Windows 10 Pro already loaded. This little beast will do everything I ever need it to do and then some. I am able to switch easily and quickly between programs with no lagging. I really like that there are ports on the front for gaming controllers. Included with the computer are a mouse and keyboard. I did have to buy a display port adaptor to hook up a monitor I already have.
Date published: 2022-09-23
Rated 5 out of
5
by
Fozzie85 from
It's a powerhouse
This is my favorite desktop to date. It looks so sharp with my setup. I don't have to dedicate a huge space for a tower anymore. The graphics are on point; every click is sharp. The processor is impressive and fast. The only odd thing was there wasn't an HDMI port for the display. I had to get a conversion cord for a mini display port to HDMI. Super cheap cord, but odd that the port wasn't included. Also, to get into it, there's a simple little latch, which could make future upgrades easy. I think size and functionality are a perfect match in this modern workstation. It's awesome.
Date published: 2022-09-23
Rated 5 out of
5
by
Maddiecake from
Tiny but mighty! Excellent design!
This miniature HP is what dreams are made of. Not only is the quality excellent, it's technology is cutting-edge and it's an incredibly sleek design. It is lightning fast and all packed up in a small workstation. This is the best bang for your buck - it goes above and beyond what you need and I couldn't be happier to have this!! Would recommend to anyone looking for a workstation!
Date published: 2022-09-22
Rated 5 out of
5
by
Lologal25 from
Amazing!
I have been using this HP Z2 Mini workstation for a few weeks now and it is definitely the nicest and most powerful computer I have ever owned. The speed and the graphics are both incredible and I love the compact design that does not take up much space in my little office. The set up was very easy and the unit itself is a nice matte black color and lightweight. I am very impressed with this new model and would recommend it.
Date published: 2022-09-22
Rated 5 out of
5
by
Letty406 from
HP Z2 Mini G9 Workstation
I love my HP Z2 Mini G9 Workstation it doesn't take up much room and fits perfectly in my office. It is very lightweight but a fast computer with enough memory and best yet with windows 11. I couldn't ask for a better workstation for my office that has
everything I need all in one. Definitely recommend this amazing HP Z2 Mini G9 Workstation.
Date published: 2022-09-22
Rated 5 out of
5
by
Sariea from
Highly recommend
This is exactly what I was looking for in a gaming and home computer! I bought a new monitor to accompany the higher processor this workstation has.
The processor is an I7 and works swiftly with ZERO lag whether I am playing a video game or if I am doing a multiple page worksheet.
The workstation is compact and takes up very little space.
I am impressed with the overall function of this pc and highly recommend it!
Date published: 2022-09-21
Rated 5 out of
5
by
Jlar87 from
Favorite new desktop!
This is my favorite new desktop! It is a powerful desktop pc in a small convenient package. It weighs under 10 lbs and can fit behind your monitor saving valuable desk space. It comes with great operating systems and is from HP a brand I have loved and used for years. Definitely recommend for anyone wanting a functional and compact working or personal computer.
Date published: 2022-09-19
Rated 5 out of
5
by
dameon29 from
HP Z2 Mini G9 Workstation
The HP Z2 Mini G9 Workstation is a great piece of machinery. We absolutely love it. It is tiny, so it hardly takes up any space at all. It was so simple to setup as well. Just plug and play. Then once you have it running, I just followed all the guided prompts and I was good. I have to say with the speed of this computer it is like lightning in a bottle. We can't wait to start keeping our files in order and possibly using for a side business. I would absolutely recommend this, it's a no brainer!
Date published: 2022-09-19
Rated 5 out of
5
by
Tracey99 from
Small and Powerful
This HP Z2 Mini G9 works great for what I am using it for. I’m a freelance graphic designer and this machine has NO delays in opening/closing windows and it fills in or refreshes a page almost instantly. The CPU is very powerful. It is definitely fast and has no lag at all it just flies when doing daily tasks or office-type work and can handle multiple tasks without noticeably slowing. I also think it's a decent option for someone who's a video enthusiast. For nonprofessional work, like editing home movies, it performs pretty well. This PC runs very quietly and even silent most of the time; a very quiet fan kicks on when taxing the CPU, but it's barely audible. The graphics card is very good and the ram is plenty for games even though it’s not a gaming computer. Wireless connectivity is flawless and quick. I love how small it is. You can put it almost anywhere, and you don’t have to worry about it taking up a lot of space. I'm very happy with this computer. You can do just about anything on it. It's fast and is working just as it should. I would highly recommend it.
Date published: 2022-09-18
Rated 5 out of
5
by
Nljohnson590 from
HP really outdid themselves
The new HP Z2 Mini G9 Workstation is amazing. HP really outdid themselves with this small sleek design. It works great and is very quick. It truly makes my life easier and doesn't take up so much space. It's very easy to hook up and set up.
Date published: 2022-09-16
Rated 5 out of
5
by
luvmyboys27 from
Wonderful features
This computer is truly a dream come true for me! I am
Starting my first work from home job so this was perfect for me to find as I’m limited on space. The HP Z2mini G9 Workstation is small, yet powerful. Equipped with windows 11 and an intel processed it is perfect for business entry level profession.
Date published: 2022-09-16
Rated 5 out of
5
by
Anonymous from
Powerhouse!
I am so amazed at the power this mini workstation has. i7, 32gb RAM, 512 SSD, NVIDIA 8GB graphics...all of this in the tiny case. I know what you're thinking...what about thermal control and ports? Well, after playing Fortnite and getting through a couple CAD designs, I haven't seen this perform poorly yet or start to overheat. Obviously this isn't designed as a "gaming pc" and over long periods probably wouldn't have the cooling needed, but it can handle anything needed for the every day or business user. So impressed with this mini workstation, will be getting more when needed.
Date published: 2022-09-16
Rated 5 out of
5
by
Jbeard25j from
Powerful and compact
I am very impressed with this HP Z2 Mini G9 Workstation and it is perfect for our home business. It offers everything I need and more.
This mini-desktop is cutting edge and beautifully designed. The performance is also very good. Linux support is phenomenal. It is actually very quiet which is great.
Set up is simple and easy. Just connect your monitor to the computer. Plug the computer power cord and monitor power cord into an AC outlet. Connect the included mouse and keyboard to the computer. Then turn on the computer and set up a WLAN connection via your Internet router. Then simply connect your other devices, such as a printer, and you are all set.
The Z logo on the front can be rotated to match the orientation. The power button is on the opposite side. It will easily fit anywhere where you need it while its flexible, modern design will look nice anywhere you put it. It is easily portable as well if you want to move it to and from different locations.
Backplane connectivity includes three USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-A ports, two DisplayPort video outputs, and high-bandwidth 10Gbps Ethernet. The graphics card offers four mini-DisplayPort video outputs. A Kensington lock slot and the power connector round it out. The remaining ports are on the right side. A headset jack is common on all configurations. My unit's left bank has three USB 3.2 Gen 2 ports (one Type-C and two Type-A), all supporting power delivery.
I love that this system has HP ZCentral Remote Boost. This is the company’s remote connection software and comes bundled with all HP Z Workstations, including the new Z2 Mini G9. It has been designed for use with physical workstations rather than virtual machines (VM). In essence, Remote Boost connects an endpoint device to a Z workstation in your office or home, allowing users to access the system for graphics-intensive work via the end-point device. This is a feature I love and is great.
This HP Z2 Mini G9 is overall a truly excellent system. It is a system that can tackle most professional workloads and I love the compact, but powerful, size. If you are looking to upgrade your computer system then this is a high quality one that does everything and more.
Date published: 2022-09-16
Rated 5 out of
5
by
AlyssaN920 from
Runs quite well
I was really happy when I received this! I thought I had to run out and grab a keyboard and mouse but was pleasantly surprised to find that both were included in the box. I was really happy with the size of this PC as I don't have much room on my desk considering my monitor is rather large. This small PC fit nicely on the small space behind my monitor stand. There isn't a ton of wires going everywhere either. If you have a wireless mouse and keyboard, you'll only have the power cable and the display cable which are easy enough to hide. The PC was easy to start up though it did take me longer than I'd like to admit to find the power button. It was easy to setup and the windows software was rather easy to get set up and running. I found it easy to navigate after a short bit of poking around. The PC is quiet and there is no loud fans or any audible loud noises coming from the device itself. I am enjoying using this as my gaming PC as it really delivers in that aspect. I definitely recommend this PC!
Date published: 2022-09-16