Still searching for a reliable laptop in 2025 without spending a fortune? You’re not alone.
With so many shiny new models in the market, it’s easy to forget that older business laptops can still deliver solid performance. Two names keep popping up in conversations—the HP EliteBook 840 G3 and the Dell Latitude E7470.
Even though these laptops were first released years ago, they remain popular today. Walk into a refurbished laptop shop in Lagos, Accra, or even New York, and you’re likely to see these two sitting side by side. Why? Because they still offer great value at a lower price.
But here’s the real question: Which one should you buy in 2025? Let’s break it down.
Introduction
Business laptops have always been built to last longer than consumer laptops. Unlike many flashy models that wear out fast, machines like the HP EliteBook and Dell Latitude are designed for professionals. They’re sturdy, practical, and reliable.
That’s why in 2025, they’re still being compared. For students looking for an affordable workhorse, freelancers needing a dependable machine, or professionals on a budget, these two models are among the most popular.
In this article, we’ll compare the HP EliteBook 840 G3 and the Dell Latitude E7470 across all the things that matter—design, performance, battery, display, and real-world usability. By the end, you’ll have a clear answer on which laptop makes more sense for you.
Design & Build Quality
Let’s start with how they look and feel.
HP EliteBook 840 G3 comes with a silver magnesium-aluminum finish. It feels slim, neat, and professional. The laptop weighs around 1.48kg, which makes it lightweight for carrying around. HP designed it with portability in mind, so it’s great if you move between classes, meetings, or cafés.
On the other hand, the Dell Latitude E7470 has a very different personality. Dell went with a matte black finish and soft-touch materials. It feels solid and rugged, almost like a small tank. The build quality meets military-grade standards, which means it can take a few bumps and still survive.
The trade-off? The Dell is slightly heavier at around 1.6kg. Not too heavy, but you’ll notice the difference if you’re carrying it all day.
Verdict: HP wins on portability and looks, while Dell wins on toughness and durability.
Display & Graphics
Both laptops feature a 14-inch display, but the options differ.
The HP EliteBook 840 G3 usually comes with HD (1366x768) or Full HD (1920x1080) panels. The Full HD version is sharper and better for watching videos or working with detailed spreadsheets. The graphics are handled by Intel’s HD 520, which is fine for office tasks, browsing, and light entertainment.
The Dell Latitude E7470 offers a wider range. Aside from HD and Full HD, it also has a Quad HD (2560x1440) version, and even touchscreen options. That makes it more attractive if you want crisp visuals or if you work with photos, design, or just enjoy sharper displays. It also uses Intel HD 520 graphics.
In real life, both laptops handle Netflix, YouTube, and office work without issues. But Dell’s higher resolution options clearly stand out for professionals who need more detail.
Verdict: Dell edges out HP in this category, thanks to better display options.
Performance & Speed
Now let’s talk power.
Both laptops are powered by Intel’s 6th generation processors (Core i5 and i7 options). They’re not the newest CPUs in 2025, but they still get the job done for regular work.
The HP 840 G3 can handle up to 16GB of DDR3L RAM. Pair that with an SSD upgrade, and the laptop runs smoothly for browsing, Office apps, Zoom calls, and even light Photoshop editing.
The Dell E7470 also supports up to 16GB of RAM, but here’s the difference—it uses DDR4 memory. DDR4 is slightly faster and more efficient, which means multitasking feels a bit smoother on the Dell.
In daily use, both laptops feel quick if you upgrade them with SSDs. Boot times are fast, apps launch without lag, and multitasking works well. Neither laptop is meant for heavy gaming, but they can handle light titles like Minecraft or older FIFA versions without issues.
Verdict: Both are good, but Dell’s DDR4 RAM support gives it a small performance edge.
Battery Life & Portability
Battery life is always a deal breaker.
The HP EliteBook 840 G3 usually lasts 6–7 hours with normal use—browsing, typing, and video calls. That’s enough for a full day at school or most office tasks.
The Dell E7470 lasts slightly less, around 5–6 hours, depending on the configuration and screen type. The QHD version drains battery faster than the Full HD.
Portability-wise, HP wins again. It’s lighter and slimmer, making it easier to carry in a backpack. Dell feels more solid but bulkier.
Verdict: HP is the better pick for battery life and mobility.
Keyboard, Touchpad & Ports
Typing experience matters a lot if you’re working or studying.
The HP 840 G3 has the typical EliteBook keyboard. Keys are well spaced and comfortable, though some users feel it’s a bit stiff. It comes with a decent touchpad and plenty of ports—USB 3.0, VGA, DisplayPort, Ethernet, and headphone jack. This wide range of ports makes it easy to connect to older projectors or external monitors.
The Dell E7470 has one of the best keyboards in the business laptop category. The keys have better travel and a more satisfying feel. If you type a lot, Dell will make you happier. The E7470 also includes modern ports like HDMI, Mini DisplayPort, and even a Thunderbolt option on higher models.
Verdict: Dell wins for typing comfort, HP wins for variety of ports.
Pricing & Value in 2025
Here’s where things get interesting.
In 2025, both laptops are mainly available as refurbished or second-hand models. Prices vary by condition and configuration.
HP EliteBook 840 G3: ₦100,000–₦140,000 in Nigeria (around $80–$120 internationally).
Dell Latitude E7470: ₦120,000–₦160,000 in Nigeria (around $100–$150 internationally).
That means HP is generally cheaper, while Dell costs a bit more. The question is whether Dell’s extra features—like a sharper display and better keyboard—are worth the price difference.
Verdict: If you’re on a tight budget, HP gives better value. If you can stretch a little, Dell offers extra polish.
Pros & Cons
HP EliteBook 840 G3
Pros
Lightweight and portable
Good battery life
Affordable price
Lots of ports
Cons
Display not as sharp as Dell
Build is solid but not as rugged
Dell Latitude E7470
Pros
Tough, durable build
Better keyboard experience
Higher display options (FHD/QHD)
DDR4 RAM support
Cons
Slightly heavier
Costs more
Battery not as strong as HP
Comparison Table
Feature HP EliteBook 840 G3 Dell Latitude E7470
Display 14” HD/FHD 14” FHD/QHD (Touch)
CPU Intel i5/i7 (6th Gen) Intel i5/i7 (6th Gen)
RAM Up to 16GB DDR3L Up to 16GB DDR4
Weight ~1.48kg ~1.6kg
Battery 6–7 hours 5–6 hours
Ports VGA, DisplayPort, USB 3.0, Ethernet HDMI, Mini DisplayPort, USB 3.0, Thunderbolt
Final Verdict
So, which laptop should you buy in 2025?
Go for the HP EliteBook 840 G3 if you want a lightweight, affordable, and portable laptop with decent battery life. It’s perfect for students, freelancers, and people who move around a lot.
Choose the Dell Latitude E7470 if you prefer a sturdier machine with a better display and superior keyboard. It’s slightly more expensive, but it delivers a premium typing experience and extra toughness.
At the end of the day, both laptops are still excellent choices in 2025. The right one depends on your budget and your priorities.
Engagement Push
Now it’s your turn.
Which would you choose—the slim and portable HP EliteBook 840 G3, or the rugged and sharp Dell Latitude E7470?
Drop
your choice in the comments below. And if you know someone who’s shopping for a budget business laptop in 2025, share this article with them—they’ll thank you later!
Comments
Post a Comment