HP Pro Tower 290 G9 Desktop Computer Review Aiming for Performance and Reliability

Description

A Compact Powerhouse for Everyday Computing

The HP Pro Tower 290 G9 Desktop Computer with its Intel Core i3-13100 processor and accompanying specs promised a lot on paper. I decided to put this sleek black tower to the test, and while it delivered on many fronts, there were a few quirks worth noting.

Design and Build Quality

This desktop has a minimalistic and compact design that fits seamlessly into any workspace. At just 6.12 x 11.93 x 13.28 inches, it doesn’t dominate the desk, which is a blessing if you’re working in a smaller setup. Weighing just over 10 pounds, it’s surprisingly easy to move around when needed. The matte black finish is sleek but does tend to attract fingerprints, especially near the front ports. Speaking of ports, you’re spoiled for choice here. There are four USB 3.2 ports at the front for quick access, alongside a headphone/microphone combo jack. The back is equally well-equipped with four additional USB 2.0 ports, HDMI, and VGA for dual-monitor setups, plus Ethernet and audio line options.

This build feels sturdy enough for a device in its category, though I did notice the plastic casing lacks the premium feel found in pricier models. However, it’s completely functional and practical for daily home or office use.

Performance Under Pressure

Equipped with the 13th Generation Intel Core i3-13100 processor, this desktop is no slouch. With 4 cores and 8 threads, it handled multitasking with ease during my testing. Whether I was juggling multiple Chrome tabs, running a spreadsheet, or watching videos in Full HD, the system didn’t falter. The 3.4GHz base frequency, with the ability to turbo up to 4.5GHz, kept things running smoothly. Paired with 32GB of DDR4 RAM, this setup is more than capable for everyday tasks like browsing, light photo editing, and office productivity.

However, I wouldn’t recommend this for intensive gaming or heavy video editing. The Intel UHD Graphics 730, while decent for casual users, isn’t built for graphically demanding tasks. Games that rely on higher frame rates or advanced rendering may not perform as expected here. That said, for streaming, office work, or even casual gaming, it gets the job done.

Key Benefits

• Impressive multitasking capabilities thanks to the combination of the Intel Core i3 processor and 32GB RAM.
• Dual-monitor support with both HDMI and VGA ports, which was incredibly useful in my workflow.
• Quick boot-up times and smooth performance, courtesy of the 1TB SSD storage.
• Ample connectivity options, including 8 USB ports and built-in Wi-Fi 5 and Bluetooth 5.

Areas for Improvement

• The absence of an optical drive might inconvenience users who still rely on CDs or DVDs.
• The plastic casing, while functional, feels a bit cheap compared to more premium competitors.
• Integrated graphics limit this desktop’s ability to handle graphics-intensive tasks.
• The fan noise became noticeable when running heavier applications, though it wasn’t overly disruptive.

User Experience and Usability

Setting up the desktop was a breeze. It came with Windows 11 Pro pre-installed, which was a nice touch considering the added features this OS offers compared to the standard version. I particularly liked the streamlined taskbar and the enhanced multitasking tools. The included wired keyboard and mouse, while not luxurious, were functional and responsive. They’re not something I’d rave about, but they’re perfectly fine for everyday use.

One thing I found especially useful was the 1TB PCIe M.2 SSD. Programs loaded in seconds, and transferring files was noticeably faster than with older HDD setups. This storage type is a game-changer if you’re used to traditional drives.

Competing Products

In comparison to other towers in this range, such as the Dell Inspiron Desktop or Lenovo ThinkCentre, the HP Pro Tower 290 G9 holds its own. The Dell Inspiron offers similar processing power but often comes with less RAM and storage at a comparable price. Meanwhile, the Lenovo ThinkCentre is better equipped for businesses with more robust security features but falls short in multitasking performance. Where this tower shines is its balance of performance and versatility without veering into overly specialized territory. However, the lack of a discrete GPU does make it less suitable for those who need advanced graphical performance, where competitors like the Dell XPS might excel.

Cost Efficiency

For its features, this desktop offers great value for money. The combination of Intel’s latest processor, high RAM capacity, and fast SSD ensures you’re getting solid performance without breaking the bank. It’s particularly appealing for students, remote workers, or anyone needing a reliable daily driver. While there are cheaper options, they often skimp on RAM or storage, making this a smart spending choice for those who value efficiency and speed.

Final Thoughts on Who Should Buy It

This desktop is perfect for home or office users who prioritize speed and reliability over flashy extras. If you’re someone who needs a dependable workstation for browsing, working, or even light content creation, this is a fantastic pick. However, gamers or professionals in creative industries may want to explore options with dedicated GPUs and enhanced cooling systems. Whether you’re replacing an old machine or building out a new home office setup, this desktop is a strong contender in the mid-range category.

Additional information