HP Z4 G4 review: specs, options & used prices

Hands-on-style overview of the HP Z4 G4 (Workstation Desktop): CPU, memory and storage configurations, used-market prices and upgrade notes. Typical configuration: Xeon W-2145.

What this machine is

As used-market workstation desktops go, the HP Z4 G4 is a known quantity: standard parts, a wide configuration ladder, and steady supply on the secondary market.

Workstation lines exist for sustained professional loads: server-derived CPU options, high memory ceilings, and a chassis designed to run all day rather than all morning.

Tracked used listings cluster around a median of $337 (10 active listings at the time of writing).

Configurations you will actually see

Configurations we track pair the Z4 G4 with the Xeon W-2123, Xeon W-2125, Xeon W-2133 and 2 more. Xeon-branded options are server-derived silicon aimed at sustained, multi-user loads; check the exact model number in each listing.

Memory options run from 8 GB to 32 GB (8 GB, 16 GB, 32 GB). 8 GB is workable for one person; 16 GB is the comfortable setting for typical office and home use.

Solid-state storage options include 256GB NVMe, 256GB SSD, 512GB NVMe and 512GB SSD.

Hard-disk listings (2TB HDD) also exist — an SSD remains the single most noticeable upgrade on this class of machine.

Workstation notes

Workstation configurations target engineering, CAD, rendering and virtualisation workloads that run for hours, not minutes.

Expect higher idle draw and more fan noise than office small-form-factor machines; these were designed to be worked, not to whisper.

Who it fits

It fits engineering, CAD, rendering and pro-workstation roles on a budget — as long as the software tolerates the age of the platform.

The spec sheet carries the full option ladder and tracked prices; for context, browse the desktop catalog or the HP desktops page.

Verdict

The Z4 G4 is not exciting, and that is the point: a known quantity with a known configuration ladder.

Buy it when you need a cheap, repairable machine for its class of work, and verify the configuration before paying — RAM and storage vary widely between listings. Tracked prices span $250 to $500, and most of that spread is configuration, not condition.

Our composite LB Score currently sits at 18/100 — a score that mostly reflects the platform age — use it to compare like with like, not against modern hardware.

Data sheet

LB Score

0–100 composite of performance, versatility and value

LB 18
Form factor Tower
Processor Xeon W-2145 · Xeon W-2133 · Xeon W-2125
Memory 8GB · 16GB · 32GB
Storage 256GB NVMe · 256GB SSD · 2TB HDD · 512GB NVMe
Used-market price from $350
Case size class 30