HP ProDesk 400 G4 Mini
Specification and Upgrade Options
The HP ProDesk 400 G4 Mini is a micro-form-factor entry-level business desktop designed to disappear onto the back of a monitor or sit unobtrusively on a desk. First available in 2018, this unit relies on the B360 chipset to run 8th gen Intel Core processors and up to 32GB of SODIMM DDR4-2400 memory. It is the ideal choice for strictly business environments or home media centers where physical space is the primary concern, rather than raw graphical expansion.
This device is easy to upgrade with additional RAM and storage. Usually models with this chassis have an optional Wi-Fi and Bluetooth module and an M.2 slot for an SSD drive.
Can you upgrade HP ProDesk 400 G4 Mini to play games?
HP ProDesk 400 G4 Mini is a entry-level business desktop computer in micro form factor. It is using a processor that provides both the CPU and GPU functionality. While integrated GPUs are sufficient for basic gaming, they are not powerful enough to run demanding games. HP ProDesk 400 G4 Mini has no space for dedicated graphics card.
Micro desktop machines like HP ProDesk 400 G4 Mini are usually used as home theater PCs (HTPC), in home lab projects or a as home automation servers.
Does HP ProDesk 400 G4 Mini support Windows 11?
Yes, HP ProDesk 400 G4 Mini is compatible with Windows 11. According to Windows 11 specification, all models that have Intel 8th Gen processors (or newer) with TPM 2.0 support and a UEFI BIOS with Secure boot, are eligible to upgrade form Windows 10 to Windows 11 through Windows Update.
Processor
The HP ProDesk 400 G4 Mini supports Gen8 Intel Core technology on a B360 chipset. 8th generation Intel Core CPUs (Coffee Lake) significantly increased core counts, improving multitasking and parallel workloads. Higher-end models perform well in software development, virtualization, and gaming scenarios.
Best CPUs for HP ProDesk 400 G4 Mini upgrade:
| Model | Cores (Threads) | Base frequency | Turbo |
|---|---|---|---|
| Core i5 8500 | 6(6) | 3.0 GHz | 4.1 GHz |
| Core i5 8600 | 6(6) | 3.1 GHz | 4.3 GHz |
| Core i7 8700 | 6(12) | 3.2 GHz | 4.6 GHz |
GPU upgrade
It is not possible to upgrade HP ProDesk 400 G4 Mini with a dedicated GPU due to the lack of space and absence of a PCIe slot. However, you can still use the integrated graphics processor for gaming. There are number of games you can enjoy with an Intel HD and UHD iGPU.
Memory
HP ProDesk 400 G4 Mini supports up to 32 GB of SODIMM DDR4-2400 RAM across two DIMM slots, with memory speeds up to 2400 MT/s and dual-channel support depending on the installed configuration.
Actual supported memory capacity and memory channels may vary depending on the installed CPU and chipset.
Typical HP ProDesk 400 G4 Mini memory configurations include 8 GB for everyday productivity and 16 GB for gaming, heavier multitasking, or professional workloads.
Wi-Fi Support
HP ProDesk 400 G4 Mini supports Wi-Fi and Bluetooth combo card with the on-board M.2 2230 (Wi-Fi/BT) slot. The card contains a Wi-Fi module that supports various Wi-Fi standards, as well as a Bluetooth module. It is small circuit board that is designed to fit into a dedicated slot on the motherboard.
Keep in mind that the card is not always included and you have to install one yourself.
Wi-Fi and Bluetooth wireless adapter upgrades for HP ProDesk 400 G4 Mini:
| Model | Speed | Frequency | Interface |
|---|---|---|---|
| WiFi 6E (Gig+) Kit | 3000 Mbit/s | 2.4GHz / 5GHz | NGFF M.2 A/E Key |
| Rekong AX210 | 3000 Mbit/s | 2.4GHz / 5GHz | NGFF M.2 A/E Key |
| Gigabyte GC-Wbax200 | 2400 Mbit/s | 2.4GHz / 5GHz | PCIe |
| TP-Link Archer TX50E | 2400 Mbit/s | 2.4GHz / 5GHz | PCIe |
| TP-Link Archer T9UH | 1300 Mbit/s | 2.4GHz / 5GHz | USB 3.0 |
Ports
HP ProDesk 400 G4 Mini provides a fixed set of external I/O ports for connecting peripherals and displays. Port availability and versions determine supported data transfer speeds and display capabilities.
USB ports
HP ProDesk 400 G4 Mini includes six USB ports in total in the following configuration - (4x)USB-A 3.0; (2x)USB-A 2.0; with no USB 3.1 ports available.
Video ports
HP ProDesk 400 G4 Mini features two DisplayPort 1.2 outputs, suitable for modern digital displays.
No HDMI output is available on the motherboard.
Motherboard video outputs require a CPU with integrated graphics. Systems equipped with a dedicated GPU must use the video ports on the graphics card instead.
SSD storage - M.2 sockets and SATA ports
The HP ProDesk 400 G4 Mini comes with one SATA port(s) for connecting storage devices.
HP ProDesk 400 G4 Mini has also one M.2 socket(s) that supports PCIe NVMe (PCIe 3.0 x4) or SATA M.2 drives with speed of up to 4 GB/s. This configuration works very well for both gaming and work related tasks.
The M.2 PCIe SSD connector in combination with an NVMe drive allows for higher transfer rates, compared to the old SATA interface. In some situations, NVMe device connected to the M.2 PCIe socket can be more than 5 times faster.
*Keep in mind that some M.2 connectors may not support SATA SSDs. Check the motherboard manual to confirm compatibility.
Best PCIe NVMe drives for HP ProDesk 400 G4 Mini storage upgrade:
| Model | Form factor / Interface | NAND type | DRAM |
|---|---|---|---|
| Samsung 980 PRO SSD | M.2/x4 PCIe 4.0/NVMe | TLC | Yes |
| CORSAIR MP600 PRO | M.2/x4 PCIe 4.0/NVMe | TLC | Yes |
| SAMSUNG 970 EVO Plus | M.2/x4 PCIe 3.0/NVMe | TLC | Yes |
| Western Digital Black SN770 | M.2/x4 PCIe 4.0/NVMe | TLC | Yes |
| Kingston A2000 | M.2/x4 PCIe 3.0/NVMe | TLC | Yes |
Power Supply
The HP ProDesk 400 G4 Mini comes with a 150 Watt PSU. Having a power supply with high power rating is important, especially if you are doing upgrade with addtional components, like dedicated GPU and more HDDs. Will this 150 W be enough, it all depends on your specific use. Please keep in mind that some models might have more than one PSU option. Whenever possible get the most powerful one, as it might make future upgrades easier.
Motherboard
