The HP EliteDesk 800 is one of HP’s most popular small form factor (SFF) and tower business desktop lines, spanning from 6th generation Intel processors through to 12th generation. Whether you’re looking to boost performance with additional RAM, upgrade to faster storage, or replace a power supply, this guide covers full compatibility details for every generation.
Each generation of the EliteDesk 800 introduced new processor families, memory standards, and storage options. We’ve compiled the exact specifications for RAM upgrades, SSD compatibility, and power requirements across all models to help you make the right upgrade decisions.
HP EliteDesk 800 Generation Comparison Table
This master compatibility table shows the key specifications for each EliteDesk 800 generation:
| Generation | Release Year | Processor Family | RAM Type | RAM Speed | Max Capacity | DIMM Slots | Storage | PSU (Tower) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| G1 | 2012-2013 | Intel 3rd Gen (Ivy Bridge) | DDR3 | DDR3-1600 | 32GB | 4 | SATA 3.5″ HDD | 240W / 320W |
| G2 | 2013-2014 | Intel 4th Gen (Haswell) | DDR3 | DDR3-1600 | 32GB | 4 | SATA HDD + SSD | 240W / 320W |
| G3 | 2015-2016 | Intel 6th Gen (Skylake) | DDR4 | DDR4-2133 | 32GB | 4 | SATA SSD + M.2 SATA | 240W / 320W |
| G4 | 2016-2017 | Intel 7th Gen (Kaby Lake) | DDR4 | DDR4-2400 | 64GB | 4 | M.2 SATA + NVMe | 240W / 320W |
| G5 | 2018-2019 | Intel 9th Gen (Coffee Lake) | DDR4 | DDR4-2666 | 64GB | 4 | M.2 NVMe + SATA | 240W / 320W |
| G6 | 2020-2021 | Intel 10th Gen (Comet Lake) | DDR4 | DDR4-2933 | 128GB | 4 | M.2 NVMe + SATA | 240W / 320W / 400W |
RAM Upgrade Guide by Generation
EliteDesk 800 G1 & G2 — DDR3 Memory (32GB Max)
The earliest EliteDesk 800 models (G1 and G2) use DDR3 memory, which is now nearly 15 years old. If you’re still running one of these machines, RAM upgrades are limited to 32GB maximum with four DIMM slots supporting DDR3-1600.
For G1/G2 upgrades, look for modules rated for 1.5V (standard DDR3). Avoid low-voltage variants (1.35V) unless explicitly listed as compatible with your specific model.
Shop DDR3-1600 RAM on Amazon UK
EliteDesk 800 G3 — DDR4-2133 Memory (32GB Max)
The G3 (2015-2016) was the first EliteDesk 800 to adopt DDR4 memory, with support for DDR4-2133 modules. The maximum capacity remains 32GB (8GB × 4 DIMM slots).
While faster DDR4 speeds exist, the G3 officially supports DDR4-2133. Using faster RAM (DDR4-2400+) is possible but will run at the motherboard’s native speed of 2133 MHz.
EliteDesk 800 G4 — DDR4-2400 Memory (64GB Max)
The G4 (2016-2017, 7th Gen Intel) doubled the maximum RAM capacity to 64GB and increased official support to DDR4-2400. This generation marks a notable performance jump for memory-intensive workloads.
Four DDR4-2400 16GB modules will give you the 64GB maximum. The motherboard supports standard DDR4 at 1.2V.
EliteDesk 800 G5 — DDR4-2666 Memory (64GB Max)
The G5 (2018-2019, 9th Gen Intel) increased memory speed to DDR4-2666, remaining at a 64GB maximum across four DIMM slots.
This generation’s 9th Gen processors benefit from faster memory, so DDR4-2666 is the optimal choice. If you have DDR4-2400 modules, they will work but run at reduced speed.
EliteDesk 800 G6 — DDR4-2933 Memory (128GB Max)
The G6 (2020-2021, 10th Gen Intel) finally doubled the maximum capacity to 128GB and increased speeds to DDR4-2933. This is the most upgradeable generation of the EliteDesk 800 line.
Four 32GB modules of DDR4-2933 will reach the 128GB limit. The 10th Gen processors support this faster memory natively, making it a worthwhile upgrade for multi-tasking or virtual machine environments.
Storage Upgrades — SSD Compatibility
EliteDesk 800 G1 & G2 — SATA Only
Early EliteDesk 800 models support only 2.5″ or 3.5″ SATA SSDs and hard drives. There are no M.2 slots available on these motherboards.
EliteDesk 800 G3 — SATA + M.2 SATA
The G3 added M.2 support, but only for SATA-based M.2 drives (no NVMe). You can install both SATA 2.5″ SSDs and M.2 SATA drives on the same system.
EliteDesk 800 G4+ — M.2 NVMe + SATA Support
From G4 onwards, the EliteDesk 800 supports full NVMe M.2 SSDs, offering dramatically faster speeds. Many configurations include both an NVMe slot and a SATA slot, allowing dual-drive setups.
Power Supply Compatibility
EliteDesk 800 power supplies vary by form factor and generation:
| Form Factor | Typical Wattages | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Small Form Factor (SFF) | 180W, 240W | Most common; proprietary connector in older models |
| Tower | 240W, 320W, 400W (G6+) | Standard ATX mounting; G6 introduced 400W option for higher-TDP processors |
Always check your motherboard power connector type before ordering a replacement PSU. Some older HP models use proprietary connectors that are not ATX-standard.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I upgrade an EliteDesk 800 G3 motherboard to accept DDR4-2400?
A: No. The motherboard’s memory controller is locked to DDR4-2133. While faster RAM modules may physically fit, they will run at 2133 MHz, wasting their potential. Stick with DDR4-2133 or equivalent for the G3.
Q: What’s the difference between SFF and Tower EliteDesk 800 models?
A: SFF (Small Form Factor) models are more compact and typically use lower-wattage PSUs (180-240W). Tower models are larger, use standard ATX cases, and support higher-wattage power supplies. RAM and CPU compatibility are identical between the two; the main difference is physical size and power budget.
Q: Can I use ECC RAM in my EliteDesk 800?
A: EliteDesk 800 towers support standard DDR4 UDIMM modules. ECC RDIMM (registered) memory is designed for servers and will not function in consumer/business desktop boards. Stick with standard UDIMM modules.
Q: Is my EliteDesk 800 G5 compatible with DDR4-3000+ memory?
A: The G5’s motherboard officially supports up to DDR4-2666. While some faster modules may be detected, they will throttle to 2666 MHz. For optimal stability and warranty support, use DDR4-2666 or lower.
Q: How many M.2 NVMe slots does the G6 have?
A: The EliteDesk 800 G6 typically includes one M.2 NVMe slot (Key M) and one M.2 SATA slot (Key B) on the motherboard. Some configurations may offer two NVMe slots; check your specific model’s manual.
Q: Can I replace my EliteDesk 800 power supply with any standard ATX PSU?
A: For tower models, yes — they use standard ATX connectors. For SFF models, check whether your board uses a standard ATX 24-pin connector or a proprietary connector. Older SFF models may have custom connectors requiring HP-branded or compatible PSUs.
Recommended Products
| Product | Compatibility | Link |
|---|---|---|
| Corsair Vengeance LPX DDR4-3200 16GB (×2) | G6 (will run at DDR4-2933) | View |
| Kingston Fury Beast DDR4-2666 16GB | G4, G5 | View |
| Samsung 970 EVO Plus NVMe 1TB | G4+ | View |
| WD Blue SN570 NVMe 500GB | G4+ | View |
| Crucial P5 NVMe 1TB | G5, G6 | View |
| Seasonic Focus GX-650W 80+ Gold | EliteDesk 800 Tower (all) | View |
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