HP Eliteboard G1a Review: A Full Windows PC Hidden Inside a Keyboard

The concept of an all-in-one PC built into a keyboard isn't new, but it's one that has largely lived in the realm of hobbyist projects and single-board computers. At CES 2026, HP has revived the idea with a serious, enterprise-focused twist. The HP Eliteboard G1a is not a toy; it's a legitimate Windows PC powered by modern AMD Ryzen AI processors, designed to be the unseen brain of a professional workstation. Announced for a March 2026 release, this device challenges the very form factor of the desktop computer, packing respectable computing power into a chassis that looks, for all intents and purposes, like a standard office keyboard. This article delves into the specifications, potential, and inherent compromises of this intriguing new form factor.

A Sleeper Build with Serious Intent

Upon first glance, the HP Eliteboard G1a is a masterclass in subtlety. Weighing between 1.5 and 1.7 pounds, it presents itself as a conventional, black, low-profile chiclet keyboard complete with a function row and a numpad. There are no obvious vents, glowing logos, or bulky protrusions to give away its true nature. This "sleeper" aesthetic is intentional, making it an unobtrusive addition to any desk. The right person might genuinely believe it's just an input device. This design philosophy extends to its target audience: the enterprise market. Features like a Kensington lock slot, optional fingerprint reader, and enterprise-grade security software underscore its business-first orientation, positioning it as a secure, space-saving solution for corporate fleets rather than a consumer curiosity.

Under the Keycaps: Specifications and Performance

Beneath its unassuming exterior, the Eliteboard G1a houses hardware that is decidedly modern. It is configurable with AMD's latest Ryzen AI 300-series processors, specifically the Ryzen AI 7 350 Pro, Ryzen AI 5 340 Pro, or Ryzen AI 3 330. The top-tier Ryzen AI 7 350 Pro is a "Kracken Point" APU featuring eight Zen 5 CPU cores and a Radeon 860M integrated GPU with 512 shaders—a configuration that offers performance roughly analogous to a Steam Deck for graphics. This makes it capable of driving dual 4K monitors and handling mainstream productivity tasks and web browsing with ease, though it is not intended for demanding AAA gaming. Memory can be configured up to 64GB of DDR5 RAM, and storage options go up to 2TB of NVMe SSD, though curiously, the Ryzen 7 model also includes 32GB of eMMC storage whose purpose is not immediately clear.

Key Specifications of the HP Eliteboard G1a

Connectivity and the Practical Compromises

The pursuit of a minimal footprint comes with significant trade-offs in connectivity. The Eliteboard G1a is a spartan device in this regard, featuring only two USB Type-C ports (one USB4, one USB 3.2) for all data, display, and power delivery needs. It supports Wi-Fi 6E or 7 and Bluetooth 5.3 or 6, but notably lacks any Ethernet port, SD card reader, or audio jacks. A more critical limitation for some users will be its video output, which is exclusively via DisplayPort over USB-C. This means compatibility with certain monitors or docks may require adapters, a potential hurdle for home users or offices with legacy equipment. The device requires a 65W power supply but can be configured with an integrated 32Wh battery, creating a "portable" version that allows for quick disconnection and movement between workstations, albeit with added weight.

Market Position, Price, and Future Potential

HP has been clear that the Eliteboard G1a is an enterprise product. It will be sold directly through HP's sales channels, likely as part of bulk orders for businesses, and individual consumer pricing has not been announced. This business focus suggests a premium price tag when purchased outside of a volume agreement. The device's limitations—its sparse port selection and DisplayPort-only video—are easier to manage in a controlled corporate IT environment than in a diverse consumer setting. This strategic choice leaves a gap in the market. The article's hands-on experience suggests a well-executed proof-of-concept that sparks imagination for a future consumer variant. The clean-desk potential, familiar Windows environment, and capable performance for everyday tasks make a compelling case for such a product, should HP decide to expand its vision beyond the boardroom.

Processor Comparison & Use Case

• Ryzen AI 7 350 Pro (Top-Tier): 8 Zen 5 cores, Radeon 860M iGPU (8 RDNA 3.5 CUs). Suitable for general productivity, multi-tasking, and light gaming performance comparable to a Steam Deck.
• Ryzen AI 5 340 Pro (Mid-Tier): 6 CPU cores, 4 GPU compute units. Balanced for standard office applications.
• Ryzen AI 3 330 (Entry-Tier): 4 CPU cores, 2 GPU compute units. For basic, lightweight tasks. Note: Gaming is not the primary focus; the device is positioned as an "AI PC" for business productivity.

Conclusion: A Niche Filled, A Market Awaiting

The HP Eliteboard G1a is a fascinating and well-engineered entry into a neglected niche. It successfully modernizes the "keyboard computer" concept with legitimate, contemporary performance and a flawless disguise. For its intended enterprise audience—particularly in hot-desking environments or spaces where discretion and desk space are at a premium—it offers a unique and valuable solution. However, its business-centric features, limited connectivity, and probable cost place firm boundaries around its appeal. For the average consumer or tech enthusiast, it serves as a tantalizing glimpse of a possible future for the minimalist desktop, one that many will hope inspires a more accessible, connectivity-rich version down the line. Its success may ultimately be measured not just by its adoption in offices, but by whether it convinces HP and other manufacturers that there's a market for the keyboard PC outside of them.