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HP Workstation Z1 Desktop, Nvidia GeForce RTX 2080, i7-9700, 16GB/512GB, 3yr Onsite Warranty $2,399 Shipped @ CentreCom

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It's hard to find a sub-2500 2080 pre-built computer.

They are going for AUD$2.4k here: http://tiny.cc/gb8lnz

This exact same computer (SKU 8DV58PA) is $4323 on the HP website
https://h20386.www2.hp.com/AustraliaStore/Merch/Product.aspx…

RTX 2080 8GB - this is the third most powerful graphics card on the market as of 23/4/2020.
i7-9700 (8 core, 8 thread), on a Q series motherboard (corporate use - has vPro and other business features. Cannot overclock basically)

16G ram
512GB M2 NVME SSD
1TB HDD 7200RPM

Win 10 Pro + 3 year onsite warranty.

You cannot build a similar computer for that price, and it wont have the warranty and 3 year support.

Got one myself. There seems to be quite a bit in stock.

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  • +15

    "It's hard to find a sub-2500 2080 pre-built computer" Strongly disagree, you can even get a 2080 Super prebuilt for this price.

    • +2

      I was planning to build a PC myself, but once including windows and shipping etc, it ended up being about the same… without the three year warranty and brand behind it.

      Was considering going the Techfast route, but they are in a different state (im in VIC).

      If you self assemble a PC, you can technically build a 2080 Super (read: 6% faster graphics) computer for the same price…

      Seriously though - look for RTX 2080 computers online… very very few are under AUD2.5k. Especially now that the AUD is weak.

      • I got one of this 2080 from Techfast. Base model is $1599 with a 2080 Super.
        Ordered last February 2020 but arrived April 2020 because of the "y'know what".
        I was lucky. The price went up with next batch/bargain.

        But the Op is correct. For this price, I can't get a 3-year warranty.

        • How do you find your Techfast build? Something has always told me I might as well build one myself, yet the price I'd pay to do it myself compared to what Techfast charge seems insane

          • +2

            @cc23: I had a look at my friend's entry-level Techfast computer. I could certainly see why it was so cheap! I've never seen such thin PSU wires before, the thin case felt flimsy, and the motherboard was lacking in ports.

            But it works, and was cheap. You get what you pay for I guess! Maybe their higher-end builds use better parts.

            I would personally pay a bit more for higher-quality parts as I tend to keep my desktops for quite a few years. But there's certainly a market for entry-level good-spec desktops out there.

            • @eug: You've highlighted exactly my fears with Techfast.

          • @cc23: This PC replaces my 8-year old Dell unit.

            I can't really compare or comment about the "quality" of their build and I'm sure they're here to protect their name since a lot of their business came from OzB. One bad comment is something they can't take.

            However, when my PC came I had to take it "repaired" quickly (due to the shutdown) because someone at Techfast forgot to install the NIC driver. The PC would boot up and no NIC. Didn't call Techfast at the time.

            Other than that, I am happy with the PC ordered.

            Ask me this question in 2 years time and maybe my opinion may have changed.

    • +9

      Not to mention the severely limited upgrade/customization options these machines from HP, Dell, etc leave you with. Non standard motherboards, power supplies and case fittings are common in computers like this. The rear IO of this particular machine is a great example, didn't even need to see the internals for a headache to start forming.

      • +7

        Been building / upgrading desktops since primary school (1990s … im old haha!).

        This is the first prebuilt desktop i've had in over a decade…Internals are reasonably neat. Cant complain about IO. Q370 board has plenty for home use.

        No longer a poor student - so heck. Prebuilt it is for me.

        Recent review: https://www.techradar.com/au/reviews/hp-z1-g3

        Comes with a Gold rated PSU. and cables are routed neatly. Wont be expanding much given there's plenty of grunt for the next few years at least. Might swap out the 1TB HDD for a 1TB SSD in coming years, but thats about it.

        Lots of free RAM slots.

        Pretty stock mATX standard internals I think - PSU etc should be replaceable.

        Havent scrutinized the mounting screws for the MB…. but it seems like stock mATX components.

        Case has a nice tool-less design. Side panel comes off with a latch.

    • +2

      If you strongly disagree then I strongly suggest you post a link. This is genuinely a good deal given its specs.

      EDIT: Similar spec using cheapest available: https://au.pcpartpicker.com/list/6kZDTC

      • +4

        Here you go - $1899 with a 2080 Super and i7-9700FS, usual price (ie can get cheaper when there is a deal)

        https://techfast.com.au/collections/intel-systems/products/i…

        • +11

          Ah, the techfast deal. I did look at that before as well.

          Sounds cheap, but once you actually match specs:
          - With Windows Home, 480GB SSD (not NVME), 1TB HDD, and optical drive…

          It comes up to $2385 before shipping.

          It has a slightly faster graphics card (2080 super), but no 3 year onsite warranty.

          • +4

            @MintBerryCrunch: i7-9700F RTX 2080S build was $1599 when there was a deal 2 month ago https://www.ozbargain.com.au/node/520581

            I would prefer ryzen build which is currently on sale tho. https://www.ozbargain.com.au/node/525639

            • @MagicMushroom: this was before the price hike from the dropping AUD.

              PS: I was seriously considering the Techfast route… but decided against it as im not from SA, and Centercom is 5 mins away from my house lol.

              • @MintBerryCrunch: Yeah depends on your priorities really. 500W PSU for i7 and rtx2080 on the HP machine is a bit tough. Personally I like to upgrade stuff here and there so prebuilt from large company is a bit meh.

          • @MintBerryCrunch: Fair call - if those things are critical for you this is an ok good deal, but l I also note techfast have good deals from time to time that make their systems even cheaper (but again, not with on-site warranty)

            EDIT: What MagicMushroom said

        • +1

          Here you go - $1899 with a 2080 Super and i7-9700FS, usual price (ie can get cheaper when there is a deal)

          I really wouldn't be comparing a Techfast PC which would be using the cheapest parts available (e.g. cheap generic PSU, cheap case/gpu/psu fans), to a business-class PC with a 3 year warranty and 80PLUS Gold PSU which would probably still be running in 10 years time.

          • +2

            @eug:

            I really wouldn't etc

            You do you, but I've had my share of issues with prebuilt brand name systems as well. The extra support is great, but post 3 years they are harder to replace/upgrade parts for, so appreciate they may be for different customers. Also, unless im missing something, we don't know much about the PSU and GPU branding in the HP, and you can upgrade to MSI/80 plus with techfast.

            • +1

              @suburbanmale:

              I've had my share of issues with prebuilt brand name systems as well

              Have you handled a Techfast PC in real life? I'd be quite confident in saying a business-class PC like this HP Z1 would last longer.

              What you're saying is the equivalent of someone posting a ThinkPad deal and you saying this ALDI Medion laptop with the same specs is cheaper. Sure it's cheaper, but it's not built to the same standards.

              • +1

                @eug:

                Have you handled a Techfast PC in real life?

                I have actually. I bought one for my dad, and I have a few friends with them. I've also been building systems for years and build my own, which is why I don't personally own one.

                It comes down to what you want. If you're after peace of mind, this deal may be for you. If you're after bang for buck, then an HP/Dell/any other recognisable brand prebuilt system won't be the best deal.

                I don't deny that they are likely built to different standards, but to get back to the point - the statement was that it's hard to find a sub-2500 2080 prebuilt computer, and the links above clearly show that this statement, while well intentioned, is not correct.

                • @suburbanmale:

                  I don't deny that they are likely built to different standards, but to get back to the point - the statement was that it's hard to find a sub-2500 2080 prebuilt computer, and the links above clearly show that this statement, while well intentioned, is not correct.

                  Ahh, I see where you're coming from. When I read the OP's post I was under the assumption that we're talking apples-to-apples, i.e. it's hard to find a sub-2500 2080 prebuilt computer of a similar standard. If we start including computers that are made from the cheapest parts available into the comparison, then you're right, it's not impossible to find one.

                  That said, seeing that once you match the specs it's $2385, I think this is a much better deal. I'd happily pay $14 extra for a HP business PC with 3 year onsite warranty than a PC made with the cheapest components around.

                  To be fair to the OP, he did say "it's hard" and not "it's impossible". :)

                  • +1

                    @eug: All good - although the techfast deals are with a 2080 Super

      • Yeah, i came to a similar conclusion.
        Essentially after shipping was included (for all the deals to work), it ended up being more expensive.

        Unless you go grey market - eg with an OEM Win key from G2A…
        … and use the same supplier for all components (combine shipping)

        It's going to be more pricey.

    • with 3 years warranty?

  • +2

    I've bought a prior model - 8th gen/gtx1080 and can say that they are well built and reliable. Only downsides are that they do have a bit of HP bloat and their cooling is pretty bog standard, which to me is sub par given the price point.

    • +1

      Ah yes. I should have probably commented on this.

      Spent about 3 hours figuring how to disable all the HP bloatware (needed bios tweaking!). But once done it's like a stock Win10Pro PC again.

      • Why not just do a clean install? You can download the ISO from Microsoft. Will probably take only 10 mins with those specs. :)

        • +2

          I had already downloaded / overnighted the PC to the current Win 10 build.

          The HP software is tangled with the bios HP SureStart.

          Im not sure if suddenly installing an ISO will cause havoc with the anti-tamper bloatware.

          I would still disable it in bios and uninstall in Windows before doing anything with this computer.

          • @MintBerryCrunch:

            I would still disable it in bios and uninstall in Windows before doing anything with this computer.

            Yes, isn't that quicker? Turn off SureStart in BIOS then do a clean install.
            I didn't have problems with a clean install on an EliteDesk 800 G4. Does the Z1 not allow you to turn off SureStart, or is the G5 SureStart more finicky?

            • @eug: if i were doing it from scratch I would probably go this route.

            • @eug: Sorry, I am just confused about win10 activation is still there after doing a clean install?

              • @hbrhbr: Yup, the key for these branded computers is saved in the BIOS so you don't have to type it in. Just make sure you're reinstalling the same version (Home vs Pro).

  • +2

    Can I play solitaire and mindsweeper with this?

    • No, but it will handle MINECRAFT…RTX (!)

  • +3

    Ideal spec for upcoming Microsoft FS 2020

    • +1

      I am planning to build a FS 2020 as well. Official ideal spec is 9800X/RTX2080 or 2700X/Radeon VII. Waiting the game release, and expecting the AUD goes higher.

    • Will be interested to know requirements as well

      • +1

        The official information can be found here https://www.flightsimulator.com/
        under the development update, the information available just under the heading MACHINE SPECS RELEASED, I hope this helps.

        FS 2020 will have awesome graphics and real-time data.

      • Side note/fun fact: It's gonna take more than 150GB of space on your drive! Ridonkulous!

        • 150GB isnt too bad if its every city around the world, or is that just the caching

  • +3

    16GB ram is not enough. Probably get an extra 16GB for $527from HP
    https://h20386.www2.hp.com/AustraliaStore/Merch/Product.aspx…

    Compare to their RAM, this machine is a damn good deal

    • LEGEND!

  • +6

    A few quirks in this build which people should note:

    • 500W PSU is below the recommended wattage for a 2080.
    • one 16gb stick of mediocre speed RAM. Although it's easier to upgrade later, it's missing out some performance due to being single channel.
    • I'm also not convinced the case will provide adequate thermals. Can't see the top, so I assume no fans there. Not sure if the front panel actually has intake fans or only is designed to look like it.

    I can't recommend this to anyone, even those who can't build computers. You almost certainly have to upgrade the PSU, and if you have to replace a PSU, then you basically should learn to put a computer together anyway.

    • +2

      The front panel is basically a large grill.

      I've been building PCs for two decades. I'll swap it when it dies.

      No issues with throttling / thermals with gaming so far.
      Case is pretty much empty and neatly arranged.
      It's a 500W gold rated part.

      You only need a bigger PSU if you are thinking of running dual 2080s, or tons of addons with power draw - which for a great majority of people, doesnt apply (if it does, you wont be buying a PC like this anyway).

      The Dell G5 2080 has a similar PSU.

      HP is confident enough to back it up with a 3 year onsite warranty. So i dont really care.
      My experience suggests PSUs typically last about 3-4 years of daily use… and are basically a consumable item. Home media center has burnt through 3 PSUs already in a decade haha!

    • +5

      500W PSU is below the recommended wattage for a 2080.

      NVIDIA themselves say pre-built systems may require less than the recommended 650W PSU.

      A PSU calculator gives a load wattage of 409W for those specs, with a recommended PSU wattage of 459W. The 80PLUS Gold PSU it comes with will run it just fine. There's very little headroom, but it will definitely run.

  • I would actually go with AMD Ryzen build with better performance for lower price.

    • Cant disagree. i was initially planning a Ryzen 7, 5700XT build (this makes much more sense if building your own PC). This is what I would have probably done if i were still in uni.

      • +2

        If you ever want to build a pc, now is not the right time. Like the prices are insane.

        • …and the 5700XT is sold out everywhere…

          • @MintBerryCrunch: I actually got an overkill 750w 80+ gold corsair psu for $184 pre-corona, now the 650w 80+ one is actually over 200 lmao.

            • @OnlineShopper123: Nice. that's not a bad unit. Lasted almost 5 years in my media center (daily heavy use, almost 24/24).

              • @MintBerryCrunch: probably last me over a decade for my build. Ryzen 5 3600

                • @OnlineShopper123: it has a 10 years warranty too.

                • @OnlineShopper123: I think it depends more on the time spent turned on rather than actual draw.. because seriously few people will be drawing over 500W continuously in a home setting. If youre running a file server / torrent client etc, and leaving it on almost 24/7, its not gonna last that long.

                  Few hours a day, it will probably last a decade - IF the capacitors last… that's the big unknown with PSUs.

        • True and very true. Most popular components are out of stock everywhere and there is no sale or discount.
          OZBARGAINERS NEVER PAY RRP

  • You'd expect a company like HP would list correct spec's:

    "NVIDIA® GeForce® RTX 2080 (8 GB GDDR5 dedicated)

    GDDR6!

    • +1

      Literally no one cares apart from you.

  • Would definitely want to see an in-depth Notebookcheck-style review and teardown before dropping $2.4k on a prebuilt system. The Techradar review just doesn't cut it, although the pics do at least hint not much effort has gone into the design to make it particularly decent in terms of noise, thermals, etc. The 2080 is all that really stands out to me, and maybe the warranty.

    Does yours use a stock CPU cooler like the Techradar review one appears to have?

    • Stock intel included-in-the-box one.
      - i've been using stock coolers for awhile now. Never had an issue.

      I wouldnt call it noisy. I have it under the table and barely notice it while gaming. Mild fan noise just barely noticeable while gaming when there's no noise (from the 2080 i think). My room fan / AC is more noisy.

      • I've never known HP/Dell to use the 'stock' cooler. They normally design their own cooling solution, with far better mounts (metal / screw mounts).

        • well, it looks alot like the one that comes in the box when you buy an i7.

          • @MintBerryCrunch: They're not very similar at all, in appearance or performance.

            The HP fans have far larger heat sinks with a much more robust screw-based mounting mechanism, rather than the shoddy plastic push and click system that Intel insists on using. The fan is a more typical square framed unit on the HP, whereas intel have the flimsy integrated frame securing their fan.

            In my experience I've found the HP coolers to perform better than the intel stock coolers - Which doesn't say much considering the extremely low bar set by the latter.

            All in all, I'd recommend building your own where possible compared to buying a HP / Dell / Lenovo etc. prebuilt system if your main objective is general usage and gaming. Even if you are not confident in building your own, you're better off paying a reputable retailer to assemble a system for you.

            The proprietary components you'll find in these systems really limit your options if you ever decide you want to perform any upgrades in the future, or re use the components in a new build. Whilst there are solutions to the lack of compatibility, they really don't look great (dodgy chinese adapters to allow usage of a regular PSU compared to the OEM HP PSU for example).

            • @Radical Larry: i can snap a picture for you guys in the coming days.

              i've built systems with noctuas etc… and all im saying is that it looks different from a typical cooler you would put in a gaming desktop. I looks like the one that comes with an i7 in the box (which I have not seen since installing)… maybe its a bit more beefy.. couldnt tell as havent held one in ages.

              Been playing deus ex mankind divided with no dips in FPS.
              4k overwatch runs smoothly 70+fps.

              No temp issues yet. graphics card temps 65=70 under load.

              Btw, i dont think there are too many proprietary components in this build. I might be wrong, but the wiring and MB etc seem pretty stock standard.

              This is not a SFF PC. It's a normal microATX sized desktop with regular parts / power connectors etc.. i think. Didnt spend too much time scrutinizing the internals. Gaming FTW!

      • Curious about what the fan noise is like when not gaming? E.g. Streaming Netflix, youtube or in a video conf (Webex, Zoom, Teams etc..)?

        • +1

          The system's don't produce much noise. The fan's OEM's use are normally higher-end Delta, etc. fans.

          I have in the past replaced Delta fans on my Dell's with Noctua 80mm fans for even quieter operation.

          Here's a Dell cooler I'm using on my son's desktop (metal mount, much thicker/higher heatsink, with a solid copper core, cooling a i7 9700. Under load it gets to mid 50's. The fan is very quiet even when the system is placed under load.

          https://imgur.com/a/mfkFruT

  • +1

    It seems like most of the comments are looking at this pc for gaming when it clearly says it's a workstation?

    • While it's called a workstation, as per the HP website brief, it's spec'd up for "CAD design to VR content consumption" with the RDX 2080 graphics card. This also means it will handle gaming quite nicely :-)

      I'm seriously considering getting it myself for work from home + gaming on the side.

  • Price is now $2,999.

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