The HP EliteBoard G1a: An Entire PC Built into a Keyboard

Every so often, a piece of hardware appears that genuinely challenges what we expect a computer to look like.

The HP EliteBoard G1a does exactly that. At first glance, it just looks any other keyboard. In reality, it is a complete Windows 11 Pro PC built entirely into the keyboard itself.

With modern AI-ready processors, upgradeable components, built-in audio, and business-grade security, the EliteBoard G1a represents a bold rethink of the desktop computer in 2026.

What Is the HP EliteBoard G1a?

The HP EliteBoard G1a is a full desktop computer housed inside a keyboard chassis. Simply connect it to a monitor using USB-C, plug in power, and you have a complete workstation.

While it may remind some people of classic keyboard computers like the Commodore 64 (which got an ultimate rerelease last year), the EliteBoard G1a is designed specifically for modern business use, clean desk environments, and hybrid working.

It runs Windows 11 Pro and is positioned firmly in the professional and enterprise space.

Performance: Power in a Compact Form

Despite its unusual form factor, the EliteBoard G1a is far from a novelty.

It is powered by AMD Ryzen AI 300 Series processors, with configurations up to the Ryzen AI 7 370 Pro. These processors include a dedicated NPU (neural processing unit), delivering over 50 TOPS of AI performance and qualifying the device as a Copilot+ PC.

This makes it more than suitable for today’s AI-assisted workloads and future on-device AI features built into Windows.

Memory and storage are equally well thought out. The EliteBoard G1a supports up to 64GB DDR5 RAM and up to 2TB NVMe SSD storage. Both are user-upgradeable, accessed through a simple service panel, which is a major advantage for IT teams looking to future-proof their equipment.

For businesses focused on lifecycle management, repairability, and reducing waste, this approach makes the EliteBoard G1a far more practical than sealed compact systems.

Built-In Audio and Everyday Usability

The EliteBoard G1a even includes stereo speakers and dual microphones, making it suitable for video calls and everyday audio without additional peripherals. There is also a dedicated Copilot key for quick access to AI features in Windows 11.

The keyboard itself is spill-resistant and built for daily professional use, not just aesthetics.

Clean Desk Setups and Flexible Working

This device is clearly designed with modern workspaces in mind.

The EliteBoard G1a supports multiple external displays, including 4K monitors, via USB-C and DisplayPort. Wireless connectivity includes Wi-Fi 6E or Wi-Fi 7, along with Bluetooth, and there is an optional fingerprint reader for secure sign-in.

An optional internal battery provides several hours of unplugged use, allowing users to move between desks or meeting rooms without shutting down.

For hot desking, shared workspaces, and minimalist desk setups, this design offers real advantages.

Business-Grade Security

As part of HP’s Elite range, security is a core focus.

The EliteBoard G1a includes HP Wolf Security for Business, offering hardware-enforced protection against firmware attacks, malware, and credential theft. Combined with Windows 11 Pro and optional biometric authentication, it is built for enterprise environments.

Why the HP EliteBoard G1a Matters

It would be easy to dismiss a keyboard PC as a gimmick, but the EliteBoard G1a proves there is real substance behind the idea.

It offers an alternative to traditional desktop towers and all-in-one PCs by reducing clutter, simplifying deployment, and maintaining performance and upgradeability. It also blends a touch of nostalgia with modern AI computing and enterprise security.

That balance is likely why it attracted so much attention at CES 2026 and earned a CES Innovation Award.

Easily transportable, incredibly powerful and easily upgradeable, we've no doubt that the HP Eliteboard G1a is sure to become a firm favourite for IT teams everywhere soon.