HP has refreshed its HP ENVY X2 convertible range. The two new devices share a lot of the qualities and design choices that make Microsoft's Surface Pro 3 such an attractive portable proposition. HP has also leveraged some design tweaks to offer, what some would call, improvements upon Microsoft's premier computing device.
The new HP ENVY X2 convertibles will be available in two base configurations; one sporting a 13-inch screen and another a 15.6-inch screen. Engadget notes that the cheapest model undercuts the previous ENVY X2 by a whole $100, at $750.
Microsoft Surface qualities that have been implemented into the new ENVY X2 designs include an adjustable kickstand and a keyboard cover that 'clicks in' to place and has a stylus holder. While we are doing comparisons the HP models sport larger screens than those available in Microsoft's Surface Pro 3 range and are also thicker and heavier. HP has also chosen to use Intel’s latest Core M processors in a variety of configurations on offer and all its designs are fanless.
HP's has again leveraged its agreement with Beats Audio to include the conspicuous speakers either side of the display and gets one up on Microsoft as its keyboard still works with the screen in detached mode – thanks to a Bluetooth connection.
HP ENVY X2 specifications
- Processor: Intel Core M 5Y10 2.0GHz or Core M 5Y70 2.6GHz dual core with Intel HD 5300 graphics
- RAM: 4GB or 8GB
- Display: choice of 13.3-inch 1366x768, 13.3-inch 1920x1080, 15.6-inch 1920x1080 IPS touch panels
- Storage: 128/256GB SSD (13-inch model), 500GB SSHD (15-inch model)
- A/V: Beats audio speakers, front facing full HD webcam with dual microphones
- Ports/connectivity: 2 x USB3.0, HDMI 1.4a, audio combo jack, Intel 802.11 ac, Bluetooth
- Battery: 13-inch model has a 2-cell 33WHr battery, 15-inch model has a 3-cell 50WHr battery
- Physical properties: 13-inch model is 19.3mm thick and weighs 1.837Kg (with keyboard cover)
15-inch model is 20.3mm thick and weighs 2.458Kg (with keyboard cover) - OS: Windows 8.1
The two new HP ENVY X2 hybrids are said to be available now in the US and cost from $749 for the 15-inch model and from $799 for the 13-inch model. Would any readers choose one of these HPs rather than a Microsoft Surface Pro 3?
