HP EliteBook 2 Pro

This article provides a detailed overview of the HP Elite x2 1012 G2, a business-oriented 2-in-1 detachable laptop. While the user requested information on "HP EliteBook 2 Pro," no specific product with this exact name exists in HP's lineup. The HP Elite x2 1012 G2 is a closely related and prominent model within the HP Elite family, known for its 2-in-1 versatility, and is therefore used as the subject of this analysis.

Basic Information

• Model: HP Elite x2 1012 G2
• Version: G2
• Release Date: Approximately September 2017 (based on review dates).
• Minimum Requirements: Configurations start with an Intel Core i3-7100U processor, 4 GB RAM, and a 128 GB SSD.
• Supported Operating Systems: Primarily Microsoft Windows 10 Pro 64-bit. Windows 10 Home 64 is also available.
• Latest Stable Version: Not applicable for hardware; refers to software/firmware updates provided by HP.
• End of Support Date: HP generally provides support for devices for five years after they are designated as "Retired," followed by an End of Life status. Specific dates for the Elite x2 1012 G2 are not publicly detailed but fall under this general policy.
• End of Life Date: Not specifically published for this model, but follows HP's general End of Life policy.
• Auto-Update Expiration Date: Not applicable for hardware; depends on the operating system and software lifecycle.
• License Type: Typically comes with an OEM license for Windows 10 Pro.
• Deployment Model: Designed for business and enterprise environments, supporting various corporate deployment strategies.

Technical Specifications

The HP Elite x2 1012 G2 offers a range of configurations to suit business needs:

• Processor: Options include Intel Core i3-7100U, Intel Core i5-7200U (2.5 - 3.1 GHz), and Intel Core i7-7600U.
• RAM: Available with 4 GB, 8 GB, or up to 16 GB LPDDR3-1866 SDRAM, which is typically soldered.
• Storage: PCIe NVMe SSDs, with options including 128 GB, 256 GB (e.g., Samsung PM961), and up to 1 TB.
• Display: 12.3-inch diagonal WQXGA+ (2736 x 1824 pixels) IPS multitouch display with 266 PPI, native pen support, and Corning Gorilla Glass 4. An optional Full HD (1920x1280) display with HP Sure View integrated privacy screen is also available.
• Graphics: Integrated Intel HD Graphics 620.
• Ports: 1x USB 3.0 / 3.1 Gen1, 1x USB 3.1 Gen2, 1x Thunderbolt, 1x Kensington Lock slot, audio combo jack, and a micro-SD card reader.
• Operating System: Microsoft Windows 10 Pro 64-bit.
• Dimensions (Tablet only): 9.1 x 300 x 219.7 mm (0.36 x 11.81 x 8.65 inches).
• Weight: Approximately 1.193 kg (2.63 pounds) for the tablet, and around 2.59 lbs with the attached keyboard.

Analysis of Technical Specifications: The Elite x2 1012 G2 is designed as a versatile 2-in-1 device, balancing portability with business-grade performance. The choice of Intel U-series processors (i3, i5, i7) provides sufficient power for typical office applications and multitasking, while the integrated Intel HD Graphics 620 is suitable for productivity tasks and light multimedia. The high-resolution WQXGA+ display, protected by Gorilla Glass 4, offers sharp visuals and durability, with the Sure View option enhancing privacy for sensitive work. The inclusion of Thunderbolt and multiple USB ports ensures modern connectivity and expandability. The LPDDR3 RAM is soldered, limiting future upgrades, but configurations up to 16GB are ample for most business users. The NVMe SSDs provide fast storage access, contributing to overall system responsiveness. Its compact dimensions and relatively light weight, especially for a 2-in-1 with a detachable keyboard, make it highly portable for professionals on the go.

Support & Compatibility

• Latest Version: The G2 denotes the hardware generation. Software and firmware updates are continuously released by HP.
• OS Support: Fully supports Microsoft Windows 10 Pro.
• End of Support Date: HP's general policy indicates support for up to five years after a product is "Retired." Specific dates for the Elite x2 1012 G2 should be confirmed via official HP channels.
• Localization: As an HP business product, it supports various regional language packs and keyboard layouts, catering to a global user base.
• Available Drivers: Drivers and software updates are available through the official HP support website.
• Cartridge and Ink Codes: Not applicable, as this is a laptop/tablet.

Analysis of Overall Support & Compatibility Status: The HP Elite x2 1012 G2 benefits from HP's robust enterprise support ecosystem. Compatibility with Windows 10 Pro ensures access to a wide range of business applications and security features. HP provides regular driver and firmware updates to maintain performance and security. While specific end-of-support dates for individual models can be elusive, HP's general policy outlines a clear lifecycle for its business products, ensuring a reasonable period of support. Localization options are extensive, making it suitable for international deployment.

Security Status

The HP Elite x2 1012 G2, like other EliteBook devices, integrates a comprehensive suite of security features:

• Security Features:
  • HP Wolf Security: An end-to-end security suite covering BIOS, hardware, OS, and applications, with AI-driven threat detection, hardware isolation, and zero-trust architecture.
  • HP Sure Start Gen3: A self-healing BIOS that automatically detects, stops, and recovers from firmware attacks, restoring to a clean, verified version.
  • HP Sure Click: Isolates untrusted websites and files (like email attachments) in micro-virtual machines (micro-VMs) to contain malware.
  • HP Sure Sense: Uses deep learning AI to instinctively recognize and protect against new malware variants and zero-day attacks.
  • HP Sure Recover: Enables fast, secure, and automated OS recovery with only a network connection.
  • HP Multi-Factor Authentication: Supports multiple authentication methods, combining intellectual (passwords, PINs) with physical and biometric tools (fingerprints, facial recognition via Windows Hello).
  • HP Sure View: An optional integrated privacy screen that reduces visible light from side angles, preventing visual hacking.
  • TPM (Trusted Platform Module): Provides hardware-based security functions, including encryption key management.
• Known Vulnerabilities: While no specific vulnerabilities for this exact model are widely publicized, HP's security features are designed to mitigate a broad range of evolving threats.
• Blacklist Status: Not applicable.
• Certifications: Engineered to meet military MIL-STD-810 standards for reliability and performance under extreme conditions (temperature, altitude, humidity, dust, shock, vibration). Also features Windows Hello face recognition certification.
• Encryption Support: Supports hardware-based encryption via TPM.
• Authentication Methods: Fingerprint reader, facial recognition (Windows Hello), passwords, and PINs.
• General Recommendations: Users are advised to keep HP Wolf Security features active and updated, utilize multi-factor authentication, and enable HP Sure View for privacy in public settings.

Analysis of Overall Security Rating: The HP Elite x2 1012 G2 boasts an excellent overall security rating, leveraging HP's comprehensive Wolf Security platform. This multi-layered approach, from self-healing BIOS to AI-driven threat detection and micro-VM isolation, provides robust protection against sophisticated cyber threats. The inclusion of physical security measures like Sure View and biometric authentication further enhances data protection and user privacy, making it a highly secure device for business and enterprise use. Its MIL-STD-810 certification also attests to its physical resilience against environmental factors.

Performance & Benchmarks

• Benchmark Scores:
  • Geekbench 3: An earlier Elite x2 model (with Core m5) scored 5,769. The Elite x2 1012 G2 (with Kaby Lake i5) showed competitive single-core performance but could trail passively cooled devices in multi-threaded tests under sustained load.
  • 3DMark Firestrike (Intel HD Graphics 515): An earlier Elite x2 model scored 780, indicating decent integrated graphics performance for its class.
  • SSD Transfer Rate: An earlier Elite x2 model's 256GB SSD achieved 147.89 MBps.
  • Cinebench: The Elite x2 1012 G2 may show performance degradation in Cinebench due to its passively cooled design under extended heavy loads.
• Real-World Performance Metrics: Capable of smooth multitasking, handling multiple spreadsheets, and numerous browser tabs without significant slowdowns. However, sustained heavy workloads can lead to performance throttling due to passive cooling.
• Power Consumption: Equipped with a 47 Wh Lithium-Ion battery. A related model, the Elite x2 1013 G3, was rated for approximately 10.5 hours of battery life and supported fast charging (50% in 30 minutes with a 65W charger).
• Carbon Footprint: Specific data not available, but HP generally focuses on energy efficiency in its business lines.
• Comparison with Similar Assets: Competes with devices like the Microsoft Surface Pro, Dell Latitude 12 7000, and Lenovo X1 Tablet, often offering comparable or superior features in specific areas like security and port selection.

Analysis of Overall Performance Status: The HP Elite x2 1012 G2 delivers solid performance for typical business and productivity tasks, driven by its Intel Kaby Lake processors and fast NVMe SSD storage. While its integrated graphics are not designed for demanding gaming or professional content creation, they are more than adequate for everyday business applications and multimedia. The passive cooling design, while contributing to a silent operation, can lead to performance throttling during prolonged, intensive workloads. Battery life is generally good for a portable 2-in-1, supporting a full workday for many users, and fast-charging capabilities are a significant convenience. Overall, it is a capable performer for its intended business audience, prioritizing portability and quiet operation.

User Reviews & Feedback

User reviews and feedback for the HP Elite x2 1012 G2 generally highlight its strengths in versatility, design, and security, with some common observations regarding its performance under specific conditions.

• Strengths:
  • Versatility: Users highly praise its 2-in-1 design, allowing seamless transition between tablet and laptop modes, making it ideal for various workflows.
  • Build Quality & Design: Appreciated for its sleek, professional aesthetic and robust construction, often meeting MIL-STD-810G durability standards.
  • Keyboard & Pen: The detachable keyboard is often lauded for its comfort and responsiveness, sometimes preferred over competitors. Active pen support is also a significant plus for note-taking and creative tasks.
  • Security Features: The comprehensive suite of HP Wolf Security features, including Sure Start, Sure Click, and Sure View, is a major draw for business users concerned about data protection.
  • Portability: Its compact size and relatively light weight make it easy to carry for professionals on the move.
• Weaknesses:
  • Battery Life: While generally good, some earlier configurations or specific usage patterns might lead to mediocre battery life compared to dedicated ultraportables.
  • Heat Management: The metal body can get noticeably warm during charging or extended use, which some users find uncomfortable.
  • Performance Under Load: Due to its passively cooled design, performance can degrade or throttle during prolonged, intensive tasks, impacting users who require sustained high performance.
  • Keyboard/Touchpad Wake-up: Some users have reported the keyboard and touchpad being slow to wake up from sleep.
  • Kickstand: The kickstand, while solid, can sometimes be a bit difficult to open initially.
• Recommended Use Cases: The Elite x2 1012 G2 is highly recommended for business professionals, enterprise users, remote workers, and hybrid workers who require a versatile, secure, and portable device. It is particularly well-suited for those who handle sensitive information and need a device that can adapt to different working environments, from desk-bound tasks to presentations and on-the-go productivity.

Summary

The HP Elite x2 1012 G2 stands out as a robust and highly secure 2-in-1 detachable laptop, specifically engineered for the demanding needs of business and enterprise users. Its primary strength lies in its exceptional security suite, HP Wolf Security, which offers multi-layered protection from the BIOS to the operating system, including self-healing firmware, advanced malware prevention, and privacy-enhancing features like HP Sure View. This makes it an ideal choice for professionals handling sensitive data or working in environments with high security requirements.

The device excels in versatility and portability, seamlessly transitioning between a tablet and a laptop with its comfortable and responsive detachable keyboard. The high-resolution WQXGA+ display, often protected by Corning Gorilla Glass 4, provides a crisp and durable visual experience, complemented by active pen support for enhanced interaction. Performance for typical business applications and multitasking is solid, driven by Intel Kaby Lake processors and fast NVMe SSDs, ensuring a responsive user experience.

However, the Elite x2 1012 G2 does have some weaknesses. Its passively cooled design, while contributing to silent operation, can lead to performance throttling during sustained heavy workloads. Some users have also noted that the device can get warm during intensive use or charging, and battery life, while generally good, might not always meet the expectations of the most demanding users.

Overall, the HP Elite x2 1012 G2 is an excellent asset for organizations and individuals prioritizing security, flexibility, and portability in a business-grade device. It is particularly well-suited for mobile professionals, executives, and those in hybrid work environments who need a reliable and secure computing companion. Its strengths in security and versatile design generally outweigh its minor performance and thermal considerations for its target audience.

Information provided is based on publicly available data and may vary depending on specific device configurations. For up-to-date information, please consult official manufacturer resources.