HP Envy x360 Gen 2

Technical Specifications

• Processor: Options include Intel Core Ultra 5/7 (125U, 155U, 155H), 12th/13th Gen Intel Core i5/i7, and AMD Ryzen 5/7 (5625U, 5825U, 8640HS, 8840HS).
• RAM: Configurations available from 8GB to 64GB DDR4 or LPDDR5. RAM is often soldered on newer models.
• Storage: PCIe NVMe M.2 Solid-State Drives (SSD) with capacities ranging from 256GB to 2TB.
• Display: Available in 13.3-inch, 14-inch, 15.6-inch, and 16-inch sizes. Options include FHD (1920x1080 or 1920x1200) IPS or OLED panels, and 2.8K (2880x1800) OLED. All models feature a touchscreen with a 360-degree hinge and pen support. Brightness ranges from 250 nits to 572 nits (HDR peak).
• Graphics: Integrated solutions such as Intel Iris Xe Graphics, Intel Arc Graphics, or AMD Radeon Graphics (including Radeon 780M).
• Ports: Typically includes USB Type-A, USB Type-C (with Thunderbolt 4 on some Intel configurations, or USB 3.2 Gen 2 on AMD), HDMI (up to 2.1), and a headphone/microphone combo jack. Some models may include an SD card reader.
• Webcam: Features a 5MP IR camera on some recent models, supporting 2K resolution.
• Audio: Equipped with dual speakers, often tuned by Bang & Olufsen, and HP Audio Boost.

Analysis of Technical Specifications

The HP Envy x360 series offers a broad spectrum of technical configurations, providing flexibility for diverse user requirements and price points. The availability of both Intel and AMD processors, coupled with various display technologies including high-resolution OLED options, underscores its versatility. Newer iterations integrate Intel Core Ultra processors, which include dedicated AI engines, enhancing performance for AI-driven applications and improving power efficiency. The convertible design, with touchscreen and pen input, is a core feature, enabling use in laptop, tablet, tent, and stand modes. While the integrated graphics are suitable for general use and light creative tasks, they are not designed for high-end gaming or intensive graphical workloads. The port selection is generally comprehensive, though Thunderbolt capabilities are specific to Intel-based models.

Support & Compatibility

• Operating System Support: Supports Windows 10 and Windows 11 Home/Pro.
• End of Support Date: Specific end-of-support dates are not publicly detailed, but HP provides ongoing driver and software updates for current Windows versions.
• Available Drivers: Drivers for various components and Windows versions are available for download from HP's official support website.
• RAM Upgradeability: Varies significantly by generation and specific model. Many newer HP Envy x360 models feature soldered RAM, which prevents user upgrades. Older models or specific configurations may allow for RAM upgrades, typically up to 16GB or 32GB.
• Storage Upgradeability: The M.2 NVMe SSD storage is generally user-upgradable, offering flexibility for increasing storage capacity.

Analysis of Support & Compatibility

HP maintains good support for the Envy x360 line through consistent driver availability for current Windows operating systems. This ensures the device remains functional and receives necessary updates for performance and security. However, the trend of soldering RAM in more recent models significantly impacts long-term upgradeability, a crucial factor for users who anticipate needing more memory in the future or prefer to extend the device's lifespan through component upgrades. Conversely, the ability to upgrade storage provides a valuable avenue for enhancing the device's utility over time.

Security Status

• Security Features: Includes a physical webcam privacy shutter for enhanced user privacy and Windows Hello facial recognition via an IR camera for secure, convenient login.
• Vulnerabilities: No specific, widespread vulnerabilities are highlighted in the provided information.
• Recommendations: Users should regularly update their operating system and drivers to patch potential security flaws. Activating and utilizing the built-in webcam shutter and Windows Hello biometrics enhances personal privacy and device security.

Analysis on the Security Status

The HP Envy x360 incorporates standard security features common in modern consumer laptops, such as a physical webcam shutter and Windows Hello support. These features address common privacy concerns and offer convenient biometric authentication. The absence of specific vulnerability reports in the available data suggests a generally secure platform, provided users adhere to best practices like regular software updates and responsible usage.

Performance & Benchmarks

• Processor Performance: Performance varies by CPU. Intel Core Ultra 7 155U models show Geekbench 6 single-core scores around 2,305 and multi-core scores around 8,697. Video transcoding tests (HandBrake) indicate some configurations may take longer (e.g., 11 minutes for 4K to 1080p conversion). AMD Ryzen 7 8840HS generally offers competitive or superior performance to Intel Core Ultra 7 155U in some benchmarks. Older Intel Core i5/i7 and AMD Ryzen 5/7 models are suitable for daily tasks, web browsing, and light content creation.
• Graphics Performance: Integrated graphics (Intel Iris Xe, Intel Arc, AMD Radeon) are not designed for demanding gaming. They can handle low-spec games at reduced settings but struggle with graphically intensive titles. Geekbench 6 graphics scores for Intel integrated graphics are around 16,118.
• Storage Performance: SSD data transfer speeds can vary; some 512GB SSD configurations show read speeds of 3,335 MB/s and write speeds of 2,732 MB/s, which may be considered sluggish compared to high-end SSDs.
• Battery Life: Typically ranges from 9 to 10 hours in mixed usage. Some AMD configurations report 9-10 hours or even 11-12 hours in real-world scenarios.
• Comparison with Similar Devices: The HP Envy x360, particularly configurations with lower-power "U" series processors, may exhibit slower overall performance compared to similarly priced mainstream laptops featuring more powerful "H" series CPUs.

Analysis of the Performance Status

The HP Envy x360's performance profile is largely dependent on its specific configuration. While newer Intel Core Ultra and AMD Ryzen 8000 series processors offer improved computational capabilities, some models, particularly those with lower-wattage "U" series CPUs, may not match the raw performance of competitors in the same price segment. The integrated graphics are adequate for general productivity and casual entertainment but fall short for serious gaming or professional-grade creative work. SSD speeds, while generally fast, can be a bottleneck in certain configurations. Battery life is a strong point for many models, often providing sufficient endurance for a full workday.

User Reviews & Feedback

User reviews for the HP Envy x360 generally highlight its user-friendly nature, quick loading times, and suitability for everyday tasks. Many appreciate its slim and sturdy design, good selection of ports, and the clarity of its display, especially the OLED options. The comfortable keyboard and good audio quality also receive positive mentions. Its convertible design is frequently praised for its versatility, making it a good choice for students and office work.

However, some common criticisms emerge. The quality of the webcam and microphone is occasionally cited as low or grainy, making it less ideal for frequent video conferencing. The hinge on some convertible models has been described as flimsy. Users sensitive to pulse-width modulation (PWM) may experience screen flickering on OLED displays at lower brightness settings. The soldered RAM in newer models is a point of contention due to the lack of upgradeability. Some reports mention overheating issues and disappointing battery life on specific older models. Additionally, the backlit keyboard may not stay on continuously, and some older models used proprietary chargers.

Summary

The HP Envy x360 series positions itself as a versatile and well-designed convertible laptop for the mainstream market. It offers a broad array of configurations across various screen sizes (13.3-inch to 16-inch), powered by a choice of Intel (12th, 13th Gen Core, Core Ultra) or AMD (Ryzen 5000, 8000 series) processors. Memory options extend up to 64GB, and storage can reach 2TB via NVMe SSDs. The displays are a highlight, with options ranging from FHD IPS to vibrant 2.8K OLED panels, all supporting touch and pen input, enhancing its adaptability for productivity, content consumption, and light creative work. Connectivity is robust, typically including a mix of USB-A, USB-C (with Thunderbolt 4 on some Intel variants), and HDMI ports. Essential security features like a webcam privacy shutter and Windows Hello are standard inclusions.

Key strengths of the HP Envy x360 include its premium aesthetic and build quality, a comfortable typing experience, and often stunning display options, particularly the OLED panels that offer excellent color reproduction and contrast. The 2-in-1 form factor provides significant flexibility for different usage scenarios, from traditional laptop mode to tablet mode. Battery life is generally commendable, with many configurations offering sufficient endurance for a typical workday.

However, the series is not without its drawbacks. Performance can be inconsistent across the various configurations; models equipped with lower-power "U" series processors may not deliver the same level of performance as some competitors in their price bracket. The integrated graphics, while improved in newer generations, are not suited for demanding gaming or professional-grade graphical applications. A significant limitation for some users is the trend of soldered RAM in more recent models, which restricts future memory upgrades. User feedback also points to occasional concerns regarding webcam and microphone quality, as well as potential screen flickering on OLED displays at low brightness. Some older models have also faced criticism for overheating and less-than-ideal battery longevity.

In conclusion, the HP Envy x360 is a strong choice for users seeking a flexible, well-built, and aesthetically pleasing convertible laptop for general computing, productivity, and media consumption. Prospective buyers should carefully evaluate the specific processor and display configuration to align with their performance and visual needs. Awareness of the RAM upgrade limitations is also crucial for long-term planning.

The 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.