HP Spectre x360 Gen 2

Technical Specifications

• Processor: Intel 6th Generation Skylake or 7th Generation Kaby Lake Core i5/i7 (e.g., i5-7200U, i7-7500U).
• RAM: On-board 8 GB LPDDR3-1866 SDRAM.
• Storage: Up to 256GB PCIe M.2 SSD.
• Display: 13.3-inch Full HD (1920 x 1080) IPS touch display with 360-degree hinge.
• Graphics: Integrated Intel HD Graphics 620.
• Ports: Includes 2 x USB 3.1 Type-C Gen 2 with Thunderbolt 3 support, and 1 x USB Type-A 3.1 Gen 1.
• Battery: 57.8 Wh.
• Dimensions & Weight: Approximately 13.8mm thin and 1.295kg (2.85 lbs).

Analysis of Technical Specifications

The HP Spectre x360 Gen 2 represents a notable upgrade from its predecessor, incorporating Intel's 6th or 7th generation processors which provide enhanced performance for daily computing tasks. The inclusion of a PCIe M.2 SSD ensures fast boot times and application loading. The 13.3-inch Full HD IPS touch display offers crisp visuals and versatility through its 360-degree hinge, enabling laptop, tablet, tent, and stand modes. While the integrated Intel HD Graphics 620 is suitable for general productivity and media consumption, it limits the device's capability for demanding graphical applications or serious gaming. The presence of Thunderbolt 3 via USB-C ports significantly expands connectivity options, allowing for high-speed data transfer and external display support. The device maintains a premium, slim, and lightweight aluminum design, contributing to its portability and aesthetic appeal. The battery capacity provides competitive endurance for its class.

Support & Compatibility

• Operating System Support: Primarily supports Windows 10 (64-bit). HP does not support Windows 8 or Windows 7 on devices configured with 7th generation and newer Intel processors.
• End of Support Date: No specific end-of-life (EOL) date is publicly published for this exact model, as the Spectre x360 is an ongoing product line. However, HP's general policy for software products indicates that continued support requires deploying the latest updates, with older versions moving to end-of-life status three months after a new release.
• Available Drivers: Drivers and software updates are available through HP's official support website.

Analysis of Support & Compatibility Status

The HP Spectre x360 Gen 2 runs on Windows 10, ensuring broad compatibility with modern software and applications. While the Spectre x360 series continues to receive updates, specific older generations like the Gen 2 may eventually see reduced software and driver support over time, aligning with HP's lifecycle policy that encourages users to update to the latest software releases for continued support. Users can typically find necessary drivers and firmware updates on HP's support portal, which is crucial for maintaining performance and security. No explicit end-of-life date for hardware support is readily available, suggesting that hardware service options may depend on parts availability and third-party maintenance providers as the device ages.

Security Status

• Security Features: Trusted Platform Module (TPM) 2.0 support. Features like HP Privacy Camera (physical shutter) and HP SureView privacy screen (software-enabled viewing angle restriction) enhance user privacy and security. Supports multifactor authentication, including fingerprint verification.
• Vulnerabilities: In 2022, six high-severity vulnerabilities were reported in various HP laptops, including Spectre x360 models, related to the System Management Module. These flaws could allow arbitrary code execution, privilege escalation, and deactivation of Secure Boot, with some remaining unpatched at the time of reporting.
• Recommendations: Users should regularly check for and apply the latest firmware and software updates from HP to mitigate known vulnerabilities. Activating and utilizing built-in security features like the physical camera shutter, SureView, and multifactor authentication is recommended for enhanced protection.

Analysis on the Security Status

The HP Spectre x360 Gen 2 incorporates several hardware and software security features typical of premium business-oriented devices, such as TPM 2.0 for secure boot and encryption, and privacy-focused additions like the physical webcam shutter and SureView screen. These features provide a robust baseline for data protection and user privacy. However, the reported high-severity firmware vulnerabilities are a significant concern, as they could potentially allow deep-level system compromise, bypassing operating system-level security measures. While HP generally provides security bulletins, the reported delay in patching some critical flaws highlights the importance of continuous vigilance and prompt application of available updates by users.

Performance & Benchmarks

• Processor Performance: Achieved a Geekbench 3 score of 7,933, indicating a 16% performance increase over the previous generation. It generally outperforms contemporary competitors like the Samsung Notebook 9 spin and Lenovo Yoga 900/900S.
• Storage Performance: Equipped with a PCIe SSD, which offers "blazing fast" performance for system responsiveness and data access.
• Graphics Performance: The integrated Intel HD Graphics 620 scored 920 on 3DMark's Firestrike benchmark, a 14% improvement over the prior model. It can achieve approximately 40 frames per second in games like Dirt 3 Complete Edition at 1080p on medium settings, but it is not designed for intensive gaming.
• Battery Life: Demonstrated 10 hours and 6 minutes of endurance on a web-surfing battery test, exceeding many competitors and the previous model's battery life. HP claimed up to 15 hours of battery life.

Analysis of the Performance Status

The HP Spectre x360 Gen 2 delivers strong performance for its era, particularly in CPU-intensive tasks and general multitasking, thanks to its 6th or 7th generation Intel Core processors and fast PCIe SSD. This makes it highly capable for productivity, web browsing, and media consumption. The integrated graphics, while improved, remain a limitation for demanding gaming or professional creative applications requiring dedicated GPU power. Its battery life is a significant strength, providing extended usage on a single charge, which is crucial for mobile professionals and students. Overall, the Gen 2 offers a balanced performance profile for a premium convertible ultrabook of its time, prioritizing responsiveness and endurance over raw graphical horsepower.

User Reviews & Feedback

User reviews for the HP Spectre x360 Gen 2 generally highlight its premium design, often described as gorgeous and slim, with a sturdy aluminum build. The keyboard is frequently praised for its tactile feedback and comfortable typing experience, and the display is noted for its vibrancy and color accuracy. Users appreciate the fast performance for everyday tasks, attributed to the speedy Intel CPU and PCIe SSD. The versatile 2-in-1 form factor and the powerful Bang & Olufsen quad-speaker setup also receive positive mentions.

However, some feedback points to areas for improvement. A common critique is the absence of an SD/microSD card slot. Some users have reported concerns regarding heat management, particularly when the device is under load, making it uncomfortable for lap use. There are also mixed opinions on performance, with some former customer service personnel suggesting that certain configurations, especially those with 4K displays (though less common on Gen 2), may struggle with optimal performance due to integrated graphics limitations and high RAM usage. Despite these concerns, many long-term users express high satisfaction, reporting that their devices continue to run strong for several years.

Summary

The HP Spectre x360 Gen 2 stands out as a premium convertible ultrabook, characterized by its elegant and robust aluminum design, offering a versatile 2-in-1 form factor. Its technical specifications, featuring Intel's 6th or 7th generation Core processors, a fast PCIe SSD, and a vibrant Full HD touch display, provide solid performance for productivity, multitasking, and media consumption. The device boasts commendable battery life and a rich audio experience, making it a strong contender for mobile users. Key strengths include its sophisticated aesthetics, responsive performance for daily tasks, and a comfortable typing experience. The inclusion of modern connectivity options like Thunderbolt 3 further enhances its utility.

However, the integrated graphics limit its suitability for demanding gaming or professional graphical workloads. While the device incorporates essential security features like TPM 2.0 and a physical camera shutter, reported unpatched firmware vulnerabilities pose a significant security concern that users should be aware of and monitor for official updates. User feedback is largely positive regarding its design and general performance, though some concerns about heat under load and potential performance bottlenecks with specific configurations have been noted.

In summary, the HP Spectre x360 Gen 2 is an excellent choice for users seeking a stylish, portable, and versatile laptop for general computing, business, and entertainment. Its strengths in design, battery life, and core performance outweigh its limitations in graphical power. Prospective users should prioritize applying all available security updates to mitigate potential risks.

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.