It’s a little hard to figure out the target demographic of the new 13-inch HP Envy x2 from the Hewlett-Packard Company (NYSE:HPQ).
It’s obviously meant to appeal to people who want a 2-in-1 laptop/tablet hybrid that runs Windows. In fact, it shares many obvious similarities to Microsoft Corporation‘s (NASDAQ:MSFT) Surface tablets, such as a kickstand, magnetic detachable keyboard cover and stylus compatibility.
Aside from the visual similarities, the HP Envy takes a different path. It’s big, heavy and awkward as a tablet, and nearly the size of some 15-inch laptops when used in notebook mode.
Is there a market for this? HP offers a few more goodies at the low end than Microsoft, so the 13.3-inch Envy x2 may have some takers among those who found themselves in sticker shock after adding the Type Cover to the cost of a Surface Pro.
Is this the Windows 8.1 convertible for you? Read our HP Envy review to find out.
HP Envy Review: First Impressions
Wow, this is one monster tablet! It has a 13.3-inch display, so it’s not going for compact, but just look at it beside the iPad Air from Apple Inc. (NASDAQ:AAPL).
Compared to the Surface Pro 3, it’s big, too, tipping the scales at 2.81 pounds for the tablet alone (compared to 1.76 pounds for the Surface Pro 3) and measuring 0.54 inches thick (the Surface Pro 3 is a relatively svelte 0.36 inches).
At a $799 starting price, the HP Envy x2 targets the Surface Pro 3, but it has a much lower-resolution display (HD is standard, Full HD is an upgrade). Also, instead of using the same Intel Corporation (NASDAQ:INTC) Core series CPUs found in the Surface Pro, it uses the mobile Core M processor found in the recently-released, consumer-focused Surface 3 tablets.
That processor doesn’t offer the power of the Core series, but it does let the HP Envy run silently, an advantage over the Surface Pro 3, which relies on a fan for cooling.
Unfortunately, the extra size and mobile processor didn’t translate into extra battery life — seven hours of web browsing was okay, but not great.
HP Envy Review: The Keyboard is Pretty Good (Once Configured)
The keyboard cover is inspired by Microsoft’s, and that’s a good thing. It attaches quite securely using magnets and connects to the HP Envy via Bluetooth.
I had a battle trying to pair the keyboard during the initial setup — it paired successfully and worked for a few screens, but soon became unresponsive (even though it was still listed as a connected device). Eventually, “forgetting” the keyboard and re-pairing it solved the issue, and it’s been fine since.
For typing, the HP Envy x2 keyboard is excellent, with responsive, full-sized, backlit keys. Like the Surface Pro 3, using the tablet/keyboard combo on an actual lap is far from optimal, but the setup works well on a flat surface.
It’s worth noting that HP includes the keyboard in the $799 price, while it’s an add-on for the Surface.
With the Surface Pro 3, Microsoft switched to a 3:2 display aspect ratio, but HP chose to design the Envy with a 16:9 aspect ratio. The result?
As a tablet, the HP Envy is not only thick and heavy, it’s extremely awkward to hold, especially in portrait mode (where it becomes ridiculously top-heavy). It also lacks the rear camera most tablets offer — not that you should be using a tablet to take photos, anyway.
In other words, it’s a tablet in name, but using it as a tablet isn’t the best experience.
HP Envy Review: Specs (Base Model)
- 13.3-inch IPS multitouch HD display (1366 x 768 display)
- Intel dual-core, Core M CPU with 4GB RAM
- 128 GB SSD
- 802.11ac Wi-Fi
- 2-cell, 33Whr lithium ion battery
- Bluetooth keyboard cover
- Dual Beats Audio speakers
- HP TrueVision webcam with dual microphones
- 2x USB 3.0 ports, HDMI
- Weighs 2.81 pounds (3.88 pounds with keyboard)
- 13.99 x 8.48 x 0.54-inches
- Runs Windows 8.1
- MSRP $799 and up
- Optional accessories include HP Active Stylus, docking stations and various USB adapters
Note: HP Envy review unit was Full HD display, 8GB RAM, 256GB storage model.
HP Envy Review: Conclusion
When I reviewed the Surface Pro 3, I thought Microsoft had really nailed it with its third-generation professional tablet.
The HP Eny 2 isn’t nearly as elegant, but it does offer an alternative for those who want a big Windows convertible device.
For the same $799 Microsoft charges for the Surface Pro 3, HP offers a 13.3-inch Envy x2 with a keyboard cover and double the storage (128GB). It also offers an additional USB port for peripherals.
However, potential HP buyers are taking a hit on portability, battery life, processing power and display resolution. Spec the HP Envy x2 to Full HD (still lower resolution than the Surface Pro 3) and the price advantage disappears.
Then, you’re left with a bigger, thicker, heavier and slower device that’s not a great tablet experience.
Choice is good and Windows fans have another 2-in-1 option with the HP Envy x2. But, if I had the choice, I’d stick to the Surface Pro 3.
As of this writing, Brad Moon did not hold a position in any of the aforementioned securities.
