For tech enthusiasts, Chromebooks can be a good acquired taste. Advanced users don’t need a stripped-down operating system, and the low computing power generally disqualifies Chromebooks from being a serious, primary PC. But Chromebooks can often find a welcome spot in an enthusiast’s home as a secondary or (after the phone) tertiary device. And when that Chromebook comes in a detachable form factor with the screen that’s slightly larger than most competitors, it fits that role well.
The HP Chromebook x2 two-in-one makes a play for this space with an 11-inch display that offers more screen area than rivals like the 10. 1-inch Lenovo Chromebook Duet , the 10. 5-inch Microsoft Surface Go 3 , or even similarly priced iPads. HP’s portable, bendable (and did we mention blue? ) Chromebook is ripe for travel and less intensive tasks.
Specs at a glance: HP Chromebook x2 | |||
---|---|---|---|
Worst | Best | As reviewed | |
Screen | 11-inch 2160×1440 IPS touchscreen | ||
OS | Chrome OPERATING SYSTEM | ||
CPU | Qualcomm Snapdragon 7c Compute Platform | ||
RAM | 4GB LPDDR4x-2133 | 8GB LPDDR4x-2133 | |
Storage | 64GB eMMC | 128GB eMMC | 64GB eMMC |
GPU | Qualcomm Adreno 618 (integrated) | ||
Networking | Qualcomm Atheros 802. 11a/b/g/n/ac (2×2) Wi-Fi, Bluetooth 5 | ||
Ports | 2x USB 3. 1 Gen 1 (Type-C), 1x microSD card reader | ||
Size | 9. 9×7×0. 3 inches (252. 5×176. 8×7. 6 mm) | ||
Weight | With keyboard and kickstand: 1. 2 lb; Tablet only: 1 lb | ||
Battery | 32 Wh | ||
Warranty | 1 year | ||
Price (MSRP) | $570 | $680 | $600 |
Other perks | HP Rechargeable USI Pen | 4G LTE | HP Standard rechargeable USI Pencil |
Despite an MSRP of $600-$680, depending on the particular configuration, I’ve seen the HORSEPOWER Chromebook x2 at more appropriate sale prices of $370 , $400 , or $480 . Considering its level of power, its touchpad that will demands a hard surface, and a keyboard cover that feels like a temporary solution, you’ll want to wait for of which discount.