Performance: Overall this laptop's performance was very good. Tasks like email, word processing and web browsing will be accomplished quickly. Compared to other tested laptops, it was fast for common tasks such as web browsing and video conferencing. Applications start up quickly. It was fast when composing documents with images, calculating large data spreadsheets, and running other productivity tasks, and its speed was adequate for manipulating filters on images, converting and editing videos, and rendering models and calculating simulations. Graphical tasks run faster among other models with only integrated graphics.
Portability: This laptop is a very good choice for traveling. Battery life lasted 20 hours in a light load of web browsing tests, and 15.25 hours in a heavier load of 4K video playback tests. Results were outstanding enough to last well beyond a typical day of mixed use, lasting longer than most other similar laptops. At 3.2 lbs, weight was typical for a laptop of this size category. To help with long-term battery health, this laptop has adjustable charge options, such as modifying when and how much to charge the battery.
Ergonomics: Some features of the keyboard, touchpad, and labeling, were well-designed, and were comfortable or convenient to use. The keyboard has large keys and was comfortably sized. Its high contrast letters were easy to read, and the backlighting can be useful in dark rooms. The power button was well labeled and conveniently located. Friction on the touchscreen may prevent fast swiping, and fingerprints may take some effort to clean off.
Display: The display quality was good overall. Colors were in the ballpark, though not completely accurate. The display was anti-reflective, so there was little or no glare when viewing in a brightly lit room or outdoors. The display has a wide viewing angle, especially important if more than one person needs to see the screen at a time, say, for a video or presentation. Its display produces a smaller array of colors than on most other tested laptops.
Useful features and attributes on this model include: Laptop has a touchscreen. The fingerprint reader lets you log into your computer without typing in a password. This laptop has a full-size HDMI port and supports DisplayPort over USB-C for connecting to an HDTV or monitor.
Downsides: There is no memory-card reader, so you'll need to buy an external reader or connect your digital camera directly to this laptop to transfer photos. At about 6.8 ft length, the power cable is shorter than most others, so you'd need to be mindful of power outlet locations. Based on results of a CR member survey, HP laptops of a similar price to this model stood out as being meaningfully worse than typical for experiencing certain problem areas such as swelling batteries, and internal hardware malfunctions.
