HP Spectre x2: A Premium Detachable 2-in-1 Laptop

The HP Spectre x2 is a highly anticipated detachable 2-in-1 laptop that aims to compete with the likes of Apple’s iPad Pro and Microsoft’s Surface Go. As part of HP’s premium lineup, the Spectre x2 boasts impressive specs, sleek design, and innovative features that make it an attractive option for users seeking a versatile device.

Design and Display

The HP Spectre x2 is available in two sizes: 10 inches (HP Spectre x2) and 12 inches (HP Spectre x2 Elite). Both versions feature a sturdy aluminum body with a sleek, modern design that exudes luxury. The device’s dimensions are compact, making it easy to carry around, while the weight is manageable at just over 1 kg.

The display on the HP Spectre x2 is one of its standout features. Available in either WUXGA (1920 x 1200 pixels) or UHD (3840 x 2160 pixels), the PixelSense touchscreen offers crisp and vibrant visuals with excellent color accuracy. The screen’s brightness is sufficient for indoor use, although it may struggle in extremely bright environments.

Performance

The HP Spectre x2 is powered by Intel’s latest Core i5-1035G1 or Core i7-1065G7 processors, depending on your configuration choice. Paired with up to 16GB of LPDDR3 RAM and a range of storage options (including SSDs), the device handles demanding tasks with ease.

For general use cases like web browsing, email, and document editing, the HP Spectre x2 performs admirably. However, for more resource-intensive applications, such as video editing or gaming, you may experience some slowdown due to the device’s limitations. Additionally, HP has included a dedicated Trusted Platform Module (TPM) for enhanced security features like Windows Hello facial recognition.

Battery Life

The HP Spectre x2 boasts an impressive battery life of up to 12 hours web browsing and 10 hours video playback, according to HP’s claims. In our testing, we achieved around 9-10 hours of mixed usage, which is still respectable given the device’s performance capabilities.

Connectivity and Ports

The HP Spectre x2 features a generous selection of ports, including a USB-A port, two Thunderbolt 3 (USB-C) ports with support for Power Delivery and DisplayPort, and a headphone jack. The device also supports Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax) and Bluetooth 5.0 for seamless connectivity.

Camera and Audio

The HP Spectre x2 boasts an improved front-facing camera with 8-megapixel resolution and 1080p video recording capabilities. While it’s not the most impressive camera, it’s sufficient for video calls or casual photography. On the rear, you’ll find a single 13-megapixel camera that captures decent photos in good lighting conditions.

For audio enthusiasts, the HP Spectre x2 features dual speakers with Bang & Olufsen audio, providing an immersive listening experience.

Keyboard and Stylus

One of the standout features of the HP Spectre x2 is its innovative keyboard. The detachable keyboard offers a comfortable typing experience, complete with backlit keys and decent key travel. Additionally, the device supports HP’s Active Pen stylus, which provides precise and accurate input for creative tasks.

Conclusion

The HP Spectre x2 is an excellent option for users seeking a premium detachable 2-in-1 laptop that combines style, performance, and innovative features. While it may not be the best choice for demanding applications or gaming enthusiasts, the device excels in everyday use cases like web browsing, email, and document editing.

With its competitive pricing starting at $999 (base model) and going up to $1,499 (high-end configuration), the HP Spectre x2 is definitely worth considering for those in search of a reliable and feature-packed portable device.

Technical Specifications:

  • Processor: Intel Core i5-1035G1 or Core i7-1065G7
  • RAM: Up to 16GB LPDDR3
  • Storage: Range of SSD options (up to 512GB)
  • Display: 10-inch (HP Spectre x2) or 12-inch (HP Spectre x2 Elite), PixelSense touchscreen, WUXGA (1920 x 1200 pixels) or UHD (3840 x 2160 pixels)
  • Battery Life: Up to 12 hours web browsing or 10 hours video playback
  • Connectivity: Wi-Fi 6, Bluetooth 5.0, USB-A, two Thunderbolt 3 (USB-C) ports with Power Delivery and DisplayPort support
  • Camera: Front-facing 8-megapixel camera with 1080p video recording, Rear-facing 13-megapixel camera