HP ZBook x2: A Comprehensive Review

The Pinnacle of Professional Computing

For those seeking a laptop that seamlessly blends power, versatility, and style, the HP ZBook x2 stands as a formidable contender. With its stunning 4K display, discrete graphics, and industrial design, this convertible laptop caters to professionals who demand the utmost in performance and functionality.

Unparalleled Visual Fidelity

The ZBook x2's 4K display (3840 x 2160) is a feast for the eyes, delivering exceptional brightness, vivid colors, and near-perfect color accuracy. Its anti-glare coating ensures comfortable viewing even in brightly lit environments, making it ideal for photo and video editing, graphic design, and other visually demanding tasks.

Unleashing Creativity and Productivity

The detachable Bluetooth keyboard is a stroke of genius, providing the flexibility to work in various scenarios. Whether you prefer to type on a traditional keyboard or prefer the freedom of a tablet, the ZBook x2 seamlessly adapts to your needs. The battery-free stylus, with its 4,096 pressure levels, offers precise control for artists, designers, and note-takers alike.

Industrial Design: Function Over Form

The ZBook x2's industrial design prioritizes functionality over aesthetics, resulting in a laptop built to withstand the rigors of professional use. Its robust construction, featuring a combination of aluminum and magnesium, ensures durability, while its unique hexagonal shape and full-grain leather keyboard cover exude an air of sophistication.

Impressive Performance, Compromised Battery Life

Packed with high-end components, including an eighth-generation Intel Core i7 processor and a 512GB SSD, the ZBook x2 delivers lightning-fast performance for even the most demanding tasks. However, its battery life is a significant drawback, with a disappointing four-hour lifespan in our battery test. This limitation may hinder productivity for users who rely on extended unplugged usage.

A Versatile Performer

The ZBook x2's versatility extends beyond its convertible design. Its integrated Bang Olufsen stereo speakers provide decent audio quality, and video playback is smooth and enjoyable. While gaming performance may not satisfy hardcore gamers, casual gamers can enjoy titles like Overwatch at respectable frame rates.

Drawbacks and Quirks

Despite its strengths, the ZBook x2 is not without its flaws. Its hefty weight and large footprint make it less portable than some competing laptops. The kickstand, while sturdy, can be accidentally nudged, causing the display to fall forward or backward. The asymmetrical trackpad positioning can lead to inadvertent right-clicks, and the rubber nubs on the keyboard can leave smudges on the display.

Conclusion: A Powerful Workstation with Compromises

The HP ZBook x2 is a powerful and versatile workstation that excels in demanding professional applications. Its stunning 4K display, detachable keyboard, and battery-free stylus make it a compelling choice for creative professionals and power users. However, its limited battery life, hefty weight, and quirks may deter users seeking a more portable or well-rounded laptop.

SPECDUMP

Windows 10 ProIntel Core i7-8650U CPU32GB of RAM512GB SSDNvidia Quadro M620 w/2GB of vRAM14-inch 4K 3840 x 2160 IPS anti-glare touchscreen display720p front-facing webcam8MP rear-facing cameraBuilt-in Windows HelloDetachable Bluetooth KeyboardBluetooth 4.2802.11a/b/g/n/acSD/SDHC/SDXC card readerSmart Card readerFingerprint reader1 x HDMI 1.41 x USB-A Gen 3.02 x USB-C Gen 3.1/Thunderbolt 31 x 3.5mm headphone/microphone jackHP ZBook x2 Pen70Whr battery4.78 pounds0.75 x 14.35 x 8.94-inches