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HP ENVY Laptops: Power Meets Style for Modern Users
Jamie Finch
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April 18, 2023
The HP ENVY laptop series is aimed toward the mid-budget range, with some variants appealing to the upper end of the market. Regardless of which model you choose, you can expect to find a laptop that represents excellent value for money. This laptop has a solid build that will enhance its longevity and reliability, and its good looks make it ideal for professional environments.
But while looks and durability are important factors, what usually matters most is processing power and other features that help you work more effectively. After all, you don’t want a machine that takes a long time to load if you have work to do.
It can be difficult to decide which laptop to buy, so here are some of the most useful HP ENVY laptop features to help you decide.
Power and performance
The HP ENVY series offers a range of models with different configurations, from affordable options to powerful machines. You should not expect to find budget models with the most sophisticated hardware, but they will still have all the processing power most people need.
Here’s a closer look at some of the hardware options you can expect to find in the HP ENVY laptop series.
Processor options
Every laptop has a central processing unit (CPU), which is responsible for processing the vast amounts of data it receives. Generally speaking, the more powerful the CPU, the faster the computer will work through tasks. However, a lower/mid-range CPU is more than enough for most people, but you might need a more advanced option if you’re running sophisticated software.
At the lower end of the range, models like the HP ENVY x360 13 have an Intel® Core™ i5 that is ideal for day-to-day tasks like personal bookkeeping and browsing. This machine’s speed is helped by 8GB RAM and a 512GB solid state drive (SSD) card that lets you access and save data quickly. With its 13.3-inch screen and weighing just under 1.4 kg, this model makes an excellent portable option.
If you’re looking for more power, the HP ENVY 16 range includes the Intel Core i9 processor that will handle complex software easily. This HP ENVY’s performance is boosted by 32GB RAM and a 2TB SSD card for plenty of storage in addition to speed.
Graphics options
The HP ENVY laptop series also offers plenty of options for graphics processing units (GPUs). If you need a laptop for day-to-day tasks and standard office work, a high-end GPU is probably not necessary. And you will find plenty of options with affordable GPUs, such as the HP ENVY x360 15 range includes the AMD Radeon™ Graphics card that has all most people will need.
However, models in the HP ENVY 16 range include the powerful NVIDIA® GeForce RTX™ 3060, which is suitable for gamers and designers. The range also uses the Wide Quad XGA (WQXGA) screen resolution, which is ideal for gamers and creative professionals. Overall, this series is a great place to start looking for machines with impressive graphics.
Memory and storage options
Memory options for the HP ENVY series typically start at 8GB RAM, which is plenty for most people, while some models have 32GB if you need more speed. Storage options start from a decent 512GB, up to 1TB or 2TB for the upper-end models.
All models in the HP ENVY laptop series use SSD storage cards, which adds to the speedy performance. This is because there are no moving parts in SSD cards, unlike traditional hard disk drives (HDDs) that at now becoming obsolete. Having no moving parts also makes SSD cards more reliable, while they also take up less space. Being smaller is especially useful in laptops where space is limited.
Keyboard and trackpad
Of course, keyboards, trackpads and similar tools will vary from model to model. But you can still expect a positive experience using the machine regardless.
Depending on the exact model, the keyboard keys are typically well-spaced out, making typing easier. The HP ENVY laptop range also includes models with bright backlighting, which can be a godsend for working or relaxing in the dark.
This laptop also has a fairly large trackpad with gesture support that helps you make short work of some tasks. And the keyboard and trackpad are comfortable to use overall, which is important for long shifts.
Stylish design and build
As we mentioned previously, the HP ENVY design is one of this laptop's most appealing features. This computer has a solid chassis made from aluminium that doesn’t bend under normal use. Many users will appreciate this sturdiness because it gives them a stable platform to work from.
Aesthetically, this beautiful machine has a sleek appearance that would impress in any board room meeting or presentation and can easily be mistaken for a top-range model. The silver aluminium adds a classy touch, and slim bezels help add to this computer’s slick appearance, while its sturdiness also helps this machine ooze quality.
And while the chassis is made from aluminium, plastic components are made from materials that would otherwise have ended up floating in the ocean. As such, you get to do your part for the environment while benefiting from a powerful machine.
Long battery life
If you need a laptop for working away for power points, you’re going to need a battery that gives you enough time to get your work done. The good news is that the HP ENVY delivers exactly that.
Independent studies have shown that the HP ENVY’s battery life performs well when compared to other premium laptop models. Most people will find they can do a full day’s work on their machine without needing to find a power source. You can then charge it again so it’s ready to work throughout the following day again.
Standout features
A key feature we haven’t mentioned yet is that some HP ENVY models are convertible, meaning you can easily use them as a tablet. All you need to do is push the monitor back 360 degrees, making the transformation quick and easy. Such flexibility can be a godsend to many users, particularly creative types and those who often make presentations.
Not only that, but many HP ENVY models also come with a touch screen. Touch screens can give you more creativity and help you meet your deadlines. These laptops are also compatible with tools like the HP Rechargeable MPP 2.0 Tilt Pen. Tools like this add even more functionality, while its cordless nature makes it easy to use.
The HP ENVY series also includes some of the most secure laptops available, using some of the latest offline and online security technology. As such, this laptop gives you peace of mind knowing that your personal details are safe.
The HP ENVY range also includes models with plenty of ports, so you can get more from your machine. This includes 2 Thunderbolt 4 ports and 2 Type-A USB Ports, and a microSD card reader. You will also find a great range of webcams for some models, helping to make this laptop a good choice for people on the move.
Choosing an HP ENVY laptop
The HP ENVY range is quite broad, so it can be difficult to decide which one is best for you. For many people, a basic model for common tasks is all that’s needed, but others will need more power to work more productively and creatively.
One way to help you find the right model is to define how you will use it. Will you be running sophisticated design and engineering software, or do you just need to browse and keep personal files? In many cases, you will find just what you need without having to break the bank.
A good tip when choosing an HP ENVY laptop is to check which hardware the software you’ll use requires. This information is usually easy to find online, and the developer’s website is a good place to look. Size and weight are also important for many people, and you might need to make sacrifices as you find the right balance between functionality and portability.
Summary
Overall, the HP ENVY range has something that most people will need. Despite its mid-table price, this machine looks just as good as the most expensive models on the market. It is also durable and made from quality products with sustainability in mind.
The feature that some ENVY laptops offer is their ability to switch from a laptop to a tablet. This flexibility is valuable for many professionals who need the freedom to be creative. Convertible laptops are also great for watching movies because they help you get comfortable, and no doubt many people will enjoy working with the touch screen models. Overall, the HP ENVY series caters to a wide range of needs and preferences.
