The HP Envy x360 15.6 (2023) attempts to carve a niche in the crowded 2-in-1 laptop market. While HP continues to offer this 15-inch convertible, it lags behind competitors in key areas, particularly with its outdated 16:9 display. This design choice hinders productivity and makes tablet mode less practical. While the laptop performs adequately, it struggles to distinguish itself in a competitive landscape.
HP Envy x360 15.6 2023 front angled view showing display and keyboard.Image: The HP Envy x360 15.6 in laptop mode, showcasing its keyboard and 16:9 display.
Specifications and Configurations
The HP Envy x360 15.6 comes in both Intel and AMD configurations. This review focuses on the AMD model. Several configurations are available, ranging from a budget-friendly Ryzen 5 model to the higher-end Ryzen 7 version reviewed here.
| Feature | HP Envy x360 15.6 2023 (Review Unit) |
|---|---|
| Dimensions | 14.13 x 9.02 x 0.73 inches |
| Weight | 4.04 pounds |
| Processor | AMD Ryzen 5 7530U / AMD Ryzen 7 7730U |
| Graphics | AMD Radeon Graphics |
| RAM | 8GB / 16GB |
| Display | 15.6-inch 16:9 FHD IPS / FHD OLED Imax Enhanced |
| Storage | 256GB / 512GB / 1TB SSD |
| Touchscreen | Yes |
| Ports | 1 x USB-A, 2 x USB-C, 1 x DisplayPort 1.4, 1 x HDMI 2.1, 1 x 3.5mm audio jack, 1 x full-size SD card reader |
| Wireless | Wi-Fi 6E, Bluetooth 5.3 |
| Webcam | 5MP with IR for Windows Hello |
| Operating System | Windows 11 |
| Battery | 51 watt-hour |
| Price | $900+ |
The entry-level model starts at $900, while the reviewed configuration with a Ryzen 7 7730U, 16GB of RAM, a 1TB SSD, and an FHD OLED display is priced at $1,200 (often available on sale). This positions the Envy x360 15.6 in the upper budget to mid-range segment. However, its design choices raise questions about its overall value proposition.
A Dated Design
HP Envy x360 15.6 2023 tent view.Image: The HP Envy x360 15.6 in tent mode, highlighting its convertible design.
In 2023, a 16:9 display feels anachronistic, especially for a 2-in-1. The industry has largely shifted towards 16:10 and 3:2 aspect ratios for enhanced productivity. The 16:9 format makes the Envy x360 15.6 feel cramped for multitasking and creates an awkwardly long and narrow tablet experience. This is exacerbated by the large 15-inch chassis, making it cumbersome in tablet mode.
Furthermore, the Envy x360 15.6 has relatively large bezels, making its footprint comparable to more modern 16-inch laptops with slimmer profiles. While reasonably thin and light at 0.73 inches and 4.04 pounds, respectively, it’s not a significant improvement over previous generations. Competitors like the Samsung Galaxy Book3 Pro 360 offer a more modern design with a 16-inch 16:10 display in a significantly thinner and lighter package.
The Envy x360 15.6 features a plastic bottom chassis with an aluminum keyboard deck and lid. While this construction feels sturdy, it doesn’t exude premium quality. HP’s focus on sustainable materials is commendable, but the overall design doesn’t quite match the price point. The minimalist aesthetics, available in Natural Silver and Nightfall Black, are inoffensive but unremarkable.
HP Envy x360 15.6 2023 top-down view showing keyboard and touchpad.Image: A close-up of the HP Envy x360 15.6’s keyboard and touchpad.
The keyboard is comfortable enough for typing, with well-spaced keys and decent travel. However, the key switches lack the crispness found in higher-end laptops. The touchpad, while functional, is smaller than it could be given the available palm rest area.
Connectivity is adequate, offering a mix of modern and legacy ports. However, the lack of Thunderbolt 4 support, a limitation of the AMD chipset, is a notable drawback. The inclusion of a full-size SD card reader is a welcome addition.
HP Envy x360 15.6 2023 left side showing ports.Image: Left side view displaying available ports.
HP Envy x360 15.6 2023 right side showing ports.Image: Right side view displaying available ports.
The 5MP webcam delivers excellent video quality for video conferencing, and the infrared camera enables Windows Hello facial recognition.
Performance and Battery Life: Adequate but Not Exceptional
HP Envy x360 15.6 2023 rear view showing lid and logo.Image: Rear view of the closed lid, showcasing the HP logo.
The Ryzen 7 7730U in the reviewed unit provides solid performance for everyday productivity tasks. However, its integrated Radeon graphics are underwhelming, making it unsuitable for demanding creative work or gaming.
HP Envy x360 15.6 2023 rear view showing vents.Image: Rear view showcasing the ventilation grills.
| Benchmark | Score |
|---|---|
| Geekbench 5 (Single/Multi) | 1,469 / 8,163 (Performance Mode) |
| Handbrake (seconds) | 101 (Performance Mode) |
| Cinebench R23 (Single/Multi) | 1,427 / 10,690 (Performance Mode) |
| PCMark 10 Complete | 6,278 |
Despite its small 51 watt-hour battery, the Envy x360 15.6 delivers respectable battery life, thanks to the efficient AMD processor and the lower resolution display. In testing, it achieved around 10 hours in web browsing, 14 hours in video playback, and 12.5 hours in the PCMark 10 Applications benchmark. While not all-day battery life, it’s sufficient for moderate use.
A Disappointing Display
HP Envy x360 15.6 2023 front view showing display.Image: Front view showcasing the OLED display.
The OLED display, while offering excellent color accuracy and contrast, is let down by its low Full HD resolution. On a 15.6-inch screen, this results in a noticeable lack of sharpness. The 16:9 aspect ratio further limits screen real estate. The Imax Enhanced certification is a niche feature with limited practical benefit.
While the display performs well in terms of color reproduction, its resolution and aspect ratio are significant drawbacks in today’s market.
HP Envy x360 15.6 2023 top down view showing speaker.Image: Top-down view highlighting the speaker grille placement.
The upward-firing speakers provide adequate audio quality for casual use, but lack bass.
Conclusion: A Mediocre Offering
The HP Envy x360 15.6 (2023) is a competent but ultimately unremarkable laptop. Its outdated display, mediocre performance, and unremarkable design hold it back from competing with more modern 2-in-1s. While the OLED display offers good color quality and battery life is decent, these positives are overshadowed by its shortcomings. Unless you find it at a significant discount, there are better options available.
