HP EliteBook X tested: Powerful AI laptop or overhyped?

Introducing the HP EliteBook X: HP’s latest offering in the AI PC market, the EliteBook X, is positioned as the “most powerful AI device” available, boasting impressive specifications and design features that aim to set a new standard in the industry.

Impressive hardware and AI capabilities: The EliteBook X’s standout feature is its AMD-powered NPU, which runs at an exceptional 55 TOPs, potentially giving it a significant edge in AI processing capabilities.

• The laptop’s high-speed memory further enhances its performance potential, supporting HP’s claim of market-leading power.
• While exact specifications are not fully disclosed, the combination of advanced NPU and memory suggests a formidable AI-focused machine.
• The inclusion of Wolf Security, which utilizes the NPU for AI-driven security measures, promises robust protection without compromising system performance.

Design and build quality: The EliteBook X combines aesthetics with practicality, offering a thin and light chassis without sacrificing durability or functionality.

• The laptop features a light silver, almost white exterior that is both visually appealing and sturdy.
• A well-designed keyboard with responsive keys and an appropriately sized touchpad enhance the user experience.
• The inclusion of a manual webcam shutter addresses privacy concerns, providing users with greater control over their device’s security.

Display options and connectivity: HP offers versatile display choices and a comprehensive port selection, catering to various user needs.

• Two display options are available: a WUXGA (1920 x 1200) LED screen and a 2.8K (2880 x 1800) OLED screen, both featuring 400 nits brightness.
• The WUXGA option includes a touch screen and a 120Hz refresh rate, enhancing interactivity and smoothness.
• Port selection is robust, including two Thunderbolt 4 ports, USB Type-C and Type-A ports, HDMI, and a headphone/mic combo jack, though it lacks an Ethernet port and SD card slot.

Sustainability focus: HP demonstrates a commitment to environmental responsibility through the EliteBook X’s construction.

• The laptop incorporates recycled materials in various components, including 60% of its major parts.
• Recycled aluminum, cooking oil, and ocean-bound plastic are used in different parts of the device.
• Packaging is made from 100% sustainable materials, further reducing the product’s environmental impact.

Performance expectations and features: While full performance metrics are yet to be verified, the EliteBook X promises cutting-edge capabilities.

• The 55 TOPs NPU is expected to deliver superior AI processing power compared to current market offerings.
• Additional features like hyperbolic cooling, Suresense malware protection, and Smart Hibernate aim to enhance overall user experience and device longevity.
• Onlooking detection, which automatically blurs the screen when someone approaches, adds an innovative privacy feature.

Market positioning and availability: The EliteBook X is poised to make a significant impact in the AI PC market, though some crucial details remain undisclosed.

• Pricing, release date, and availability information are not yet available, leaving potential buyers in anticipation.
• Based on HP’s previous releases, the laptop is expected to be available in major markets including the US, UK, and Australia.

Looking ahead: The HP EliteBook X represents a promising advancement in AI-focused laptops, potentially setting new benchmarks for performance and functionality in this rapidly evolving sector.

• The combination of AMD architecture with HP’s design expertise could yield a device that truly pushes the boundaries of AI computing in a portable form factor.
• As the market for AI PCs continues to grow, the EliteBook X may serve as a reference point for future developments in this space.
• Hands-on testing and real-world performance data will be crucial in validating HP’s claims and determining the laptop’s true capabilities in the competitive AI PC landscape.