HP TECH TAKES /...
Exploring today's technology for tomorrow's possibilities
Subscribe
The Best OLED Laptop from HP
Daniel Horowitz
|
October 9, 2019
The technology used in computer monitors has changed dramatically over the last decade. It’s now possible to find laptops and displays that feature incredibly dynamic screens, and you don’t have to pay an exorbitant amount for them. Also, we’re all spending more and more time on our devices, so it makes sense that we want our displays to help make our experience better.
This is why many consumers are choosing to purchase OLED (organic light-emitting diode) technology. While LCD screens were the norm for many years, the tech has improved enough that screens can now make their own light, allowing for better graphics and crisper images.
What is an OLED laptop?
An OLED laptop is a device that relies on organic material (carbon and hydrogen) in order to create light. The tech uses positive and negative layers in order to create a current. There is an emissive layer that absorbs electrons, while the conductive layer creates holes. This leads to particles of light, or photons, that work with colored film to construct a clearer picture than an LCD screen.
Most displays were built with LCD screens for many years. This caused a number of problems, including the fact that if an area of the screen were to go out, the entire display would need to be repaired. LCDs need a backlight in order to function, which means that they have a glow to them that can affect your eyes and cause problems long after you have turned off the device.
The main difference between LCD screens and OLED screens is luminance. This means that when a perfectly black image is shown, there shouldn’t be any form of light at all. LCD screens have high luminance, so when a black image is displayed, you still might notice light coming from your display. An OLED screen will show a perfectly dark screen without any light radiating. Layers of colored film are used in order for your monitor to receive a brighter and better picture overall.
On an LED monitor, on the other hand, the only way to keep a pixel from emitting light is to keep the liquid crystal closed. It’s effective, but not perfect because a portion of light will always slip through. On an OLED monitor, a pixel’s light can be entirely shut off so you can get truer blacks, which means deeper contrast ratios and better image quality.
What are the benefits of an OLED screen?
There are a number of benefits to using an OLED screen laptop, from gamers enjoying better visuals to professional creatives dealing with less eye strain. Let’s explore a couple of those benefits now.
1. Better for your eyes
One big issue with LCD screens was that they can be hard on your eyes. After hours on the computer, you could have blurry vision and tired eyes, which means you can’t spend as much time on your device as you may need to. This could lead to reduced productivity in the short term and issues with your eyesight in the future. With an OLED display, it’s likely you can spend more time working or playing games without suffering from eye fatigue.
The reason why OLED screens are so much better for your eyes is because they are meant to mimic colors as they actually appear in life. This helps to avoid strain and also makes web pages, games, and photos more clear. More vibrant colors can greatly enhance the time you spend on your laptop or desktop PC.
2. More portable
With an OLED laptop, the tech doesn’t require as many parts. As a result, your computer will most likely be thinner and more portable from a design perspective. This type of laptop also tends to be lighter, meaning that it isn’t as difficult to take with you to meetings, on a commute, or while traveling.
3. Better for gaming
For gamers, an OLED laptop can make a world of difference. With faster refresh rates and better viewing angles, an OLED display can take your game from good to great. Crisper colors also make for a more enjoyable experience overall and can help you from straining your eyes over longer hours of gameplay.
4. Improved photo and video quality
An OLED screen doesn’t just make games look better, it can also help with photo and video editing. Because you are seeing images and footage that look closer to what they would be in reality, you can make creative choices that you may not be able to with a lower quality screen. For any task that includes visual elements, it can help to have a display that is sharper and offers enhanced contrast.
What are the downsides of an OLED screen?
While there are plenty of reasons why you may want to purchase a device that has an OLED screen, there are also some compromises to think about when switching over.
1. Increased battery drain
An OLED screen tends to drain more battery power than a traditional LCD display. Those crisper colors can take a toll on how long your computer can hold a charge. While this obviously isn’t an issue when you’re using your laptop like a desktop PC, it’s important to keep in mind if you need to use it on-the-go.
2. Typically more expensive
OLED screens are newer tech, so they tend to be more expensive than their older counterparts. That said, HP® offers some great options that not only deliver bright and beautiful colors, but also come at a reasonable price. Just because you want to have an OLED screen doesn’t mean that you have to spend a lot of money in order to get one. If you plan ahead, you can keep an eye out for weekly deals from HP® and score new tech at a bargain price.
3. Potential burn-in issues
You may occasionally notice “burn-in,” which is when an image remains on the screen when it shouldn’t. One example of this is when you can see the Windows Taskbar when it should have disappeared as you launch a movie or game. Burn-ins are usually easy to fix, and they don’t cause any major problems with how your system will operate.
What should I know about choosing an OLED laptop?
Choosing the right OLED laptop depends mostly on your budget and how much you want to spend. While it is likely that OLED screens will become more common in the future, they’re currently typically only an option on premium models. This means that it can be difficult to find a laptop with an OLED screen that doesn’t cost $1,000 or more. Within the next few years, it will be easier to find devices that come with OLED displays in a number of price ranges.
You also want to make sure you are choosing a laptop that has enough power to support OLED tech. You may need a laptop with higher levels of RAM or a higher-end processor in order for your laptop to be able to handle the games and videos you want to experience on an OLED screen.
You should also consider how important battery life is to you. If you need your battery to last for long periods of time, then an OLED laptop may not be the best fit just yet. However, if you plan to use it while connected to an outlet most of the time, or you’re willing to carry a power bank with you, then you’re all set.
HP Spectre x360 laptop with OLED screen
HP® designed the ultimate device for those who want to take advantage of both portability and an OLED screen. With a strong build and plenty of power to help you finish your projects or enjoy your favorite game, there’s a reason why our laptops have been known to provide great technology for an affordable price.
Built for power
The HP Spectre x360 includes Windows 10 Home 64 and an Intel® Core™ i7 processor to help you get the job done. With more than enough performance power, this laptop will make the most of its stunning OLED screen.
The processor runs at an impressive 2.5 GHz, so it can easily help you switch from your favorite streaming service to your video editing application in no time. Plus, with the 256GB of SSD storage, you’ll enjoy equally speedy response times for all your most crucial files and projects.
The comprehensive cooling system helps regulate your laptop’s temperature, no matter what you throw at it. And with three different modes, the system lets you take performance to the ultimate level, or you can run it on quiet mode when you are reading emails or documents.
Webcam and microphone
Another advantage of an OLED screen is being able to video chat and see your coworkers or loved ones in their best light. Plus, the HP Spectre x360 includes a TrueVision HD webcam to capture your favorite moments. The built-in microphone makes sure everyone can hear you without static or audio cutting out. With these features, you’re looking at an incredible device for collaborating or staying in touch with friends and family.
Additional security
Nowadays, it’s more important than ever to have additional security against hackers and malware. HP® makes it easy to ward off bad actors by including an integrated camera and fingerprint reader so only you can access your laptop. You can also choose to switch off the webcam at any time, meaning you can work in peace without worrying about your information being stolen.
Additional features:
- Upgrade storage to 2TB
- Two color options: dark ash silver or poseidon blue
- Full-size island-style keyboard
In summary
If you’re searching for a laptop system with an OLED screen that won’t break the bank, the HP Spectre x360 combines those features with superb power and security. Whether you are creating your next masterpiece or want to watch your favorite films in the quality they deserve, this laptop can help you get there.
About the Author: Daniel Horowitz is a contributing writer for HP® Tech Takes. Daniel is a New York-based author and has written for publications such as USA Today, Digital Trends, Unwinnable Magazine, and many other media outlets.
