If you are purchasing a new laptop and are torn between the HP ENVY and the HP Spectre lines, it can be difficult to narrow down which one will suit your needs best. Both offer plenty of power and a quality guarantee from HP®. Each also has certain unique features that determine whether or not it is the right device for you.
We know that purchasing a new laptop can be a big decision. That’s why it’s worth looking at both types to see which can run the specific programs you need or offer software to help you complete your tasks. This guide will help you choose between two of the best HP series to find out which can work for your lifestyle and budget.
Getting started with your decision
There are several reasons to invest in an HP laptop, especially an HP Spectre or HP ENVY. They both offer Intel® Core™ processors and come with Windows Home 10 installed. Plus, you can customize them to suit your exact needs while knowing you can rely on HP’s quality customer service.
THINK ABOUT PRICE
Price can be a serious factor in whether or not you will choose the HP ENVY or the HP Spectre. While both are competitively priced and can be customized to work within a certain budget, they’re also available at many separate price points. Your budget will factor into additional features, such as more memory, added ports, or extra software.
One way to decide which model is right is to determine the minimum price for each device. Once you have identified which features are must-haves and how much you can afford, you can eliminate some models for either type of laptop.
DO YOU NEED A LAPTOP OR A 2-IN-1?
When comparing HP ENVY vs HP Spectre lines, you’ll note that both have options for the standard laptop model and a 2-in-1 device. A standard laptop can be a good choice if you plan to use your computer solely for work purposes or gaming. These clamshell laptops tend to have more memory and better graphics cards.
A
2-in-1 laptop allows for more flexibility, can be more portable, and can offer more entertainment options. Because you can use it as a tablet with the touch screen, you have more options for creativity and connectivity. Several HP 2-in-1 models offer 4G LTE, too, so you can stay in touch with friends or stream your favourite movies from anywhere you get a signal.
HP ENVY vs HP Spectre: the right choice for you
Now that we know a little more about how you can get started let’s get into what makes these laptop lines different as we help you decide which is the best option for your needs. It’s worth noting that there are more models available in the HP ENVY line, which is why we’re covering the series as a whole first before moving through the more specific builds.
1. HP ENVY LAPTOP
With so many options to customize the specs and display, you have plenty of choices when choosing the right
HP ENVY. The models include an Intel Core processor and a 1-year warranty from HP®, which provides customer support for all of your technical needs.
How much storage you would like is up to you, but you can customize your device up to 2TB. Opt for the fingerprint reader for easy, secure login, and take advantage of HP BIOS to keep your computer safe from hackers. Best of all, most models include an NVIDIA® GeForce® graphics card, ensuring you can play your favourite games.
Additional features:
- Comes in 13-inch, 15-inch, and 17-inch models
- Option touch screen available on some models
- Optional HP Control Zone™ trackpad
2. HP ENVY X360 LAPTOP
Take your device with you anywhere you want to go with the convertible
HP ENVY x360 laptop. Available in either 13 inches or 15 inches, its unique design allows you to stand out from the crowd without compromising on power. You also have the choice between an Intel processor or AMD Ryzen, which is designed to let you switch between multiple multimedia tasks with ease.
This convertible laptop comes with four distinct modes: laptop, tablet, stand, or tent. All have several benefits that can make it simple to go from work to play in a few seconds. And to keep everything you do secure, it includes a fingerprint reader, a privacy screen, and an IR camera. These features protect you against phishing, hackers trying to steal your information, and untrustworthy over-the-shoulder onlookers.
The HP ENVY x360 includes a USB-Type C port and a USB 3.1 Type-A port to connect your favourite peripherals. Add in Windows Home 10, and you’ve got a laptop that is as versatile as you are.
Additional features:
- Dual storage support for both SSD and HDD
- Ultra-fast WiFi speeds
- HP Fast Charge for quicker battery charging
3. HP SPECTRE X360 LAPTOP
The
HP Spectre x360 offers all the flexibility of a convertible laptop with the power of a standard laptop thanks to the Intel Core i7 processor. To keep that power in check, it comes with thermal settings to make sure your laptop runs quietly and smoothly. You can also choose from three modes; cool, quiet, or performance, for when you need a boost.
The gem-cut, aluminium design will turn heads, though you don’t have to worry about prying eyes with the included privacy screen. The same goes for video chats, which you can switch on and off with the IR camera.
You’ll be ready to go all day with a battery life of up to 11 hours, so you can kick back with your favourite Netflix show after finishing up your to-do list. Plus, the included stylus gives you complete control over how you want to navigate your device in either tablet or laptop mode.
Additional features:
- Windows 10 Home 64
- MicroSD media card reader
- Up to 512GB SSD or HDD storage
HP ENVY vs HP Spectre: which is best?
Both series offer you high-performance computing power. If you’re looking for a standard laptop model, you may consider the HP ENVY over the competition. However, if you plan to use your computer in various ways, you may want to invest in the stellar and versatile options from HP Spectre.
The HP ENVY line can be a little more affordable, depending on whether you wish to customize your device. This makes it a great option for students or those who need a laptop for leisure rather than as a gaming or work device. On the other hand, an HP Spectre typically has more ports available, and you simply can’t beat the look of an HP Spectre Folio.
Whichever type of device you choose, you’ll have comprehensive support from HP®, incredible performance, and a battery that lasts. With this selection of
HP laptops, you can find one for tackling big projects and watching the latest binge-worthy streaming series.
ABOUT THE AUTHORDaniel 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.