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The HP Spectre x360 14 is a bold statement in the world of premium laptops. This 2-in-1 convertible packs innovative features, robust performance, and an elegant design into a sleek package. Whether you're a professional, a creator, or someone who wants a versatile device for productivity and entertainment, this laptop promises to deliver.
Here's our detailed hands-on review of the HP Spectre x360 14 (14-eu0021TU), highlighting its real-world performance, standout features, and where it excels.
Design and build
From the moment you unbox the Spectre x360 14, it's clear this is a luxury device. The black aluminium chassis is both lightweight and durable, exuding sophistication. Thoughtful details, like the gem-cut edges, reinforce its premium appeal. It weighs just over 1.36 kg, making it highly portable for on-the-go users.
The laptop features a 360-degree hinge, allowing seamless transitions between laptop, tent, stand, and tablet modes. This versatility is ideal for working in different environments, from coffee shops to boardrooms.
The display
The 14-inch 2.8K OLED touch display is a standout feature, delivering vivid colours, deep blacks, and excellent contrast. Whether you're editing photos or binge-watching Netflix, the 16:10 aspect ratio and high resolution create an immersive viewing experience. The touchscreen is responsive and perfect for sketching or navigating with a fingertip.
The variable refresh rate is a welcome addition for professionals. It ensures smooth scrolling and reduces strain during extended use.
Performance
Equipped with the Intel® Core Ultra 7 processor, 16GB LPDDR5x RAM, and Intel Arc Graphics, the Spectre x360 handles demanding tasks with ease. During testing, the laptop effortlessly managed multitasking, including running Adobe Photoshop, streaming video, and dozens of browser tabs. The 512GB SSD ensures fast boot times and ample storage.
While it's not a gaming powerhouse, it's more than capable of casual gaming and light video editing. Battery life averaged around 12–13 hours during moderate use, aligning with HP's claims and providing all-day reliability.
AI-Powered Features: Smarter Computing
The dedicated AI chip enhances productivity and security with unique features:
- Walk Away Lock and Wake on Approach improve privacy and convenience.
- AI gestures let you pause videos or scroll through photos with hand movements.
- Privacy alerts notify you if someone peers over your shoulder.
- Health reminders help manage screen time and encourage better habits.
These features felt intuitive and added genuine value, especially for remote workers concerned about security and ergonomics.
Audio and Camera
Collaboration is a breeze with the 9MP IR camera, offering crystal-clear video for video calls. Features like night mode and the e-shutter ensure you look great while staying secure.
The audio, tuned by Poly Studio, impressed with its clarity and depth. Whether on calls or watching movies, the sound quality rivals some standalone speakers.
Comfort
The backlit keyboard provides a satisfying typing experience, while the full-size layout makes transitioning from a desktop keyboard seamless.
The haptic touchpad is equally impressive, offering customisable feedback for volume and brightness controls. It's a thoughtful addition that enhances usability.
Sustainability
HP's commitment to sustainability is evident, with recycled aluminium in the chassis and ocean-bound plastics in the speakers. It's a small but meaningful step towards reducing environmental impact.
Verdict
The HP Spectre x360 14 is a stellar 2-in-1 that excels in design, performance, and innovation. Its AI-powered features, brilliant display, and 360-degree hinge set it apart from competitors like the Dell XPS 13 and Lenovo Yoga 9i. While the AUD $2,399 price tag places it firmly in the premium category, it offers excellent value for professionals and power users.
For those seeking a stylish, adaptable 2-in-1 laptop that can handle work and play with equal ease, the HP Spectre x360 14 is hard to beat.
