HP Ultrabook Review Lightweight Laptop with Intel 4-Core CPU and 1.6TB Storage

Description

Compact Design with a Stylish Touch
The HP 14 Ultrabook in Tranquil Pink immediately stood out when I unpacked it. Its sleek and ultra-compact design, measuring only 0.71 inches thin and weighing 3.24 pounds, makes it exceptionally portable. I found it easy to slip into my bag without it feeling bulky, which is a major perk for students or professionals who are frequently on the go. The brushed pink finish is not only attractive but also adds a touch of sophistication. However, the non-backlit keyboard might be a bummer for those who often work in dim settings. Typing on it felt responsive, but I did wish for a bit more tactile feedback.

Performance That Meets Everyday Needs
Powered by an Intel quad-core processor (up to 3.6 GHz) and paired with a whopping 32GB of DDR4 RAM, this laptop handled my everyday tasks flawlessly. From browsing multiple tabs to editing documents, it ran smoothly without any noticeable lag. I even tested some light photo editing, and the system handled it decently, thanks to the integrated Intel UHD Graphics. The Windows 11 Home OS feels intuitive and modern, though I did notice that the HD (1366×768) display fell short when watching high-resolution videos. Colors appeared slightly muted, and the brightness, rated at 220 nits, struggled under direct sunlight.

Storage Galore for All Your Files
Having 1.6TB of storage is honestly a game-changer. The combination of 128GB onboard SSD, a 512GB portable drive, and 1TB OneDrive cloud storage gave me ample space for files, photos, and even larger software installations. I tested the external hard drive included in the package and found it super handy for transferring files between devices. This setup is ideal for anyone needing extensive storage without constantly worrying about running out of space.

Battery Life That Keeps Up
The advertised battery life of up to 12 hours held up well during my testing. I managed to get through a full day of light usage without rushing for the charger. Streaming videos and running more demanding applications, however, drained the battery faster, clocking in closer to 8 hours. The lightweight build and extended battery make this laptop a great choice for travelers or students hopping between classes, though you might want to keep a charger handy for heavier tasks.

Enhanced Connectivity Options
Connectivity is where this laptop shines. The USB-C, USB 3.2, HDMI, and SD card reader ports allowed me to hook up external devices effortlessly. I particularly appreciated the USB-C for faster data transfers, though I found it odd that it doesn’t support charging. The Bluetooth 5.2 and Wi-Fi 802.11ac offered seamless wireless connectivity during my tests, and I never experienced any drops in performance. It’s a well-rounded setup, but I couldn’t help but miss the inclusion of Thunderbolt support for even faster speeds.

Key Benefits

• Lightweight and portable, perfect for carrying on the go.
• Massive 1.6TB storage, including cloud and external options.
• Solid performance with 32GB of RAM and an Intel quad-core processor.
• Comprehensive accessory bundle (external hard drive, microfiber cloth, and hotkey stickers).
• Stylish Tranquil Pink finish adds a unique aesthetic.

Areas of Improvement

• Low screen resolution (1366×768) limits visual quality.
• Non-backlit keyboard, inconvenient in low-light environments.
• USB-C port lacks charging functionality.

Market Rivals
Comparing this laptop to others in the same price range, such as Acer Aspire 5 or Lenovo IdeaPad 3, reveals some interesting contrasts. The Acer Aspire 5 boasts a better 1920×1080 display, making it a better choice for media lovers, but it trails behind in storage with only 512GB and less RAM. Similarly, the Lenovo IdeaPad 3 offers a more vibrant screen but lacks the extensive cloud storage and accessory bundle provided here. On the other hand, both competitors include backlit keyboards, which is a significant advantage over this model.

True Value
Considering the storage, performance, and additional accessories, this laptop offers excellent value for budget-conscious buyers. The Microsoft 365 subscription is a nice bonus, especially for students or professionals needing productivity tools. While the display and keyboard might be less impressive, the sheer convenience of storage options and reliable performance makes this a smart investment for everyday use. If you’re after a stylish, portable device with plenty of room for files, this one ticks all the right boxes.

Additional information