HP Chromebook Plus x360: A Robust Upgrade with Powerful Hardware
The HP Chromebook Plus x360 is a direct upgrade to last year’s model, now featuring more powerful hardware and a bigger screen. This laptop retains everything that made its predecessor great, such as the comfortable keyboard, sturdiness, and high degree of flexibility, allowing it to transform into a tablet. However, it also inherits the same issue as the older version: a display that doesn’t get bright enough.
The Chromebook Plus series has proven to be a strong lineup for HP. Having reviewed several models from this range over the past few months, I can attest to their great hardware performance and array of features that result in a good user experience. Yet, each device has its quirks, and the new 2-in-1 HP Chromebook Plus x360 is no exception.
Design-wise, the computer is nearly identical to HP’s other x360 models. The most noticeable difference is the display size, with my review unit featuring a smaller 14-inch touchscreen (a 15.6-inch option is also available). Under the hood, it houses a robust 12th Gen Intel Core i3 processor, enabling the laptop to handle tougher tasks and run multiple apps simultaneously more effectively than before, earning it the Chromebook Plus title.
Combine the superior performance of the Chromebook Plus x360 with its inherently flexible nature, and you have a very capable work machine. The ability to flip the display around and turn the device into a tablet is particularly useful. Plus, these computers are among the first Chromebooks to support Photoshop on the web, with a free three-month trial included with your purchase.
Imagine writing in laptop mode, then seamlessly switching over to tablet mode for drawing or editing. This comprehensive workflow is something Chromebook users never really had before. Now, they don’t have to miss out on Adobe’s premier software.
The keyboard is by far my favorite feature of the Chromebook Plus x360. Each key is made of a soft matte material and is highly responsive to touch. Unlike other machines like Acer’s Chromebook Plus CX34, which have a keyboard with a short travel distance, this one feels different. The responsiveness may simply be a byproduct of the sturdy aluminum frame that offers a solid foundation.
Speaking of construction, the aluminum results in great build quality. Just by holding the laptop, you can tell it can withstand occasional bumps or drops. Interestingly, the bottom plate is made from a different material that feels like plastic but isn’t. This change didn’t detract from my positive feelings toward the Chromebook Plus x360, although it was a curious decision.
When it comes to battery life, the laptop performs fairly well. I tested its longevity by continuously playing a YouTube stream at 50% brightness and 720p resolution. The laptop lasted a little over eight hours before completely dying, which is impressive. I was honestly expecting about six hours or so, assuming HP wouldn’t have upgraded the battery to match the new hardware.