HP took the wraps off the new HP Pavilion x2, an ultra-portable convertible tablet that’s great for both work and play on the go.
The versatile 10-inch tablet converts into a full-fledged notebook with a detachable, magnetic keyboard/cover that functions also as a protective cover and a multi-angle stand.
The versatile 2-in-1 device is powered by the latest generation Intel Atom “Bay Trail-T” processor (Atom Z3745D with 2GB RAM and 64GB storage, and features a HD WLED-backlit display, front-facing speakers with DTS sound and a long-lasting 2-cell 35Whr battery that lasts up to 11.45 hours.
The tablet supports WiDi (compatible with Miracast devices), includes WiFi 802.11a/b/g/n and Bluetooth. A plethora of ports and expansion will prove useful on-the-go, and this has a full-sized SuperSpeed USB 3.0, micro-USB 2.0, HDMI and 3.5mm mic-headphone jack.
It also has a multi-format card reader built-in.
In terms of design, the tablet has a durable polycarbonate body, and weighs 598g. The detachable keyboard, which is 97% sized island-style, weighs 330g.
The tablet runs Windows 8.1 (32-bit) with Bing out of the box.
Pricing and availability
The HP Pavilion x2 is now available in Malaysia for a retail price of RM1,199.00 (US$358). Keyboard/cover colour options include Tiffany Blue and Moonstone Grey (not sold separately). Every purchase of the tablet includes a 1-year subscription to Microsoft Office 365 Personal Edition.
You can purchase a unit from the HP Malaysia online store.
Initial impressions
While it will not beat a Microsoft Surface for material build and overall quality, the HP Pavilion x2 can be considered a handsome device. It looks good and feels great in the hands, as a tablet. Taking cues from the Apple iPad magnetic cover, the hybrid keyboard-cover stand is great and allows for multi-angle views.
The keyboard feel is overall good, and has good travel and accuracy. Having a plethora of ports is handy and the 11-hour battery life is a huge plus for mobile workers.
Plenty of kit for the price. It isn’t a Surface-beater but will certainly give the ASUS Transformer series and Acer Iconia Tab a run for its money.
