The line between the simple and simplistic is razor-thin. Veer too close to the latter, and the results are a shamble of what-ifs and why-nots. With minimalism, the risk is always coming up short on realising the object’s full potential. As the saying goes, ideas are aplenty but the execution is all that matters. HP’s latest iteration of its Envy series of laptops – the Envy 13 – is a masterstroke of timeless design and durability.
The new HP Envy 13 combines a minimalist aesthetic with performance-focused hardware to provide a superb platform that caters to both casual and professional content creators. Recognising the need for optimal utility, the Envy 13 also boasts a longer battery life and an increased screen-to-body ratio (STBR) of 88 per cent.
Style meets substance
The Envy 13 does anything but skimp on looks. Featuring a harmonious fusion of metal and wood, the laptop is available in a premium Natural Silver finish. Clean lines extend throughout the entire design, as evidenced by the bevelled edges and subtly lifted palm rest. The top panel is now less cluttered thanks to a relocation of the thermal venting. Furthermore, an all-in-one keyboard integrates screen and system functions into one cohesive layout. Functions like the camera shutter and fingerprint reader are well within a finger’s reach, bridging the gap between security and convenience. The 13-inch screen combined with an STBR of 88 per cent and up to 4K UHD display optimises the viewing experience. An optional touch screen is also available for users who prefer a more tactile approach with their devices. Meanwhile, the mono hinge design allows for a smooth opening from both the front and sides.
Performance package
Speed and efficiency are paramount when it comes to managing media content. The Envy 13 epitomises adaptive performance with its combination of a 10th Generation Intel Core processor and NVIDIA GeForce MX330 graphics module. This is matched by equally capable memory and storage features. Up to 16GB of DDR4-3200 RAM and 1TB of SSD space provide the throughput that data-heavy projects demand.
Connectivity is another strong point of the Envy 13. The additional Thunderbolt 3 port, enabling lightning-quick data transfer and up to 4K display output. As more and more businesses turn to blockchain and cloud computing, features like the Envy 13’s Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth 5 support form an essential aspect of any computing system.
Stability on the go
No one likes the panic that comes with a laptop that’s about to run dry, and this concern becomes all too real when one is doing heavy processing. The Envy 13 comes packaged with a suite of thermal profiles via the HP Command Centre, which allows users to fine-tune system temperature and balance it with performance. Battery life comes in at a little over 18 hours and includes support via HP’s Fast Charge that charges the laptop’s battery from empty to 50 per cent within just 30 minutes. Meanwhile, low-power hibernation goes up to a whopping 112 days. You’d be surprised to find out, however, that the Envy 13 packs this plethora of features into a highly portable package with just an 11-inch footprint that weighs 1.3 kilograms.
The HP Envy 13 is now available, with more information available here. Also available is the larger Envy 15, which feature a 15-inch screen with GTX 1660Ti Max-Q graphics and 4K OLED display. Both the Envy 13 and 15 will also come with a complimentary one-year Accidental Damage Protection. Find out more about the HP’s Envy series of laptops here.