The HP Chromebook x2 is a $599 premium tablet aimed at the ipad Pro
The first detachable Chromebook 2-in-1 makes a lot of sense now that Android apps are supported.
HP’s Chromebook x2 is more than the first Chrome Os-based 2-in-1 with a detachable keyboard and pen. This new $599 tablet wants to compete with the likes of the ipad Pro. If it makes any headway, the Surface Pro should probably worry, too. While the Chromebook x2 looks affordable compared to its ipad Pro and Surface Pro rivals, it does look expensive for a Chromebook—most of its category cousins are still around $300. Its features are pretty nice, though, and Chromebook veterans may be able to appreciate the difference.
SPECS AND FEATURES
The Chromebook x2 will ship in June. Here are the highlights from the specs we know.
CPU: Intel 7th-gen Core m3-7y30
Memory: 4GB LPDDR3-1600
Display: 12.3-inch 2400x1600 IPS WLED backlit
Graphics: Intel HD Graphics 615
Storage: 32GB EMMC
Ports: Two USB 3.0 Gen 1 (5Gbps) Type C
Cameras: Front 5MP, rear 13MP
Battery: 4-cell, 48Whr lasts up to 10 hours
Dimensions and weight: 11.5 x 8.32 x 0.33 inches, or 0.6-inch thick with keyboard
The price also includes a digital pen and the keyboard cover. A magnetic hinge attaches the keyboard cover to the tablet.
We haven’t seen the keyboard in person, but it looks like its exterior is a synthetic material with a leather-like finish. We also don’t know how stiff the tablet cover is and what the keyboard travel is, as these keyboard covers can sometimes be a little challenging to type on.
The tablet’s exterior surface has an Anodized Electrodeposition coating. According to HP, the coating feels like ceramic and provides extra durability and a soft, matte finish that resists scratches and is easy to clean.
Why this matters: Chromebook tablets are finally a thing. The HP Chromebook x2 follows the earlier April announcement of the Acer Chromebook Tab 10 ( go.pcworld.com/ ac10), the very first Chrome tablet. Now that Chromebooks run Android apps ( go. pcworld.com/rnap), stylus support and the tablet form factor make a lot of sense.
The Chromebook x2 is priced and positioned in a tough spot, though. Sure, it’s affordable compared to the ipad Pro and Surface Pro with which it wants to compete— but it’s expensive for a Chromebook. We don’t know how many people raised on dirt-cheap $300 clamshells will reach for a product that costs twice as much. We’ll let you know whether it’s worth the jump if we have a chance to review it.