The HP EliteBook x360 1040 G7 is a premium 2-in-1 laptop that blends performance, portability, and versatility. Initially launched as a high-end business device, its specifications still make it a competitive option today. With a 6-core Intel Core i7 processor, 32GB of RAM, and a 1TB NVMe SSD, this device is designed to handle demanding tasks while maintaining energy efficiency. The 14-inch Full HD touchscreen and solid build quality enhance the overall experience, making it a compelling option for professionals and power users alike. But how does it fare in real-world use? Let’s dive in.
The EliteBook x360 1040 G7 features a premium aluminium chassis that is both lightweight and sturdy. The 360-degree hinge allows for smooth transitions between laptop, tent, and tablet modes, catering to various usage scenarios.
The keyboard is well-spaced and backlit, making it comfortable for long typing sessions. The inclusion of Bang & Olufsen-tuned speakers enhances the multimedia experience, though, like most laptop speakers, they lack depth in bass.
One of the standout aspects of this model is its USB-C with Thunderbolt support, which allows for 4K@60Hz output and docking capabilities. This makes it an excellent choice for professionals who need a powerful workstation that can easily connect to multiple displays and accessories.
The 14-inch Full HD touchscreen delivers vibrant colours and sharp visuals. The IPS panel ensures wide viewing angles, but there are some considerations depending on the specific model variant.
Some versions come with an integrated privacy filter, which can slightly affect visibility when viewed from an angle. This is great for security but may be a drawback when collaborating on group projects or sharing content. Additionally, while the screen is responsive and works well in tablet mode, there was no stylus included in the reviewed unit, and it’s unclear whether this is standard.
At the heart of this device is the Intel Core i7-10710U, a hexa-core processor with hyper-threading. With a base clock speed of 1.1 GHz and a turbo boost up to 4.7 GHz, it balances power efficiency with high performance. This ensures smooth handling of multitasking, productivity software, and even some light content creation.
With 32GB of DDR4 RAM, users can effortlessly keep multiple applications open without slowdown. This is particularly useful for professionals handling large datasets, running virtual machines, or working with high-resolution media.
The 1TB NVMe SSD further enhances the performance, offering lightning-fast boot times and rapid file access speeds. Measured read speeds range between 2,400–2,700 Mbps, making it an excellent choice for users who require high-speed storage solutions.
One of the advantages of the EliteBook x360 1040 G7 is its portability. Weighing around 1.3 kg (2.9 lbs) and featuring a 54.5Wh battery, it is built for users who are constantly on the move. Battery life will depend on usage, but expect all-day performance on a single charge for general productivity tasks. However, as this specific unit was a refurbished model, battery longevity may vary.
HP has equipped this laptop with a solid array of ports, ensuring excellent connectivity options. These include:
Wireless connectivity is equally impressive, featuring Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth 5.0 for fast and reliable connections.
The Bang & Olufsen-tuned quad-speaker setup provides clear audio with more bass than typically found in ultra-light laptops. However, for an immersive audio experience, external speakers or high-quality headphones are still recommended.
This model ships with Windows 10 Pro, but it includes a free upgrade to Windows 11 Pro. In some cases, units may already come with Windows 11 pre-installed, which could be an advantage or disadvantage depending on user preference. Windows 11 brings a more modern user interface and better multitasking features but may require some adjustments for those used to Windows 10.
While this laptop offers an impressive blend of power, portability, and premium build quality, there are a few areas where users should set their expectations accordingly.
The HP EliteBook x360 1040 G7 remains a premium and capable device despite its initial high launch price. Now available at a more competitive price, it is an excellent option for:
For those looking for a high-performance, ultra-light laptop with business-grade durability, the EliteBook x360 1040 G7 remains a compelling choice.
Pros:
✔️ High-performance 6-core Intel processor
✔️ 32GB RAM for heavy multitasking
✔️ Fast 1TB NVMe SSD
✔️ Versatile 2-in-1 design
✔️ Solid build and premium features
Cons:
❌ Privacy filter may reduce visibility at angles
❌ Battery life varies on refurbished units
❌ No included stylus
If you're after a premium business laptop that has stood the test of time, this one still packs a punch!