That’s where the 17in laptop comes in, although popular devices from the likes of Gigabyte, Asus and Razer are all specifically designed for gaming. But what if you’re looking for a suitable device for live blogging, graphic design or photo and video editing? HP’s Envy 17 is one of the few creator-focused options available, maintaining the sleek design and premium build we’ve come to associate with the Envy line. The 2021 update is a relatively minor refresh, although there are some key points worth highlighting. Among the most notable is a move to Nvidia’s MX450 GPUs, which should yield a significant boost in graphical performance – that’s especially important for creators. HP already launched an Envy 17 model powered by 11th-gen Tiger Lake processors, but the i7-1165G7 returns here. This is supported by up to 32GB RAM and a maximum of 1TB SSD storage. The 17.3in OLED display itself starts at Full HD resolution (1920×1080), but can be configured all the way up to 4K. It’s housed within impressively narrow bezels on all models, giving it an 86.3% screen-to-body ratio. There’s no 4G or 5G support, although you do get Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth 5 connectivity. However, at 2.5kg, it’s not a particularly portable device. If you’re looking for something more lightweight, the new Envy 15 x360 might be a better option. It comes in at just 1.8kg, offering a choice between the latest Intel and AMD silicon. The device also offers convertible functionality by way of a 360-degree hinge. It has the same option for MX450 graphics and a 4K OLED screen, in addition to Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth 5 support. The smaller 15in display might be a limiting factor for some creators, but for others this offers a greater all-round package.
Both new Envy laptops have a 720p webcam, complete with HP’s physical camera shutter for extra peace of mind. They also take advantage of the company’s Enhanced Lighting software, which turns the display into a ring light for video calling. These are the latest additions to HP’s sustainable device portfolio, with the US company increasingly focusing on the environmental impact of its products. Both new Envy laptops are made using recycled aluminium, while the Envy 17 also uses post-consumer recycled and ocean-bound plastic in the manufacturing process. See more in our guide to laptop sustainability. The Envy 17 will start at £1,249 when it goes on sale in August. The Envy 15 x360 will be available around the same time, but the price differs depending on which processor you opt for – AMD-powered devices start at £849.99, while you’ll pay at least £999.99 for configurations with Intel silicon. Check out our best laptop chart to see what the new laptops will be up against. As the resident expert on Windows, Senior Staff Writer Anyron’s main focus is PCs and laptops. Much of the rest of his time is split between smartphones, tablets and audio, with a particular focus on Android devices.
