HP Envy Move: A Portable All-in-One PC with Compromises

HP Envy Move Review Redefining the PC | ENBLE

Check out our ENBLE review of the HP Envy Move—a PC like no other!

HP, known for its innovative yet sometimes questionable experiments, has released the Envy Move, an all-in-one PC that takes portability to the next level. With the battery inside, it functions almost like a portable desktop, making it a convenient option for those on the move. However, there are some compromises involved, specifically in terms of performance and display.

Specs and Configurations: From Affordable to High-End

Starting at $900 (currently on sale for $750), the Envy Move offers a range of configurations to suit different needs and budgets. The base model features a Core i3-1315U CPU, 8GB of RAM, a 256GB SSD, and a 23.8-inch IPS display. At the high-end, for $1,210 ($1,060 on sale), you can get a Core i5-1355U, 16GB of RAM, and a 1TB SSD. All configurations come with integrated Intel Iris Xe graphics, as discrete GPU options are not available.

While the prices are attractive, especially when on sale, the unique design does not compensate for the compromises in performance and display quality.

A Neat Design: Carrying the PC with Style

The Envy Move weighs just 9 pounds, making it manageable to carry around. It even comes with a handle on top and a pocket in the back for the bundled keyboard, adding a touch of convenience. The feet of the PC swivel in a clever way, allowing for easy placement on any surface. The design is particularly appealing to hybrid workers or those who need a flexible workspace. Plus, with its built-in battery, you can roam around the house without dragging the power adapter with you.

The Envy Move feels well-built, with a sturdy plastic construction. While it may not have the futuristic style of the Lenovo Yoga AiO 9i or the elegant aesthetic of the Apple iMac, it gets the job done.

Keyboard and Touchpad: A Bit of a Disappointment

The Envy Move comes with a keyboard that fits neatly into the pocket on the back of the PC. The keyboard includes a touchpad, eliminating the need for a separate mouse. However, the typing experience is just okay, with keys that lack snappiness and an abrupt bottoming out action. The keyboard’s angle may also cause fatigue over time. On the bright side, the touchscreen display adds a convenient touch to the user experience.

Limited Connectivity: Wireless Is the Way to Go

In terms of connectivity, the Envy Move offers a single USB-C port, a USB-A port, and an upstream-only HDMI port for using the display with another PC. Unfortunately, there is no external audio jack, meaning you’re limited to the built-in speakers or Bluetooth audio. HP seems to discourage unplugging speakers and carrying them around. However, wireless connectivity is up-to-date, and the webcam, with its privacy-blocking physical slider, provides excellent video quality.

Average Display, Decent Audio

The Envy Move’s 23.8-inch display, with its 2560 x 1440 QHD resolution, falls short in terms of sharpness. While some may find the resolution acceptable, others may notice the pixelation when viewing text. Color accuracy and brightness are average, providing a satisfactory viewing experience for most productivity tasks and media consumption. The built-in speakers, tuned by Bang & Olufsen, deliver clear sound with a touch of bass and spatial effects.

Disappointing Performance, Decent Battery Life

HP made the curious decision to use lower-power Intel Core CPUs in the Envy Move, resulting in disappointing performance for a desktop PC. While it performs adequately for typical productivity tasks and media consumption, demanding tasks and creative work may require a more powerful configuration. On the bright side, the Envy Move boasts an 82 watt-hour battery, offering around five hours of web browsing and video looping. This allows for a few hours of productivity without a power adapter, though it falls short compared to modern laptops.

An Idea That Falls Short of Greatness

The Envy Move is a nicely designed all-in-one PC that prioritizes portability. It offers a unique value proposition, especially for those constantly on the go. Its attractive price, especially during sales, may attract buyers. However, the compromises in performance and display quality prevent it from reaching greatness. If you’re looking for a PC that is easy to carry around and fits your budget, the Envy Move might be worth considering. But if performance and display quality are your top priorities, you may want to explore other options.

What do you think about the Envy Move’s portable design? Would you be willing to compromise on performance and display quality for its convenience? Let us know in the comments below!