HP recently garnered attention for releasing one of the first Qualcomm Snapdragon Windows 10 PCs to hit the market, the Envy x2. However, if you're still a little skeptical of running Windows 10 on a chip that typically powers your smartphone (and it does it well), then there's now another option on the block: the Envy x2 with an Intel processor.
The Intel variant is now available for $1,149.99. That's a bit more than the starting price of the $999 Snapdragon model, which likely comes down to the chip cost. Still, both models pack LTE connectivity, with the Intel model opting for Intel's XMM 7360 LTE modem.
HP originally announced the Intel version way back in January during CES even before the ARM version was on sale yet.
In terms of other specs, you're looking at, essentially, the same device here. The 12.3-inch IPS touch display is the same here, packing a 1920 x 1280 resolution. You'll also get 4GB of RAM and 128GB of SSD storage. Stylus support is also still here, as is quick login support via Windows Hello.
The main difference comes down to the processor and graphics. Inside, the whole package is powered by a 1.2GHz (3.2GHz boost) Intel Core i5-7Y54 processor and Intel's HD Graphics 615. Just keep in mind that this isn't a full-powered Core i5. Rather, it's a part of the Y-series (formerly M-series), designed to draw half the power of a full-fledged Core i5 U-series chip, which you'd see in more powerful PCs. That lower power draw means half the normal speed, but it also runs much cooler than U-series chips.
HP doesn't provide battery life information, but the Intel variant of the Envy x2 packs the same 49.33 WHr battery. It's likely you'll see a little shorter battery life than the ARM version, but it's unclear by how much for now.
You can pick up the Intel-powered Envy x2 from HP now for $1,149.99. Alternatively, if you're ready to go all-in on Qualcomm's Snapdragon chip, it's available in a separate model for $999. We'll be comparing the two version soon, but for now, you can check out our review of the Snapdragon-powered Envy x2 for more insight on where it stands.
