Should you upgrade to the HP Spectre x360 13?

Featuring a new, Gem Cut design

The late 2018 refresh of the HP Spectre x360 13 features an updated design with angled corners and different colored accents. HP calls this new design the "Gem Cut," and while it still looks like a Spectre device, the new design gives it a fresh new look and futuristic appeal that the previous models didn't have.

Previous models featured a more traditional design, with zero angular corners or gem cuts. The new design is much bolder and more unique, making it stand out in a coffee shop and alongside other, less bold laptops. It's a beautiful design, one that you'll enjoy greatly if you're looking for something different.

More power on the inside

In addition to a new design, the new HP Spectre x360 13 comes with updated internals to bring it up to scratch with the rest of the competition in 2018. Featuring 8th Gen Intel Core i7-8565U, either 8GB or 16GB RAM, 1080p or 4K touchscreen display, Intel UHD Graphics 620, and 256GB or 512GB M.2 Solid-state drive.

This is a powerful laptop, and one that should get you through most tasks with ease. It also has a Windows Hello compatible fingerprint reader, for quick logging into your device. Since it's an x360 device, its hinge can fold all the way around for tented mode and tablet mode. Previous models feature last generation processors.

Additional features

New to the Spectre x360 line is LTE capabilities, meaning you can now connect up to an LTE network anywhere and always stay connected. The 2018 Spectre x360s now include a kill switch for the webcam too, which works to cut power to your camera when you need a bit of privacy – potentially a more elegant solution than privacy sliders or simply placing a piece of tape over the camera.

For added privacy, you can optionally equip each Spectre x360 with HP's Sure View, which will keep those sitting next to you in public spaces from snooping your screen. In addition to all that, this is an x360 device meaning it has a 360 degree hinge and a touch screen. You can easily convert this laptop into a tablet on the fly, which is great for those moments when you're lying on the couch or sitting on a plane, and want to watch a movie.