First Impressions of the HP EliteBook X: The Fastest AI Laptop?

HP is revamping its product line, with the OmniBook range taking control of all its consumer devices, spanning from budget laptops to premium and gaming models. The EliteBook remains its line of business laptops, and the new EliteBook X G1a is the latest model utilizing the AMD Ryzen AI chipset series within the "Next Gen AI PC" initiative. This laptop features various characteristics focused on the tasks most demanded by professionals, and I have had the opportunity to examine a pre-production unit.

Although I cannot provide performance tests or experience some of the advanced features that are still unavailable, the EliteBook X G1a promises to be an intriguing proposition.

In terms of design, HP has succeeded in creating attractive, high-quality laptops, and the EliteBook X G1a is a clear example. Its build is robust, without any noticeable flex or twist, evoking a feeling similar to that of Apple’s MacBook. Its silver finish is sleek, with an HP logo that stands out without being excessive. The hinge allows for smooth one-handed opening of the screen and holds firmly in place.

While I don’t have the complete specifications for this model, I have the impression that it is not the thinnest or lightest 14-inch laptop on the market. Compared to the extremely thin MacBook Air M3, it feels a bit more robust. However, its screen bezels are thin enough, although Dell's XPS 14 takes the lead in this regard. I also appreciated the slightly rounded edges on the palm rest, which offer greater comfort during long typing sessions.

HP is known for making good keyboards, and the EliteBook X G1a is no exception. The layout and size of the keys are ideal, with excellent visibility of the print thanks to the high contrast between the letters and the dark background. The keys have a 1.5mm travel, which provides precise and consistent feedback, even on the spacebar. However, the touchpad is mechanical, a point that could disappoint, as haptic touchpads are becoming increasingly common in high-end laptops. Despite this, the touchpad is large, and its buttons offer a silent and secure click.

In terms of connectivity, the EliteBook X G1a comes with multiple options, including Thunderbolt 4, USB-C, and USB-A ports, as well as an HDMI output. While I don’t have all the details regarding its wireless connectivity, I hope it’s up to date and includes options for cellular connectivity. It’s worth noting the inclusion of Thunderbolt 4, which is interesting given that it’s not generally associated with AMD chipsets.

The webcam offers a resolution of 5MP and features on-chip AI processing, allowing for advanced capabilities such as user presence detection, which automatically blurs the image if more than one person is in the shot.

HP utilizes a customized version of the AMD Ryzen AI 9, specifically the R9-12c PRO, which combines security and management for enterprises with the necessary power. This variant stands out for having an NPU that manages operations at 55 trillion operations per second, surpassing other chipsets on the market and providing more efficient AI processing.

The 74.5 watt-hour battery should provide adequate battery life, although tests have not yet been conducted to confirm this.

Regarding the display, there will be two options: a 14.0-inch IPS WUXGA display and a 2.8K touchscreen OLED that supports up to 120Hz. Although I haven’t been able to test it, it seems to offer vibrant colors and deep blacks, typical characteristics of OLED screens. Audio is delivered through a four-speaker system, complemented by noise-cancelling microphones.

In summary, the EliteBook X G1a shapes up to be an intriguing laptop, equipped with a set of features and functionalities that could make it an elite choice for business users. Its attractive design and solid build, even as a pre-production unit, combined with its promising performance and AI capabilities, make it worthy of consideration, especially for corporate acquisitions in 2025.