HP Envy x2 2014 review

A reboot of HP's successful hybrid

(Photo credit: Kevin Lee)
(Photo credit: Kevin Lee)

Why you can trust TechRadar We spend hours testing every product or service we review, so you can be sure you’re buying the best. Find out more about how we test.

Keyboard

The Envy x2 comes with two detachable keyboard options at no additional cost. The standard chiclet keyboard is the same as the original Envy x2 and features the same metallic silver design as the tablet itself. By choosing this option you'll be creating a uniform 2-in-1 that looks similar to most hybrids on the market.

The alternative keyboard is a thing of beauty. Built with a leather exterior and palm base, the "mocha brown with biscotti tan cover" keyboard is reminiscent of a leather-bound journal. It is so thin that it takes up less than an inch of space on your desk and the soft plastic chiclet keys are a pleasure to press.

HP Envy x2 review

(Photo credit: Kevin Lee)

The touchpad is smooth and large: it takes up half the height of the keyboard, so your fingers won't ever get lost no matter how clumsy they might be. As a nice final touch, the Hewlett-Packard logo is stitched into the bottom in a gorgeous white font.

Because the leather keyboard doesn't match the design of the tablet you will look like you cobbled the two devices together separately rather than having purchased a single unit. Never you mind! I'm pretty sure you'll thank me when your palms touch the leather base for the first time.

HP Envy x2 review

(Photo credit: Kevin Lee)

Both keyboards come with a Stylus holder that sits in the middle of the right-hand side. Unfortunately the Stylus is optional so you'll have to purchase one at an additional cost if you need one.

Each keyboard connects to a magnetic strip that seamlessly locks onto the tablet. This was the most flawless detachable keyboard connection I've ever encountered. Once locked on, the keyboard is solidly fixed onto the tablet and you don't have to worry about losing your connection.