HP ZBook x2 G4 review

HP ZBook x2 G4 — the pen-first workstation convertible, heavy by design

A 2017 creative workstation convertible at $385, roughly typical for its class ($356 median). Core i7-8550U, Quadro M620 with 2GB, 32GB of RAM. Graphics registers 18.35 — nearly 5× the convertible median — while reliability sits at 21 (−57%) and weight at 2.2kg, half again the class norm.

A real workstation intent, era-scoped

The ZBook x2 was built for pen-driven creative work: the Quadro M620, the digitizer, the 32GB. Judged by its era, Overwatch and GTA V clear minimum while Far Cry 5 misses its minimum bar by a wide margin — the card was entry-workstation class even in 2017. For Photoshop-class work of its period, it was the target audience; today, treat the graphics as vintage-capable, not current.

The convertibility is nominal

2.2kg in a convertible format is a desk machine with a folding hinge — this was never a lap-and-stylus travel companion. Reliability at 21 against a 49 median compounds the age: the machine is seven-plus years into a creative workload's typical life.

Price trajectory

From a $1,500 base, decay has run 8.54% per year to $385, with a projected $322 (−16%) ahead. Typical-class price for below-class reliability — the market has priced the age.

Against its neighbors

Both analogs undercut it: the EliteBook x360 1040 G5 ($328) and ThinkPad X1 YOGA ($357) — lighter, newer-feeling convertibles without the Quadro. The x2 G4's differentiator is the pen-plus-Quadro combination, which survives only for specific legacy creative workflows.

Bottom line

A specialist's cheap entry: pen-first creative work on a budget, desk-bound by weight and bounded by 2017 graphics. Everyone else should take the lighter x360 at $328 and not look back.