HP Spectre Fold Review: Dragging The PC Into The Future

The first laptop entered the market over 40 years ago, and since then, we’ve been tied to the traditional design: screen on top, keyboard below, and a hinge in between. However, the arrival of flexible displays has paved the way for foldable computing. Pioneered by devices like the Lenovo X1 Fold and ASUS ZenBook Fold, these innovative laptops can transform into portable desktops. HP now joins this foldable trend with its Spectre Fold, a sleek and sophisticated multimodal PC—though its $5,000 price tag makes it a rare sight in public.

Design and Build Quality

The Spectre Fold can transition from a compact 12.5-inch clamshell to a massive 17-inch workstation. It also offers a unique “1.5-screen” workspace mode, adding more display area while the keyboard acts as a wrist rest. Magnets firmly hold the keyboard in place, and the OLED screen smartly shuts down unused sectors. These thoughtful details elevate the Spectre Fold beyond its competitors.

Performance and Features

Unlike Lenovo’s bug-laden performance or ASUS’s bulky design, HP’s foldable neatly integrates its keyboard and even wirelessly charges it while docked. Despite its thin profile, the keyboard offers a decent typing experience, and the Bluetooth connection minimizes input lag. However, the lack of backlighting is a notable drawback.

Ports are limited to two USB-C, but HP compensates with an included dock. The speakers deliver impressive sound, and the slim bezels enhance the visual experience. Internally, the Spectre Fold features a smart battery design, splitting weight asymmetrically to improve stability when used as a laptop.

Security and Privacy

HP includes thoughtful features like a physical webcam shutter, auto-lock/unlock based on user proximity, and lurker detection. These add to the device’s appeal for professionals concerned about privacy. The active stylus, which magnetically docks and charges, further enhances usability.

Battery Life and Software Challenges

During testing, the Spectre Fold consistently delivered 7-8 hours of battery life, even in full 17-inch workstation mode. However, the screen’s brightness is somewhat limited. Software remains the Achilles’ heel: Windows struggles with foldable hardware, unlike Android’s evolving support for flexible displays. Features like “1.5-screen” mode are promising but hampered by inconsistent software optimization.

Hardware Trade-offs and Price Justification

Despite its premium build, the Spectre Fold has compromises. The webcam’s placement is awkward in tabletop mode, and the kickstand design results in a less-than-ideal viewing angle. HP also includes pre-installed bloatware and stickers, detracting from the device’s otherwise premium feel. The 12th-generation Intel Core i7 processor, chosen for its 9-watt requirement, lags behind newer CPUs and lacks a dedicated GPU, limiting performance for intensive tasks.

Final Thoughts

HP’s CEO emphasizes flexibility and innovation, and the Spectre Fold embodies these values. Yet, its high price and software limitations prevent it from becoming a mainstream choice. It’s a glimpse into a promising future, but until manufacturers offer better software integration and pricing, foldable PCs will remain niche products.

This review was made possible by an HP Spectre Fold review sample. No pre-approval rights or editorial input were granted to HP.

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