HP Envy x360 13-ay review: fast and compact convertible

Editor note: This review is an original English adaptation based on material from Notebook-Center.ru, prepared for Notebook Center readers.

Overview

HP Envy x360 13-ay is a 13.3-inch convertible positioned between HP's more affordable Pavilion x360 models and higher-end Spectre x360 line. In this configuration, it combines an AMD Ryzen 7 4700U processor, 16 GB of memory, and a 1 TB SSD in a compact metal chassis. The device targets users who want one laptop for work, study, media, and light creative tasks.

Technical Specifications

Design and Build

The laptop uses an aluminum chassis with a clean, minimalist look and solid rigidity. It supports a 360-degree hinge, so you can switch between laptop, tent, stand, and tablet-like usage modes. At 1.32 kg, it is easy to carry daily, though internal upgrades are limited because the memory is soldered and opening the bottom cover is not simple.

Display and Multimedia

The 13.3-inch Full HD IPS touch panel offers strong brightness and contrast, with wide viewing angles and responsive 10-point touch input. Color presentation looks vivid for everyday work and entertainment. The main trade-off is the glossy surface, which can be difficult outdoors in bright light. Speakers are usable for videos and casual music, while the 720p webcam is serviceable for calls but not high quality.

Keyboard and Touchpad

The keyboard has comfortable key travel, clear feedback, and two-level backlighting, which helps during long typing sessions. Frequently used keys are easy to hit, although the arrow-key layout is less convenient. The touchpad is large and responsive in general use, with reliable gesture tracking.

Performance

With an 8-core Ryzen 7 4700U and 16 GB RAM, this Envy x360 handles daily multitasking smoothly, including browser-heavy workflows, office work, and photo editing tasks such as Photoshop. The integrated Radeon Vega 7 graphics is suitable for everyday visual workloads and lighter games rather than demanding AAA settings.

Ports, Battery, and Everyday Comfort

Connectivity covers common needs with two USB Type-A ports, one USB Type-C, a microSD card reader, and a combined audio jack, plus Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth 5.0. Battery life is a key strength: around 10-11 hours of web use depending on brightness, while heavy load can reduce runtime to about 2 hours. The chassis stays comfortable in palm-rest areas, but fan noise becomes noticeable under load and can reach clearly audible levels.

Verdict

HP Envy x360 13-ay is a practical compact convertible for users who value mobility, strong everyday speed, and long battery life in one device. Its strongest points are performance for the class, good portability, and flexible 2-in-1 use. The main compromises are a glossy screen in bright environments, soldered RAM, modest webcam quality, and higher noise under heavier workloads.