HP Dragonfly Pro review
The HP HP Dragonfly Pro ranks as the #214 laptops globally, achieving a LibraScore of 77. Across all metrics, this product stands out most for its #75-ranked features among 359 laptops. Consider the HP EliteBook 845 G11 or HP EliteBook X G1i, which offer higher scores while staying in the same price range.
Is it Worth it?
The HP Dragonfly Pro with Ryzen inside is a solidly built laptop that checks most boxes. While its display resolution isn't spectacular, the price point makes it more affordable than other high-end options. Performance-wise, it's good but not exceptional, and may be outdone by competing models like the M2 MacBook Air or Dell XPS 13. However, its battery life is a major selling point, offering up to 12 hours of runtime. For those who value this aspect, the Dragonfly Pro is definitely worth considering, especially if you're in the Windows ecosystem and don't need top-of-the-line specs.
Build
The HP Dragonfly Pro boasts a solidly built design that's both elegant and durable. The laptop has no flex, making it resistant to drops. The charger is compact but packs 96 Watts of power, ideal for frequent travelers. However, the internal build quality is somewhat lacking, with limited serviceability. The battery is accessible but other components like the SSD and Wi-Fi card are not easily modifiable. Despite the magnetic cover being easy to open, there's a lack of space for upgrades or repairs. Overall, the Dragonfly Pro's build quality excels in some areas, but falls short in others. Give HP ProBook 440 G10 a try—it’s designed to provide an unparalleled build.
Display
The HP Dragonfly Pro's display is a highlight of the device. It features a good-looking package with solid construction, but the resolution won't blow you away. While it may not be the most impressive in terms of pixel density, it still delivers a crisp and clear image. The screen size is a comfortable 14 inches, making it suitable for productivity tasks and multitasking. Overall, the display gets the job done without being overly flashy or showy. It's a solid choice for those seeking a reliable Windows device. Get your hands on HP EliteBook 845 G11 if you're looking for better display.
Performance
The HP Dragonfly Pro's performance is a mixed bag. The AMD Ryzen processor provides decent processing power, but doesn't quite match the Intel Core i7 in this category. Nevertheless, the laptop still manages to deliver respectable performance for everyday tasks and office work. However, it falls short when compared to the 13-inch M2 MacBook Air and Dell XPS 13, which offer faster performance and higher resolution displays. Despite this, the Dragonfly Pro's battery life is a strong selling point, lasting up to 15 hours on a single charge. Overall, the laptop's performance is good enough for general use, but may not satisfy those who require more demanding specs. Consider discovering the power of HP ProBook 445 G11, featuring the latest advancements in performance.
Battery and Charging
The HP Dragonfly Pro boasts an impressive battery life, with manufacturer claims suggesting up to 15-16 hours of runtime. In testing, I found the laptop lasted around 10-12 hours on a single charge, which is still very respectable. The compact charger, which delivers 96 watts of power, also speeds up charging times. Overall, the Dragonfly Pro's battery life and charging capabilities make it an attractive option for users who need all-day computing without needing to plug in.
Connectivity
The HP Dragonfly Pro boasts a compact charger with 96W power delivery, ideal for fast charging on-the-go. It also features Wi-Fi 6E and an optional 5G upgrade later this summer. However, the battery is soldered to the motherboard, making it difficult to upgrade or replace. This may be a drawback for some users who prefer flexibility in their devices. For a superior connectivity, HP EliteBook 845 G11 could be the right choice.
Features
The HP Dragonfly Pro boasts a sleek design and solid build quality. It features a good-looking display with quad stereo speakers and a magnetic cover that's easy to open. The laptop comes with an AMD Ryzen processor, Wi-Fi 6E connectivity, and up to 32GB of RAM. A high-capacity battery provides up to 16 hours of runtime, making it ideal for professionals on-the-go. Additionally, the Chromebook variant offers a more affordable option with a higher resolution display and Intel 12th Gen processor. A better alternative might be HP EliteBook X G1a, featuring a next-level features.
Support and Maintenance
The HP Dragonfly Pro introduces a unique support and maintenance approach with its "Pro" edition. The device comes with a dedicated support hotline, online forums, and in-person workshops for users to get hands-on training. Additionally, the laptop's modular design makes it easy to repair or upgrade individual components, extending its lifespan. This forward-thinking strategy may appeal to businesses and professionals who value reliability and ease of use.
Pros
1. The battery life is fantastic, with run times of 10 to 12 hours, no problem.
2. The processing performance doesn't beat Intel, but the run times are just fantastic.
3. The laptop has a good looking package and solidly built.
4. It's not in the elite line of super expensive HP laptops, making it more affordable.
5. The display is good enough looking, despite not having blow your pants off resolution.
6. The laptop has quad stereo speakers, which is pretty good for a traditional laptop.
7. The battery is easily accessible, making it easy to swap out if needed.
Cons
1. The Intel M2 MacBook Air can give this a run for the money in terms of performance and display resolution.
2. The Dell XPS 13 will get even faster performance, but with shorter battery life.
3. The laptop's serviceability is limited, making it difficult to upgrade or repair components.
4. The RAM is soldered on board, meaning you can't easily add more memory if needed.
5. The SSD and Wi-Fi card may be difficult to access due to the heat shroud and tape.
6. There's no convertible design, which means the speakers are always facing away from the user.
7. The laptop's internal components are not easily accessible, making it difficult to upgrade or repair.
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