Pixels, Power, and Price: HP Envy Takes on Pavilion in 2024
HP, or Hewlett-Packard for those who remember the good old days, has been a stalwart in the PC industry since before many of us were born.
Their laptop lineup is as diverse as a tropical rainforest, but today we’re focusing on two species that often confuse the common consumer: HP Envy vs HP Pavilion
Why does this matter, you ask? Well, in a world where your laptop is essentially an extension of your brain, choosing the right one is crucial.
If you’re a code-slinging developer, a pixel-pushing designer, or just someone who wants to browse dank memes without lag, your choice between Envy and Pavilion could make or break your computing experience.
1. Design and Build Quality: Beauty vs. Beast?
1.1 HP Envy: The Sleek Seducer
The HP Envy is like the James Bond of laptops—suave, sophisticated, and packing some serious heat under the hood. With its:
- Aluminum chassis that could probably survive a fall from your standing desk
- Sleek, modern design that screams “I make more money than I know what to do with”
- Color options that include the classic silver and the “look at me, I’m an artist” pale gold
The Envy is built to turn heads and withstand the rigors of being tossed into a messenger bag 47 times a day. Weighing in at a svelte 2.88 lbs (1.3 kg) for the 13-inch model, it’s lighter than your emotional baggage.
1.2 HP Pavilion: The Practical Powerhouse
On the other hand, the HP Pavilion is like that reliable friend who always shows up to help you move—not flashy, but dependable as hell. Features include:
- A mix of plastic and metal that says, “I’m not trying to impress you, but I won’t fall apart either”
- Stylish enough for a coffee shop, rugged enough for a college dorm
- Color options that range from “I’m a serious business person” silver to “I’m fun at parties” blue
The Pavilion might not win any beauty pageants, but at 3.86 lbs (1.75 kg) for the 15-inch model, it’s still portable enough to lug around campus without developing scoliosis.
Weight and Portability
Average laptop weight by screen size:
| Screen Size | HP Envy | HP Pavilion |
|---|---|---|
| 13-inch | 2.88 lbs (1.3 kg) | N/A (not available) |
| 14-inch | 3.53 lbs (1.6 kg) | 3.86 lbs (1.75 kg) |
| 15-inch | 4.41 lbs (2.0 kg) | 4.63 lbs (2.1 kg) |
| 17-inch | 5.65 lbs (2.56 kg) | 5.97 lbs (2.7 kg) |
2. Display: Pixel Peeping Paradise
2.1 HP Envy: A Visual Feast
The Envy’s display options are like a buffet for your eyeballs:
- Screen sizes: 13″, 15″, and 17″ (because size does matter)
- Resolution: Full HD (1920×1080) to 4K UHD (3840×2160) for those who can see individual atoms
- Color accuracy: 100% sRGB coverage, because your Netflix binges deserve perfect color reproduction
- Brightness: Up to 400 nits, bright enough to use as a flashlight in a pinch
- Touchscreen options available, for those who like to smudge their screens
2.2 HP Pavilion: Respectable Visuals
The Pavilion’s display is like a good cover band—not quite the real thing, but enjoyable nonetheless:
- Screen sizes: 14″, 15″, and 17″ (a size for every lap)
- Resolution: HD (1366×768) to Full HD (1920×1080), because not everyone needs to see their pores in 4K
- Color accuracy: Decent, but don’t expect to edit the next Hollywood blockbuster on it
- Brightness: Around 250 nits, bright enough for indoor use, but might struggle in direct sunlight
- Touchscreen options available on select models, for the tactile among us.
Display Quality
| Metric | HP Envy | HP Pavilion |
|---|---|---|
| Max Brightness | 400 nits | 250 nits |
| Color Gamut | 100% sRGB, 72% NTSC | 65% sRGB, 45% NTSC |
| Contrast Ratio | 1200:1 | 800:1 |
3. Performance: The Nitty-Gritty
3.1 HP Envy: The Overachiever
The Envy is like that kid in school who aced every test and still had time for extracurriculars:
- Processors: Intel Core i5/i7 or AMD Ryzen 5/7, because choice is the spice of life
- RAM: Up to 32GB, enough to keep 500 Chrome tabs open (we don’t judge)
- Storage: NVMe SSDs up to 2TB, faster than a caffeinated cheetah
- Graphics: Integrated Intel Iris Xe or dedicated NVIDIA GTX/RTX, for when you need to game during your lunch break
- Benchmarks: Geekbench 5 multi-core scores up to 5,500, faster than 93% of all PCs worldwide
3.2 HP Pavilion: The Solid Performer
The Pavilion is like the dependable workhorse that gets the job done without the fancy tricks:
- Processors: Intel Core i3/i5 or AMD Ryzen 3/5, because not everyone needs to compile the Linux kernel
- RAM: Up to 16GB, enough for aggressive multitasking (or a moderate amount of Chrome tabs)
- Storage: SSDs up to 512GB, with some models offering additional HDD storage for your meme collection
- Graphics: Integrated or entry-level dedicated NVIDIA MX series, good enough for some light gaming or video editing
- Benchmarks: Geekbench 5 multi-core scores around 3,500, still outperforming 70% of PCs out there
Performance Metrics
Let’s dive into some concrete performance numbers to better illustrate the differences between these two series:
Benchmark Scores (Average across models)
| Benchmark | HP Envy | HP Pavilion |
|---|---|---|
| Geekbench 5 Single-Core | 1,350 | 1,150 |
| Geekbench 5 Multi-Core | 5,500 | 3,500 |
| Cinebench R23 (Multi-Core) | 8,500 | 6,000 |
| 3DMark Time Spy | 1,500 (Integrated GPU) / 4,500 (Dedicated GPU) | 1,000 (Integrated GPU) / 2,500 (Entry-level Dedicated GPU) |
Note: These are approximate average s and can vary significantly based on specific configurations.
how to control hp povilion laptop fanS
1. HP Command Center:
Most modern HP Pavilion laptops come with the HP Command Center pre-installed.
Open the HP Command Center and look for the “Thermal Profile” section.
You can usually choose between different profiles like “Quiet,” “Balanced,” and “Performance.”
The “Performance” mode will typically allow the fans to run at higher speeds to keep the laptop cool during intensive tasks.
2. BIOS Settings:
Restart your laptop and press the appropriate key (usually F10 or Esc) to enter the BIOS setup.
Look for the “Fan Control” or “System Cooling” options.
You may be able to set the fan to run at a constant speed or enable “Fan Always On” for maximum cooling.
Be careful when adjusting BIOS settings, as incorrect changes can affect system stability.
3. Third-party Software:
Notebook FanControl: This free software allows you to manually adjust fan speeds for many laptop models. You can download it from their website and check if it supports your HP Pavilion model.
SpeedFan: Another popular option, SpeedFan, provides detailed information about your system’s temperatures and fan speeds, allowing you to customize fan curves and monitor performance.
4. HP CoolSense:
Some older HP Pavilion models may have HP CoolSense technology.
This feature automatically adjusts fan speed and power settings based on the laptop’s temperature and usage.
You can usually enable or disable CoolSense in the HP Support Assistant or through a dedicated keyboard shortcut.
Additional Tips:
Clean the laptop: Dust buildup can restrict airflow and cause the fan to work harder. Regularly clean the vents and fan using compressed air to improve cooling efficiency.
Use a cooling pad: A cooling pad can help to lower the laptop’s temperature and reduce the need for the fan to run at high speeds.
Limit resource-intensive tasks: Running demanding applications or games can cause the laptop to heat up, so try to avoid multitasking or running multiple programs simultaneously.
Important Note:
Be cautious when manually adjusting fan speeds, especially using third-party software or BIOS settings. Overriding the default fan controls can lead to overheating or damage to your laptop if not done correctly.
4. Battery Life: The Eternal Struggle
4.1 HP Envy: The Marathon Runner
The Envy’s battery is like that friend who’s always the last to leave the party:
- Capacity: Up to 65Wh, more juice than a health food store
- Average life: Up to 14 hours of video playback, or 3 hours of actual work
- Fast charging: 0 to 50% in about 30 minutes, for those “Oh crap, I forgot to plug it in” moments
Battery Life
Average battery life based on typical usage scenarios:
| Scenario | HP Envy | HP Pavilion |
|---|---|---|
| Web Browsing | Up to 14 hours | Up to 8 hours |
| Video Playback | Up to 16 hours | Up to 10 hours |
| Productivity | Up to 10 hours | Up to 6 hours |
Note: Actual battery life can vary significantly based on configuration and usage.
4.2 HP Pavilion: The Steady Eddie
The Pavilion’s battery is like a Toyota Corolla—not exciting, but it’ll get you where you need to go:
- Capacity: Around 41Wh, enough for a day of lectures or a moderate Netflix binge
- Average life: Up to 8 hours of mixed usage, or about 2 hours of intense gaming
- Fast charging: Available on some models, but don’t expect miracles
5. Keyboard and Touchpad: The Human Interface
5.1 HP Envy: Typing Nirvana
The Envy’s input devices are like a finely tuned musical instrument:
- Keyboard: 1.5mm key travel, with a satisfying click that won’t annoy your coffee shop neighbors
- Backlighting: Multi-level brightness, for those late-night coding sessions
- Touchpad: Precision drivers, smoother than a freshly waxed dolphin
5.2 HP Pavilion: Comfortable and Capable
The Pavilion’s keyboard and touchpad are like a trusty pair of sneakers—not fancy, but they get the job done:
- Keyboard: 1.3mm key travel, comfortable enough for writing your magnum opus
- Backlighting: Available on some models, because typing in the dark is for elite hackers only
- Touchpad: Responsive, with support for multi-touch gestures (no, not those gestures)
6. Ports and Connectivity: Jack of All Trades
6.1 HP Envy: The Port Authority
The Envy comes equipped with:
- USB Ports: A mix of USB-A and USB-C, because we’re not savages
- Additional Ports: HDMI, headphone jack, and microSD slot, for all your peripheral needs
- Wireless: Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax) and Bluetooth 5.0, faster than a squirrel on espresso
6.2 HP Pavilion: The Connectivity Cornucopia
The Pavilion doesn’t skimp on ports either:
- USB Ports: Usually more USB-A than USB-C, because change is scary
- Additional Ports: HDMI, headphone jack, and full-size SD card slot, for the photographers among us
- Wireless: Wi-Fi 5 (802.11ac) or Wi-Fi 6, and Bluetooth 4.2 or 5.0, depending on how much you’re willing to spend
7. Audio and Camera: Lights, Camera, Action!
7.1 HP Envy: The Multimedia Maestro
- Audio: Bang & Olufsen tuned speakers that could wake the dead (or at least your roommate)
- Microphone: Dual-array mics with AI noise reduction, so people can hear you, not your neighbor’s lawnmower
- Webcam: HD or Full HD with a physical privacy shutter, because Big Brother is always watching
7.2 HP Pavilion: The Casual Conversationalist
- Audio: B&O Play audio, good enough for Zoom calls and the occasional impromptu dance party
- Microphone: Single or dual-array, clear enough for your mom to hear you say you’re eating well
- Webcam: HD with temporal noise reduction, so you don’t look like a potato in low light
8. Software and Features: The Digital Playground
8.1 HP Envy: The Feature-Rich Playground
- Pre-installed Software: Some bloatware, but also useful apps like HP Command Center
- Unique Features: Fingerprint reader, optional privacy screen, and HP QuickDrop for easy file transfers
- OS: Windows 10/11, upgradeable faster than you can say “blue screen of death”
8.2 HP Pavilion: The No-Frills Experience
- Pre-installed Software: The usual suspects (McAfee, anyone?), plus HP CoolSense for temperature management
- Unique Features: Fingerprint reader on some models, because passwords are so 2010
- OS: Windows 10/11, ready for all your OS update procrastination needs
9. Pricing and Value: The Wallet Wrangler
9.1 HP Envy: Premium at a Price
- Price Range: $749 to $1,999, because quality costs money (and so do marketing departments)
- Value Proposition: High-end features and build quality for those who demand the best
- Deals: Frequent sales that can knock up to 20% off, if you’re patient (or just lucky)
9.2 HP Pavilion: Budget-Friendly Beast
- Price Range: $449 to $1,199, for when you want a new laptop but also need to eat this month
- Value Proposition: Solid performance and features at a more accessible price point
- Deals: Often bundled with accessories or software, perfect for the bargain hunter
Pricing Statistics
Price ranges (as of 2023, subject to change):
| Series | Entry-Level | Mid-Range | High-End |
|---|---|---|---|
| HP Envy | $749 – $899 | $999 – $1,299 | $1,399 – $1,999 |
| HP Pavilion | $449 – $599 | $699 – $899 | $999 – $1,199 |
Average price difference: The Envy series is typically 30-40% more expensive than comparable Pavilion models.
10. User Reviews: The Voice of the People
10.1 HP Envy: The People’s Champion
- Average Rating: 4.5/5 stars across major retailers
- Praises: Build quality, performance, and display quality
- Gripes: Price and occasional quality control issues
10.2 HP Pavilion: The Everyman’s Laptop
- Average Rating: 4.2/5 stars, because nobody’s perfect
- Praises: Value for money, decent performance, and reliability
- Gripes: Build quality on some models and bloatware
11. Environmental Impact and Sustainability
In our increasingly eco-conscious world, the environmental impact of our tech choices matters. Let’s see how our contenders stack up:
11.1 HP Envy: The Eco-Warrior
- ENERGY STAR® certified across most models
- EPEAT® Gold registered in some regions
- Use of ocean-bound plastics in speaker enclosures (up to 5%)
- Packaging made from sustainably sourced, recyclable materials
11.2 HP Pavilion: The Green Contender
- ENERGY STAR® certified for many models
- EPEAT® Silver registered in select countries
- Some models use post-consumer recycled plastics in the build
- Recyclable packaging, though less emphasis on sustainable sourcing
Both series show HP’s commitment to reducing environmental impact, but the Envy takes a slight lead in sustainability efforts.
12. Security Features: Guarding Your Digital Fort
In an age where data breaches are more common than bad hair days, let’s look at how these laptops protect your digital life:
12.1 HP Envy: The Digital Bodyguard
- HP Sure View (optional): Integrated privacy screen to prevent visual hacking
- Fingerprint reader: Standard on most models
- Webcam kill switch or physical shutter: Because paranoia is just good sense these days
- HP Sure Sense: AI-based malware protection
- TPM 2.0: Hardware-based encryption support
12.2 HP Pavilion: The Security Starter Pack
- Fingerprint reader: Available on select models
- Software-based webcam shield: Not as robust as a physical shutter, but better than nothing
- HP BIOS Protection: Helps guard against BIOS attacks
- TPM 2.0: Also supports hardware-based encryption
The Envy clearly takes the lead in security features, offering more robust protection out of the box.
13. Customization and Configuration Options
The ability to tailor your laptop to your needs can be a crucial factor:
13.1 HP Envy: The Chameleon
- Highly customizable through HP’s website
- Options for processors, RAM, storage, and graphics cards
- Display options including OLED and 4K on some models
- Ability to choose between Intel and AMD processors
13.2 HP Pavilion: The Flexible Friend
- Less customization available compared to Envy
- Still offers some choice in processors, RAM, and storage
- Fewer high-end options (e.g., no 4K displays)
- Generally more preconfigured options available in retail stores
The Envy offers more flexibility in customization, especially for power users who know exactly what they need.
14. Long-term Value and Upgradability
Considering the lifespan and future-proofing of your investment:
14.1 HP Envy: Built to Last
- Generally more upgradable, especially in larger models
- Higher initial cost often translates to longer usable lifespan
- Better build quality may result in fewer repairs over time
- Higher resale value due to premium positioning
14.2 HP Pavilion: The Budget-Friendly Option
- Limited upgradability in most models
- Lower initial cost, but may need replacement sooner for power users
- Decent build quality, but may not withstand heavy use as well as Envy
- Lower resale value, but more affordable to replace
The Envy tends to offer better long-term value for those who can afford the initial investment, while the Pavilion provides a more budget-friendly option that may need replacement sooner.
15. Special Use Cases
Let’s consider how these laptops perform in specific scenarios:
15.1 Content Creation
- HP Envy: Better suited for photo and video editing, 3D rendering, and other demanding creative tasks. The option for color-accurate 4K displays and more powerful GPUs makes it a solid choice for content creators.
- HP Pavilion: Can handle basic photo editing and light video work, but may struggle with more intensive tasks. Better suited for hobbyists or those just starting in content creation.
15.2 Business and Professional Use
- HP Envy: With its premium build, better security features, and more powerful configurations, the Envy is well-suited for business professionals, especially those who frequently present to clients or need to run resource-intensive business applications.
- HP Pavilion: A good choice for small business owners or professionals with more basic computing needs. It can handle productivity software, video conferencing, and general office tasks without breaking the bank.
15.3 Education
- HP Envy: Ideal for college students in demanding fields like engineering, architecture, or digital arts. The more powerful specs and better build quality can withstand the rigors of campus life.
- HP Pavilion: Great for high school students or college students in less computer-intensive majors. It offers a good balance of performance and affordability for general schoolwork, research, and light entertainment.
Market Share and Customer Satisfaction
While exact market share figures for specific laptop series are not publicly available, we can look at overall HP laptop market share and customer satisfaction metrics:
- HP’s global market share in the personal computer market: approximately 21.2% as of Q2 2023 (Source: IDC)
- Customer Satisfaction scores (based on aggregate reviews across major retailers):
- HP Envy: 4.5/5 stars (based on 10,000+ reviews)
- HP Pavilion: 4.2/5 stars (based on 15,000+ reviews)
Reliability and Repair Statistics
While specific reliability data for Envy vs. Pavilion is not publicly available, we can look at overall HP laptop reliability:
- According to a 2022 laptop reliability report by Consumer Reports, HP laptops had an estimated breakage rate of 30% within 3-4 years of ownership.
- Common issues reported (across both series):
- Battery degradation (18% of issues)
- Hard drive/SSD failure (15% of issues)
- Hinge problems (12% of issues)
- Display issues (10% of issues)
Note: These figures are for HP laptops in general and may not reflect the specific reliability of Envy or Pavilion series.
Environmental Impact
Energy Efficiency:
- HP Envy: ENERGY STAR® certified, with an average annual energy consumption of 35 kWh
- HP Pavilion: ENERGY STAR® certified (select models), with an average annual energy consumption of 41 kWh
Recycled Materials:
- HP Envy: Up to 30% post-consumer recycled plastic used in some components
- HP Pavilion: Up to 15% post-consumer recycled plastic used in some components
Conclusion:
So, which laptop reigns supreme in the battle of HP Envy vs. Pavilion? Well, like most things in life, it depends.
Choose the HP Envy if:
- You want a premium build and don’t mind paying for it
- Performance is your middle name
- You need a color-accurate display for creative work
- Battery life is crucial to your existence
Go for the HP Pavilion if:
- You’re on a tighter budget but still want decent performance
- Build quality is important, but not at the expense of your savings account
- You need a reliable workhorse for everyday tasks and light gaming
- You don’t mind sacrificing some premium features for a better price
Remember, at the end of the day, the best laptop is the one that meets your needs without breaking the bank. Whether you choose the suave and sophisticated Envy or the practical and punchy Pavilion, you’re getting a solid machine backed by HP’s decades of experience.
Now, if you’ll excuse me, I need to go pet my cat to recover from this deep dive into the world of laptop comparisons. May your chosen laptop serve you well, and may your battery percentage always be above 20%.
FAQs:
Which series is better for gaming, HP Envy or HP Pavilion?
The Envy, with its option for dedicated NVIDIA GPUs, takes the crown here. But don’t count out the Pavilion—some models with MX series graphics can handle light gaming.
Are HP Envy laptops more durable than HP Pavilion laptops?
Generally, yes. The Envy’s all-aluminum construction gives it an edge in durability, but don’t go tossing either one off a cliff to test this theory.
Can I upgrade the RAM and storage on both HP Envy and Pavilion laptops?
It depends on the specific model. Some allow for easy upgrades, while others have components soldered to the motherboard. Check the service manual before buying if upgradability is important to you.
Which series offers better battery life?
The Envy typically has the edge here, with larger battery capacities and more efficient components. But remember, your mileage may vary depending on usage.
Is the HP Envy worth the extra cost compared to the HP Pavilion?
If you need the extra performance, better build quality, and premium features, then yes. If you’re mostly doing basic tasks, the Pavilion offers better value for money
Which laptop is better for students?
It depends on the student’s needs and budget. The Pavilion is often a better choice for its value, while the Envy might be preferable for students in fields requiring more computing power, like engineering or digital arts.
