HP 17 Laptop Review: Large Screen Powerhouse Verdict
Rated an impressive 8.6/10, the HP 17 Laptop 17.3-inch (13th Gen Intel i5) has carved out a strong reputation as a large-screen workhorse with standout performance in productivity tasks. While its generous display and speedy internals draw praise from professionals and home users alike, recurring complaints about display quality and build quirks mean it’s not the perfect fit for everyone.
Quick Verdict: Conditional — Buy if you prioritize performance and screen size over portability and color-accurate visuals.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Strong performance from 13th Gen Intel Core i5 with Iris Xe graphics | TN panel on some versions with lower resolution or poor color |
| Comfortable full-size keyboard with numeric keypad | Keyboard flex reported; warmth in prolonged use |
| Impressive battery life in mixed use (up to 7.5–8 hours) | Battery life drops sharply under heavy load (~3–4 hours gaming) |
| Plenty of ports, including USB-C and HDMI | No Ethernet port or SD card slot |
| Easy memory and storage upgrade options | Plastic chassis less durable for travel |
| Affordable pricing for specs offered | Divisive build quality opinions |
Claims vs Reality
HP markets the HP 17 Laptop as a “thoughtfully designed” system with reliable performance, enhanced connectivity, and a comfortable large-screen form factor. Promotional materials highlight the 17.3-inch Full HD or HD+ displays, Intel Iris Xe graphics, and extended battery life.
However, digging deeper into user reports reveals some variance in how these claims hold up:
The company’s claim of “crisp Full HD visuals” doesn’t always match reality. Consumer Reports testing on the HP 17-cn2063cl confirms the display “was very good overall… anti-reflective with wide viewing angles,” but multiple LibraSpecs and Reddit users point out certain trims use 1600x900 TN panels. One Reddit user noted: “the resolution is not as crisp as desired,” and color coverage sometimes hovers around 60% sRGB, limiting its suitability for design work.
HP also promotes “long battery life.” While marketing emphasizes longevity, experiences vary heavily by workload. Reddit user u/[name withheld] reported: “maybe 4 hours of use” for heavy work, contrasting with Trustpilot feedback where mixed usage reached 7.5 hours, and Consumer Reports testing hit 8 hours in light web browsing or almost 10 hours streaming. Marketing doesn't stress that power-hungry tasks can cut life in half.
Finally, HP’s “comfortable typing” promise is mostly met—Best Buy buyers described the keyboard as “very nice… love the size,” but LibraSpecs reviewers complain “the keyboard does bend a little when typing,” highlighting variability depending on expectations.
Cross-Platform Consensus
Universally Praised
Across Best Buy, Reddit, and Consumer Reports, performance is the HP 17’s strongest asset. The combination of 13th Gen i5 processors and Iris Xe graphics delivers smooth multitasking. A verified Best Buy buyer wrote: “I did more RAM so if I wanted to watch a movie it wouldn’t freeze or give me any lag.” Office-heavy users appreciate how it handles “large Excel spreadsheets, statistical programming in R, a million Chrome tabs” without stuttering.
Battery endurance in moderate use is consistently praised. Consumer Reports achieved 8 hours for browsing and Reddit threads cite quiet operation even during sustained tasks, making it appealing for students and remote workers who need all-day usability.
Upgradeability also garners likes—the inclusion of RAM slots and space for a 2.5-inch drive offers longevity. Trustpilot summarizes the sentiment: “extensive memory upgrade options… makes it a great choice for work and relaxation.”
Common Complaints
Display quality is the most frequent disappointment. Lower-resolution TN panels found in some configurations leave creative professionals cold, with one LibraSpecs reviewer calling it “not even Full HD… suitable only for occasional photo editing.” This inconsistency in panel type means shoppers must double-check specs before buying.
Port limitations also frustrate certain buyers—while USB-C and HDMI are handy, the absence of an Ethernet port and SD card slot impacts photographers and gamers. “You’ll need a dongle,” one Trustpilot review warns, illustrating minor but cumulative inconveniences.
Build quality divides opinion. Best Buy reviewers describe it as “nice… not heavy,” but Reddit comments note “plastic shell… keyboard gets warm overnight,” hinting durability may suffer if heavily traveled.
Divisive Features
The full-size keyboard with numeric keypad is loved by data-entry professionals, but those relying on rigidity find the flex irritating. LibraSpecs calls the typing “pleasant overall” yet acknowledges the bend.
Battery life in gaming is contentious. While portable in browsing tasks, intense workloads drain it quickly—gaming slices it to ~3 hours, leading some to prefer desk-bound use tethered to AC power.
Trust & Reliability
Scam concerns are minimal, with multiple refurbished models on eBay explicitly factory-certified and backed by warranties. This transparency, combined with HP's established market presence, reassures most buyers.
Long-term durability trends are mixed. Reddit posts after months of ownership report steady performance but consistent warmth on the keyboard during long sessions—no catastrophic failures, but minor comfort compromises. Trustpilot calls it “reliable for work and relaxation” while advising careful handling due to the plastic chassis.
Alternatives
Several user discussions cross-reference Dell Inspiron 15 3510 and Asus Chromebook Flip CM5 as alternatives for similar or better scores at comparable prices. LibraSpecs suggests creative users prioritize models like HP 470 G9 for higher display quality. Those seeking superior build might lean toward HP ProBook 455 G7, while high-connectivity needs could fit the HP Dragonfly Pro Chromebook.
Price & Value
Amazon lists certain configurations at $599, with higher trims above $689 at Best Buy. eBay refurbished units dip to ~$499, making them attractive for budget-conscious buyers who want top-tier internals without paying retail.
Given its performance and expandability, resale value holds reasonably—especially for upgraded RAM/storage builds. Community advice emphasizes checking panel specs to avoid TN where FHD IPS is available, ensuring you get maximum value in visual quality.
FAQ
Q: Does the HP 17 Laptop always come with a Full HD display?
A: No—while some versions feature 1920x1080 IPS panels, user reports confirm that certain trims ship with 1600x900 TN screens. Always verify exact specs before purchasing.
Q: How long does the battery last in real-world use?
A: Mixed workloads yield 7–8 hours, light browsing may stretch to 10, but heavy computing or gaming can cut runtime to 3–4 hours.
Q: Is the keyboard backlit?
A: Many configurations offer backlighting, but some do not. Consumer Reports testing found backlighting useful in dark rooms; LibraSpecs notes lower-end versions omit it.
Q: Can I upgrade RAM and storage?
A: Yes—users highlight two RAM slots and the ability to add a 2.5-inch drive, making it expandable for longevity.
Q: Is it good for gaming?
A: Suitable for light gaming; Iris Xe graphics handle moderate titles well, but battery drains quickly and high-refresh competitive play may require external monitors.
Final Verdict: Buy if you’re a productivity-focused user—students, professionals, or home office workers—who values speed, upgradeability, and a large display over portability and color-intensive tasks. Avoid if you need precise visual accuracy for creative work or expect all-day battery at maximum load. Pro tip from the community: check the exact screen type before you buy to avoid low-res TN panels if your work demands sharp visuals.
