HP Envy x2

Best answer: Microsoft's Surface Pen works well with the HP Envy x2. It's a great way to take advantage of the Envy x2's tablet-like aspects if you like taking notes or doing some inking, but you can also use the pen for other actions like opening apps.

  • Powerful convertible laptop: HP Envy x2 ($890 at HP)
  • Microsoft's stylus: Surface Pen ($100 at Microsoft)

It just works

The Surface Pen is an excellent accessory for any Windows 10 tablet that supports it. Lucky for HP Envy x2 owners, Microsoft's handy drawing tool works just fine with this device too. The pen itself uses N-trig, which is fine for the Envy x2, allowing you to not only pair the two together and use them without issue, but the button also works.

N-trig is just a fancy name for the technology used to make it all work like magic. Microsoft liked the tech N-trig produced so much that the Israel-based company was purchased in 2015, hence why you now see N-trig with all new Surface devices instead of Wacom.

Go forth and draw all the things on the HP Envy x2, which is a 2-in-1 that's more on the tablet side of things, whilst using the Surface Pen button to open apps, wake up the tablet, or other crazy functions.

Powerful Convertible

HP Envy x2

Balancing portability and performance

There are some serious advantages to buying the HP Envy x2, including the exceptional display, somewhat affordable price, and configurations. It's possible to save some serious funds and go with an ARM processor with better battery life.

When portability is what you truly desire, you should go with the Envy x2. The ability to detach the device from its base makes it possible to use it as a light notebook and a tablet, depending on the immediate needs. The only drawback is the battery life, which is around 8-10 hours less than the Spectre Folio. That is unless you get the ARM version, which we recommend over Intel.

Draw Anything

Surface Pen

Channel your inner Bob Ross

HP bundles its own stylus with the Envy x2, which is fine, but if you already own the Surface Pen or wish to pick a better stylus up anyway, know that it'll work without issue.

The Surface Pen supports 4,096 levels of pressure on the Surface Go, complete with tilt support and a magnetized edge for keeping your Pen safely stored to the side of your device. Taking AAAA batteries (that last for an absolute age) allows you to take replacements with you for when you eventually run out of stored juice. No need to wait forthe Surface Pen to recharge.

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