HP Envy x2 with Qualcomm Snapdragon vs. Intel: Which should you buy?

These two devices may have the same name but they are in fact very different. For the majority of people, the lower price, better battery life, and superior keyboard of the Qualcomm version will outweigh the better compatibility with non-Store apps that an Intel processor provides.

Qualcomm vs. Intel: Spec comparison

	HP Envy x2 (Intel)	HP Envy x2 (Qualcomm)
Processor	Intel Core i5-7Y54 (7th Gen)	Qualcomm Snapdragon 835
RAM	4GB	4 GB
Storage	128GB M.2 SSD	Universal Flash Storage (UFS) 128GB
Display size	12.3 inches Touch	12.3 inches Touch
Display resolution	1,920 x 1,280 3:2 aspect ratio	1,920 x 1,280 3:2 aspect ratio
Graphics	Intel HD Graphics 615	Qualcomm Adreno 540
Ports	Two USB-C (Gen 1, DisplayPort 1.3 Power Delivery), microSD, headphone and mic, SIM tray	USB-C 3.1 microSD card reader 3.5 mm audio SIM
LTE	Yes	Yes
Biometrics	IR camera for Windows Hello	IR camera for Windows Hello
Battery	Up to 17.5 hours	Up to 19 hours

The HP Envy x2 with Qualcomm has a better kickstand and keyboard

On the Qualcomm version of the Envy x2 you get a Surface-like fold-out kickstand attached to the keyboard folio. On the Intel version, the stand is a "pull out and reset" like you used to get from Samsung and on devices like the first Huawei MateBook.

This means the Qualcomm one is adjustable, while the Intel only has two positions, leading to a much more restrictive and frustrating experience.

The keyboard on the Intel version is also just not as good as its Qualcomm sibling. The trackpad is Elan, not Microsoft Precision, and it's shorter, too.

Intel is more expensive

The pricing doesn't just concern the tablet, either. While the Intel version's list price is $150 more than the Qualcomm one, there's also a consideration to be made with the version of Windows each runs.

The Qualcomm version runs Windows 10 S which can currently be upgraded to Windows 10 Pro for free. The Intel one comes with Windows 10 Home, and an update to Pro there will cost $99.

So the Qualcomm version is definitely the best value where your OS is concerned.

Intel for traditional apps, Qualcomm for everything else

One has a Snapdragon 835 and the other an Intel Core i5, but neither will leave you disappointed. However, there are differences in where the performance lies.

The Qualcomm Envy x2 has a better modem and is always connected with instant-on thanks to being an ARM processor. The Intel version will go to sleep after a while, where the Qualcomm is more akin to the experience you get using your phone.

Apps from the Microsoft Store are already optimized to run well on Windows 10 S and ARM processors, but it's hard to deny that the Intel version has the edge when running traditional desktop apps.

Battery life also tips in favor of the Qualcomm. It's easily possible to get an extra couple of hours from it over the Intel.

Get the Qualcomm version

Considering both of these products are the HP Envy x2, it's perhaps surprising that the differences go beyond just the internal hardware. But that's the case, and it's overwhelmingly in favor of the Qualcomm version.

The keyboard and trackpad are better, Windows 10 Pro is a free upgrade and it's cheaper than the Intel version while offering a constant data connection and incredible battery life.

An Intel-powered misstep

The better support for traditional desktop apps obtained outside the Microsoft Store, general compatibility and outright power is about the only reason to consider the Intel powered Envy x2. Everywhere else, its Qualcomm powered sibling is a lot better.

The single-position kickstand, lesser Elan trackpad and awkward keyboard are reason enough, especially when it also costs more.