HP Pavilion 17

The archetypal student laptop is back – and better than ever!

When it comes choosing the right laptop for school, college or university, the HP Pavilion is often at the top of many student wishlists. Why? Because this popular range of budget laptop PCs have proved, over the years, that they are both tough and reliable; while keen pricing and flexible configuration options mean there’s a model to suit almost any need or budget.

For 2017, though, HP has adopted a slight change of tack. The Pavilion range is still sensibly priced; but has also been given a makeover, giving the line a more premium look and feel, while also making each model thinner and smaller. The 17-incher, seen here, is also incredibly cheap – with prices starting at £899.99 ($729.99) and rising to £999.99 ($1,099.99), depending on model.

Design

The 2017 HP Pavilion borrows much of its classier design from the company’s higher-end Envy family. Most notably, the Pavilion laptop’s classically plastic body has been infused with 3D metal to make it look more visually appealing.

Then there’s the addition of the proprietary Lift Hinge, which you’ll find drooping over the rear of the new Pavilion clamshells. Open up the screen and this rear extension props the entire machine at a slight slant for a more comfortable typing experience. At the same time, the Lift Hinge helps raise the bottom of the notebook above surfaces for better airflow.