HP Dragonfly G4: A Detailed Review

Our review of the HP Dragonfly G4 underscores its status as a pinnacle of innovation in the electronics market, with a 13.5-inch 3:2 display that optimizes vertical space for enhanced productivity. This elite hp g4 laptop, crafted from 90% recycled magnesium alloy, is not only eco-friendly but also lightweight and durable, weighing in at just 2.5 pounds. We explore the HP Dragonfly's superior design, its whisper-quiet performance, and the exceptional display quality, solidifying its rank as a top contender among premium ultraportable laptops.

Our comprehensive analysis of the HP Elite Dragonfly G4 meticulously evaluates the laptop's design, scrutinizes its display, and rigorously tests its performance, including processors and SSDs. We assess the battery life, charging speed, the array of ports, connectivity options, and delve into the user experience with the keyboard, touchpad, audio, and webcam quality. Additionally, we'll discuss the hp g4's upgrade potential and serviceability, providing you with the detailed information needed to make an informed decision about this standout ultraportable laptop.

Design and Build Quality

The HP Elite Dragonfly's chassis, a unique alloy of magnesium and aluminum, immediately stands out, offering both a tactile and visual appeal. Our in-depth review focuses on the design and build quality, which is particularly relevant for those interested in the hp dragon's price point and its competitive stance in the electronics segment of the laptops market.

Material and TextureThe exterior of the HP Dragonfly laptop showcases engineering excellence with its magnesium-aluminum alloy body, balancing ultra-light portability with robust durability. This material choice not only elevates the laptop's aesthetic but also ensures resilience to daily use, cementing its position as a sophisticated choice in the hp dragon fly laptops segment.

Weight and Color OptionsWeighing a mere 2.2 pounds, the HP Dragonfly Elite emerges as an ultraportable yet sturdy powerhouse, passing the rigorous MIL-STD 810H tests. Its build quality is remarkable, and the laptop is available in colors like Slate Blue and Natural Silver, with the Slate Blue variant offering a professional elegance that's sure to appeal to users interested in both ho elite laptops and graphics cards performance.

Design DetailsThe HP EliteBook Dragonfly's design is finely honed, with rounded corners for comfort and unique 'pillow corners' that add to its aesthetic. Its clamshell design maintains a 3:2 aspect ratio screen that lays flat, offering versatility for users and reinforcing the dragonfly hp's esteemed position in the laptops category.

The HP Dragonfly G4's dual webcams, including a high-definition 1440p camera with an IR sensor, cater to professionals who value secure facial recognition logins. HP's branding is subtly and professionally integrated, reflecting the Dragonfly G4's design ethos of understated elegance, positioning it as a premium choice for users seeking top-tier cameras in their laptops.

The CNC process showcased in the HP Dragonfly review delivers a sophisticated finish that challenges the common belief of magnesium laptops appearing substandard. The Dragonfly G4, a shining example in the realm of laptops, exudes a high-end quality that's both observable and palpable. HP's commitment to a seamless user experience shines through in their choice to retain the familiar design of the prior generation, smoothly transitioning from a 16:9 convertible to a more user-centric 3:2 clamshell layout, solidifying its position as the Dragonfly 4.

HP's rigorous design approach for the Elite Dragonfly G4 culminates in a laptop that not only pleases the eye but also provides ergonomic comfort for everyday use. This standout in the electronics market is crafted to be both visually striking and functionally efficient, meeting the demands of contemporary users.

Display Features

Base Model DisplayThe entry-level HP Dragonfly G4 begins with a 13.5-inch IPS LCD monitor, featuring a crisp 1920x1280 pixel resolution. Its 3:2 aspect ratio monitor is a gift to productivity enthusiasts, providing substantial vertical space that elevates the user experience in activities such as document review and internet exploration, marking it as a significant advancement in monitor technology.

Brightness and Color Accuracy The HP Dragonfly G4's display impresses with a high brightness level, peaking at 405 nits and surpassing the advertised 400 nits. The monitor's color performance is also noteworthy, with the IPS panel reaching 99% sRGB coverage, and for those in search of ultimate color fidelity, it offers 75% Adobe RGB and 76% P3 coverage, making it a standout in the monitors category.

Display Upgrades and Options:

1. OLED Upgrade For connoisseurs of exceptional display quality, HP offers an OLED monitor upgrade for the Dragonfly G4. This high-resolution 3000x2000 pixel OLED panel provides unmatched contrast and sharpness, ideal for tasks that demand high color accuracy and visual clarity.

2. Sure View ReflectAddressing privacy concerns, the HP Dragonfly G4 includes an optional Sure View Reflect feature, effectively turning the screen into a smart home-compatible privacy monitor with a single button press, ensuring confidential information remains hidden from prying eyes.

3. Anti-Glare and Low Blue LightAll monitor variants for the HP Dragonfly G4 prioritize ocular health, incorporating anti-glare technology and low blue light filters to reduce eye fatigue during long work sessions. The review unit's non-touch BrightView WLED WUXGA+ panel is no exception, offering these protective features and a bright 400-nit display.

4. Multi-Touch and High Brightness OptionsTouchscreen enthusiasts will appreciate the responsive experience offered by multitouch Monitors. Additionally, these displays, including HP's Sure View Reflect privacy shield, are designed to perform exceptionally in sunny outdoor environments with up to 1000 nits of brightness, while the OLED UWVA Monitor delivers 400 nits for strikingly vivid visuals.

Adaptive BrightnessThe Monitor leverages Smart Technology to enhance the viewing experience, automatically adjusting brightness based on ambient light conditions. This adaptive feature ensures the display consistently provides an optimal level of brightness for comfortable viewing and crystal-clear visibility.

Our HP Dragonfly G4 review reveals a range of display options tailored to individual needs, from the standard edition to the premium OLED panel suited for specialized tasks. HP's commitment to user comfort and privacy is highlighted by the inclusion of Sure View Reflect and low blue light filters in these Monitors, although it's worth noting the absence of SSDs in this context.

Performance Benchmarks

In our HP Dragonfly G4 review, we've thoroughly evaluated its performance against other Processors on the market, employing a series of benchmark tests to provide a detailed comparison.

Geekbench 5 Scores:

o The Dragonfly G4's single-core performance score of 1,634 demonstrates its adeptness at managing everyday tasks, yet it may trail behind in high-demand single-threaded operations, an aspect for users to consider when Processor speed is a priority.

o With a multi-core score of 6,375, the laptop proves its strength in multitasking and handling complex processes with ease. Nonetheless, for those in pursuit of the pinnacle of performance, there are more powerful Processors on the market that may better meet their needs.

Video TranscodingDuring our tests with Handbrake, the Dragonfly G4 took 12 minutes and 41 seconds to transcode a 4K video to 1080p, indicating its competence in video editing tasks. However, this HP Dragonfly G4 review advises media professionals to consider laptops with faster SSDs for more efficient performance in such demanding scenarios.

Storage Speed TestIn the high-speed data transfer arena, the Dragonfly G4 showcased an impressive transfer rate of 735.69 MBps with a 25GB file, yet this performance, while commendable, falls short when stacked against other high-end laptops that boast even faster SSDs, which could mean increased wait times during large-scale data transfers.

Cinebench R23 Stress TestThe comprehensive hp dragonfly g4 review accentuates its prowess in maintaining steady performance throughout prolonged workloads, a vital attribute for professionals who rely on their Laptops to provide consistent output during long-duration tasks.

Additional Benchmark Scores:

o Geekbench 6 (multicore): 8,709 [1]

o PCMark 10 Pro Edition: 5,131 [1]

o Cinebench R23 (multicore): 5,956 [1]

o 3DMark Wild Life Extreme Unlimited: 3,332 [1]

Specs for Performance:

o Processor: Six-core Intel i7-1365U, which is suitable for productivity and general business tasks 

o Regarding Memory, the device is initially equipped with 16GB of LPDDR5 RAM, with upgrade paths available for power users to a robust 32GB, thereby ensuring sufficient Memory for seamless multitasking capabilities.

o On the Storage spectrum, the machine presents a 512GB NVMe SSD and offers the flexibility to enhance Storage up to a 2TB Hard Drive, granting users not only a vast storage realm but also swift file access speeds courtesy of cutting-edge SSD technology.

o For graphics, the integrated Intel Iris Xe Graphics Cards stand at the forefront, delivering substantial power for everyday office tasks and guaranteeing a smooth Windows experience, thus catering to a range of Graphics Cards needs.

Connectivity and Security:

o In the connectivity domain, the device comes equipped with Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth 5.0, alongside optional 4G LTE or 5G support, positioning it as a versatile ally for both Wi-Fi Routers and Mobile Phones aficionados seeking dependable internet connectivity on the go.

o Security features on this device are formidable, incorporating a fingerprint reader, an IR camera for facial recognition, and HP's Sure Sense technology. These elements synergize to bolster the device's defenses against unauthorized access and to shield users from malware threats, a boon for those invested in Smart Home and Security.

Our in-depth HP Dragonfly G4 review reveals that while it may not be the frontrunner in every performance category, it stands out as a versatile choice for business professionals prioritizing portability, connectivity, and security, along with the core functionalities expected from top-tier Laptops.

Battery Life and Charging

Our hands-on evaluation of the HP Dragonfly G4 highlighted its impressive Battery Life, aligning with HP's claims and independent assessments. Our HP Dragonfly G4 review delves into the details of its enduring battery performance and efficient charging capabilities.

Long-Lasting Battery:

o The HP Dragonfly G4 demonstrated exceptional Battery Life in our online streaming video test, lasting an impressive 870 minutes or about 14.5 hours, reinforcing its position as a reliable Laptop for extended use without interruption.

o In the WLAN test, which simulates real-world usage, the HP Dragonfly G4's powerful six-cell, 68 Wh battery achieved an extraordinary 17.5 hours of Battery Life, underlining its endurance in our comprehensive HP Dragonfly G4 review.

o Equipped with a Core i7-1365U, 16GB DDR5 RAM, and a 512GB PCIe NVMe SSD, the HP Dragonfly G4 sailed through a demanding 12-hour and 44-minute battery test, showcasing its capability to support a full day's work, making it a dependable choice for those seeking Laptops with enduring Battery Life.

Comparative Battery Life:

o While the previous Dragonfly G3 had an admirable Battery Life of 14 hours and 20 minutes, our HP Dragonfly G4 review notes that the latest model exhibits a slight improvement in this vital feature, further enhancing its appeal.

o Although the HP Dragonfly G4's battery performance is commendable, it falls short of claiming the top spot in its category, with Dell and Lenovo models pushing past the 13-hour mark in Battery Life, as detailed in our broader reviews of Laptops.

o In our comprehensive hp dragonfly g4 review, we've noted that the laptop boasts an impressive Battery Life, averaging a robust 8 hours and 15 minutes on a single charge. This reliable performance ensures a full workday of uninterrupted use, a crucial aspect for those seeking dependable Laptops.

Charging Efficiency:

o For on-the-go professionals, our hp dragonfly g4 review emphasizes the laptop's Fast Charging capability, which can rejuvenate the battery to 50% in under an hour. This feature is a significant boon for Laptops designed to keep pace with dynamic lifestyles.

o The hp dragonfly g4 review praises the laptop's intelligent Power Management system, HP's Smart Sense, which optimizes power and thermal performance according to user activity. This not only enhances the Laptops' battery efficiency but also aligns with Smart Home technology trends.

Our hp dragonfly g4 review highlights the laptop's superior Battery Life and rapid charging capabilities, which together ensure that busy professionals can sustain high productivity levels all day. The Dragonfly G4's savvy power management contributes to extended operation time while keeping the device cool and quiet, making it a prime choice among Laptops for business users with rigorous schedules.

Port Selection and Connectivity

The hp dragonfly g4 review unveils that the laptop is equipped with a diverse array of Ports, catering to a multitude of Connectivity needs. This feature significantly boosts its status as a versatile and adaptable option in the Laptops market.

Thunderbolt 4 Ports:

o The hp dragonfly g4 review draws attention to the inclusion of two Thunderbolt 4 ports, ingeniously positioned on either side of the laptop for optimal convenience and accessibility. This design consideration is a nod to the needs of users who prioritize advanced Laptops with user-friendly features.

o Our hp dragonfly g4 review confirms that the laptop's Thunderbolt 4 ports are not just capable of rapid 40 Gbps data transfer rates but also support USB Power Delivery and DisplayPort 1.4. This elevates the laptop to a high-performance status, perfect for those who demand Laptops with fast and flexible connectivity options.

Additional Ports:

o The HP Dragonfly G4's inclusion of a full-sized USB-A 3.1 charging port is a standout feature, streamlining the connection to legacy devices and keeping your accessories powered up, as frequently highlighted in laptops reviews. This USB-A port is particularly valued by those who depend on classic peripherals, an advantage we've emphasized in our detailed HP Dragonfly G4 review.

o Equipped with a full-sized HDMI 2.1 port, the HP Dragonfly G4 offers seamless connectivity to external displays, removing the hassle of extra adapters. This HDMI port feature is a highlight in many laptops reviews, showcasing the HP Dragonfly G4's commitment to a user-friendly experience.

o The HP Dragonfly G4 comes with a versatile 3.5-mm combination headphone/microphone jack, catering to both audio input and output needs. This inclusion of a headphone jack is a nod to the laptop's all-encompassing design, a point we've covered extensively in our HP Dragonfly G4 review.

Wireless Connectivity:

o Featuring support for the advanced Wi-Fi 6E and Bluetooth 5.3, the HP Dragonfly G4 delivers fast and reliable wireless connections, a must-have in modern laptops. Our HP Dragonfly G4 review identifies these Wi-Fi 6E and Bluetooth capabilities as a major advantage for consumers seeking cutting-edge connectivity.

o With options for NFC and broadband wireless configurations, including 4G/LTE Cat 16 or 5G, the HP Dragonfly G4 provides exceptional connectivity flexibility. As we've noted in our HP Dragonfly G4 review, users can select from eSIM and nano-SIM options, ensuring uninterrupted internet access for laptops on the go with NFC, 4G LTE, and 5G technologies.

o The HP Dragonfly G4's 5G connectivity option enhances mobile security and user mobility by reducing dependence on potentially unsafe public Wi-Fi networks. As we discuss in our comprehensive HP Dragonfly G4 review, this 5G feature is a critical aspect for laptops, offering a significant boost to on-the-go internet access.

While the HP Dragonfly G4 boasts an impressive suite of ports, the lack of an Ethernet port is noteworthy. For wired network connections, a USB-C-to-Ethernet adapter is necessary, a factor to consider in laptops reviews. However, the imminent mobile broadband capabilities, including 5G, make up for this, providing professionals with constant connectivity. Our HP Dragonfly G4 review anticipates that these 5G options will significantly enhance the ultraportable laptop's versatility come Spring 2023.

Keyboard and Touchpad Experience

Keyboard Qualities:

o Our hands-on experience with the tactile Keyboards of the HP Dragonfly G4 was notably impressive, providing great key travel that made typing exceptionally clicky and satisfying.

o The Keyboards of the HP Dragonfly G4 stand out for being quiet and responsive, an invaluable feature for heavy typists who value the ability to work discretely without disturbing those nearby.

o The Keyboards design on the HP Dragonfly G4 is meticulously crafted, boasting a flat yet well-spaced layout, and includes a customizable F12 key that significantly boosts workflow efficiency.

Touchpad Traits:

o In our comprehensive HP Dragonfly G4 review, we were particularly impressed by the generously sized Touchpad, which greatly enhances navigation and gesture controls, distinguishing it among Laptops in its category.

o Our HP Dragonfly G4 review praises the glass Precision Touchpad for its responsiveness and silky texture, which establishes a new benchmark for Laptops seeking the ideal balance between friction and smoothness.

o Aesthetically, the HP Dragonfly G4's Touchpad, with its chamfered silver border, was noted in our review as a refined touch that contributes to the laptop's sophisticated design.

Backlight and Biometrics:

o The keyboard's white Backlight is a feature we can't overlook in the HP Dragonfly G4; with three adjustable brightness levels, it guarantees comfortable typing in various lighting conditions, reflecting the meticulous attention to detail in HP's Keyboards.

o Positioned strategically between the ALT key and the left arrow, the Fingerprint Reader on our keyboards introduces an extra layer of security and convenience to the user authentication process.

Maintenance and Customization:

o The hp dragonfly g4 review emphasizes a key aspect for those who value their Laptops' longevity: the Touchpad's replaceability. With some technical know-how, the process of disconnecting ribbon cables and unscrewing a few fasteners to replace the touchpad is straightforward.

o Our device thoughtfully includes a physical privacy shutter for Webcams, providing users with a reliable way to protect their privacy without the need for makeshift solutions.

Audio and Webcam Quality

Audio Quality:

o Our evaluation of the HP Dragonfly G4's audio capabilities reveals a sophisticated quad-speaker system with top-firing tweeters and bottom-firing woofers, delivering a sound profile that surpasses many other Speakers on the market.

o The audio system in the HP Dragonfly G4, meticulously calibrated by Bang & Olufsen and featuring 4 discrete Smart Amplifiers, offers an unparalleled listening experience, raising the bar for laptop Speakers.

o Leveraging the HP Audio App, users can customize their audio experience on our Speakers, with an 'auto' feature that intelligently adjusts the sound to best suit the media being played.

o In the competitive field of slim and light Windows laptops, the Dragonfly G4 stands out with its impressive audio quality and volume, rivalling the larger 15-inch MacBook Air as noted in Speaker reviews, thanks to its potent volume and deep bass.

Webcam Quality:

o The Dragonfly G4's 5MP webcam elevates the user experience, offering a maximum resolution of 2560 x 1920, which is a significant enhancement over the standard webcams with 1080p or 720p found in most laptops.

o HP has adeptly incorporated multi-webcam support into the Dragonfly G4, allowing users to operate up to three webcams simultaneously, including the built-in one. This feature is particularly beneficial for enhancing our work-from-home setups with superior webcam capabilities.

o The built-in webcam software of the Dragonfly G4 enhances the user experience with advanced functionalities such as Auto frame, backlight adjustment, low light correction, natural tone, appearance filter, and even the option to upscale to a 4K resolution, positioning it as a top-tier feature among webcams.

Advanced Webcam Functions:

o Leveraging the HP Enhanced Camera feature, users can operate both of the device's cameras at once, creating a virtual webcam experience that supports picture-in-picture (PiP) mode and integrates seamlessly with any application requiring webcam use.

o The webcam's innovative keystone correction feature is a game-changer, especially for presentations, as it automatically crops and aligns content from documents or whiteboards, ensuring a non-skewed view that enhances virtual meetings.

o The webcam is further enhanced by two edge microphones, 2-way AI-based noise cancellation for both inbound and outbound audio, and HP Dynamic Voice Leveling. These features synergize to deliver crystal-clear and professional audio quality for video calls, making it an indispensable tool for communication.

Upgradeability and Serviceability

Smart Sense Power Management The HP Dragonfly G4's prowess extends beyond visual capabilities; it also boasts Smart Sense technology, an advanced smart home feature that intelligently adjusts power and thermal performance based on the user's activity, ensuring optimal efficiency.

Servicing Components:

1. Base Enclosure To enhance the serviceability of the HP Dragonfly G4, our technical review outlines a process that starts with the removal of four T3 Torx head screws from the base enclosure. Utilizing a non-metallic pry tool, we carefully separate the bottom cover from the top, ensuring no damage occurs. Reassembling the laptop is just as user-friendly—align the tabs and apply even pressure along the edges to secure the components.

2. BatteryOur laptops maintenance guide provides a straightforward approach to battery replacement for the HP Dragonfly G4. It involves removing five P1 Phillips head screws to free the old battery. After lifting it out, place the new battery onto its alignment pins and fasten it with the screws to complete the battery replacement process.

3. M.2 SSDEnhancing the performance of the HP Dragonfly G4 with an M.2 SSD upgrade is detailed in our comprehensive laptops review. Begin by dismantling the base enclosure and battery, followed by unscrewing the Phillips Broadhead screw. Carefully elevate the existing drive to make way for the new M.2 SSD, ensuring a significant boost in storage speed and capacity.

4. System BoardThe system board replacement for the HP Dragonfly G4 is a task tailored for experienced laptops technicians. It involves a meticulous process of disconnecting and reconnecting various cables. Once the old board is removed, position the new system board, secure it with screws, and attentively reattach all the necessary cables to ensure the laptop's optimal functionality.

Additional Component Replacements:

1. Wireless WAN Module Our HP Dragonfly G4 review includes a critical step for module replacement, which begins with the removal of the laptop's base enclosure and battery. If an extender bracket is present, unscrew and remove it, then disconnect the antenna cables before proceeding with the module replacement to upgrade or repair the laptop's components.

2. SIM Card Reader BoardThe laptops repair guide for the HP Dragonfly G4 includes a section on replacing the SIM card reader board. Start this precision task by detaching its ribbon cable. Then, lift the board from its alignment pin, position the new board correctly, and reconnect the cable to ensure a successful SIM card reader swap.

3. Magnetic Pen SlotOur laptops maintenance instructions for the HP Dragonfly G4 include steps for the magnetic pen slot replacement. Begin by removing the securing screw to free the slot. Carefully extract it and reverse the process to install the new magnetic pen slot, thus restoring full functionality to this innovative feature.

4. Wireless Charger AssemblyThe meticulous disassembly process of the HP Dragonfly G4, as we've outlined in our in-depth review, starts with carefully removing the base enclosure, battery, and M.2 SSD. Afterward, serviceability is demonstrated by detaching the ribbon cable and extracting the assembly, a sequence that is methodically reversed during the reassembly, underscoring the laptop's ease of service [17].

5. System Fans and HeatsinkOur exhaustive HP Dragonfly G4 review provides a detailed tutorial on thermal management maintenance for laptops. The steps include gently removing the old cooling components, purging the thermal paste, applying a new layer for enhanced thermal management, and fastening the new units with screws to maintain peak performance [17].

6. Display Panel AssemblyThe upgrading or repairs of the HP Dragonfly G4, as elaborated in our review, require a careful disconnection of cables and removal of the existing assembly. This meticulous process is then skillfully reversed with the installation of the new unit, affirming the laptop's user-friendly design for both upgrades and repairs [17].

Conclusion

Our HP Dragonfly G4 review highlights a standout in the ultraportable laptops segment, boasting a sturdy build, diverse display options, and impressive battery life. It's crafted with sustainable materials, advanced security features, and is ideal for professionals who value performance and convenience in a compact form factor.

In summary, our HP Dragonfly G4 review positions this device as a testament to HP's commitment to innovation and user-centric design. For the on-the-go professional, the Dragonfly G4 elevates your computing experience, representing the pinnacle of what ultraportable laptops have to offer here The HP Dragonfly G4 transcends being merely a tool for daily professional tasks; it embodies the advancement of mobile computing, surpassing the benchmarks for contemporary laptops.

FAQs

What makes the HP Elite Dragonfly a worthwhile investment?

For those who put a premium on mobility and seamless connectivity, the HP Elite Dragonfly stands out as a wise choice, particularly for users who rely on mobile broadband in areas with limited Wi-Fi. The Elite Dragonfly G3 emerges as a top-tier business laptop, notable for its featherlight 2.2-pound frame and its capacity to sustain battery life throughout the day.

Can you detail the display options and advantages of the Elite Dragonfly G4?

The Elite Dragonfly G4 stands out for its competitive hp elite dragonfly price and is acclaimed for delivering an exceptional visual experience, thanks to its superior graphics and high-resolution display. Customers can choose from two 13.5-inch IPS Full HD+ Monitors, each offering a sharp resolution of 1920x1280. These Monitors come with the added benefit of optional touch and anti-glare features, and one variant even includes HP Sure View Reflect, ensuring enhanced privacy for the user.

Does the HP Dragonfly G4 come with a touchscreen?

The hp dragonfly laptop now features a Touchscreen option, merging functionality with convenience for users. Priced from $1,769, the base model of this esteemed Laptops series is powered by a 13th Generation Intel Core i5 processor and comes with 16GB of RAM, a 512GB NVMe SSD, Windows 11 Pro, and a 13.5-inch IPS Touchscreen display with a vivid 1920x1280 pixel resolution.

Is the HP Dragonfly designed for gaming?

While the HP Dragonfly isn't designed as a gaming behemoth, its Graphics Performance is commendable, surpassing many Intel-based competitors as highlighted in numerous hp dragonfly g4 reviews. It's well-suited for office tasks and handles light photo and video editing with aplomb, but it doesn't match the prowess of dedicated gaming laptops that typically feature high-end Graphics Cards from industry leaders like Nvidia or AMD.

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