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HP ProBook 650 G2 Notebook Review

Pushing its luck? With the ProBook 650 G2, HP debuts a 15.6-inch laptop that aims to achieve decent runtimes thanks to its frugal ULV processor. Our report reveals what customers should consider when buying this device and where the ProBook is situated in terms of performance.

For the original German review, see here.

After a two-year break, the successor of HP's ProBook 650 G1 is now at the ready. HP's ProBook 650 G2 that we were provided with, features an Intel Core i5-6200U as its central processing unit and a 4 GB DDR4 RAM. The preloaded operating system is on a 500 GB hard drive in the 2.5-inch format. HP skips a CPU generation in the latest ProBook model and does not offer a model based on a Broadwell CPU. This leap from the older Haswell model is not only reflected in performance, but it also leads to a better battery life thanks to an obvious efficiency improvement. Our review sample, equipped with an LTE modem sells for 1150 Euros (~$1303) in online shops. The customer gets a well-equipped device with many security features that are fundamental in the business sector. A special feature installed by Hewlett Packard into its ProBook G2 is a serial interface. The other configuration options are very diverse. Intel Core i7-6820HQ is the strongest CPU in the portfolio. The working memory can be expanded by up to 16 GB, and buyers can choose between a conventional 2.5-inch hard drive and an SSD in M.2 format as system storage. In terms of GPUs, some models also house AMD's Radeon R7 M365X.

We picked current review samples from the 900 - 1500 Euro (~$1020 - ~$1700) price range with corresponding performance. The previous model will also be used for a direct performance comparison. The following lists an overview of the reference devices that will be recurrently mentioned in the course of the test:

HP ProBook 650 G2-T9X61ET (ProBook 650 Series)
Processor
Intel Core i5-6200U 2 x 2.3 - 2.8 GHz, Skylake
Graphics adapter
Intel HD Graphics 520 - shared Memory MB VRAM, Core: 1067 MHz, Memory: 1067 MHz, 20.19.15.4444
Memory
4 GB 
, DDR4, 2133 MHz, single-channel, 1 of 2 banks filled
Display
15.60 inch 16:9, 1366 x 768 pixel 100 PPI, Chi Mei CMN15BE, TN LED, glossy: no
Mainboard
Intel Skylake-U Premium PCH
Storage
Hitachi Travelstar Z7K500 HTS725050A7E630, 500 GB 
, 7200 rpm, 390 GB free
Soundcard
Conexant
Connections
3 USB 3.0 / 3.1 Gen1, 1 VGA, 1 HDMI, 1 DisplayPort, 1 Kensington Lock, 1 Serial Port, 1 Docking Station Port, Audio Connections: stereo, Card Reader: MMC, SD, SDHC, SDXC, 1 SmartCard, 1 Fingerprint Reader, Brightness Sensor, Sensors: accelerometer
Networking
Intel Ethernet Connection I219-LM (10/100/1000MBit/s), Intel Dual Band Wireless-AC 8260 (a/b/g/n = Wi-Fi 4/ac = Wi-Fi 5/), Bluetooth 4.2, HP lt4120 Snapdragon X5 LTE, LTE, GPS
Optical drive
DVD +/- RW Double Layer
Size
height x width x depth (in mm): 27.4 x 378 x 257 ( = 1.08 x 14.88 x 10.12 in)
Battery
48 Wh, 3930 mAh Lithium-Ion
Operating System
Microsoft Windows 10 Pro 64 Bit
Camera
Webcam: 720p
Additional features
Speakers: stereo, Keyboard: chiclet, Keyboard Light: no, power supply, HP Connect, HP Client Security, HP Drive Guard, Cyberlink Power DVD 12, DTS Audio Control Panel, Intel WiDi, 12 Months Warranty
Weight
2.345 kg ( = 82.72 oz / 5.17 pounds), Power Supply: 297 g ( = 10.48 oz / 0.65 pounds)
Note: The manufacturer may use components from different suppliers including display panels, drives or memory sticks with similar specifications.

 

Case

Plastic is mostly used for the ProBook 650 G2. The display lid and base unit's underside are charcoal black while the base's upper side and its bezel are silver. An HP logo adorns the center of the lid's upper side. The base unit's build is stable; it could only be warped with some effort. In the pressure test, the base's upper side yielded slightly in the optical drive's area.

On the other hand, the display lid warps easily. However, a clear resistance is noticed. With more pressure, it is possible that the panel could be damaged. The display lid behaved well in its lateral areas in the pressure test. Only the lower area, where another HP logo becomes visible in an opened state, could be more robust. With a bit of pressure on the back,  minor wave formation is produced on the screen.

Both hinges, which allow opening the display up to 180 degrees, keep the panel in the desired position, but they are a bit too smooth-running. Opening the lid with one hand is easily possible. The silver bezel that encloses the base made an unfavorable impression - although it is nice to look at when the laptop is closed, irregular gaps are visible at the edges when it is opened.

The ProBook 650 G2 does not have a maintenance hatch on the underside, but the entire underside can be removed easily. The battery that is fixed with a few screws, the working memory, and the hard drive are found beneath it.

 

Size Comparison

All devices are roughly the same size. Since all laptops are 15.6-inch devices, their width, depth and height differ by only a few millimeters. The ProBook 650 G2's casing is midfield with the dimensions that we measured. Our review sample weighs 2.3 kg (~5 lb). Thus, it is somewhat lighter than Lenovo's ThinkPad L560 (2.4 kg/~5.3 lb). By comparison, the lightest devices weigh 2.1 kg (~4.6 lb).

377 mm / 14.8 inch 256 mm / 10.1 inch 30.85 mm / 1.215 inch 2.4 kg5.29 lbs378 mm / 14.9 inch 257 mm / 10.1 inch 27.4 mm / 1.079 inch 2.3 kg5.17 lbs380 mm / 15 inch 258 mm / 10.2 inch 24 mm / 0.945 inch 2.1 kg4.71 lbs381 mm / 15 inch 254.5 mm / 10 inch 22.4 mm / 0.882 inch 2.1 kg4.61 lbs378 mm / 14.9 inch 257 mm / 10.1 inch 25.3 mm / 0.996 inch 2.3 kg5.11 lbs377 mm / 14.8 inch 256 mm / 10.1 inch 24 mm / 0.945 inch 2.1 kg4.63 lbs297 mm / 11.7 inch 210 mm / 8.27 inch 1 mm / 0.03937 inch 5.7 g0.01257 lbs

Connectivity

The ProBook 650 G2 features diverse interfaces; HP even offers a 9-pin RS 232 interface as an option. Most ports are located on the right where it could quickly become cramped due to the number of ports and their proximity. USB Type-C, DisplayPort, 2 USB 3.0 ports, and the Ethernet interface are close together. Thus, it might happen that one of the neighboring ports is blocked when using larger USB flash drives. A SIM card slot is also found on the right. Our review sample is equipped with an LTE modem, and 200 MB of data volume for 36 months are included when buying the laptop. This volume should be enough for downloading emails in a month.

Our review sample also comes with a fingerprint sensor, SmartCard reader, and an optical drive. The security features are optional and might not be included in other configurations of the device.

Should these interfaces not be sufficient, and when the laptop is often used stationary in the workplace, we would recommend looking at the matching docking station (HP 2013 UltraSlim Docking Station). It ensures a tidy workplace for 220 Euros (~$250). The docking station port is located under the SIM card slot on the right.

Left: Kensington lock, vents, DVD-RW, SmartCard reader
Left: Kensington lock, vents, DVD-RW, SmartCard reader
Right: 3.5-mm combo jack, USB Type-C, DisplayPort, SD card reader, 2x USB 3.0, LAN, docking port, SIM card slot, power-in
Right: 3.5-mm combo jack, USB Type-C, DisplayPort, SD card reader, 2x USB 3.0, LAN, docking port, SIM card slot, power-in
Front: Status LED
Front: Status LED
Rear: VGA, RS-232
Rear: VGA, RS-232

SD Card Reader

The card reader is situated on the side under the DisplayPort, and it processes all common formats (MMC, SD, SDHC, and SDXC). We test its performance with our Toshiba Exceria Pro SDXC 64 GB UHS-II reference card. 250 JPG files have to be copied from the memory card to the hard drive in this test. The ProBook 650 G2 achieves an average transfer rate of 60.2 MB/s, which places it midfield. Dell's Latitude 15 E5570 is unmatched with a rate of 155 MB/s, and Lenovo's ThinkPad L560 also surpasses the ProBook 650 G2 clearly with 85.38 MB/s in this test. The tide turns in sequential read that we test with the program AS SSD, and our review sample takes the lead with a rate of 88.2 MB/s. Lenovo's ThinkPad L560 is close behind with 72.3 MB/s. Toshiba's Tecra Z50 is very clearly at the bottom of the table in both tests.

SD Card Reader
average JPG Copy Test (av. of 3 runs)
Dell Latitude 15 E5570
 
155 MB/s +157%
Lenovo ThinkPad L560-20F10026GE
 
85.4 MB/s +42%
Acer TravelMate P658-M-537B
 
68.1 MB/s +13%
HP ProBook 650 G2-T9X61ET
 
60.2 MB/s
Toshiba Tecra Z50-C-10P
 
19.6 MB/s -67%
maximum AS SSD Seq Read Test (1GB)
HP ProBook 650 G2-T9X61ET
 
88.2 MB/s
Lenovo ThinkPad L560-20F10026GE
 
72.3 MB/s -18%
Toshiba Tecra Z50-C-10P
 
24.6 MB/s -72%

Communication

HP's laptop offers different options for communicating with the outside world. The ProBook 650 G2 is equipped with an Intel Dual-Band AC-8260 module for primary wireless connections. The theoretical gross transmission rate is 867 Mbit/s using 802.11ac 2x2. The test shows that the communication module in our device achieves a reception rate of 605 Mbit/s and transmission rate of 377 Mbit/s. The direct comparison with HP's ProBook 640 G2 proves that the performance is roughly the same. In addition, our review sample is equipped with an LTE modem. HP offers the buyer a monthly data volume of 200 MB over three years at the time of purchase. Network communication via the Ethernet port is possible if the device is often used stationary in the office. The port, located on the side functioned impeccably during the testing period.

Both communication modules ...
Both communication modules ...
... are stacked.
... are stacked.
Networking
WiFi Speed Client 1m
WiFi Speed Server 1m

Security

The fingerprint scanner is installed below the keypad.
The fingerprint scanner is installed below the keypad.

As far as security is concerned, the ProBook 650 G2 has a whole range of features. Our review sample is equipped with a Trusted Platform Module 1.2 (TPM), a SmartCard reader, and a fingerprint scanner. The fingerprint scanner is optional and might not be present in other configurations of the device. HP's laptop also offers a Kensington Lock slot. In terms of software, HP's device has the Client Security solution that manages hard drive encryption and logging fingerprints, among other things.

Accessories

HP 2013 UltraSlim Docking Station
HP 2013 UltraSlim Docking Station

Not many accessories are included: A driver CD, quick start guide, and 45-watt power supply are included in the box. HP offers an optional docking station for its ProBook 650 G2. The HP 2013 UltraSlim Docking Port costs around 200 Euros (~$230), and is well worth considering when the laptop is often used stationary at the workplace.

Operating System

The buyer can choose between Windows 7, Windows 8.1, and Windows 10 for the operating system. Windows 10 Professional 64-bit was preloaded on our review sample.

Maintenance

The base unit's underside is easy to remove
The base unit's underside is easy to remove

Despite the lack of a maintenance hatch, service work or replacing individual components is quite easy. The entire underside has to be removed for accessing innards such as the hard drive, fan or RAM. The plastic tray is easy to remove after releasing all screws. All components are comfortable to reach. However, it should be noted that the battery has to be removed before taking out the hard drive. The battery covers a screw of the cage when installed. Our review sample has an empty RAM bank. The installed hard drive obstructs the empty M.2 slot, and thus only one storage device at a time can be installed.

Warranty

HP sells the ProBook 650 G2 with a 12-month warranty. It is possible to extend this to 36 months via HP Care Pack, which includes an on-site service for the next business day and retaining the hard drive. This warranty upgrade costs 270 Euros (~$305) extra when buying the ProBook 650 G2.

Input Devices

HP ProBook 650 G2's keyboard
HP ProBook 650 G2's keyboard

Keyboard

HP has installed a splash-water protected HP Premium Keyboard in our test ProBook 650 G2. This keyboard is optionally available with a backlight and dual-point. Unfortunately, our review sample did not have these useful features.

The full-sized chiclet keyboard has a keypad. The printed symbols are quite legible and do not look cramped. The individual keys are adequately sized and, thanks to their slightly roughened surface, have enough grip. The "up" and "down" arrow keys both need some getting used to since they are smaller than the other keys and also tightly spaced. This may lead to typos. The feedback when typing is good; the pressure point is noticeable, and the drop is average. The noise is not particularly distracting when typing fast. The keys do not clatter so that neighboring colleagues will not be disturbed.

Touchpad

HP ProBook 650 G2's touchpad
HP ProBook 650 G2's touchpad

The touchpad in the ProBook 650 G2 is centered below the space bar in the base. The input device has a surface area of 10.4 x 5.9 centimeters (~4.1 x 2.3 in) and is lowered by approx. one millimeter. Its surface is sleek and allows the finger to glide over it smoothly. The gliding surface is somewhat smaller than that of other multitouch ClickPads due to the two dedicated keys situated in the lower area. The touchpad features a small, white point in its upper left corner. Double-tapping disables the touchpad and both keys. Double-tapping it again reactivates the touchpad. The small dot turns orange when the touchpad is disabled, making it easy to recognize the input device's status.

Both input keys are sufficiently sized and feature a much longer drop than a ClickPad. Inputs are quiet and almost inaudible.

Display

ChiMei panel: Subpixel grid
ChiMei panel: Subpixel grid
No annoying backlight bleeding visible
No annoying backlight bleeding visible

HP has installed a matte TN panel in our review sample. The 15.6-inch screen comes from ChiMei and has a native resolution of 1366x768 pixels. This equates to a pixel density of approximately 100 PPI. HP also offers the device with a Full HD panel, among other models. Customers can also buy the ProBook 650 G2 with a touchscreen. The HD panel in our review sample only offers a low brightness (223 cd/m²) and low contrast (405:1). We expect considerably more from a device from this price range. A direct comparison with the competition shows that the ProBook 650 G2 is on par with Dell's Latitude 15 E5570. It has improved, even if only marginally, compared with the predecessor ProBook 650 G1 model. The fact that the screen flickers at a brightness of 90% and lower is also unfavorable. This can lead to complaints such as headaches when used for prolonged periods.

On the other hand, it is favorable that barely any visible backlight bleeding is seen in a completely black image.

216
cd/m²
211
cd/m²
228
cd/m²
215
cd/m²
247
cd/m²
221
cd/m²
211
cd/m²
222
cd/m²
236
cd/m²
Distribution of brightness
Chi Mei CMN15BE tested with X-Rite i1Pro 2
Maximum: 247 cd/m² (Nits) Average: 223 cd/m² Minimum: 12 cd/m²
Brightness Distribution: 85 %
Center on Battery: 247 cd/m²
Contrast: 405:1 (Black: 0.61 cd/m²)
ΔE Color 8.8 | 0.5-29.43 Ø5
ΔE Greyscale 10.13 | 0.57-98 Ø5.3
62.2% sRGB (Argyll 1.6.3 3D)
39.6% AdobeRGB 1998 (Argyll 1.6.3 3D)
43% AdobeRGB 1998 (Argyll 2.2.0 3D)
62.3% sRGB (Argyll 2.2.0 3D)
41.59% Display P3 (Argyll 2.2.0 3D)
Gamma: 2.34
HP ProBook 650 G2-T9X61ET
TN LED, 1366x768, 15.60
Lenovo ThinkPad L560-20F10026GE
AH-IPS, 1920x1080, 15.60
Dell Latitude 15 E5570
TN LED, 1366x768, 15.60
Toshiba Tecra Z50-C-10P
IPS-Panel, 1920x1080, 15.60
Acer TravelMate P658-M-537B
IPS, 1920x1080, 15.60
HP ProBook 650 G1 H5G74E
TN LED, 1366x768, 15.60
Display
-6%
-3%
46%
48%
Display P3 Coverage
41.59
39
-6%
40.48
-3%
65.4
57%
66.6
60%
sRGB Coverage
62.3
58.3
-6%
60.9
-2%
84.6
36%
85.7
38%
AdobeRGB 1998 Coverage
43
40.33
-6%
41.82
-3%
61.8
44%
62.8
46%
Response Times
8%
0%
-2%
14%
Response Time Grey 50% / Grey 80% *
40.4 ?(19.6, 20.8)
39.2 ?(18.8, 20.4)
3%
47 ?(22, 25)
-16%
20 ?(9, 11)
50%
38 ?(14, 24)
6%
Response Time Black / White *
32 ?(18.8, 13.2)
28 ?(12.4, 15.6)
12%
27 ?(10, 17)
16%
26 ?(13, 13)
19%
25 ?(6, 19)
22%
PWM Frequency
200 ?(90)
50 ?(40)
-75%
Screen
20%
-1%
50%
31%
-13%
Brightness middle
247
262
6%
228
-8%
288
17%
308
25%
197
-20%
Brightness
223
250
12%
236
6%
277
24%
319
43%
186
-17%
Brightness Distribution
85
92
8%
90
6%
83
-2%
71
-16%
82
-4%
Black Level *
0.61
0.29
52%
0.56
8%
0.27
56%
0.61
-0%
0.63
-3%
Contrast
405
903
123%
407
0%
1067
163%
505
25%
313
-23%
Colorchecker dE 2000 *
8.8
8.49
4%
10.02
-14%
4.7
47%
4.51
49%
10.48
-19%
Colorchecker dE 2000 max. *
15.98
17.99
-13%
15.93
-0%
11.7
27%
10.19
36%
Greyscale dE 2000 *
10.13
8.11
20%
10.66
-5%
3.1
69%
2.91
71%
10.68
-5%
Gamma
2.34 94%
2.37 93%
2.48 89%
2.7 81%
2.4 92%
2.31 95%
CCT
12581 52%
6300 103%
11800 55%
6603 98%
6740 96%
12387 52%
Color Space (Percent of AdobeRGB 1998)
39.6
37.07
-6%
39
-2%
61.9
56%
56
41%
35.2
-11%
Color Space (Percent of sRGB)
62.2
57.94
-7%
61
-2%
90.3
45%
86
38%
Total Average (Program / Settings)
7% / 13%
-1% / -1%
31% / 40%
31% / 32%
-13% / -13%

* ... smaller is better

39.6% AdobeRGB coverage
39.6% AdobeRGB coverage
62.2% sRGB coverage
62.2% sRGB coverage

The image quality is rather unsatisfactory compared to other devices in this price range. The low contrast (405:1) leads to a poor black level (0.35 cd/m²). This results in a light grayish haze in darker images. Black does not look black, but rather more like gray. The screen also struggles with a minor bluish tint pre-calibration. The DeltaE rates are clearly too high in the state of delivery. A rate less than 3 would be desirable. Calibrating the screen improved the rates considerably. The typical bluish tint in TN screens could also be reduced. The ICC profile is linked and can, as always, be downloaded. The HD screen reproduces the sRGB color space by 62%. However, it is only enough to cover 40% of the extended AdobeRGB color space, which is simply too low for professional use.

Grayscale (pre-calibration)
Grayscale (pre-calibration)
Grayscale (post-calibration)
Grayscale (post-calibration)
ColorChecker (pre-calibration)
ColorChecker (pre-calibration)
ColorChecker (post-calibration)
ColorChecker (post-calibration)
Saturation Sweeps (pre-calibration)
Saturation Sweeps (pre-calibration)
Saturation Sweeps (post-calibration)
Saturation Sweeps (post-calibration)

Display Response Times

Display response times show how fast the screen is able to change from one color to the next. Slow response times can lead to afterimages and can cause moving objects to appear blurry (ghosting). Gamers of fast-paced 3D titles should pay special attention to fast response times.
       Response Time Black to White
32 ms ... rise ↗ and fall ↘ combined↗ 18.8 ms rise
↘ 13.2 ms fall
The screen shows slow response rates in our tests and will be unsatisfactory for gamers.
In comparison, all tested devices range from 0.1 (minimum) to 240 (maximum) ms. » 84 % of all devices are better.
This means that the measured response time is worse than the average of all tested devices (21.6 ms).
       Response Time 50% Grey to 80% Grey
40.4 ms ... rise ↗ and fall ↘ combined↗ 19.6 ms rise
↘ 20.8 ms fall
The screen shows slow response rates in our tests and will be unsatisfactory for gamers.
In comparison, all tested devices range from 0.2 (minimum) to 636 (maximum) ms. » 58 % of all devices are better.
This means that the measured response time is worse than the average of all tested devices (33.9 ms).

Screen Flickering / PWM (Pulse-Width Modulation)

To dim the screen, some notebooks will simply cycle the backlight on and off in rapid succession - a method called Pulse Width Modulation (PWM) . This cycling frequency should ideally be undetectable to the human eye. If said frequency is too low, users with sensitive eyes may experience strain or headaches or even notice the flickering altogether.
Screen flickering / PWM detected 200 Hz ≤ 90 % brightness setting

The display backlight flickers at 200 Hz (worst case, e.g., utilizing PWM) Flickering detected at a brightness setting of 90 % and below. There should be no flickering or PWM above this brightness setting.

The frequency of 200 Hz is relatively low, so sensitive users will likely notice flickering and experience eyestrain at the stated brightness setting and below.

In comparison: 53 % of all tested devices do not use PWM to dim the display. If PWM was detected, an average of 18080 (minimum: 5 - maximum: 3846000) Hz was measured.

HP ProBook 650 G2: Viewing angles
HP ProBook 650 G2: Viewing angles

The TN panel is very conspicuous in the viewing angle test. It is most unstable when tilting it back and forth. A distorted color reproduction or a grayish tint quickly becomes visible.

Outdoor use is only conditionally possible due to the screen's low brightness. The matte panel can, however, absorb direct light and thus prevent annoying reflections. Should outdoor use be unavoidable, we would recommend looking for a shaded place.

Outdoors in sunlight
Outdoors in sunlight
Outdoors in direct sunlight
Outdoors in direct sunlight
Outdoors in the shade
Outdoors in the shade

Performance

The ProBook 650 G2 computes on the performance level that is expected from this hardware configuration. The frugal Intel Core i5-6200U processor provides enough power for coping with office routine. The 4 GB DDR4 RAM is a minor drawback, as it could quickly prove to be a bottleneck in demanding applications. Overall, our device operates quite fast, but users who place more importance on performance should swap the hard drive for a fast SSD. It would also make sense to expand the RAM to 8 GB.

Once again, the Cinebench benchmarks underline the CPU's performance. Almost all comparison devices based on an Intel Core i5-6200U processor are on par. Only Acer's TravelMate P658 clearly lags behind.

The ProBook 650 G2's specification sheet reveals that the entry-level model is shipped with an Intel Core i3-6100U. The premium model is equipped with an Intel Core i7-6820HQ.

CPU-Z
CPU-Z
CPU-Z
CPU-Z
GPU-Z
GPU-Z
HWiNFO
DPC Latency
Intel Extreme Tuning Utility
 

Processor

The performance that Intel Core i5-6200U achieves is in line with the rates of other devices based on the same processor. Its performance is quite sufficient for normal office routine. Intel Core i5-6200U is soldered into the ProBook 650 G2 and has two physical cores. Thanks to Hyperthreading technology, it can process 4 threads simultaneously. The processor is very frugal with a TDP of 15 watts, which particularly contributes to battery life. The frugal Skylake CPU clocks at a base rate of 2.3 GHz, and can be boosted up to 2.8 GHz (1 core) and 2.7 GHz (2 cores) via Turbo. The performance of the ProBook 650 G2 has increased by 20% in some cases compared with the ProBook 650 G1 (tested with a low-cost i3 CPU).

Faster processors are available for the ProBook 650 G2 should the power of Intel's Core i5-6200U not be enough. However, this decision should be made before buying the laptop since replacing the CPU afterward is not possible.

Cinebench R10
Cinebench R10
Cinebench R11.5
Cinebench R11.5
Cinebench R15
Cinebench R15
Jetstream 1.1
Jetstream 1.1
Octane V2
Octane V2
Mozilla Kraken 1.1
Mozilla Kraken 1.1
Cinebench R15
CPU Single 64Bit
Dell Latitude 15 E5570
Intel Core i5-6300U, 2400 MHz
124 Points +13%
Lenovo ThinkPad L560-20F10026GE
Intel Core i5-6200U, 2300 MHz
116 Points +5%
HP ProBook 650 G2-T9X61ET
Intel Core i5-6200U, 2300 MHz
110 Points
Toshiba Tecra Z50-C-10P
Intel Core i5-6200U, 2300 MHz
105 Points -5%
HP ProBook 650 G1 H5G74E
Intel Core i3-4000M, 2400 MHz
95 Points -14%
Acer TravelMate P658-M-537B
Intel Core i5-6200U, 2300 MHz
78 Points -29%
CPU Multi 64Bit
Dell Latitude 15 E5570
Intel Core i5-6300U, 2400 MHz
310 Points +8%
Lenovo ThinkPad L560-20F10026GE
Intel Core i5-6200U, 2300 MHz
290 Points +1%
HP ProBook 650 G2-T9X61ET
Intel Core i5-6200U, 2300 MHz
288 Points
Toshiba Tecra Z50-C-10P
Intel Core i5-6200U, 2300 MHz
280 Points -3%
HP ProBook 650 G1 H5G74E
Intel Core i3-4000M, 2400 MHz
240 Points -17%
Acer TravelMate P658-M-537B
Intel Core i5-6200U, 2300 MHz
219 Points -24%
Cinebench R11.5
CPU Single 64Bit
Dell Latitude 15 E5570
Intel Core i5-6300U, 2400 MHz
1.41 Points +12%
Lenovo ThinkPad L560-20F10026GE
Intel Core i5-6200U, 2300 MHz
1.32 Points +5%
HP ProBook 650 G2-T9X61ET
Intel Core i5-6200U, 2300 MHz
1.26 Points
HP ProBook 650 G1 H5G74E
Intel Core i3-4000M, 2400 MHz
1.05 Points -17%
CPU Multi 64Bit
Dell Latitude 15 E5570
Intel Core i5-6300U, 2400 MHz
3.45 Points +9%
Lenovo ThinkPad L560-20F10026GE
Intel Core i5-6200U, 2300 MHz
3.19 Points +1%
HP ProBook 650 G2-T9X61ET
Intel Core i5-6200U, 2300 MHz
3.16 Points
HP ProBook 650 G1 H5G74E
Intel Core i3-4000M, 2400 MHz
2.6 Points -18%
Cinebench R10
Rendering Single CPUs 64Bit
HP ProBook 650 G2-T9X61ET
Intel Core i5-6200U, 2300 MHz
5648 Points
Lenovo ThinkPad L560-20F10026GE
Intel Core i5-6200U, 2300 MHz
5596 Points -1%
HP ProBook 650 G1 H5G74E
Intel Core i3-4000M, 2400 MHz
4664 Points -17%
Rendering Multiple CPUs 64Bit
Lenovo ThinkPad L560-20F10026GE
Intel Core i5-6200U, 2300 MHz
12676 Points +1%
HP ProBook 650 G2-T9X61ET
Intel Core i5-6200U, 2300 MHz
12513 Points
HP ProBook 650 G1 H5G74E
Intel Core i3-4000M, 2400 MHz
10298 Points -18%
JetStream 1.1 - Total Score
HP ProBook 650 G2-T9X61ET
Intel Core i5-6200U, 2300 MHz
194.1 Points
Dell Latitude 15 E5570
Intel Core i5-6300U, 2400 MHz
119.8 Points -38%
Lenovo ThinkPad L560-20F10026GE
Intel Core i5-6200U, 2300 MHz
110.1 Points -43%
Toshiba Tecra Z50-C-10P
Intel Core i5-6200U, 2300 MHz
105.6 Points -46%
Octane V2 - Total Score
HP ProBook 650 G2-T9X61ET
Intel Core i5-6200U, 2300 MHz
28644 Points
Dell Latitude 15 E5570
Intel Core i5-6300U, 2400 MHz
15750 Points -45%
Lenovo ThinkPad L560-20F10026GE
Intel Core i5-6200U, 2300 MHz
14411 Points -50%
Acer TravelMate P658-M-537B
Intel Core i5-6200U, 2300 MHz
12873 Points -55%
Mozilla Kraken 1.1 - Total
Acer TravelMate P658-M-537B
Intel Core i5-6200U, 2300 MHz
2751 ms * -123%
Lenovo ThinkPad L560-20F10026GE
Intel Core i5-6200U, 2300 MHz
2420 ms * -96%
Dell Latitude 15 E5570
Intel Core i5-6300U, 2400 MHz
2226 ms * -81%
HP ProBook 650 G2-T9X61ET
Intel Core i5-6200U, 2300 MHz
1233 ms *

* ... smaller is better

Cinebench R10 Shading 32Bit
6913
Cinebench R10 Rendering Multiple CPUs 32Bit
9798
Cinebench R10 Rendering Single 32Bit
4387
Cinebench R10 Shading 64Bit
7359 Points
Cinebench R10 Rendering Multiple CPUs 64Bit
12513 Points
Cinebench R10 Rendering Single CPUs 64Bit
5648 Points
Cinebench R11.5 CPU Multi 64Bit
3.16 Points
Cinebench R11.5 OpenGL 64Bit
28.64 fps
Cinebench R11.5 CPU Single 64Bit
1.26 Points
Cinebench R15 CPU Multi 64Bit
288 Points
Cinebench R15 CPU Single 64Bit
110 Points
Cinebench R15 Ref. Match 64Bit
97.8 %
Cinebench R15 OpenGL 64Bit
35.81 fps
Help

System Performance

The system performance is quite good considering a conventional hard drive is installed. The system boots fast and is ready to use quickly. However, the somewhat tight working memory could quickly lead to waiting times. Expanding the working memory (max. 16 GB) and installing an SSD (M.2) would remedy this. The objective system performance is also reflected in the PCMark benchmarks scores. The ProBook 650 G2 is in a good midfield.

PCMark 8 Home
PCMark 8 Home
PCMark 8 Creative
PCMark 8 Creative
PCMark 8 Work
PCMark 8 Work
PCMark 8 Storage
PCMark 8 Storage
PCMark 7
PCMark 7
PCMark Vantage
PCMark Vantage
PCMark 8
Home Score Accelerated v2
Acer TravelMate P658-M-537B
HD Graphics 520, 6200U, Kingston RBU-SNS8152S3256GG2
3475 Points +8%
Dell Latitude 15 E5570
HD Graphics 520, 6300U, Samsung SSD PM871 MZ7LN128HCHP
3282 Points +2%
HP ProBook 650 G2-T9X61ET
HD Graphics 520, 6200U, Hitachi Travelstar Z7K500 HTS725050A7E630
3229 Points
Toshiba Tecra Z50-C-10P
HD Graphics 520, 6200U, Toshiba HG6 THNSNJ256G8NU
2991 Points -7%
Lenovo ThinkPad L560-20F10026GE
HD Graphics 520, 6200U, WDC Slim WD10SPCX-21KHST0
2886 Points -11%
Work Score Accelerated v2
Acer TravelMate P658-M-537B
HD Graphics 520, 6200U, Kingston RBU-SNS8152S3256GG2
4467 Points +7%
Dell Latitude 15 E5570
HD Graphics 520, 6300U, Samsung SSD PM871 MZ7LN128HCHP
4301 Points +3%
HP ProBook 650 G2-T9X61ET
HD Graphics 520, 6200U, Hitachi Travelstar Z7K500 HTS725050A7E630
4191 Points
Lenovo ThinkPad L560-20F10026GE
HD Graphics 520, 6200U, WDC Slim WD10SPCX-21KHST0
3861 Points -8%
Toshiba Tecra Z50-C-10P
HD Graphics 520, 6200U, Toshiba HG6 THNSNJ256G8NU
3842 Points -8%
Creative Score Accelerated v2
HP ProBook 650 G2-T9X61ET
HD Graphics 520, 6200U, Hitachi Travelstar Z7K500 HTS725050A7E630
3649 Points
Dell Latitude 15 E5570
HD Graphics 520, 6300U, Samsung SSD PM871 MZ7LN128HCHP
3591 Points -2%
Lenovo ThinkPad L560-20F10026GE
HD Graphics 520, 6200U, WDC Slim WD10SPCX-21KHST0
3024 Points -17%
PCMark 7
Score
Dell Latitude 15 E5570
HD Graphics 520, 6300U, Samsung SSD PM871 MZ7LN128HCHP
4566 Points +53%
HP ProBook 650 G2-T9X61ET
HD Graphics 520, 6200U, Hitachi Travelstar Z7K500 HTS725050A7E630
2988 Points
HP ProBook 650 G1 H5G74E
HD Graphics 4600, 4000M, Hitachi Travelstar Z7K500 HTS725050A7E630
2569 Points -14%
Lenovo ThinkPad L560-20F10026GE
HD Graphics 520, 6200U, WDC Slim WD10SPCX-21KHST0
2441 Points -18%
Productivity
Dell Latitude 15 E5570
HD Graphics 520, 6300U, Samsung SSD PM871 MZ7LN128HCHP
4269 Points +164%
HP ProBook 650 G2-T9X61ET
HD Graphics 520, 6200U, Hitachi Travelstar Z7K500 HTS725050A7E630
1618 Points
HP ProBook 650 G1 H5G74E
HD Graphics 4600, 4000M, Hitachi Travelstar Z7K500 HTS725050A7E630
1499 Points -7%
Lenovo ThinkPad L560-20F10026GE
HD Graphics 520, 6200U, WDC Slim WD10SPCX-21KHST0
1418 Points -12%
PCMark Vantage Result
8328 points
PCMark 7 Score
2988 points
PCMark 8 Home Score Accelerated v2
3229 points
PCMark 8 Creative Score Accelerated v2
3649 points
PCMark 8 Work Score Accelerated v2
4191 points
Help

Storage Device

The installed 2.5-inch hard drive obstructs the M.2 slot
The installed 2.5-inch hard drive obstructs the M.2 slot

The storage device in our review sample is a conventional, 500 GB hard drive by Hitachi. The 2.5-inch HDD spins at 7200 RPM and achieves an average transfer rate of 103 MB/s (HDTune). The hard drive accomplishes top rates of 129.4 MB/s. Compared with all reference devices in this test, the hard drive in the ProBook 650 G2 is the slowest one. The performance difference to devices equipped with a fast SSD is quite striking and illustrates the devices hidden potentials. However, the system performance is seemingly not really affected when looking at the rates in the comparison chart.

Replacing the hard drive is not a problem. An M.2 slot is present and can only be used when the 2.5-inch hard drive is removed since both slots overlap each other. Consequently, it is only possible to install one system storage in the ProBook 650 G2.

HD Tune
HD Tune
CrystalDiskMark
CrystalDiskMark
HP ProBook 650 G2-T9X61ET
Hitachi Travelstar Z7K500 HTS725050A7E630
Lenovo ThinkPad L560-20F10026GE
WDC Slim WD10SPCX-21KHST0
Dell Latitude 15 E5570
Samsung SSD PM871 MZ7LN128HCHP
Toshiba Tecra Z50-C-10P
Toshiba HG6 THNSNJ256G8NU
Acer TravelMate P658-M-537B
Kingston RBU-SNS8152S3256GG2
CrystalDiskMark 3.0
33%
11784%
3372%
9846%
Read Seq
109.6
113.6
4%
474.7
333%
512
367%
479.1
337%
Write Seq
109.1
111.7
2%
155
42%
415.8
281%
333.1
205%
Read 512
30.66
39.65
29%
393.6
1184%
404.4
1219%
418
1263%
Write 512
45.71
55.3
21%
119.7
162%
382.2
736%
320.5
601%
Read 4k
0.351
0.488
39%
34
9587%
24.05
6752%
25.66
7211%
Write 4k
0.798
1.022
28%
96.6
12005%
87.6
10877%
64.7
8008%
Read 4k QD32
0.656
1.367
108%
383.3
58330%
226.2
34382%
Write 4k QD32
0.787
1.036
32%
100.2
12632%
211.4
26761%
Hitachi Travelstar Z7K500 HTS725050A7E630
Transfer Rate Minimum: 50.2 MB/s
Transfer Rate Maximum: 129.4 MB/s
Transfer Rate Average: 103 MB/s
Access Time: 16.1 ms
Burst Rate: 257.8 MB/s
CPU Usage: 26.5 %

Graphics Card

A dedicated GPU is not installed in our ProBook 650 G2. Our review sample uses the CPU-integrated Intel HD Graphics 520 GPU. The graphics unit supports DirectX 12 as well as the modern H.265/HEVC codec. This unloads the processor so that it has reserves for other applications. Despite the integrated graphics unit, it is still possible to run 3D applications. The ProBook 650 G2 places itself in the upper midfield in the 3DMark benchmark comparison.

3DMark Ice Storm
3DMark Ice Storm Unlimited
3DMark Ice Storm Extreme
3DMark Cloud Gate
3DMark Sky Diver
3DMark Fire Strike
3DMark Fire Strike Extreme
3DMark 11
3DMark 06
3DMark 05
3DMark 03
3DMark 2001
3DMark 2000
 
3DMark
1280x720 Cloud Gate Standard Graphics
Acer TravelMate P658-M-537B
Intel HD Graphics 520, Intel Core i5-6200U
6963 Points +12%
Dell Latitude 15 E5570
Intel HD Graphics 520, Intel Core i5-6300U
6586 Points +6%
HP ProBook 650 G2-T9X61ET
Intel HD Graphics 520, Intel Core i5-6200U
6199 Points
Lenovo ThinkPad L560-20F10026GE
Intel HD Graphics 520, Intel Core i5-6200U
6126 Points -1%
Toshiba Tecra Z50-C-10P
Intel HD Graphics 520, Intel Core i5-6200U
5834 Points -6%
HP ProBook 650 G1 H5G74E
Intel HD Graphics 4600, Intel Core i3-4000M
5557 Points -10%
1920x1080 Fire Strike Graphics
Dell Latitude 15 E5570
Intel HD Graphics 520, Intel Core i5-6300U
762 Points +5%
HP ProBook 650 G2-T9X61ET
Intel HD Graphics 520, Intel Core i5-6200U
723 Points
Lenovo ThinkPad L560-20F10026GE
Intel HD Graphics 520, Intel Core i5-6200U
652 Points -10%
Toshiba Tecra Z50-C-10P
Intel HD Graphics 520, Intel Core i5-6200U
613 Points -15%
HP ProBook 650 G1 H5G74E
Intel HD Graphics 4600, Intel Core i3-4000M
612 Points -15%
1280x720 Ice Storm Standard Score
Acer TravelMate P658-M-537B
Intel HD Graphics 520, Intel Core i5-6200U
54107 Points +15%
Dell Latitude 15 E5570
Intel HD Graphics 520, Intel Core i5-6300U
51106 Points +9%
HP ProBook 650 G2-T9X61ET
Intel HD Graphics 520, Intel Core i5-6200U
47002 Points
Lenovo ThinkPad L560-20F10026GE
Intel HD Graphics 520, Intel Core i5-6200U
41900 Points -11%
HP ProBook 650 G1 H5G74E
Intel HD Graphics 4600, Intel Core i3-4000M
39808 Points -15%
Toshiba Tecra Z50-C-10P
Intel HD Graphics 520, Intel Core i5-6200U
39250 Points -16%
3DMark 11
1280x720 Performance GPU
Acer TravelMate P658-M-537B
Intel HD Graphics 520, Intel Core i5-6200U
1347 Points +3%
HP ProBook 650 G2-T9X61ET
Intel HD Graphics 520, Intel Core i5-6200U
1305 Points
Dell Latitude 15 E5570
Intel HD Graphics 520, Intel Core i5-6300U
1296 Points -1%
Lenovo ThinkPad L560-20F10026GE
Intel HD Graphics 520, Intel Core i5-6200U
1225 Points -6%
Toshiba Tecra Z50-C-10P
Intel HD Graphics 520, Intel Core i5-6200U
1142 Points -12%
HP ProBook 650 G1 H5G74E
Intel HD Graphics 4600, Intel Core i3-4000M
778 Points -40%
1280x720 Performance
Acer TravelMate P658-M-537B
Intel HD Graphics 520, Intel Core i5-6200U
1504 Points +6%
Dell Latitude 15 E5570
Intel HD Graphics 520, Intel Core i5-6300U
1438 Points +2%
HP ProBook 650 G2-T9X61ET
Intel HD Graphics 520, Intel Core i5-6200U
1414 Points
Lenovo ThinkPad L560-20F10026GE
Intel HD Graphics 520, Intel Core i5-6200U
1339 Points -5%
Toshiba Tecra Z50-C-10P
Intel HD Graphics 520, Intel Core i5-6200U
1260 Points -11%
HP ProBook 650 G1 H5G74E
Intel HD Graphics 4600, Intel Core i3-4000M
877 Points -38%
3DMark 06 - 1280x1024 Standard Score AA:0x AF:0x
HP ProBook 650 G2-T9X61ET
Intel HD Graphics 520, Intel Core i5-6200U
8423 Points
HP ProBook 650 G1 H5G74E
Intel HD Graphics 4600, Intel Core i3-4000M
4795 Points -43%
3DMark 2001SE Standard
20229 points
3DMark 03 Standard
15594 points
3DMark 05 Standard
11700 points
3DMark 06 Standard Score
8423 points
3DMark 11 Performance
1414 points
3DMark Ice Storm Standard Score
47002 points
3DMark Cloud Gate Standard Score
5045 points
3DMark Fire Strike Score
677 points
3DMark Fire Strike Extreme Score
317 points
Help

Gaming Performance

The ProBook 650 G2 is a business device that was not designed for gaming. Since our review sample is equipped with only an Intel HD Graphics 520, some gaming benchmark outcomes are sobering. The performance is only enough to run older games using minimum presets smoothly. The working memory is soon the bottleneck, especially in 3D applications.

HP offers the ProBook 650 G2 also with a dedicated GPU (AMD Radeon R7 M365X). It has its own 2 GB of GDDR5 RAM and thus a much better performance than Intel's HD Graphics 520.

low med. high ultra
BioShock Infinite (2013) 36.4 22.3 18.5
Battlefield 4 (2013) 35.1 27.6 16.7
Rise of the Tomb Raider (2016) 13.5 10.1

Emissions

Noise characteristic
Noise characteristic

System Noise

The ProBook 650 G2 has one heat pipe and a small fan for cooling the components. The fan is virtually inaudible in idle mode. We measured an average of 30.9 dB(A), which is the same noise level that the installed hard drive produces. The noise level increased to a maximum of 36.7 dB(A) in the full load scenario that we simulate using the programs Prime95 and FurMark. No improvements are seen here compared with the ProBook 650 G1.

Noise Level

Idle
30.9 / 30.9 / 31.3 dB(A)
HDD
30.9 dB(A)
Load
33.8 / 36.7 dB(A)
  red to green bar
 
 
30 dB
silent
40 dB(A)
audible
50 dB(A)
loud
 
min: dark, med: mid, max: light   ECM8000 + Voltcraft SL-451 (15 cm distance)   environment noise: 29 dB(A)
HP ProBook 650 G2-T9X61ET
6200U, HD Graphics 520, Hitachi Travelstar Z7K500 HTS725050A7E630
Lenovo ThinkPad L560-20F10026GE
6200U, HD Graphics 520, WDC Slim WD10SPCX-21KHST0
Dell Latitude 15 E5570
6300U, HD Graphics 520, Samsung SSD PM871 MZ7LN128HCHP
Toshiba Tecra Z50-C-10P
6200U, HD Graphics 520, Toshiba HG6 THNSNJ256G8NU
Acer TravelMate P658-M-537B
6200U, HD Graphics 520, Kingston RBU-SNS8152S3256GG2
HP ProBook 650 G1 H5G74E
4000M, HD Graphics 4600, Hitachi Travelstar Z7K500 HTS725050A7E630
Noise
3%
-5%
-2%
-9%
-2%
off / environment *
29
29.4
-1%
31.2
-8%
31.2
-8%
31.2
-8%
Idle Minimum *
30.9
30.1
3%
31.2
-1%
32.4
-5%
32.5
-5%
31.6
-2%
Idle Average *
30.9
30.1
3%
33.2
-7%
32.4
-5%
32.5
-5%
31.6
-2%
Idle Maximum *
31.3
30.1
4%
34.3
-10%
32.4
-4%
35
-12%
31.6
-1%
Load Average *
33.8
33.4
1%
36.6
-8%
33.5
1%
42
-24%
35.6
-5%
Load Maximum *
36.7
34.7
5%
34.7
5%
33.5
9%
37.5
-2%
36.7
-0%

* ... smaller is better

Stress test Prime95 + FurMark
Stress test Prime95 + FurMark
Stress test FurMark only
Stress test FurMark only
Stress test Prime95 only
Stress test Prime95 only

Temperature

3DMark 11 post stress test
3DMark 11 post stress test

The cooling components in the ProBook 650 G2 function well and ensure good rates. The casing temperature settles to below 30 °C (~86 °F; 28.3 °C/~83 °F) in idle mode. This increases to a maximum of 38.3 °C (~101 °F) during load. Therefore, the casing temperatures do not give any cause for concern.

The programs Prime95 and FurMark run simultaneously for at least one hour in our stress test that represents an extreme scenario. This load is an exception and will hardly occur in routine use. We measure a maximum temperature of 61 °C (~142 °F) on the CPU, which is also true for the integrated graphics unit. Thus, the rates are clearly within a safe range below the maximum load limit.

The CPU clocked stably at its maximum possible speed of 2.8 GHz (one core) and 2.7 GHz (two cores) when each program is performed individually. Intel's Core i5-6200U clocked at 2.3 GHz from the beginning when Prime95 and FurMark ran simultaneously; Intel's HD Graphics 520 clocked consistently at 950 MHz. The reason for the slight CPU throttling is the TDP of 15 watts that both CPU and GPU have to share. However, this is a phenomenon that is not inherent to only the ProBook 650 G2. We re-ran the 3DMark 11 benchmark after the stress test and its result was approximately 100 points less than after a cold start.

Max. Load
 32.3 °C
90 F
37.4 °C
99 F
35.1 °C
95 F
 
 29.2 °C
85 F
33.3 °C
92 F
31 °C
88 F
 
 28.1 °C
83 F
28.2 °C
83 F
29 °C
84 F
 
Maximum: 37.4 °C = 99 F
Average: 31.5 °C = 89 F
38.3 °C
101 F
37.6 °C
100 F
38.1 °C
101 F
35 °C
95 F
34.4 °C
94 F
29.3 °C
85 F
29.8 °C
86 F
28.5 °C
83 F
28.5 °C
83 F
Maximum: 38.3 °C = 101 F
Average: 33.3 °C = 92 F
Power Supply (max.)  42.6 °C = 109 F | Room Temperature 23.3 °C = 74 F | Fluke 62 Max
(+) The average temperature for the upper side under maximal load is 31.5 °C / 89 F, compared to the average of 29.5 °C / 85 F for the devices in the class Office.
(+) The maximum temperature on the upper side is 37.4 °C / 99 F, compared to the average of 34.2 °C / 94 F, ranging from 21.2 to 62.5 °C for the class Office.
(+) The bottom heats up to a maximum of 38.3 °C / 101 F, compared to the average of 36.7 °C / 98 F
(+) In idle usage, the average temperature for the upper side is 28.3 °C / 83 F, compared to the device average of 29.5 °C / 85 F.
(+) The palmrests and touchpad are cooler than skin temperature with a maximum of 29 °C / 84.2 F and are therefore cool to the touch.
(±) The average temperature of the palmrest area of similar devices was 27.7 °C / 81.9 F (-1.3 °C / -2.3 F).
HP ProBook 650 G2-T9X61ETLenovo ThinkPad L560-20F10026GEDell Latitude 15 E5570Toshiba Tecra Z50-C-10PAcer TravelMate P658-M-537BHP ProBook 650 G1 H5G74E
Heat
Maximum Upper Side *
37.4
37.2
1%
37.3
-0%
36
4%
35.2
6%
32.7
13%
Maximum Bottom *
38.3
36
6%
41.5
-8%
50
-31%
38
1%
46.1
-20%
Idle Upper Side *
30.1
30.7
-2%
34.2
-14%
23.9
21%
29.5
2%
27.7
8%
Idle Bottom *
31.1
32.8
-5%
38.8
-25%
23.8
23%
29
7%
30.5
2%

* ... smaller is better

Speakers

The speaker openings are situated above the keyboard
The speaker openings are situated above the keyboard

The ProBook 650 G2 offers stereo sound that is sufficient for videoconferencing. Trebles and mids are clearly prominent. Both small speakers are situated above the keyboard so that playback is not impaired. The volume is satisfactory for a laptop solution. However, users who place more importance on quality will not get around using an external sound solution. The audio software allows customizing the sound output. Two microphones ensure decent-quality voice recordings.

dB(A) 0102030405060708090Deep BassMiddle BassHigh BassLower RangeMidsHigher MidsLower HighsMid HighsUpper HighsSuper Highs2034.335.72535.934.63136.735.94040.335.25034.538.56334.2358035.53810037.736.512538.238.716031.532.420031.733.425032.437.131529.848.24002953.350028.654.263028.260.480026.864.3100026.571125025.971.7160025.770.2200025.468.5250025.469.631502569.640002571.4500025.162630024.764.3800024.667.81000024.671.91250024.974.11600024.268.4SPL38.381.2N3.347.5median 25.9median 64.3Delta2.11135.335.132.931.831.83236.535.132.428.93328.936.328.848.32761.52752.924.860.92462.822.763.32269.521.267.82174.82075.919.472.718.97117.770.117.86917.671.817.668.117.671.417.673.717.670.417.571.617.671.617.669.617.459.717.583.630.662.51.5median 69.6median 17.84.72.4hearing rangehide median Pink NoiseHP ProBook 650 G2-T9X61ETApple MacBook 12 (Early 2016) 1.1 GHz

Frequency diagram in comparison (check boxes above can be turned on/off!)
Rate 1: Pink Noise 100% volume; Rate 2: Audio off

Energy Management

Power Consumption

The ProBook 650 G2 is up front in terms of power consumption. The average idle energy requirement of our laptop is 6.8 watts. All rivals consume more power. The consumption of our review sample clearly increases during load and achieves its maximum in peaks of 35.1 watts. The average load consumption settles at 26.3 watts. The power consumption could be reduced by 21% compared with the former model. The compact power supply has a maximum output of 45 watts, which is sufficient for the ProBook 650 G2.

The compact 45-watt power supply ...
The compact 45-watt power supply ...
... of HP's ProBook 650 G2
... of HP's ProBook 650 G2
Power Consumption
Off / Standbydarklight 0.24 / 0.45 Watt
Idledarkmidlight 4.6 / 6.8 / 7.5 Watt
Load midlight 26.3 / 35.1 Watt
 color bar
Key: min: dark, med: mid, max: light        Metrahit Energy
Currently we use the Metrahit Energy, a professional single phase power quality and energy measurement digital multimeter, for our measurements. Find out more about it here. All of our test methods can be found here.
HP ProBook 650 G2-T9X61ET
6200U, HD Graphics 520, Hitachi Travelstar Z7K500 HTS725050A7E630, TN LED, 1366x768, 15.60
Lenovo ThinkPad L560-20F10026GE
6200U, HD Graphics 520, WDC Slim WD10SPCX-21KHST0, AH-IPS, 1920x1080, 15.60
Dell Latitude 15 E5570
6300U, HD Graphics 520, Samsung SSD PM871 MZ7LN128HCHP, TN LED, 1366x768, 15.60
Toshiba Tecra Z50-C-10P
6200U, HD Graphics 520, Toshiba HG6 THNSNJ256G8NU, IPS-Panel, 1920x1080, 15.60
Acer TravelMate P658-M-537B
6200U, HD Graphics 520, Kingston RBU-SNS8152S3256GG2, IPS, 1920x1080, 15.60
HP ProBook 650 G1 H5G74E
4000M, HD Graphics 4600, Hitachi Travelstar Z7K500 HTS725050A7E630, TN LED, 1366x768, 15.60
Power Consumption
-8%
-3%
-11%
-40%
-21%
Idle Minimum *
4.6
5
-9%
4.5
2%
4.7
-2%
6.6
-43%
4.6
-0%
Idle Average *
6.8
7.9
-16%
7.6
-12%
8
-18%
10.4
-53%
8.2
-21%
Idle Maximum *
7.5
8.6
-15%
8.7
-16%
9.8
-31%
12.7
-69%
9.4
-25%
Load Average *
26.3
27.5
-5%
28.5
-8%
29.7
-13%
36
-37%
37.1
-41%
Load Maximum *
35.1
33.7
4%
29.2
17%
32.6
7%
35
-0%
41.5
-18%

* ... smaller is better

Battery Runtime

48-Wh lithium ion battery
48-Wh lithium ion battery

After the good power consumption outcomes, it was also possible to achieve a decent battery life across the board. HP has equipped the ProBook 650 G2 with a lithium ion battery that has a capacity of 48 Wh. A total of 11:30 hours could be achieved on one battery charge in idle. The laptop had to be recharged after 2:43 hours of full load. The Wi-Fi test is relatively realistic. Different websites are opened every 30 seconds in this test using the "Balanced" profile and a screen brightness of approximately 150 cd/m². This corresponds to reducing the ProBook 650 G2's brightness by two levels. Our review sample achieved a runtime of 6:48 hours in the Wi-Fi test. Overall, the battery life has been increased significantly compared with that of the predecessor. However, our review sample does not achieve the even longer battery life of Dell's Latitude 15 E5570. It must be borne in mind that Dell's Latitude 15 E5570 is equipped with a much larger battery.

Battery Runtime
Idle (without WLAN, min brightness)
11h 30min
WiFi Websurfing (EDGE: 25.10586.0.0)
6h 48min
Big Buck Bunny H.264 1080p
6h 22min
Load (maximum brightness)
2h 43min
HP ProBook 650 G2-T9X61ET
6200U, HD Graphics 520, 48 Wh
Lenovo ThinkPad L560-20F10026GE
6200U, HD Graphics 520, 48 Wh
Dell Latitude 15 E5570
6300U, HD Graphics 520, 62 Wh
Toshiba Tecra Z50-C-10P
6200U, HD Graphics 520, 44 Wh
Acer TravelMate P658-M-537B
6200U, HD Graphics 520, 55 Wh
HP ProBook 650 G1 H5G74E
4000M, HD Graphics 4600, 55 Wh
Battery Runtime
-15%
44%
-13%
7%
-36%
Reader / Idle
690
698
1%
1231
78%
840
22%
461
-33%
H.264
382
277
-27%
571
49%
WiFi v1.3
408
406
0%
632
55%
354
-13%
512
25%
Load
163
109
-33%
151
-7%
123
-25%
100
-39%
WiFi
316

Pros

+ decent battery life
+ relatively solid casing
+ docking station port
+ many security features
+ low power consumption
+ no throttling
+ low temperature development

Cons

- below-average screen brightness
- interfaces too cramped
- viewing angle dependent
- 4 GB DDR4 RAM only
- no SSD

Verdict

In review: HP ProBook 650 G2. Test model courtesy of Notebooksbilliger.de
In review: HP ProBook 650 G2. Test model courtesy of Notebooksbilliger.de

After about two years, Hewlett Packard presents the successor of HP's ProBook 650 G1 - HP's ProBook 650 G2. The enduring, 15-inch business laptop that we tested sells for 1150 Euros (~$1303). For this price, the buyer gets a device that can cope with the average routine office requirements. HP has implemented common security features and has equipped our review sample with an LTE modem. The leap from a Haswell CPU to a modern Skylake architecture clearly illustrates the technical advancements of the recent years. This is obvious in the power consumption that consequently leads to a good battery life.

HP's ProBook 650 G2 convinces with solid system performance. The impression is literally marred by the below-average screen quality that simply has no place in this price range.

The ProBook 650 G2 is a good approach to being a daily companion in the office. We would recommend taking a device with a Full HD panel to buyers seriously considering purchasing this laptop. It would also make sense to expand the working memory and installing an SSD storage device for better utilization of the existing performance.

HP ProBook 650 G2-T9X61ET - 08/11/2016 v5.1(old)
Sebastian Bade

Chassis
81 / 98 → 83%
Keyboard
85%
Pointing Device
88%
Connectivity
72 / 80 → 90%
Weight
61 / 20-67 → 87%
Battery
88%
Display
75%
Games Performance
54 / 68 → 80%
Application Performance
74 / 92 → 80%
Temperature
93%
Noise
92%
Audio
59%
Camera
48 / 85 → 56%
Average
75%
84%
Office - Weighted Average

Pricecompare

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Sebastian Bade, 2016-08-18 (Update: 2018-05-15)