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Review HP EliteBook 2560p LG666EA Subnotebook

Dark Room. The smallest EliteBook feels quite heavy in the suitcase with a weight of 2 kgs. Still, it manages to deal with everyday tasks without a problem. To find out why the mobility suffers, despite the matt display and 6 hours run time, take a look at the following in-depth review.
HP EliteBook 2560p (LG666EA): The cheapest configuration comes without a SSD and UMTS for around 1,000 Euros
HP EliteBook 2560p (LG666EA): The cheapest configuration comes without a SSD and UMTS for around 1,000 Euros

The EliteBooks produced by HP belong to the luxury class of business notebooks. These models usually boast a price tag above 1000 Euros and a high-quality aluminium finish. Any buyer can find the perfect size for themselves thanks to the wide variety of sizes these models come in. In our review, the 15.6 inch 8560p was the heaviest model (3.2 kg), but it also offered the most performance. The smaller 14 inch 8460p had a few problems with CPU throttling, but remained cool and had good workmanship (2.44 kg). Last but not least is the 2760p Tablet PC (convertible), which we have not tested yet. 

The smallest EliteBook is a 12.5 inch model named 2560p. We picked the cheapest and the lightest (1.96 kg) configuration: the LG666ET/LG666EA. The market price for this packet lies a little under 1,000 Euros. This packet does not have an integrated UMTS module and comes with a middle-class CPU: Core i5-2410M (2 x 2.60GHz). Does the laptop offer great mobility in exchange for the high price? In the following review, we will explore the features offered by the EliteBook 2560p and determine whether it is the perfect entry-level laptop for buyers looking to get a model from this price-crowned series.

Case

Sturdy, high-quality aluminium and synthetic material chassis
Sturdy, high-quality aluminium and synthetic material chassis
Stiff, metal hinges
Stiff, metal hinges
Rubber edges and indestructible metal hooks
Rubber edges and indestructible metal hooks

Today's consumers are looking for the thinnest subnotebook available (see Intel Ultrabooks). HP disagrees with this trend and opts instead to add a few hundred grams and a couple of material layers to the 12.5 inch 2560p subnotebook. The 2560p weighs 1.96 kg and sits heavy in the hand. The huge back of the laptop measures 3.5 cm, which is 0.6 cm more than a flat IdeaPad S205 and 1.4 cm more than a Lenovo Edge E125. The EliteBook 2540p (the predecessor of the 2560p) may not have been a light-weight (1,833 grams) but at least it was 130 grams lighter.

However, the relatively heavy weight and unusual size of the laptop makes it sturdy and reliable. HP has picked high-quality, and heavy materials for the 2560p. We believe that they wanted to make the device rugged for business use

The base unit of the notebook seems impervious. Both the hand-rest regions and the bottom plate of the laptop successfully resisted all our attempts to bend them inwards. The chassis is compact and secure, and HP has managed to design a sturdy bottom plate which requires the removal of no screws to take off. The removal of the bottom plate does not affect the sturdiness of the notebook adversely, as multiple braces on the inside support the chassis.

The sloped display cover protects its charge well. We could barely bend the edges of the cover.  The silver sheen of the surface is due to the lacquer applied to the aluminium, which is cool to touch. Fingerprints do not stand a chance, but scratches can appear over time. Bending the cover at any single point is almost impossible. We did manage to push the display cover inwards 1 or 2 mm by applying immense force to the middle of the surface. However, pressure applied over a wide area is easily dispersed by the sturdy cover. 

The material picked for the notebook (plain synthetic material, brushed and lacquered aluminium) feels cool to touch and proves resistant to scratches. The hinges of the laptop are a massive affair. They are made of real metal and can be found on top of the base unit. No amount of force could bend or twist them and they fulfilled their duty of holding the display up well. Due to the weight of the chassis, it is possible to pull the display open with one hand.

Another nice feature of the HP device is its display locking mechanism. The display lock of the 2560p consists of two massive metal hooks which stand out of the display. These hooks can not be easily broken. The user can operate the lock mechanism with a single hand by pressing the silver button at the front of the laptop. Similarly, the removal of the battery only requires a single hand to press the slider at the back.

Connectivity

The 12.5 inch model offers almost everything that a work notebook should have. DisplayPort, ExpressCard34, SmartCard-Reader and eSATA are all available on the laptop. HP picked DisplayPort instead of HDMI for video output. An interface for a docking station, which is a "Must Have" for high-quality business laptops, is also available. Sadly, USB 3.0 ports which can be found in other high-quality laptops are missing here.

The laptop lacksmodem interface (RJ11), the screwed-in VGA port and FireWire (i-Link). Any missing interfaces can be added via the ExpressCard34 slot, like, for example, a USB 3.0 controller. The placement of two USB ports and a VGA port on the back is nice. This allows the VGA cable and two USB cables to be pushed out of sight.

After removing the bottom plate
After removing the bottom plate
ExpressCard34, DisplayPort, eSATA
ExpressCard34, DisplayPort, eSATA
Port for docking station (LE877AA)
Port for docking station (LE877AA)
Front: no ports
Front: no ports
Left side: AC, Ethernet, DVD burner, SmartCard Reader
Left side: AC, Ethernet, DVD burner, SmartCard Reader
Back: VGA, 2 x USB 2.0
Back: VGA, 2 x USB 2.0
Right side: ExpressCard34, Cardreader, Audio/Mic combo, DisplayPort, eSATA/USB 2.0 combo, DockingPort, Kensington
Right side: ExpressCard34, Cardreader, Audio/Mic combo, DisplayPort, eSATA/USB 2.0 combo, DockingPort, Kensington

Communication

The older Bluetooth 2.1 module and the WLAN-Draft-N (Intel Centrino Advanced-N 6205 AGN) are the only communication modules in the 2560p. Users looking for internet on-the-go will have to pick the LG669EA configuration which offers HSDPA. Our model has a free mini PCIe slot for the HSDPA module (incl. antennas) and a SimCard slot can be found under the battery. 

Security 

HP has provided a variety of security tools and devices for the notebook. A fingerprint reader, a SmartCard reader and a water-proof keyboard (drain in the bottom plate) are standard for EliteBooks. The HP ProtectTools (entire packet) is the security software. It is comprised of the HP Disk Sanitizer, hard disk encryption, Credential Manager (passwords) and File Sanitizer (deletes file without a trace) and a variety of other tools.

The 2560p is compatible with "Central Management", which means that it can be remotely (via Internet or network) identified and accessed. The TPM Embedded Security Chip 1.2 serves this purpose. The BIOS offers a variety of options, such as, password setup (Enhanced Pre-Boot Security), DriveLock (secures the hard disk with a password), Intel Anti Theft (prevents use of a stolen laptop) and DiskSanitizer (deletion of data securely).

Accessories

Two recovery DVDs are placed in the package (one each for 32 bit and 64 bit Windows 7 Professional). Unfortunately HP delivers the laptop with the 32 bit OS pre-installed, and the HP product page only mentions the 32 bit version. Undesirable software, such as, Norton, can be avoided if the user ticks them off at the first start-up of the notebook. 

HP Quick-Web (the middle button of the three keys) is an Instant-On-Software (IOS) which is intended for fast access to the internet and E-mail outside of Windows. This software is great as it not only avoids booting up into Windows but also secures the laptop when connected to an unknown network. So users who start their web presentation using IOS are more secure. For screenshots, see our picture gallery, right column. 

HP offers a special docking port for the 12.5 inch 2560p. The LE877AA (for 180 euros) is not compatible with other HP business notebooks but does work with the predecessor model, the 2540p. While the 14 and 15 inch models have the docking port at the bottom, the 2560p has its docking interface on the right side of its case. The docking station offers 4 x USB 2.0, DisplayPort, eSATA, Ethernet, 2x Audio and VGA.

The 9-cell battery slice ("Ultra-Long Battery Life") available for the 2540p is not available for the 2560p (XX6XB/P/W, Li-Ion, 8.850mAh).

Warranty

HP offers a limited warranty of 3 years for the 2560p. The battery only receives a guarantee of one year.

Recovery DVDs Win. 7 Prof. in 32&64 Bit
Recovery DVDs Win. 7 Prof. in 32&64 Bit
Webcam picture: 1280x720 Pixel 1.3MP
Webcam picture: 1280x720 Pixel 1.3MP
Power Assistant: Controls for the power settings
Power Assistant: Controls for the power settings
Power Assistant: Schedules configuration
Power Assistant: Schedules configuration
Power Assistant: Current power consumption
Power Assistant: Current power consumption
ProtectTools: Security and User
ProtectTools: Security and User

Input Devices

Keyboard

The keys of the laptop have a strong pressure point and medium stroke distance which presents a good typing feel for the user. The 2540p had the cursor keys placed separately in a corner as they were too big. However, in the 2560p the cursor keys are seamlessly integrated into the keyboard. This was achieved by making the "up" and "down" keys smaller. The curved surface of the keys is another nice feature. This makes typing more precise as the chance of the finger sliding sideways is reduced. The keyboard sits securely in its spot and is both input-friendly and sturdy.

Touchpad & Pointstick

The user can use either the conventional touchpad or the "Pointstick" (Synaptics TouchStyk V2.0) for navigation. All the mouse and pointstick keys are made of hard rubber which offers a good grip. The keys have a distinct stroke distance and a broad and light pressure point. In addition, the keys make no noise, leaving the user with no complaints.

The Synaptics-Touch-Pad V7.4 is not very big: diameter of 7.6 centimeters. Thankfully, the clever design utilizes the available space well. The touchpad offers vertical and horizontal scroll bars on the side, but only the vertical scroll bar is marked on the touchpad.

Keyboard has good feedback
Keyboard has good feedback
Small but input-friendly cursor keys
Small but input-friendly cursor keys
Touchpad with sensitive keys
Touchpad with sensitive keys

Display

The 12.5 inch (31.75 cm) WXGA display of the EliteBook 2560p has a resolution of 1,366 × 768 pixels (16:9 format) and is anti-glare. The display resolution can be problematic as some big Excel documents, website backends or softwares with fixed measurements can not display all their content with a height of 768 pixels. On the other hand, the predecessor (2540p) had a height of 800 pixels (1.280 x 800, 16:10). Users will have to decide for themselves whether this flaw is problematic or not. Currently, a lot of consumer and professional business laptops have the same resolution (earlier they had a 4:3 format).

The anti-glare prevents reflections, but the black value of 1.07 and the contrast of 145:1 is very low. The 2540p also had the same problem. This WXGA panel is not suited for professional picture editing, as the sRGB color space is clearly missing. In comparison, the Vaio Z13 (picture 3) offers a great panel which even covers the Adobe RGB color space. A display which can cover a passable color space is not rare, as is shown by the fourth and fifth pictures.

HP EliteBook 2560p vs. AdobeRGB(t)
HP EliteBook 2560p vs. AdobeRGB(t)
HP EliteBook 2560p vs. sRGB(t)
HP EliteBook 2560p vs. sRGB(t)
HP EliteBook 2560p vs. Vaio Z13Z9E FHD(t)
HP EliteBook 2560p vs. Vaio Z13Z9E FHD(t)
HP EliteBook 2560p vs. Fujitsu NH751 FHD(t)
HP EliteBook 2560p vs. Fujitsu NH751 FHD(t)
HP EliteBook 2560p vs. Samsung 900X3A(t)
HP EliteBook 2560p vs. Samsung 900X3A(t)
141
cd/m²
137
cd/m²
138
cd/m²
153
cd/m²
155
cd/m²
150
cd/m²
163
cd/m²
159
cd/m²
163
cd/m²
Distribution of brightness
Type unbekannt tested with Gossen Mavo-Monitor
Maximum: 163 cd/m² (Nits) Average: 151 cd/m²
Brightness Distribution: 84 %
Center on Battery: 128 cd/m²
Contrast: 145:1 (Black: 1.07 cd/m²)40.45% AdobeRGB 1998 (Argyll 2.2.0 3D)
58.4% sRGB (Argyll 2.2.0 3D)
39.1% Display P3 (Argyll 2.2.0 3D)

The average brightness of the 12.5 inch model lies at 151 cd/m² which is surprisingly low. We have not seen such low brightness in a notebook for years. In contrast, the predecessor (2540p) had 195 cd/m². Of course, this brightness is enough for indoors use at the office but the laptop does not stand a chance outdoors in the sunlight. We took our photos while there was some cloud cover so the display is still clearly legible.

A perfect outdoors companion needs a brightness level between 240 to 300 cd/m². The battery mode makes matters worse as the brightness falls further to around 128 cd/m² (measurement from the middle of the screen). The light sensor of the notebook was off for our measurements and the outdoors pictures. We deactivated the senor in the BIOS to check our brightness measurements but the end result was the same.

The sensor is seated next to the webcam. The sensor regulates the brightness depending on the brightness of the room. This is good as this saves some power. Still, the sensor is unnecessary as the typical room brightness is 100 cd/m² and the maximum brightness of the display of 151 cd/m² is a very small span.

Front view (slightly clouded)
Front view (slightly clouded)
Side view (slightly clouded)
Side view (slightly clouded)
45 degrees view (slightly clouded)
45 degrees view (slightly clouded)

Stable viewing angles are a problem area for subnotebooks, and the high-quality panel of the 2560p is no exception. In fact the viewing angles are as poor as in the predecessor. 80% of all the notebooks we test have poor viewing angles: vertically very low, horizontally sufficient.

Looking at the display from the side or from above will result in inverted colours and a darker image. The colors start inverting at 10 degrees vertically. Horizontally the situation remains fine till 45 degrees, after which the clear colors invert. We expected more from the elite class but it is a fact that very few subnotebooks such as the Vaio Z13 have great viewing angles.

Viewing angles of the HP EliteBook 2560p LG666EA
Viewing angles of the HP EliteBook 2560p LG666EA

Performance

The Core i7-2620M (2.7 GHz) is the best CPU the EliteBook 2560p can support. We picked a cheaper alternative, the i5 2410M (2.3 GHz). This Sandy Bridge generation processor can be easily overclocked up to 2.9 GHz using the Turbo technology. The latest Turbo 2.0 can push the CPU even further depending on the temperature (Dynamic Range @ Turbo Frequency Limits).

The HD Graphics 3000 graphics chip is integrated into the CPU and is responsible for displaying all the graphics. There are two RAM slots in the laptop, and one is occupied by a 2,048 MB module, while the other remains free. The BIOS of the notebook is the control center from which the user can configure a variety of features and functions, such as, the webcam, LAN card, Multi CPU on/off, Hyper Threading on/off or special functions (USB Charge off, when % capacity). Very few other manufacturers give the user such extensive control over their device.

Systeminfo CPUZ CPU
Systeminfo CPUZ Cache
Systeminfo CPUZ Mainboard
Systeminfo CPUZ RAM
Systeminfo GPUZ HD Graphics 3000
DPC Latency Checker: Idle, no delays
DPC Latency Checker: WLAN Off/On, small delays
System information for the HP EliteBook 2560p LG666EA

So which CPU does the user need? Is a 2410M (2.3GHz - in our test model) enough or is a faster Core i7-2620M (2x 2.70GHz) needed? The Cinebench R10 Single 32bit benchmark gave a clear answer: 3,662 points vs. 4,350 points. The difference of 15% is very small. 

Single core calculations are less relevant for everyday use. For everyday use, multi-threading with high clock frequency is more important. The 2410M scores 8,017 points in the Cinebench R10 Multi. On the other hand, the 2620M scored up to 9,450 points in our other test models. Once again, the difference is a mere 15%. In short: the 2410M is more than enough for everyday use. 

Interesting: the CPU benchmarks showed the same scores on almost all the 2410M systems. This is the first indication that the 12.5 inch model does not suffer from CPU throttling under heavy load.

Cinebench R10 Rendering Single 32Bit
3662
Cinebench R10 Rendering Multiple CPUs 32Bit
8003
Cinebench R10 Shading 32Bit
4401
Help
PCMark 7 Scores
PCMark 7 Scores

On the other hand, the PCMark Vantage (32 bit) benchmark showed an end score of 5,778 points for the 2410M system with HD 3000 graphics. For such a system, this score is low, but that is probably because we ran the 32 bit version of the benchmark. The other test models in our database were tested with the 64 bi PCMark Vantage, and taking a look at other laptops shows that the alternative i7 2620M processor can really boost the score: 7,845 points (Lenovo Thinkpad T420 4236-NGG, 7200 RPM HDD).

The new PCMark 7 benchmark gave a score of 1,594 points which is really low for a 2410M system. Even a Fujitsu Lifebook LH531 (5400 RPM HDD) scored higher: 1,855 points. The low score could once again be due to the 32 bit version of Windows installed on the notebook. An SSD can improve the score as shown by the Toshiba Satellite R830-11C, which is equipped with the same hardware and an SSD: 2,936 points (Toshiba THNSNC128GMLJ, 128GB SSD). A Vaio SA2Z9E/B with an SSD and a 2620M processor (3,488 points) gives us an indication of what kind of score the 2560p LG669EA could reach in the PCMark 7 benchmark. The 2560p would score less as the Vaio SA2 has a dedicated graphics card.

4.5
Windows 7 Experience Index
Processor
Calculations per second
6.9
Memory (RAM)
Memory operations per second
5.5
Graphics
Desktop performance for Windows Aero
4.5
Gaming graphics
3D business and gaming graphics
6.1
Primary hard disk
Disk data transfer rate
5.9
PCMark Vantage Result
5778 points
PCMark 7 Score
1594 points
Help
3DMark 06 Standard Score
3069 points
Help

As the primary storage device is a standard hard disk, the user should not expect any exceptional values. The HDD Sub-Score of the PCMark Vantage lies at a good 4,190 points. This good performance is mainly due to the fact that the hard disk runs at 7200 rpm. SSDs are much faster (20 to 25 Tsd. points), but they are still new to the laptop market. The hard disk (320 GB) from Toshiba reads at 89 MByte/s in sequential read (HD-Tune), which is a clear indication of how fast it is operating.

TOSHIBA MK3261GSYN, 320GB 7200 rpm
TOSHIBA MK3261GSYN, 320GB 7200 rpm
HD-Tune 89 MB/s read
HD-Tune 89 MB/s read
Crystal Disk Mark 98 MB/s read / 107 MB/s write
Crystal Disk Mark 98 MB/s read / 107 MB/s write
Toshiba MK3261GSYN
Transfer Rate Minimum: 49.6 MB/s
Transfer Rate Maximum: 117.2 MB/s
Transfer Rate Average: 89.2 MB/s
Access Time: 16.7 ms
Burst Rate: 77.4 MB/s
CPU Usage: 2.2 %

The integrated Intel HD Graphics 3000 is not suited for demanding games. Risen does run on the laptop but at a resolution of 800x600 pixels. Call of Duty Black Ops freezes a few times and is no fun at low details. Users who are looking for subnotebooks with gaming power should consider the Vaio SA2Z9E/B with Radeon HD 6630M graphics.

low med. high ultra
Risen (2009) 38 16
Call of Duty: Black Ops (2010) 26 18

Emissions

Noise Emissions

Less demanding tasks are accomplished by the laptop relatively quietly at 34 dB(A) (the cooler fan runs at a lower speed). As usual, HP offers a "Fan always on while AC" option in the BIOS. Deactivating this option will lead to the fan switching off temporarily while the laptop is idle (30.5 dB(A)). The only emission in this state is from the hard disk. Thankfully, the storage device does not drone like the 7200 rpm hard disks in the 2010 ProBooks and EliteBooks. The read and write activity of the hard disk is barely audible. A slight clattering noise can be heard with one ear on the notebook: 31.4 dB(A).

The demanding life of a power user can cause the cooling system to turn up to 45 dB(A). At this level, the noise is clearly audible. We could not reach this level with modest load (3DMark2006, 39 dB(A)). A stress test with the Furmark (grapchis load) and Prime95 pushed the laptop to this level. The Prime95 benchmark forces the Core i5 2410M to run all threads at 100%. One upside is that the cooling system is constantly on and does not turn up and down.

Noise Level

Idle
30.5 / 33.8 / 33.8 dB(A)
HDD
31.4 dB(A)
DVD
37.5 / dB(A)
Load
39.7 / 45.4 dB(A)
  red to green bar
 
 
30 dB
silent
40 dB(A)
audible
50 dB(A)
loud
 
min: dark, med: mid, max: light   Voltcraft sl-320 (15 cm distance)

Temperature

Despite 35 W TDP of the CPU, the laptop is no fan heater. HP shows us how the perfect cooling system for a notebook should look like. The temperatures remain low, even under load. The temperatures in the stress test are not much higher than in the idle stat. The balanced distribution when the laptop is idle is exceptional.

Max. Load
 25.2 °C
77 F
28.6 °C
83 F
27.8 °C
82 F
 
 25.4 °C
78 F
29 °C
84 F
30.7 °C
87 F
 
 24.5 °C
76 F
27.9 °C
82 F
29.3 °C
85 F
 
Maximum: 30.7 °C = 87 F
Average: 27.6 °C = 82 F
36.7 °C
98 F
31.9 °C
89 F
26.8 °C
80 F
33.8 °C
93 F
30.7 °C
87 F
26.3 °C
79 F
29.9 °C
86 F
28.4 °C
83 F
26.3 °C
79 F
Maximum: 36.7 °C = 98 F
Average: 30.1 °C = 86 F
Power Supply (max.)  48.2 °C = 119 F | Room Temperature 20.7 °C = 69 F | Voltcraft IR-360
(+) The average temperature for the upper side under maximal load is 27.6 °C / 82 F, compared to the average of 30.7 °C / 87 F for the devices in the class Subnotebook.
(+) The maximum temperature on the upper side is 30.7 °C / 87 F, compared to the average of 35.9 °C / 97 F, ranging from 21.4 to 59 °C for the class Subnotebook.
(+) The bottom heats up to a maximum of 36.7 °C / 98 F, compared to the average of 39.4 °C / 103 F
(+) In idle usage, the average temperature for the upper side is 26.2 °C / 79 F, compared to the device average of 30.7 °C / 87 F.
(+) The palmrests and touchpad are cooler than skin temperature with a maximum of 29.3 °C / 84.7 F and are therefore cool to the touch.
(±) The average temperature of the palmrest area of similar devices was 28.3 °C / 82.9 F (-1 °C / -1.8 F).

No CPU-Throttling

The Turbo-Boost processors of Intel are prone to throttling at high temperatures. In the past few months we tested a variety of models from various manufacturers and under heavy CPU load (sometimes even intensive graphics load) the CPU speed fell below the standard clock frequency. An EliteBook 8460p even went down to 800 MHz. This is annoying for users as the processor is not faulty, but the performance falls through the floor. 

Thankfully, the EliteBook 2560p shows no signs of throttling. The standard clock frequency of 2.3 GHz in the Multi-Core stress test stays constant. Single core load can be expected at 2.6 GHz. The power consumption of the device stays constant during the stress test at 48 watts which is another indication that the laptop does not suffer from throttling. So users who want to work at the peak of performance offered by their laptop will find the 2560p a good fit. We could not check the i7 2620M version for throttling so we can not say that other models do not suffer from throttling.

Furmark Solo: 2.3GHz (Standard) no Throttle
Furmark Solo: 2.3GHz (Standard) no Throttle
Prime95 Solo: 2.6GHz (Turbo) no Throttle
Prime95 Solo: 2.6GHz (Turbo) no Throttle
Prime95+Furmark: Start, 2.3GHz (Standard) no Throttle
Prime95+Furmark: Start, 2.3GHz (Standard) no Throttle
Prime95+Furmark: after 1h, 2.3GHz (Standard) no Throttle
Prime95+Furmark: after 1h, 2.3GHz (Standard) no Throttle
Speakers on the bottom.
Speakers on the bottom.

Speakers

The integrated stereo speakers inside the subnotebook are placed under the hand-rest regions and have an opening on the bottom plate. Although they are directed at the table, they still produce sound which is clear and loud. The small membranes of the speaker can not produce any lows and the sound is concentrated on the middles. There is no Virtual Surround Option in the settings of the speaker (IDT 92HD81B1X sound card, 2540p: Intel Audio).

Battery Life

The small notebook consumes very little power. The predecessor (EliteBook 2540p - Core i7-640LM) consumed slightly less. The lowest idle power consumption is 9 watts (2540p: 7.6 W). The maximum idle consumption is 12.9 W (2540p: 12.4 W). In this mode, everything that consumes power is activated (wireless, highest brightness, high performance mode).

The laptop consumes around 48.2 W (2540p: 46.1 W) when the i5 2410M is running with full load and the integrated Intel HD 3000 is busy with the Furmark benchmark. So it is no surprise that the laptop battery lasts around 1 hour and 32 minutes under load (not stress test, BatteryEater Classic). The small 65 W power adapter is well-dimensioned and heats up to a maximum of 48 degrees when in use.

Power Consumption
Off / Standbydarklight 0.2 / 0.3 Watt
Idledarkmidlight 9 / 10.9 / 12.9 Watt
Load midlight 32.7 / 48.2 Watt
 color bar
Key: min: dark, med: mid, max: light        Voltcraft VC 960
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.

The 12.5 inch model is equipped with a 55 Wh battery (4,910 mAh). The 2540p has 62 Wh. So is the runtime dropping? On the contrary, it is getting better. The laptop lasts 6:39 hours while surfing on the web (399 minutes, 2540p: 275). A film played with the DVD drive drains the laptop in 4 hours and 40 minutes (280 minutes, 2540p: 241). The brightness was set at 100 cd/m² in both tests. The wireless modules (Bluetooth, WLAN) were inactive in the DVD test.

Careful users can reach 10 hours (2540p: 7:50) with maximum energy-saving. This runtime was calculated with the BatteryEater Reader test. The brightness of the panel was set to the lowest level and all the wireless modules were deactivated. The processor was also idle, which makes this scenario rather unrealistic.

Charging 126 Min.
Charging 126 Min.
WLAN Surfing399 Min.
WLAN Surfing399 Min.
DVD Film 280 Min.
DVD Film 280 Min.
Idle 600 Min.
Idle 600 Min.
High Load 92 Min.
High Load 92 Min.
Battery Runtime
Idle (without WLAN, min brightness)
10h 00min
WiFi Surfing
6h 39min
DVD
4h 40min
Load (maximum brightness)
1h 32min

Verdict

The HP EliteBook 2560p (version LG666EA) will not get the same great rating from us its predecessor, the 2540p, got. The main reason for this decision is the low TFT brightness. This is especially a problem in battery mode, when the brightness falls further and can even exhaust the user. Users will be frustrated with a brightness of 128 cd/m² (battery mode; sensor off) during daylight hours. With this brightness level, even the decent anti-glare display suffers and can only display a dark desktop. While plugged in, this issue persists although the brightness rises to 151 cd/m².
We do not understand why the competition has better displays, especially the Thinkpad X220 which is in the same price range, has an attractive IPS display and scores extremely well in this area.

However, the weak display rating is not enough to sink the ship. The very good, even excellent, workmanship, sturdiness, and input devices, including the trackpoint, are all huge positives. Another pro is that the laptop also stays cool all the time.

We really liked how HP dealt with the Turbo Boost throttling problem. This ugly problem never turned up during our tests. This is a good sign, as the EliteBook 8460p had massive throttling issues, and this indicates that HP is learning from its mistakes. In addition, the laptop offers a multitude of ports and interfaces, like a docking port interface, a SmartCard reader (chip reader), etc. All of which offer extensive connectivity for the user and should open a few doors for them. The battery run times of up to 6:39 hours is exceptional for a subnotebook without a "Low Voltage" processor (here 35 W).

The program performance is good thanks to the Core i5 2410M (2.3 GHz) and the 7200 rpm hard disk. This performance should suffice for most business and private applications (except for games). The predecessor's slow 1.8 inch model has been replaced by a standard 2.5 inch hard disk. The hike in the price when a Core i7-2620M is picked (2.70GHz, also dual-core), is not justifiable unless the user really needs every second of processing power or he/she is looking for more advanced features such as (Virtualisation). The SSD LG669EA model (128 GB) is really attractive, as, although we do not yet know which SSD HP has picked for the laptop, we can conclude from our past experience with laptops equipped with SSDs, that the 2560p program performance will shoot through the roof with an SSD installed.  

If the dark TFT which prevents outdoors use is not a deal-breaker, then the 2560p can be (almost) called a perfect companion for the demanding business user. The pricing of the 2560p is another pro, as the consumer will be happy to know that the 12 inch 2540p from 2010 cost 1,370 Euros in its basic configuration, while the manufacturer now requests 1,000 Euros. The premium SSD model of 2010 cost 2,048 Euros. This price has dropped down to around 1,500 Euros now.

HP EliteBook 2560p (LG666EA): The workmanship, the excellent input devices, and the long battery life of the smallest EliteBook convince. However, the dark display disappoints.
HP EliteBook 2560p (LG666EA): The workmanship, the excellent input devices, and the long battery life of the smallest EliteBook convince. However, the dark display disappoints.
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In Review:  HP EliteBook 2560p LG666EA
In Review: HP EliteBook 2560p LG666EA, by courtesy of

Specifications

HP EliteBook 2560p LG666EA (EliteBook 2560p Series)
Processor
Intel Core i5-2410M 2 x 2.3 - 2.9 GHz, Sandy Bridge
Graphics adapter
Memory
2048 MB 
, 1x2048 SODIMM
Display
12.50 inch 16:9, 1366 x 768 pixel, Type unbekannt, glossy: no
Mainboard
Intel QM67
Storage
Toshiba MK3261GSYN, 320 GB 
, 7200 rpm
Soundcard
IDT 92HD81B1X @ Intel Cougar Point PCH - High Definition Audio Controller
Connections
1 Express Card 34mm, 3 USB 2.0, 1 VGA, 1 DisplayPort, 1 Kensington Lock, 1 eSata, 1 Docking Station Port, Audio Connections: Line-out, Microphone combi, Card Reader: SD/MMC, 1 SmartCard, 1 Fingerprint Reader, TPM 1.2 Embedded Security Chip
Networking
Intel 82579LM Gigabit Network Connection (10/100/1000MBit/s), Intel Centrino Advanced-N 6205 (a/b/g/n = Wi-Fi 4/), Bluetooth 2.1+EDR
Optical drive
HP CDDVDW TS-U633J
Size
height x width x depth (in mm): 27 x 305 x 228 ( = 1.06 x 12.01 x 8.98 in)
Battery
55 Wh Lithium-Ion, 10.8V 4910mAh HSTNN-I92C
Operating System
Microsoft Windows 7 Professional 32 Bit
Camera
Webcam: 1.3MP
Additional features
Roxio My DVD 2010 SE, HP 3D DriveGuard, 36 Months Warranty
Weight
1.961 kg ( = 69.17 oz / 4.32 pounds), Power Supply: 262 g ( = 9.24 oz / 0.58 pounds)

 

Looking for a subnotebook which does not HAVE to be slim?
Looking for a subnotebook which does not HAVE to be slim?
This is perfect for the device as it consumes up to 48 W.
This is perfect for the device as it consumes up to 48 W.
Open the bottom: open the locking mechanism,
Open the bottom: open the locking mechanism,
push the plate upwards and take it off.
push the plate upwards and take it off.
All components, including the processor and the cooling system can be easily accessed.
All components, including the processor and the cooling system can be easily accessed.
The LG669EA has integrated UMTS/HSDPA. This is where the module would be placed.
The LG669EA has integrated UMTS/HSDPA. This is where the module would be placed.
This is where the SimCard is placed to get network service.
This is where the SimCard is placed to get network service.
The meager 2,048 MB DDR3 RAM (one module) can be installed here.
The meager 2,048 MB DDR3 RAM (one module) can be installed here.
The cooler fan can emit a lot of noise under load.
The cooler fan can emit a lot of noise under load.
The 6 cell battery has a capacity of 55 Wh.
The 6 cell battery has a capacity of 55 Wh.
This is enough for a runtime of 4:40 to 6:39 hours.
This is enough for a runtime of 4:40 to 6:39 hours.
This battery status LED tells us about the battery charge
This battery status LED tells us about the battery charge
Users can quickly access the Internet via QuickWeb, which does not require Windows to boot up.
Users can quickly access the Internet via QuickWeb, which does not require Windows to boot up.
The QuickWeb programs include Pidgin-E-Mail, Splashtop browser, Skype, Chat, Picture display and music player which all resemble the programs in Windows.
The QuickWeb programs include Pidgin-E-Mail, Splashtop browser, Skype, Chat, Picture display and music player which all resemble the programs in Windows.
Network, browser and Email settings must be configured separately.
Network, browser and Email settings must be configured separately.
The 262 gram power adapter delivers up to 65 watts.
The 262 gram power adapter delivers up to 65 watts.
This look may not suit everybody. However, it does fit with a docking station.
This look may not suit everybody. However, it does fit with a docking station.
You put more value on good workmanship, user-friendly input devices,
You put more value on good workmanship, user-friendly input devices,
sturdiness and connectivity than saving every euro?
sturdiness and connectivity than saving every euro?
Then the smallest EliteBook, the 2560p, may just be your next subnotebook.
Then the smallest EliteBook, the 2560p, may just be your next subnotebook.
The 12.5 inch model is equipped with an optical drive despite its small size.
The 12.5 inch model is equipped with an optical drive despite its small size.
The sloped display made of aluminium is resistant, even in the middle.
The sloped display made of aluminium is resistant, even in the middle.
The 1.96 kg heavy chassis is also extremely resistant.
The 1.96 kg heavy chassis is also extremely resistant.
The cast bottom is very hard and resistant, but allows itself to be easily pushed off.
The cast bottom is very hard and resistant, but allows itself to be easily pushed off.
The aluminium work design is very minimal.
The aluminium work design is very minimal.
The hinges open the display up to 180 degrees. They are made of metal and hold the display.
The hinges open the display up to 180 degrees. They are made of metal and hold the display.
The webcam. the light sensor (for TFT brightness) and keys lighting are all here.
The webcam. the light sensor (for TFT brightness) and keys lighting are all here.
The EliteBook 2560p uses every inch of space it has for ports, even the back offers 2 x USB and a VGA interface, on the right a DisplayPort and eSATA are placed.
The EliteBook 2560p uses every inch of space it has for ports, even the back offers 2 x USB and a VGA interface, on the right a DisplayPort and eSATA are placed.
HP did not put in a modem (next to the Ethernet RJ45).
HP did not put in a modem (next to the Ethernet RJ45).
The fingerprint reader is placed next to the stickers.
The fingerprint reader is placed next to the stickers.
The secure battery sticks out of the battery quite a bit.
The secure battery sticks out of the battery quite a bit.
HP EliteBook 2560p (LG666EA): The panel is too dark for outdoors use.
HP EliteBook 2560p (LG666EA): The panel is too dark for outdoors use.

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Links

Compare Prices

Pros

+Good performance for a subnotebook
+Quiet and fast hard drive
+Heat dissipation always low
+Built-in DVD drive
+Low power usage
+Very good runtimes
+Sturdy case
+High-quality material
+Strong feedback keyboard
+Pointstick and touchpad
+Docking port
+Various ports
+Recovery DVDs
+Security tools and various BIOS options
 

Cons

-Weak contrast TFT
-Low panel brightness
-TFT dims in battery mode
-Small viewing angles
-Only 2 GB RAM
-32 Bit Windows pre-installed

Shortcut

What we like

Reliable, sturdy, resistant and high-quality. The high weight of 1.96 kg is worth it. The keys have a conical inwards curve which improves precision while typing. 

What we miss

A brighter display. 
A brighter display.
A brighter display.
Higher contrast would also be nice, but most importantly:
A brighter display.

What surprises us

The Core Sandy Bridge i5 saves battery life when idle and delivers good performance when demanded. Throttling is not a problem with the 2560p. 

The competition

Business price class: Toshiba Portege R830-10V: 256GB SSD; Sony Vaio VPC-Z21V9E/B: external Radeon HD 6650M; Sony Vaio VPC-SB1A9E/B: HD 6650 (Option); Lenovo ThinkPad X1: SSD; Thinkpad X220 with exciting IPS display, Fujitsu Lifebook S761: SSD; Dell Latitude E6220.

Consumer price class: Acer Aspire TimelineX 3830TG-2628G12nbb: GT540M & 120GB SSD starting from 1200 Euros; Schenker XMG A301-3AP: with GT 520M from 810 Euros; Dell Vostro 3350: HD 6470M for 960 Euros upwards; ASUS U36JC-RX145V: 160 GB SSD & GT 520M

Rating

HP EliteBook 2560p LG666EA - 08/08/2011 v2(old)
Sebastian Jentsch

Chassis
95%
Keyboard
94%
Pointing Device
98%
Connectivity
80%
Weight
88%
Battery
88%
Display
62%
Games Performance
65%
Application Performance
89%
Temperature
94%
Noise
81%
Add Points
80%
Average
85%
86%
Subnotebook - Weighted Average
Sebastian Jentsch, 2011-08-23 (Update: 2013-06- 6)