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Review HP Envy 17t-j003 Notebook

Processor-blowhard with flaws. The Envy 17 scores in CPU matters owing to Intel's i7-4700QM quad-core, and it also displays pictures on a matte Full HD screen. But just how well does the laptop fare in our in-depth test report?

For the original German review, see here.

Manufacturers have to attract buyers' attention when users begin to consider their laptops to only be simple work machines. Hewlett Packard again and again relies on one of the big mortal sins: "Envy", so jealousy, for this purpose.

The Envy product line is to make colleagues and friends jealous of the new high-tech toy with alluring equipment. HP actually started the Envy series as very clear competition for Apple's MacBooks. In fact, the current Envy 17-j003sg now in our test looks a bit like the big MacBook. At second glance, however, we recognize that envy can be quite a superficial feeling. The laptop is only plastic made to look like aluminum and is far from the quality feel that Apple's contender conveys.

Because no new 17-inch MacBooks have been produced since 2012, the last equally sized model is not really a contender. Current competitors would be MSI's GE70-i765M287 also with a 17.3-inch screen diagonal and Intel i7-4700QM. However, MSI installs a stronger GPU but a bit less RAM.

Acer places itself behind HP with the Aspire V3-771G. An Ivy Bridge quad-core and Nvidia's GeForce GT650M represent components from the last generation and prove just how much more performance the modern CPUs and GPUs have.

Toshiba's Satellite S50-A-10H is also interesting because it uses similar components as found in the Envy 17. However, they are hidden in a 15.6-inch chassis. Will we really be jealous of HP Envy 17 owners after this test?

Case

Envy 17: Looks a bit like Apple's MacBook
Envy 17: Looks a bit like Apple's MacBook

Unlike the Envy dv7, which was coated with matte aluminum, HP now uses silver-colored plastic to at least let the material look like the expensive and higher quality material from afar. Although the Envy 17's casing looks like the somewhat bulky MacBook 17 at first glance, the very scratch-sensitive plastic surface is noticed when looking closer. It is also quite unstable. The keyboard partly bends visibly and a creaking sound is heard from the touchpad's area.

With a size of 416 x 274.4 x 306 mm, the casing doesn't look too big or too small for a 17-inch model. The weight of 2.85 kilograms (without power supply) is also quite reasonable.

The user looks at HP's logo and a total of two Beats Audio labels when the laptop is placed on a table. The manufacturer uses the back only for self-promotion. A large HP emblem on the display's back and a Hewlett Packard logo between the display's hinges are here.

HP did not pull the hinges very tight so that the display wobbles slightly and it is difficult to keep the laptop open a bit. It simply closes again when the screen is not opened beyond a certain point.

Connectivity

The Envy 17 offers a quite decent array of interfaces. It sports a total of four USB 3.0 ports alongside HDMI, Gigabit LAN and an SD slot. It is inconvenient that all interfaces are located in the laptop's front area so that it might restrict the hand's work space when working with a mouse beside the laptop. At least the USB ports are sufficiently spaced so that large sticks will not block other ports. One of the ports also supplies drained smartphones with power even when the laptop is off. HP does not offer goodies like a Blu-ray drive and only installs a DVD burner that also supports the now rare RAM format.

HDMI, Gigabit LAN, 2x USB and the SD reader alongside a vent and Kensington lock are cramped on the left.
HDMI, Gigabit LAN, 2x USB and the SD reader alongside a vent and Kensington lock are cramped on the left.
Behind the power socket, the DVD drive dominates on the right. 2x USB 3.0 and the 3.5 mm jack come before it.
Behind the power socket, the DVD drive dominates on the right. 2x USB 3.0 and the 3.5 mm jack come before it.
The front doesn't sport any ports. There is a recess to open the screen.
The front doesn't sport any ports. There is a recess to open the screen.

Communication

The Envy 17 can be connected to a network with cables via Gigabit LAN. The chip comes from Realtek and proved to be reliable and not too slow in the test. HP implements Wi-Fi using two antennas and the RT3290 module from Ralink. IEEE 802.11 b/g/n is supported with a maximum of 300 Mb/s. However, the 5 GHz band is not available and the Envy 17 only transmits with 2.4 GHz.

The Wi-Fi range did not completely convince us. The reception just one story over the router (TP Link) was only middling. A better transmission was possible with a FritzBox but the signal quality varied greatly between "good" and "average".

Security 

The laptop can be secured against theft via the Kensington slot on the left using a laptop lock. Should the device be stolen anyway, it also features a fingerprint scanner for logging into the device. HP's included security software enables replacing other passwords with a fingerprint so that users can access accounts biometrically. An LED beside the sensor displays whether the scanner is active.

Accessories

Inexperienced users will certainly find the included leaflet useful when turning on the laptop for the first time. However, experienced users will barely find any interesting accessories in the laptop's box. The manufacturer only includes a user's manual, warranty booklet, power supply and battery. So there's no reason for envy.

Maintenance

The maintenance cover on the Envy 17's bottom is secured with an easy to remove screw. Underneath the cover, we find the Wi-Fi module, both memory bars, the hard drive and the BIOS battery. The laptop could be upgraded via a second hard drive or SSD but a flat ribbon cable would be needed for this purpose. A hard drive cage would also be very helpful. The memory can only be upgraded when one of the installed modules is removed.

HP does not allow the user to access the fans. Cleaning is connected with removing considerably more screws and a rather excessive tinkering with the laptop's innards.

Warranty

HP delivers the Envy 17 with a 2 year limited manufacturer's warranty. The warranty can be upgraded via HP's websites when required. The options are listed after entering the product number. For example, the manufacturer offers a 3 year upgrade for 168 Euros (~$221) via a service partner. For approx. 240 Euros (~$316), the laptop can be insured for three years including accidental damage, e.g. spills, drops, etc. 

Input Devices

Keyboard

The keyboard particularly yields towards the center and results in a rather wobbly typing feel. That is too bad because we like the otherwise quite good pressure point which hints at a decent typing feel. However, the spongy bed unfortunately prevented us from finding this.

The cursor block is a bit too small but the number pad features an agreeable size. The space and enter keys are sufficiently sized and allow comfortable use. The F-keys have a double assignment which can be triggered via the FN-key. HP has placed a few multimedia keys here.

Touchpad

The touchpad's size of 110 x 70 mm is large enough to work with it pleasantly. The finger glides smoothly over the pad and clicks are also easily performed. The entire pad can be pressed to execute a left mouse click. A button for right mouse clicks is implemented in the lower area and is not separated from the rest of the touchpad. The narrow bar in front of the touchpad can be pressed very deeply and causes the entire laptop casing to always rock while working with it.

The keyboard can be pressed to a disagreeable extent, but it features a nice illumination.
The keyboard can be pressed to a disagreeable extent, but it features a nice illumination.
The touchpad's size and accuracy are pleasing.
The touchpad's size and accuracy are pleasing.

Display

HP Envy 17 vs. sRGB
HP Envy 17 vs. sRGB
HP Envy 17 vs. AdobeRGB
HP Envy 17 vs. AdobeRGB

Everything at a glance: A screen resolution of 1920x1080 pixels alongside a diagonal of 17.3-inches is a perfect match as we ascertained in HP's Envy 17. Although it is only a TN display, the screen convinces with a decent color reproduction not just for home use. However, that does not quite make the Envy a workstation for graphic designers. Users who are planning to use the laptop for editing pictures beyond hobby purposes should imperatively calibrate the colors because the screen's bluish cast is then no longer noticed adversely. Both the screen's contrast and black value could also be a bit better.

HP does not offer any other screen types for this model. This is not a tragedy because the screen makes a very good impression. Particularly its matte surface is a pleasant and user-friendly solution after all the glossy laptops. Alongside the laptop's good brightness it even results in an outdoor-suitable work solution.

253
cd/m²
259
cd/m²
247
cd/m²
278
cd/m²
285
cd/m²
264
cd/m²
283
cd/m²
297
cd/m²
266
cd/m²
Distribution of brightness
tested with X-Rite i1Pro 2
Maximum: 297 cd/m² (Nits) Average: 270.2 cd/m²
Brightness Distribution: 83 %
Contrast: 716:1 (Black: 0.398 cd/m²)
ΔE Color 9.08 | 0.5-29.43 Ø5
ΔE Greyscale 10.23 | 0.57-98 Ø5.3
28.44% AdobeRGB 1998 (Argyll 1.6.3 3D)
66% AdobeRGB 1998 (Argyll 2.2.0 3D)
90.3% sRGB (Argyll 2.2.0 3D)
66.5% Display P3 (Argyll 2.2.0 3D)
Gamma: 2.49

The screen is one of the crucial components in a high-quality laptop. HP only follows this rule to an extent. The Envy 17's screen is quite viewing angle dependent and does not have compelling contrasts. However, it scores in color reproduction. The black value of 0.83 cd/m² is not exceptional and the contrast ratio of 343:1 is also only middling. Thus dark scenes in movies do not look as black as they should be.

However, the screen proves to be color-rich. The sRGB reference color space is covered up to 92%, which is a good rate. In contrast to that, AdobeRGB is only covered by 63%. The colors should definitely be calibrated to eliminate the screen's bluish cast. It is a bit aggravating that HP did not perform this rather simple picture improvement itself and presents the buyers with a theoretically very good, but practically only a middling screen due to the unperformed color calibration.

CalMAN ColorChecker
CalMAN ColorChecker
CalMAN Grayscale
CalMAN Grayscale
CalMAN Saturation Sweeps
CalMAN Saturation Sweeps
CalMAN ColorChecker (after calibration)
CalMAN ColorChecker (after calibration)
CalMAN Grayscale (after calibration)
CalMAN Grayscale (after calibration)
CalMAN Saturation Sweeps (after calibration)
CalMAN Saturation Sweeps (after calibration)
The screen remains well-legible even in the sun.
The screen remains well-legible even in the sun.

Even low-contrast web pages remain well-legible in partial shade and regular texts can still be made out in bright sunlight. The user does not carry a makeup mirror around with the Envy 17 and this is also noticed favorably indoors. Ceiling lamps do not disturb work.

The viewing angle stability of the Envy 17's is good for a TN screen. Content is well-legible from all sides. The content only fades or inverts quickly from above or below.

Thus, not much stands in the way of using the laptop on the thighs or on the living room table. The viewing angles always allow ergonomically work with the Envy 17. This is not an insignificant factor in a device that could certainly replace a desktop computer.

Viewing angles: Envy 17
Viewing angles: Envy 17

Performance

Owing to Intel's swift quad-core, a lot of RAM and a dedicated graphics solution, HP's Envy 17 is not only suitable for multimedia use but also as a work machine for video or image editing. Pictures are pleasant to look at and can also be edited on the good screen, and the hardware is fast enough for that to begin with. However, users who need more RAM will have to remove one of the two installed modules. The Envy 17 only sports two RAM slots.

However, the Envy 17 is not quite as suitable as a gaming laptop. The GT 740M is not a guaranty for fps even in its highest version from the outset. HP additionally reduces the graphics solution with a slow memory bus. The 2 GB of VRAM doesn't help much here either.

The Envy 17 is only suitable for permanent mobile use to an extent due to its 17.3-inch size. Although HP has kept the weight quite low for this device category with 2.85 kilograms, barely anyone will want to permanently carry around such a bulky device. Nevertheless, it is still handy enough to carry from the office to the living room and thus the laptop is quite suitable for use as a desktop replacement.

System information: HP Envy 17t-j000

Processor

The processor reduces its maximum Turbo clock during load.
The processor reduces its maximum Turbo clock during load.

HP's Envy 17 definitely does not lack processor power. Intel's latest Haswell Core i7-4700MQ powerhouse is installed. It is a quad-core processor with Hyper Threading support. Therefore, not only four but eight processor cores are displayed in the operating system. A few programs benefit evidently from the possible better utilization of the processor cores via HT.

The 4700QM's default clock is 2.4 GHz and can be increased up to 3.4 GHz via Turbo. Even when several cores are fully loaded, the CPU often reaches 3 GHz. The processor is built in a state-of-the-art 22 nm process directly by Intel. The manufacturer specifies a maximum TDP of 47 watts. However, this rate includes the integrated HD 4600 GPU so that a lower rate is likely achieved in pure CPU computations.

The Turbo almost always achieved its 3 GHz when all cores were loaded in the test with Prime95 and other CPU-demanding tools. That is, for about a quarter of an hour when the laptop's cooling system ran at full speed. The cores quickly came close to the 100 °C temperature limit and the CPU throttled its clock rate. It is agreeable that the processor only downclocked to at most 2.8 GHz even after an hour of full load on CPU and GPU and did not drop below its default clock of 2.4 GHz.

The Turbo is generally extremely reduced in battery mode although the energy-savings options are set to "High Performance". Although the laptop is not much quieter it is considerably cooler. Nevertheless, the user interface subjectively appears swift in battery mode, despite full load on all cores and GPU. Weaker processors slow down the system too extremely here to even browse on the internet pleasantly.

A look at Cinebench reveals that the processor fares very well and calculates on a high level. Older laptops based on quad-core CPUs from the Ivy Bridge generation, such as Acer's Aspire V3-771G, offer roughly 10% less power. It obviously gets a bit too warm in the Toshiba S50-A-10H's casing. The Envy 17 clearly calculates much faster than the 15-inch contender.

Cinebench R10 Rendering Single 32Bit
5031
Cinebench R10 Rendering Multiple CPUs 32Bit
19265
Cinebench R10 Shading 32Bit
6818
Cinebench R10 Rendering Single CPUs 64Bit
6627 Points
Cinebench R10 Rendering Multiple CPUs 64Bit
24147 Points
Cinebench R10 Shading 64Bit
6841 Points
Cinebench R11.5 CPU Single 64Bit
1.51 Points
Cinebench R11.5 CPU Multi 64Bit
6.94 Points
Cinebench R11.5 OpenGL 64Bit
42.2 fps
Help
Cinebench R11.5
CPU Multi 64Bit (sort by value)
HP Envy 17t-j000
6.94 Points
MSI GE70-i765M287
6.63 Points -4%
Toshiba Satellite S50-A-10H
5.22 Points -25%
Acer Aspire V3-771G-736B161TMaii
6.26 Points -10%
Apple MacBook Pro 17 inch 2011-02 MC725D/A
5.17 Points -26%
CPU Single 64Bit (sort by value)
HP Envy 17t-j000
1.51 Points
MSI GE70-i765M287
1.5 Points -1%
Toshiba Satellite S50-A-10H
1.27 Points -16%

Legend

 
HP Envy 17t-j000 Intel Core i7-4700MQ, NVIDIA GeForce GT 740M, Toshiba MQ01ABD100
 
MSI GE70-i765M287 Intel Core i7-4700MQ, NVIDIA GeForce GTX 765M, Hitachi Travelstar 7K750 HTS727575A9E
 
Toshiba Satellite S50-A-10H Intel Core i7-4700MQ, NVIDIA GeForce GT 740M, HGST Travelstar 5K1000 HTS541010A9E680
 
Acer Aspire V3-771G-736B161TMaii Intel Core i7-3630QM, NVIDIA GeForce GT 650M, Toshiba MQ01ABD100
 
Apple MacBook Pro 17 inch 2011-02 MC725D/A Intel Core i7-2720QM, AMD Radeon HD 6750M, Toshiba MK7559GSXF

System Performance

In everyday use, the Envy 17 is subjectively fast when one application demands the CPU owing to its swift quad-core processor. We do, however, painfully miss an SSD, even just a small model for the operating system and frequently used applications. A solely hard drive powered laptop does not cause envy in the Fall of 2013. HP has missed the goal in this point.

However, the laptops we chose for comparison do not sport an SSD either and all models score identically well in PCMark. Acer's Aspire V3-771G slightly lags behind with its older quad-core and Toshiba's Satellite S50-A-10H apparently still suffers from its tight casing and the resulting CPU throttling.

Nevertheless, the Envy 17's performance is overall convincing. Routine tasks, such as image editing, video editing, office and the like, do not overtax the laptop. Quite the opposite is true: HP's device even has reserves for the future.

5.9
Windows 8 Experience Index
Processor
Calculations per second
7.9
Memory (RAM)
Memory operations per second
7.9
Graphics
Desktop performance for Windows Aero
6.6
Gaming graphics
3D business and gaming graphics
6.6
Primary hard disk
Disk data transfer rate
5.9
PCMark Vantage Result
9817 points
PCMark 7 Score
3359 points
Help
PCMark 7
Score (sort by value)
HP Envy 17t-j000
3359 Points
MSI GE70-i765M287
3207 Points -5%
Toshiba Satellite S50-A-10H
3178 Points -5%
Acer Aspire V3-771G-736B161TMaii
2770 Points -18%
Productivity (sort by value)
HP Envy 17t-j000
2002 Points
MSI GE70-i765M287
2040 Points +2%
Toshiba Satellite S50-A-10H
1881 Points -6%
System Storage (sort by value)
HP Envy 17t-j000
1524 Points
MSI GE70-i765M287
1548 Points +2%
Toshiba Satellite S50-A-10H
1622 Points +6%

Legend

 
HP Envy 17t-j000 Intel Core i7-4700MQ, NVIDIA GeForce GT 740M, Toshiba MQ01ABD100
 
MSI GE70-i765M287 Intel Core i7-4700MQ, NVIDIA GeForce GTX 765M, Hitachi Travelstar 7K750 HTS727575A9E
 
Toshiba Satellite S50-A-10H Intel Core i7-4700MQ, NVIDIA GeForce GT 740M, HGST Travelstar 5K1000 HTS541010A9E680
 
Acer Aspire V3-771G-736B161TMaii Intel Core i7-3630QM, NVIDIA GeForce GT 650M, Toshiba MQ01ABD100

Storage Devices

CrystalDiskMark
CrystalDiskMark
HD Tune
HD Tune

The 1 TB hard drive in HP's Envy 17 does a good job. It proved to be sufficiently fast for a laptop hard drive in the relevant benchmarks. However, Hewlett Packard's laptop lacks an SSD cache or an SSD just for the operating system although there is an empty 2.5-inch slot for such a drive. Although the Envy 17 manages a satisfactory in the total score for the storage device, the lack of an SSD does not let the laptop really seem speedy despite the impressive CPU power. The hard drive's maximum transfer speed is 111 MB/s and its average transfer speed is still a good 84.9 MB/s but no hard drive comes close to the swift access rates of an SSD. The model installed in the Envy 17 is also in the lower midfield with an access rate of 17.2 ms.

HP's Envy 17 does not feature an mSATA slot. To use the empty drive slot (easy to access under the maintenance cover), a chassis and matching cable are required. It is thus not possible to simply and quickly install an additional SSD.

Toshiba MQ01ABD100
Transfer Rate Minimum: 50.9 MB/s
Transfer Rate Maximum: 111.8 MB/s
Transfer Rate Average: 84.9 MB/s
Access Time: 17.2 ms
Burst Rate: 169.6 MB/s
CPU Usage: 2.1 %

Graphics Card

Besides Intel's processor-integrated HD 4600 GPU, HP's Envy 17 also sports a dedicated graphics chip from Nvidia. The GT 740M is supported by 2 GB of DDR3 RAM and offers a considerably higher performance than Intel's GPU.

The latter is always enabled via Nvidia's Optimus when no 3D load is demanded. This saves energy and HP does not completely disable the very useful features of Intel's graphics. For example, the HD 4600 encodes videos faster than Nvidia's GPU or even the CPU owing to the hardwired converter via Quicksync.

Basically, the Kepler graphics solution from Nvidia could be quite suitable for gaming. However, HP has incorporated a few barriers for the chip. Nvidia pretty much allows manufacturers to handle freely and HP connects the GPU with an only 64-bit memory bandwidth to the rather slow DDR3 RAM. This slows the state-of-the-art GK208 graphics chip noticeably so that games rarely run smoothly in the native screen resolution.

3DMark 2001SE Standard
3437 points
3DMark 03 Standard
24329 points
3DMark 05 Standard
14401 points
3DMark 06 Standard Score
9776 points
3DMark Vantage P Result
6591 points
3DMark 11 Performance
2041 points
3DMark Ice Storm Standard Score
53053 points
3DMark Cloud Gate Standard Score
6968 points
3DMark Fire Strike Score
1025 points
Help

Gaming Performance

The 740M does not break any performance records with 384 shader units and the comparatively slow memory. It also proved to be rather restrained in the benchmarks. Users who are planning to play on the Envy 17 will have to make compromises in resolution and graphic details.

The 740M is naturally defeated in a direct comparison with the more expensive and faster models from the series. The GTX 765M in MSI's GE70-i765M287 is twice as fast particularly in tests with high resolutions. With exception of the screen size, the almost identically equipped Toshiba Satellite S50-A-10H shows some differences. Toshiba's laptop lags clearly behind in CPU performance, e.g. in 3DMark's physics test, but regains ground in GPU performance compared with the Envy 17.

The reason for the relatively low graphics power is: HP only connects the GPU and graphics RAM with a narrow 64-bit bus. Nvidia leaves this up to the laptop manufacturers although using a GDDR5 and 128-bit bandwidth would be possible. Thus, the Envy 17 sets the lowest mark for the performance of a GT 740M. It would only be slower with throttled clock rates. But this is fortunately not the case. The GPU still clocked with 1058 MHz even in longer load periods owing to the GPU Turbo. The bandwidth will rarely be sufficient for games in 1920x1080 pixels and is more for older games.

low med. high ultra
The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim (2011) 52.4 35.8 25.4 13.41
Tomb Raider (2013) 89.7 43.1 23.8 11.2
BioShock Infinite (2013) 70.1 37.6 31 9.2
The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim
1366x768 Medium Preset AA:4x (sort by value)
HP Envy 17t-j000
35.8 fps
Toshiba Satellite S50-A-10H
36.1 fps +1%
MSI CX70-i740M281W7H
38.8 fps +8%
1366x768 High Preset AA:8x AF:8x (sort by value)
HP Envy 17t-j000
25.4 fps
Toshiba Satellite S50-A-10H
25.4 fps 0%
MSI CX70-i740M281W7H
28.7 fps +13%
1920x1080 Ultra Preset AA:8x AF:16x (sort by value)
HP Envy 17t-j000
13.41 fps
Tomb Raider
1366x768 Normal Preset AA:FX AF:4x (sort by value)
HP Envy 17t-j000
43.1 fps
Toshiba Satellite S50-A-10H
43.3 fps 0%
Acer Aspire V3-771G-736B161TMaii
62.7 fps +45%
MSI CX70-i740M281W7H
43.6 fps +1%
Asus N56VB-S4050H
57.9 fps +34%
1366x768 High Preset AA:FX AF:8x (sort by value)
HP Envy 17t-j000
23.8 fps
Toshiba Satellite S50-A-10H
23.7 fps 0%
Acer Aspire V3-771G-736B161TMaii
37.8 fps +59%
MSI CX70-i740M281W7H
23.7 fps 0%
Asus N56VB-S4050H
35.3 fps +48%
1920x1080 Ultra Preset AA:FX AF:16x (sort by value)
HP Envy 17t-j000
11.2 fps
Acer Aspire V3-771G-736B161TMaii
14.9 fps +33%
Asus N56VB-S4050H
14 fps +25%
BioShock Infinite
1366x768 Medium Preset (sort by value)
HP Envy 17t-j000
37.6 fps
Asus N56VB-S4050H
49.9 fps +33%
1366x768 High Preset (sort by value)
HP Envy 17t-j000
31 fps
Asus N56VB-S4050H
41.9 fps +35%
1920x1080 Ultra Preset, DX11 (DDOF) (sort by value)
HP Envy 17t-j000
9.2 fps
Asus N56VB-S4050H
12 fps +30%

Legend

 
HP Envy 17t-j000 Intel Core i7-4700MQ, NVIDIA GeForce GT 740M, Toshiba MQ01ABD100
 
Toshiba Satellite S50-A-10H Intel Core i7-4700MQ, NVIDIA GeForce GT 740M, HGST Travelstar 5K1000 HTS541010A9E680
 
Acer Aspire V3-771G-736B161TMaii Intel Core i7-3630QM, NVIDIA GeForce GT 650M, Toshiba MQ01ABD100
 
MSI GE70-i765M287 Intel Core i7-4700MQ, NVIDIA GeForce GTX 765M, Hitachi Travelstar 7K750 HTS727575A9E
 
MSI CX70-i740M281W7H Intel Core i7-4702MQ, NVIDIA GeForce GT 740M, WDC Scorpio Blue WD10JPVX-22JC3T0
 
Asus N56VB-S4050H Intel Core i7-3630QM, NVIDIA GeForce GT 740M, WDC Scorpio Blue WD7500BPVT-80HXZT3

Emissions

System Noise

HP's Envy 17 is definitely not a pussyfooter. At least not when it is loaded or the hard drive is spinning. The fan is permanently active in less demanding tasks, such as Office. We ascertained a maximum of 32.4 dB(A) at a distance of 15 cm in front of the laptop. The noise increased to 36.7 dB(A) when a DVD was read. The fan ran very inconspicuously in idle and allowed concentrated working. This was only occasionally interrupted by the noise from the hard drive when enabled.

The fan increased its speed extremely during load and produced up to 46.7 dB(A). Concentrated working is difficult at this noise level.

Noise Level

Idle
32.4 / 32.4 / 32.4 dB(A)
DVD
36.7 / dB(A)
Load
46.7 / 46.7 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

The Envy 17 proved to be hotheaded particularly in the vent's area. The load temperature exceeded 47 °C here. However, the area around the wrist rest also felt unpleasantly warm after a while of intensive computer work and graphically demanding games.

It is almost impossible to convert a video or play a game when the laptop is resting on the thighs. The user would have to wear thick, insulating pants for this.

The processor achieved its maximum temperature limit within a few minutes so that clock rate reduction prevented high Turbo levels. Thus, the Turbo rate was rarely maintained for long. When the Envy 17 ran consistently at 3 GHz (on all four cores in load), the clock rate dropped with increasing temperatures to 2.4 to 2.7 GHz after a while. However, the Envy 17 never throttled below its default clock.

This is not noticed in routine use. Video converting needs a bit longer and a few fps are lost in games.

The GPU is not affected. The GT 740M continued to run with its maximum Turbo rate of 1058 MHz even after over an hour of CPU and GPU load.

Max. Load
 47.3 °C
117 F
32 °C
90 F
32.1 °C
90 F
 
 47.7 °C
118 F
49 °C
120 F
31.5 °C
89 F
 
 28.8 °C
84 F
26.2 °C
79 F
31 °C
88 F
 
Maximum: 49 °C = 120 F
Average: 36.2 °C = 97 F
29.2 °C
85 F
36.5 °C
98 F
43.3 °C
110 F
32 °C
90 F
36.5 °C
98 F
45.2 °C
113 F
30.5 °C
87 F
30.4 °C
87 F
38.6 °C
101 F
Maximum: 45.2 °C = 113 F
Average: 35.8 °C = 96 F
Power Supply (max.)  53.1 °C = 128 F | Room Temperature 26.1 °C = 79 F | Voltcraft IR-360
(±) The average temperature for the upper side under maximal load is 36.2 °C / 97 F, compared to the average of 31.2 °C / 88 F for the devices in the class Multimedia.
(-) The maximum temperature on the upper side is 49 °C / 120 F, compared to the average of 36.9 °C / 98 F, ranging from 21.1 to 71 °C for the class Multimedia.
(-) The bottom heats up to a maximum of 45.2 °C / 113 F, compared to the average of 39.1 °C / 102 F
(+) In idle usage, the average temperature for the upper side is 30.2 °C / 86 F, compared to the device average of 31.2 °C / 88 F.
(+) The palmrests and touchpad are cooler than skin temperature with a maximum of 31 °C / 87.8 F and are therefore cool to the touch.
(-) The average temperature of the palmrest area of similar devices was 28.8 °C / 83.8 F (-2.2 °C / -4 F).

Speakers

HP refers to the audio solution from Beats Audio in several places on the casing. The laptop's sound is produced by four small speakers and a little subwoofer that radiates toward the surface. We would have expected more here. The effort is not worth the presented sound experience. Music sounds like it is coming out of a tin can and completely lacks mids. However, there is a slight hint of bass and a lot of very overemphasized trebles.

The volume should not be set over 50%. The sound rattles in higher volumes and music turns into a treble-heavy screech concert. We do not believe that the Envy 17 can fill more than a small room with sound. Even then, the sound will likely not at all meet the expectations that are created by the eye-catching Beats Audio logo.

As expected, connecting an external sound system via the 3.5 mm jack improves this condition. The Beats Audio sound management does not improve the integrated speakers sound either. It is inconvenient that HP does not use a separated microphone and speaker jack and only installs a combo jack for external speakers.

Energy Management

Power Consumption

The advantages of the Haswell architecture and the optionally usable Nvidia graphics are seen in low load. The Envy 17 only consumes 14.6 watts even with maximum screen brightness. This is quite a good rate for a 17.3-inch device. It is even only 7.9 watts with minimum screen brightness and 0.6 watts in standby.

The power consumption climbs up to 69.7 watts during pure CPU load. Haswell is not known for working economically during load. However, the power consumption drops by over 10 watts when throttling occurs or the Turbo is not maxed out due to the system's temperature.

The Envy 17 consumes a maximum of 40.3 watts with low CPU but even higher GPU load (on Nvidia's GPU). When both the processor and graphics card are loaded, for example like in our test using Furmark and Prime95, the Envy 17 treats itself to a bit over 70 watts from the mains. The power supply copes well with this due to its capacity of 120 watts.

Power Consumption
Off / Standbydarklight 0.3 / 0.6 Watt
Idledarkmidlight 7.9 / 12.6 / 14.6 Watt
Load midlight 40.3 / 70.1 Watt
 color bar
Key: min: dark, med: mid, max: light        Voltcraft VC 940
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.

Battery Runtime

At least the Envy 17 proved to be enduring in the Reader's test, using a dimmed screen, with over 6 hours of runtime. It was still a good 3 hours in the Wi-Fi test where different websites, some with videos, are opened every 40 seconds. The DVD runtime was also satisfactory.

The energy hunger first became obvious when the hardware's power was unleashed via the "High Performance" energy mode. The Envy 17 could not last for an hour in the Classic Test of Battery Eater's test tool.

Battery Runtime
Idle (without WLAN, min brightness)
6h 22min
WiFi Surfing
3h 51min
DVD
2h 49min
Load (maximum brightness)
1h 08min

Verdict

Envy 17: swift, decent screen but unsatisfactory casing
Envy 17: swift, decent screen but unsatisfactory casing

Users of HP's Envy 17 want to make others jealous, or envious. They may even feel annoyed about their small and apparently slower device when taking an only superficial glance at the laptop. However, feeling envy is not throughout appropriate.

Hewlett Packard demands 999 Euros (~$1315) for the j003sg version of the Envy 17. In view of the generous processor configuration and the decent screen, it is not an exaggerated price. Nevertheless, we would have hoped for more from the Envy 17. The reduced memory bandwidth and the generally low performance of the GT 740M is aggravating when the laptop is to be occasionally used for a relaxing 3D game in the native screen resolution. A higher-quality casing would be another item on our wish list. The battery's load runtime cannot be mentioned positively, although the laptop's idle runtime is compelling, which takes us to the positive points. The screen is mostly appealing and supplies surprisingly good color accuracy when it has been calibrated. The Envy user does not need to fear sunny days owing to the matte surface either.

The 12 GB RAM offers a small advantage in a few applications. The processor is agreeably swift and the laptop remains quiet when it is not demanded too much. However, its high temperatures and a disturbingly loud fan are annoying. The i7 quad-core takes its toll here.

Acer's Aspire V3-771G does a better job and is also the better overall offer despite last year's components. MSI's GE70-i765M287 should be preferred when gaming is an issue besides work because of its much faster graphics solution.

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In Review: HP Envy 17-j003sg. Review sample courtesy of HP Germany
In Review: HP Envy 17-j003sg. Review sample courtesy of HP Germany

Specifications

HP Envy 17t-j000 (Envy 17 Series)
Processor
Intel Core i7-4700MQ 4 x 2.4 - 3.4 GHz (Intel Core i7)
Graphics adapter
NVIDIA GeForce GT 740M - 2048 MB VRAM, Core: 1058 MHz, Memory: 920 MHz, 311.41, Optimus
Memory
12 GB 
, 1x 4 GB, 1x 8 GB, no empty slot
Display
17.30 inch 16:9, 1920 x 1080 pixel, TN, glossy: no
Mainboard
Intel HM87 (Lynx Point)
Storage
Toshiba MQ01ABD100, 1000 GB 
, 5400 rpm, 973 GB free
Soundcard
Intel Lynx Point PCH - High Definition Audio Controller
Connections
4 USB 3.0 / 3.1 Gen1, 1 HDMI, 1 Kensington Lock, Audio Connections: headphone/microphone combo, Card Reader: SD, 1 Fingerprint Reader, Sensors: brightness sensor
Networking
Realtek RTL8168/8111 Gigabit-LAN (10/100/1000MBit/s), Ralink RT3290 802.11n Wireless Network Adapter (b/g/n = Wi-Fi 4/), Bluetooth 3.0
Optical drive
DVD +/- RW Double Layer
Size
height x width x depth (in mm): 30.6 x 416 x 274.4 ( = 1.2 x 16.38 x 10.8 in)
Battery
62 Wh Lithium-Ion
Operating System
Microsoft Windows 8 64 Bit
Camera
Webcam: 1280x720
Additional features
Speakers: 4 speakers, 2 subwoofers, Keyboard: chiclet, Keyboard Light: yes, HP Utility Center, HP Recovery Manager, Symantec Norton Internet Security 2013 (60 day trial), Beats Audio w/ SRS 3D, HP Connected Music, HP Connected Photo, HP Coolsense, HP Protectsmart, HP Simplepass, HP Connected ePrint, Cyberlink PowerDVD, 24 Months Warranty
Weight
2.85 kg ( = 100.53 oz / 6.28 pounds), Power Supply: 458 g ( = 16.16 oz / 1.01 pounds)
Price
999 Euro

 

Although a few interfaces are installed, they have all been placed inconveniently in the front area.
Although a few interfaces are installed, they have all been placed inconveniently in the front area.
Users can use the fingerprint scanner instead of passwords when preferred.
Users can use the fingerprint scanner instead of passwords when preferred.
Envy, jealousy - the logo almost looks shy.
Envy, jealousy - the logo almost looks shy.
A discrete manufacturer's logo adorns the back.
A discrete manufacturer's logo adorns the back.
The Envy 17 definitely does not lack manufacturer emblems.
The Envy 17 definitely does not lack manufacturer emblems.
The battery suffices for a good runtime. At least in low load.
The battery suffices for a good runtime. At least in low load.
The power supply provides enough energy with 120 watts.
The power supply provides enough energy with 120 watts.
It is neither too big nor exceptionally small.
It is neither too big nor exceptionally small.
The battery has to be taken out before the laptop can be opened for maintenance.
The battery has to be taken out before the laptop can be opened for maintenance.
Only one screw has to be removed to access the innards.
Only one screw has to be removed to access the innards.
Here we find the BIOS battery and an empty slot, for example for an SSD.
Here we find the BIOS battery and an empty slot, for example for an SSD.
The hard drive with a capacity of 1 terabyte is already installed.
The hard drive with a capacity of 1 terabyte is already installed.
An empty slot is located beside the hard drive.
An empty slot is located beside the hard drive.
Unusual match: Two RAM modules with 4 GB and 8 GB.
Unusual match: Two RAM modules with 4 GB and 8 GB.
The DVD drive of HP's Envy 17.
The DVD drive of HP's Envy 17.
Speakers are found everywhere on the casing. It's too bad that doesn't improve the sound.
Speakers are found everywhere on the casing. It's too bad that doesn't improve the sound.
Beats Audio is plainly advertised in any case.
Beats Audio is plainly advertised in any case.
A little subwoofer is to ensure rich sound. To no avail, regrettably.
A little subwoofer is to ensure rich sound. To no avail, regrettably.
More speakers on the underside.
More speakers on the underside.
The "subwoofer" in Beats Audio style.
The "subwoofer" in Beats Audio style.
Handy: the Envy 17's keyboard is illuminated.
Handy: the Envy 17's keyboard is illuminated.
An orange rim sets careful color accents.
An orange rim sets careful color accents.
The decent Full HD screen ensures a crisp picture.
The decent Full HD screen ensures a crisp picture.
Content can be seen even in the sun.
Content can be seen even in the sun.
Looks good even on wild meadows: HP's Envy 17.
Looks good even on wild meadows: HP's Envy 17.
A bit further and the screen closes completely.
A bit further and the screen closes completely.
The display hinges don't really have a firm hold.
The display hinges don't really have a firm hold.
Thus, the display always wobbles a bit.
Thus, the display always wobbles a bit.
The display: Not too thick yet rigid.
The display: Not too thick yet rigid.
The webcam shoots satisfactory pictures.
The webcam shoots satisfactory pictures.
It is possible to work well with the Envy 17's touchpad.
It is possible to work well with the Envy 17's touchpad.
Windows 8 is preinstalled.
Windows 8 is preinstalled.
The screen remains legible even with light from the back.
The screen remains legible even with light from the back.

Similar Laptops

Similar devices from a different Manufacturer

Devices from a different Manufacturer and/or with a different CPU

Review Lenovo IdeaPad Z710 59393211 Notebook
GeForce GT 740M, Core i5 4200M
Review MSI CX70-i740M281W7H Notebook
GeForce GT 740M, Core i7 4702MQ

Devices with the same GPU

Review Clevo W650SH (Wortmann Terra Mobile 1548) Barebones Notebook
GeForce GT 740M, Core i3 4000M, 15.60", 2.5 kg
Review Asus VivoBook S451LB Notebook
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Review Asus X550LB-NH52 Notebook
GeForce GT 740M, Core i5 4200U, 15.60", 2.256 kg

Links

Compare Prices

Pros

+Good and matte screen
+Decent processor performance
+A lot of RAM
+Battery runtime in low load
 

Cons

-Loud fan
-Battery soon drained in load
-Keyboard yields extremely
-Too high temperatures
-No SSD
-TFT exhibits bluish cast (uncalibrated)

Shortcut

What we like

The quad-core processor supplies high computing power. Working with the Envy 17 is really fun. The decent screen is also compelling after it has been calibrated.

What we'd like to see

A more sensible interface positioning and a higher quality casing are at the top of our wish list. That's followed by an SSD.

What surprises us

Quad-core computing power and a lot of RAM even make some desktop replacements seem obsolete. However, we are primarily baffled about all the opportunities that HP leaves unused and also mourn over the lack of an SSD as well as the screen's rather extreme bluish cast in an uncalibrated state.

The competition

The same technology but a smaller casing: Toshiba Satellite S50-A-10H. More graphics power is found in the MSI GE70-i765M287.

Rating

HP Envy 17t-j000 - 08/29/2013 v3(old)
Dennis Ziesecke

Chassis
69%
Keyboard
62%
Pointing Device
85%
Connectivity
66%
Weight
76%
Battery
80%
Display
80%
Games Performance
84%
Application Performance
92%
Temperature
73%
Noise
76%
Add Points
77%
Average
77%
77%
Multimedia - Weighted Average
Dennis Ziesecke, 2013-09- 2 (Update: 2018-05-15)