Excellent HP Chromebook x2 11 2-in-1 is dragged down by its terrible detachable keyboard

HP recently launched its latest 11-inch Chromebook tablet called the Chromebook x2 11 for a relatively affordable starting price of around $400 USD. The system comes with both a removable kickstand and a removable keyboard by default unlike the Surface Pro series which often asks users to pay extra for the removable Type Cover keyboard. On paper, the HP Chromebook is certainly attractive especially for those on tighter budgets and in need of both a detachable keyboard and bright full sRGB touchscreen, but the keyboard itself is unfortunately subpar in several ways.

During our time with the Chromebook x2 11, we discovered that the detachable keyboard is softer, thinner, and more prone to flexing than the Type Cover keyboard for the Surface Pro series despite their similar appearances. Each key press on the HP keyboard would visibly flex the keyboard deck especially for the keys nearest the edges. The bouncing deck negatively impacts key feedback for an overall spongy typing experience. The Surface Pro keyboard isn't perfect either, but it is at least firmer for a more solid feel when typing.

The clickpad is just as bad with its soft and shallow feedback when pressed. If you plan on typing frequently with the Chromebook x2 11, then it may be best to invest in a more "proper" Bluetooth keyboard and mouse instead.