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HP EliteBook x360 1030 G3 (i5-8250U. FHD) Convertible Review

Spectre in disguse. The latest model in the super-sleek EliteBook x360 series manages to be even smaller than last year's model. A few features had to be cut, but we think it's well worth the sacrifice for on-the-go business users.

The EliteBook x360 1030 G3 convertible was announced in May of this year as a direct successor to last year's successful EliteBook x360 1030 G2. It sports a revised design with thinner bezels, more speakers, different I/O ports, new Kaby Lake-R CPUs, and a brighter 700-nit panel option when compared to its predecessor.

Options range from the Core i5-8250U up to the Core i7-8550U with a FHD or 4K UHD touchscreen, 8 or 16 GB of RAM, and up to 1 TB of storage for a steep starting price of about $1800 USD. Its core specifications are not unlike most Ultrabooks but with the benefit of more business-centric software and security features. The system competes directly against other 2-in-1 convertibles aimed at both consumers and businesses including the Microsoft Surface Pro, Fujitsu Stylistic Q738, Lenovo ThinkPad X380 Yoga, Dell XPS 13 9365, and the Asus ZenBook Flip S.

We recommend checking out our existing reviews on both the EliteBook x360 and Spectre x360 families since they share very similar design features.

HP EliteBook x360 1030 G3 (EliteBook x360 1030 Series)
Processor
Intel Core i5-8250U 4 x 1.6 - 3.4 GHz, Kaby Lake Refresh
Graphics adapter
Intel UHD Graphics 620, Core: 450 MHz, Memory: 1067 MHz, DDR3, 23.20.16.5018
Memory
8 GB 
, 1200 MHz, 10-10-10-28, Dual-Channel
Display
13.30 inch 16:9, 1920 x 1080 pixel 166 PPI, Capacitive, native pen support, Chi Mei CMN1380, IPS, glossy: yes
Mainboard
Intel Kaby Lake-U iHDCP 2.2 Premium PCH
Storage
Samsung PM871b MZNLN128HAHQ, 128 GB 
Soundcard
Intel Kaby Lake-U/Y PCH - High Definition Audio
Connections
3 USB 3.0 / 3.1 Gen1, 1 USB 3.1 Gen2, 1 Thunderbolt, 1 HDMI, 1 DisplayPort, 1 Kensington Lock, Audio Connections: 3.5 mm combo, 1 Fingerprint Reader, NFC, Brightness Sensor, Sensors: Accelerometer, Ambient light sensor, Gyroscope, Magnetometer, Hall sensor
Networking
Intel Dual Band Wireless-AC 8265 (a/b/g/n = Wi-Fi 4/ac = Wi-Fi 5/), Bluetooth 4.2
Size
height x width x depth (in mm): 15.8 x 305.8 x 205 ( = 0.62 x 12.04 x 8.07 in)
Battery
56.2 Wh, 4-cell
Operating System
Microsoft Windows 10 Pro 64 Bit
Camera
Webcam: 1080p
Additional features
Speakers: Quad speakers, Keyboard: Chiclet, Keyboard Light: yes, HP Client Security, B&O Audio, HP Sure Click, HP Velocity, HP PhoneWise, 12 Months Warranty
Weight
1.26 kg ( = 44.45 oz / 2.78 pounds), Power Supply: 261 g ( = 9.21 oz / 0.58 pounds)
Price
1900 USD
Note: The manufacturer may use components from different suppliers including display panels, drives or memory sticks with similar specifications.

 

Case

Visually, the EliteBook x360 1030 G3 makes the 1030 G2 look outdated. The bezels are 50 percent and 39 percent thinner along the side edges and bottom edge, respectively, while keeping most of the original chassis characteristics intact. This seemingly simple update is especially impactful on a convertible laptop as opposed to a traditional laptop because it makes tablet mode easier to handle.

Another visual distinction is the addition of front-facing speaker grilles along the sides of the keyboard. HP is accentuating its Bang and Olufsen speakers across both the Spectre and EliteBook families even if business users may be indifferent towards the improved sound quality.

The rest of the notebook is made from the same CNC-milled aluminum as the last generation model to maintain the original matte look, smooth texture, and excellent rigidity. The hinges are uniformly firm at all angles with no teetering. Pushing down on the palm rests or keyboard center results in almost no flexing. However, both the base and lid exhibit slightly more flexing when attempting to twist their corners and the center of the outer lid could have been more rigid. There is definitely room for improvement especially when compared to the traditional EliteBook 840. Users familiar with the Spectre 13 series will have similar first impressions from the EliteBook x360 1030 G3.

HP markets its new EliteBook as the "world's smallest business convertible" and we can certainly see why. The system has a much smaller footprint compared to the 1030 G2 due to the narrower bezels even though the new model is actually slightly thicker by almost a millimeter. Note that the new system still weighs about the same as its predecessor despite the size reduction due to its denser internal cooling solution.

The Dell XPS 13 2-in-1 is even lighter and smaller than the EliteBook x360 1030 G3 in all three dimensions while offering the same size touchscreen. Nonetheless, the HP carries a substantial performance advantage.

Matte surfaces are excellent at hiding grease and fingerprints
Matte surfaces are excellent at hiding grease and fingerprints
Ports have been rearranged from the last generation model
Ports have been rearranged from the last generation model
New quad speakers for better sound balance
New quad speakers for better sound balance
Bezels are now much narrower compared to the last generation model
Bezels are now much narrower compared to the last generation model
316.9 mm / 12.5 inch 218.5 mm / 8.6 inch 14.9 mm / 0.587 inch 1.3 kg2.88 lbs309 mm / 12.2 inch 212.5 mm / 8.37 inch 15.5 mm / 0.61 inch 920 g2.03 lbs305.8 mm / 12 inch 205 mm / 8.07 inch 15.8 mm / 0.622 inch 1.3 kg2.78 lbs306.8 mm / 12.1 inch 216.3 mm / 8.52 inch 14.1 mm / 0.555 inch 1.2 kg2.7 lbs307 mm / 12.1 inch 218 mm / 8.58 inch 13.8 mm / 0.543 inch 1.3 kg2.76 lbs304.1 mm / 12 inch 212.4 mm / 8.36 inch 14.9 mm / 0.587 inch 1.4 kg3.02 lbs304 mm / 12 inch 199 mm / 7.83 inch 13.7 mm / 0.539 inch 1.2 kg2.71 lbs297 mm / 11.7 inch 210 mm / 8.27 inch 1 mm / 0.03937 inch 5.7 g0.01257 lbs

Connectivity

Available ports have changed from the outgoing EliteBook x360 1030 G2. The 1030 G3 has dropped the MicroSD reader, Smart Card reader, and the proprietary AC adapter port while the nano-SIM slot remains optional. In return, the system gains an additional USB Type-C port that doubles for charging. Users who rely on RJ-45 and the aforementioned missing readers will have to invest in dongles and docking stations.

Front: No connectivity
Front: No connectivity
Right: Volume rocker, 2x USB Type-C + Thunderbolt 3, DriveLock, HDMI 1.4
Right: Volume rocker, 2x USB Type-C + Thunderbolt 3, DriveLock, HDMI 1.4
Rear: No connectivity
Rear: No connectivity
Left: USB 3.1 Type-A, 3.5 mm combo audio, Power button, Nano-SIM slot (optional)
Left: USB 3.1 Type-A, 3.5 mm combo audio, Power button, Nano-SIM slot (optional)

Communication

The Intel 8265 WLAN module has returned from the previous generation with no notable connectivity issues. Newer laptops are beginning to ship with the Intel 9260 for even faster theoretical transfer rates and so we can see HP making the jump as well in future revisions.

Configurations are available with the optional Intel XMM 7360 WWAN module for 4G LTE connectivity.

Networking
iperf3 transmit AX12
Huawei Matebook X Pro i5
Intel Dual Band Wireless-AC 8265
513 MBit/s +2%
HP EliteBook x360 1030 G3
Intel Dual Band Wireless-AC 8265
502 MBit/s
Dell XPS 13-9365 2-in-1
Intel Dual Band Wireless-AC 8265
471 MBit/s -6%
HP EliteBook x360 1030 G2
Intel Dual Band Wireless-AC 8265
455 MBit/s -9%
iperf3 receive AX12
Huawei Matebook X Pro i5
Intel Dual Band Wireless-AC 8265
660 MBit/s +5%
HP EliteBook x360 1030 G3
Intel Dual Band Wireless-AC 8265
627 MBit/s
HP EliteBook x360 1030 G2
Intel Dual Band Wireless-AC 8265
613 MBit/s -2%
Dell XPS 13-9365 2-in-1
Intel Dual Band Wireless-AC 8265
309 MBit/s -51%

Security

HP has been doubling down on security lately for its business devices. Aside from the usual fingerprint reader, the system comes equipped with a host of proprietary low-level software not found on competing models. HP Sure Start ensures that a fresh backup of the BIOS is always available, HP BIOSphere detects and prevents attacks on the BIOS, and HP WorkWise pairs a Bluetooth-enabled smartphone for two-factor authentication and file transfers. Integrated privacy screens are also available to limit viewing angles.

Accessories

Included extras are a Quick Start guide, Windows 10 Pro DVD, and a recovery DVD. We would have preferred a flash drive instead of DVDs since an external optical drive is required to read the discs. The system is compatible with Thunderbolt 3 docking stations and can both simultaneously charge and output to a supported external monitor.

Maintenance

(Source: HP)
(Source: HP)

The bottom panel is secured by only five T5 Torx screws. Unfortunately, It is latched extremely tightly around the edges and corners and it's easy to damage the system even with a sharp edge. The detailed maintenance guide from HP shows that most individual components can be replaced if needed including the WWAN and M.2 storage modules. RAM, however, is fixed.

Warranty

The standard one-year limited warranty applies with HP Care Pack options for extended service. Please see our Guarantees, Return policies and Warranties FAQ for country-specific information.

Input Devices

Keyboard

Not much has changed about the chiclet keyboard. The two-level white backlight returns with firm and uniform feedback on each key not unlike on the Spectre 13 series. Clatter is relatively quiet and much less spongy than what we've experienced on a Pavilion laptop. The half-size Arrow keys are still the worst aspects of the keyboard since they are so small.

Touchpad

The sizable glass trackpad remains identical to the EliteBook x360 1030 G2 trackpad in both surface area (11.1 x 6.5 cm) and feel. This isn't necessarily a complaint because we found the trackpad on the last generation model to offer smooth cursor control and reliable gliding properties no matter the movement speed. We're still a bit disappointed to see HP sticking to integrated mouse keys whereas dedicated mouse buttons tend to be more precise. Users who want dedicated mouse keys and the rubber TrackPoint nub will have to look at the traditional EliteBook 800 series.

Keys are firm, relatively quiet, and easy to type on
Keys are firm, relatively quiet, and easy to type on
No major changes to keyboard tactility or layout
No major changes to keyboard tactility or layout

Display

HP has once again sourced Chi Mei for the sharp Gorilla Glass 4-protected 1080p touchscreen on the EliteBook x360 1030 G3. To make matters confusing for buyers, however, HP offers a total of five different display options on this system: 4K UHD glossy and 500-nit backlight, 1080p anti-glare with Privacy Screen and 700-nit backlight, 1080p glossy with Privacy Screen and 700-nit backlight, 1080p anti-glare with 400-nit backlight, or 1080p glossy with 400-nit backlight. While we're fans of customization, having so many 1080p options make it difficult for consumers to buy the correct SKU. Many resellers, for example, often advertise only the resolution and do not detail the 400-nit or 700-nit backlight option. Make sure you buy the correct SKU you are looking for if purchasing from a reseller!

Our test unit is equipped with a 1080p glossy 400-nit option that promises PSR (Panel Self Refresh) and 100 percent sRGB coverage. Our independent measurements show excellent contrast and colors as advertised by the manufacturer. The bright backlight in particular is a significant improvement over the relatively dim and less accurate display of the older EliteBook x360 1030 G2. Some uneven backlight bleeding is present on our unit that is fortunately unnoticeable during day-to-day use. It's important to note that the system utilizes pulse-width modulation at a brightness level of 62 percent or dimmer. It remains to be seen whether or not the 700-nit SKUs also exhibit the same behavior. Users sensitive to onscreen flickering may want to avoid using this system at low brightness levels.

Subpixel array (166 PPI)
Subpixel array (166 PPI)
Light-moderate uneven backlight bleeding
Light-moderate uneven backlight bleeding
433.3
cd/m²
455.1
cd/m²
428.1
cd/m²
453.2
cd/m²
470.1
cd/m²
436.6
cd/m²
447.4
cd/m²
454.4
cd/m²
411.8
cd/m²
Distribution of brightness
Chi Mei CMN1380 tested with X-Rite i1Pro 2
Maximum: 470.1 cd/m² (Nits) Average: 443.3 cd/m² Minimum: 21.8 cd/m²
Brightness Distribution: 88 %
Center on Battery: 470.1 cd/m²
Contrast: 1237:1 (Black: 0.38 cd/m²)
ΔE Color 2.47 | 0.5-29.43 Ø5, calibrated: 1.52
ΔE Greyscale 3.7 | 0.57-98 Ø5.3
98.2% sRGB (Argyll 1.6.3 3D)
62% AdobeRGB 1998 (Argyll 1.6.3 3D)
67.8% AdobeRGB 1998 (Argyll 2.2.0 3D)
97.8% sRGB (Argyll 2.2.0 3D)
66.1% Display P3 (Argyll 2.2.0 3D)
Gamma: 2.35
HP EliteBook x360 1030 G3
Chi Mei CMN1380, IPS, 13.30, 1920x1080
Lenovo Yoga 730-13IKB
B133ZAN02.3, IPS LED, 13.30, 3840x2160
Apple MacBook Pro 13 2018 Touchbar i5
APPA03E, IPS, 13.30, 2560x1600
Fujitsu Lifebook U938
Sharp LQ133M1JW28, IPS, 13.30, 1920x1080
Dell XPS 13-9365 2-in-1
IPS, 13.30, 1920x1080
HP EliteBook x360 1030 G2
CMN1374, IPS, 13.30, 1920x1080
Display
1%
27%
0%
-28%
-5%
Display P3 Coverage
66.1
66.8
1%
98.5
49%
67.5
2%
47.32
-28%
65.5
-1%
sRGB Coverage
97.8
97.7
0%
99.9
2%
94.5
-3%
71.1
-27%
88.8
-9%
AdobeRGB 1998 Coverage
67.8
68.3
1%
87.3
29%
68.7
1%
48.83
-28%
64.9
-4%
Response Times
-30%
104%
-41%
-49%
-24%
Response Time Grey 50% / Grey 80% *
39.2 ?(20.4, 18.8)
54 ?(24.4, 29.6)
-38%
46 ?(21, 25)
-17%
43 ?(21, 22)
-10%
48 ?(16.4, 31.6)
-22%
55.2 ?(21.2, 34)
-41%
Response Time Black / White *
25.6 ?(14, 11.6)
31.2 ?(16.4, 14.8)
-22%
32 ?(17, 15)
-25%
29 ?(16, 13)
-13%
32.8 ?(7.6, 25.2)
-28%
27.2 ?(7.6, 19.6)
-6%
PWM Frequency
26040 ?(62)
118000 ?(75, 150)
353%
217 ?(20)
-99%
1042 ?(29)
-96%
Screen
-14%
23%
-5%
-45%
-33%
Brightness middle
470.1
310
-34%
519
10%
344
-27%
322.6
-31%
262
-44%
Brightness
443
299
-33%
504
14%
320
-28%
306
-31%
256
-42%
Brightness Distribution
88
93
6%
95
8%
77
-12%
91
3%
83
-6%
Black Level *
0.38
0.2
47%
0.33
13%
0.31
18%
0.19
50%
0.25
34%
Contrast
1237
1550
25%
1573
27%
1110
-10%
1698
37%
1048
-15%
Colorchecker dE 2000 *
2.47
4.2
-70%
1.4
43%
2.72
-10%
7.7
-212%
5.13
-108%
Colorchecker dE 2000 max. *
5.73
8
-40%
2.8
51%
5.92
-3%
11.1
-94%
9.46
-65%
Colorchecker dE 2000 calibrated *
1.52
1.4
8%
Greyscale dE 2000 *
3.7
6.2
-68%
2.2
41%
2.74
26%
7.9
-114%
6.23
-68%
Gamma
2.35 94%
2.1 105%
2.22 99%
2.38 92%
2.88 76%
2.45 90%
CCT
7373 88%
6983 93%
6908 94%
6794 96%
7044 92%
6413 101%
Color Space (Percent of AdobeRGB 1998)
62
62.8
1%
77.3
25%
61
-2%
44.1
-29%
57.84
-7%
Color Space (Percent of sRGB)
98.2
97.6
-1%
99.99
2%
94
-4%
69.9
-29%
88.57
-10%
Total Average (Program / Settings)
-14% / -14%
51% / 39%
-15% / -11%
-41% / -42%
-21% / -26%

* ... smaller is better

Color space covers the entirety of the sRGB standard and 62 percent of AdobeRGB. Results are comparable to the latest flagship Ultrabooks like the XPS 13, Blade Stealth, or Spectre 13 where >95 percent sRGB coverage is common. Graphics artists desiring even deeper colors may want to consider the Zenbook Pro 15 where >95 percent AdobeRGB coverage is an option.

vs. sRGB
vs. sRGB
vs. AdobeRGB
vs. AdobeRGB

Further measurements with an X-Rite spectrophotometer reveal a slightly cool color temperature and a relatively poor grayscale that we wouldn't have expected from a costly business laptop. Fortunately, our calibration attempts bring both grayscale and color temperature to much more accurate levels. Colors are very accurate against the sRGB standard on all tested saturation levels both before and after calibration.

Grayscale before calibration
Grayscale before calibration
Saturation Sweeps before calibration
Saturation Sweeps before calibration
ColorChecker before calibration
ColorChecker before calibration
Grayscale after calibration
Grayscale after calibration
Saturation Sweeps after calibration
Saturation Sweeps after calibration
ColorChecker after calibration
ColorChecker after 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
25.6 ms ... rise ↗ and fall ↘ combined↗ 14 ms rise
↘ 11.6 ms fall
The screen shows relatively slow response rates in our tests and may be too slow for gamers.
In comparison, all tested devices range from 0.1 (minimum) to 240 (maximum) ms. » 56 % 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
39.2 ms ... rise ↗ and fall ↘ combined↗ 20.4 ms rise
↘ 18.8 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. » 54 % 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 26040 Hz ≤ 62 % brightness setting

The display backlight flickers at 26040 Hz (worst case, e.g., utilizing PWM) Flickering detected at a brightness setting of 62 % and below. There should be no flickering or PWM above this brightness setting.

The frequency of 26040 Hz is quite high, so most users sensitive to PWM should not notice any flickering.

In comparison: 53 % of all tested devices do not use PWM to dim the display. If PWM was detected, an average of 18110 (minimum: 5 - maximum: 3846000) Hz was measured.

Outdoor visibility when under shade is good provided that heavy glare can be avoided or minimized. Unfortunately, the super-glossy panel makes such a task nigh impossible and so be prepared to stare at a mirror if working outdoors. Viewing angles are thankfully very wide with no major color or brightness shifting to take better advantage of the 360-degree hinges.

The 700-nit SKU will be more effective than our configuration at reducing glare for better outdoor visibility when under shade. Still, the backlight will have to be much brighter to overcome direct sunlight. Hopefully HP's "anti-glare" configuration fares better.

Outdoors under sunlight
Outdoors under sunlight
Outdoors under shade
Outdoors under shade
Outdoors under sunlight
Outdoors under sunlight
Wide IPS viewing angles
Wide IPS viewing angles

Performance

Performance options are limited despite having a wide variety of storage and display options. All current SKUs are limited to the Core i5-8250U or i7-8550U with integrated UHD Graphics 620 and soldered RAM. Users in need of more graphics power may want to consider the Huawei MateBook X Pro.

 

Processor

Expect a 40 percent increase in raw multi-thread performance if upgrading from the EliteBook x360 1030 G2 with the Core i5-7300U. Our CineBench scores are about where we expect the i5-8250U to be if not a bit slower due to throttling. Running CineBench R15 Multi-Thread in a loop results in a performance drop of about 10 percent from the initial score of 532 points as shown below.

Choosing the costlier Core i7-8550U SKU will likely bring only minimal performance benefits over our i5-8250U SKU. The i7-8550U in the Spectre x360 15, for example, scores just 6 percent higher than our EliteBook x360 1030 G3 in CineBench R15. The Core i7-8550U option for our EliteBook will very likely exhibit performance throttling as well.

See our dedicated page on the Core i5-8250U for more technical information and performance benchmarks.

CineBench R11.5 64-bit
CineBench R11.5 64-bit
CineBench R15
CineBench R15
0102030405060708090100110120130140150160170180190200210220230240250260270280290300310320330340350360370380390400410420430440450460470480490500510520530540Tooltip
Cinebench R15 CPU Multi 64 Bit
Cinebench R15
CPU Single 64Bit
Microsoft Surface Laptop i7
Intel Core i7-7660U
154 Points +9%
HP Spectre x360 15-ch011nr
Intel Core i7-8550U
149 Points +6%
Lenovo ThinkPad 25
Intel Core i7-7500U
146 Points +4%
HP EliteBook x360 1030 G2
Intel Core i5-7300U
144 Points +2%
HP Envy x360 15-bq102ng
AMD Ryzen 5 2500U
142 Points +1%
Average Intel Core i5-8250U
  (81 - 147, n=97)
141.1 Points 0%
Acer Swift 3 SF315-41-R6J9
AMD Ryzen 7 2700U
141 Points 0%
HP EliteBook x360 1030 G3
Intel Core i5-8250U
141 Points
Dell Inspiron 15 7000 7577
Intel Core i5-7300HQ
134 Points -5%
Asus Zenbook UX310UQ-GL011T
Intel Core i7-6500U
130 Points -8%
Dell XPS 13-9365 2-in-1
Intel Core i7-7Y75
130 Points -8%
CPU Multi 64Bit
HP Envy x360 15-bq102ng
AMD Ryzen 5 2500U
618 Points +16%
Average Intel Core i5-8250U
  (320 - 730, n=101)
570 Points +7%
Acer Swift 3 SF315-41-R6J9
AMD Ryzen 7 2700U
566 Points +6%
HP Spectre x360 15-ch011nr
Intel Core i7-8550U
542 Points +2%
HP EliteBook x360 1030 G3
Intel Core i5-8250U
532 Points
Dell Inspiron 15 7000 7577
Intel Core i5-7300HQ
507 Points -5%
Microsoft Surface Laptop i7
Intel Core i7-7660U
397 (337min - 397max) Points -25%
Lenovo ThinkPad 25
Intel Core i7-7500U
367 Points -31%
HP EliteBook x360 1030 G2
Intel Core i5-7300U
346 Points -35%
Asus Zenbook UX310UQ-GL011T
Intel Core i7-6500U
327 Points -39%
Dell XPS 13-9365 2-in-1
Intel Core i7-7Y75
258 Points -52%
Cinebench R11.5
CPU Single 64Bit
Microsoft Surface Laptop i7
Intel Core i7-7660U
1.84 Points +13%
HP EliteBook x360 1030 G2
Intel Core i5-7300U
1.64 Points +1%
HP EliteBook x360 1030 G3
Intel Core i5-8250U
1.63 Points
Average Intel Core i5-8250U
  (0.91 - 1.79, n=35)
1.615 Points -1%
Lenovo ThinkPad 25
Intel Core i7-7500U
1.61 Points -1%
HP Envy x360 15-bq102ng
AMD Ryzen 5 2500U
1.61 Points -1%
Acer Swift 3 SF315-41-R6J9
AMD Ryzen 7 2700U
1.58 Points -3%
Dell XPS 13-9365 2-in-1
Intel Core i7-7Y75
1.54 Points -6%
Dell Inspiron 15 7000 7577
Intel Core i5-7300HQ
1.53 Points -6%
Asus Zenbook UX310UQ-GL011T
Intel Core i7-6500U
1.48 Points -9%
CPU Multi 64Bit
HP Envy x360 15-bq102ng
AMD Ryzen 5 2500U
6.91 Points +28%
Average Intel Core i5-8250U
  (3.15 - 7.76, n=35)
6.02 Points +11%
Acer Swift 3 SF315-41-R6J9
AMD Ryzen 7 2700U
5.88 Points +9%
Dell Inspiron 15 7000 7577
Intel Core i5-7300HQ
5.85 Points +8%
HP EliteBook x360 1030 G3
Intel Core i5-8250U
5.41 Points
Microsoft Surface Laptop i7
Intel Core i7-7660U
4.39 Points -19%
HP EliteBook x360 1030 G2
Intel Core i5-7300U
3.57 Points -34%
Lenovo ThinkPad 25
Intel Core i7-7500U
3.4 Points -37%
Asus Zenbook UX310UQ-GL011T
Intel Core i7-6500U
3.15 Points -42%
Dell XPS 13-9365 2-in-1
Intel Core i7-7Y75
2.98 Points -45%
Cinebench R11.5 OpenGL 64Bit
44.68 fps
Cinebench R11.5 CPU Multi 64Bit
5.41 Points
Cinebench R11.5 CPU Single 64Bit
1.63 Points
Cinebench R15 OpenGL 64Bit
50.5 fps
Cinebench R15 Ref. Match 64Bit
97.8 %
Cinebench R15 CPU Multi 64Bit
532 Points
Cinebench R15 CPU Single 64Bit
141 Points
Help

System Performance

PCMark 8 scores rank our HP slightly below the average of other systems in our database equipped with the same i5-8250U CPU while PCMark 10 ranks our HP slightly above. Even the last generation EliteBook X360 1030 G2 is able to score higher in PCMark 8 tests. Regardless of the discrepancy, our unit performed smoothly and with no software hitches.

PCMark 10
PCMark 10
PCMark 8 Home Accelerated
PCMark 8 Home Accelerated
PCMark 8 Work Accelerated
PCMark 8 Work Accelerated
PCMark 10 - Score
HP EliteBook x360 1030 G3
UHD Graphics 620, i5-8250U, Samsung PM871b MZNLN128HAHQ
3695 Points
Average Intel Core i5-8250U, Intel UHD Graphics 620
  (3358 - 4081, n=67)
3296 Points -11%
Apple MacBook Pro 13 2018 Touchbar i5
Iris Plus Graphics 655, i5-8259U
3284 Points -11%
PCMark 8
Home Score Accelerated v2
HP EliteBook x360 1030 G2
HD Graphics 620, i5-7300U, Sandisk SD8TN8U-256G-1006
3774 Points +9%
Apple MacBook Pro 13 2018 Touchbar i5
Iris Plus Graphics 655, i5-8259U
3665 Points +6%
Average Intel Core i5-8250U, Intel UHD Graphics 620
  (2986 - 4458, n=69)
3584 Points +4%
HP EliteBook x360 1030 G3
UHD Graphics 620, i5-8250U, Samsung PM871b MZNLN128HAHQ
3453 Points
Dell XPS 13-9365 2-in-1
HD Graphics 615, i7-7Y75, Toshiba NVMe THNSN5256GPUK
3134 Points -9%
Work Score Accelerated v2
HP EliteBook x360 1030 G2
HD Graphics 620, i5-7300U, Sandisk SD8TN8U-256G-1006
4803 Points +11%
Dell XPS 13-9365 2-in-1
HD Graphics 615, i7-7Y75, Toshiba NVMe THNSN5256GPUK
4674 Points +8%
Average Intel Core i5-8250U, Intel UHD Graphics 620
  (2699 - 5106, n=58)
4646 Points +7%
Apple MacBook Pro 13 2018 Touchbar i5
Iris Plus Graphics 655, i5-8259U
4399 Points +1%
HP EliteBook x360 1030 G3
UHD Graphics 620, i5-8250U, Samsung PM871b MZNLN128HAHQ
4336 Points
PCMark 8 Home Score Accelerated v2
3453 points
PCMark 8 Work Score Accelerated v2
4336 points
PCMark 10 Score
3695 points
Help

Storage Devices

Just a single internal M.2 2280 slot is available due to space constraints. NVMe drives are supported even though our unit is equipped with a 128 GB Samsung PM871b SSD limited to SATA III speeds.

Sequential read and write rates are good for a SATA III SSD at 488 MB/s and 403 MB/s, respectively. Nonetheless, even the slowest NVMe SSD can offer over twice the storage performance. Users who often work with very large files or number of files may want to consider the costlier SKUs with NVMe options.

See our table of HDDs and SSDs for more benchmark comparisons.

CDM 5
CDM 5
AS SSD
AS SSD
HP EliteBook x360 1030 G3
Samsung PM871b MZNLN128HAHQ
Fujitsu Lifebook U938
Micron 1100 MTFDDAV256TBN
Huawei Matebook X Pro i5
Samsung PM961 MZVLW256HEHP
Dell XPS 13-9365 2-in-1
Toshiba NVMe THNSN5256GPUK
HP EliteBook x360 1030 G2
Sandisk SD8TN8U-256G-1006
Lenovo ThinkPad 25
Samsung SM961 MZVKW512HMJP m.2 PCI-e
AS SSD
28%
189%
125%
-11%
224%
Copy Game MB/s
164.5
275.8
68%
486.3
196%
726
341%
178.5
9%
598
264%
Copy Program MB/s
74.3
163.9
121%
312.3
320%
263.8
255%
110.6
49%
400.6
439%
Copy ISO MB/s
208.1
442.4
113%
739
255%
950
357%
255.9
23%
1272
511%
Score Total
781
885
13%
2575
230%
1495
91%
736
-6%
2811
260%
Score Write
268
419
56%
620
131%
375
40%
194
-28%
837
212%
Score Read
335
306
-9%
1329
297%
752
124%
362
8%
1317
293%
Access Time Write *
0.048
0.057
-19%
0.036
25%
0.037
23%
0.075
-56%
0.031
35%
Access Time Read *
0.093
0.099
-6%
0.058
38%
0.045
52%
0.143
-54%
0.04
57%
4K-64 Write
156.5
308.8
97%
399.6
155%
204.7
31%
120.9
-23%
640
309%
4K-64 Read
255.1
235.7
-8%
1039
307%
586
130%
286.2
12%
1130
343%
4K Write
70.8
73.8
4%
103.1
46%
96.9
37%
52.6
-26%
113
60%
4K Read
31.07
24.41
-21%
48.33
56%
37.69
21%
27.37
-12%
50.4
62%
Seq Write
403.2
364.5
-10%
1170
190%
735
82%
201.9
-50%
840
108%
Seq Read
488.2
455.5
-7%
2416
395%
1283
163%
486.9
0%
1369
180%

* ... smaller is better

Samsung PM871b MZNLN128HAHQ
CDM 5/6 Read Seq Q32T1: 547 MB/s
CDM 5/6 Write Seq Q32T1: 396.8 MB/s
CDM 5/6 Read 4K Q32T1: 179.7 MB/s
CDM 5/6 Write 4K Q32T1: 193.3 MB/s
CDM 5 Read Seq: 498.3 MB/s
CDM 5 Write Seq: 466.4 MB/s
CDM 5/6 Read 4K: 34.13 MB/s
CDM 5/6 Write 4K: 64.3 MB/s

GPU Performance

The UHD Graphics 620 brings nothing significant to the table in terms of performance when compared to the last generation HD Graphics 620. 3DMark shows an 18 percent GPU performance uptick from the last generation EliteBook x360 1030 G2 which is not the major leap artists or casual gamers may be looking for. Jumping to systems equipped with the Radeon RX Vega 8 or GeForce MX150 can easily boost graphics performance by over 100 percent.

See our dedicated page on the UHD Graphics 620 for more technical information and benchmark comparisons.

3DMark 11
3DMark 11
Cloud Gate
Cloud Gate
3DMark 11
1280x720 Performance GPU
Acer Swift 3 SF315-41-R6J9
AMD Radeon RX Vega 10, R7 2700U
3728 Points +114%
HP Envy x360 15-bq102ng
AMD Radeon RX Vega 8 (Ryzen 2000/3000), R5 2500U
3549 Points +104%
Huawei Matebook X Pro i5
NVIDIA GeForce MX150, i5-8250U
3483 Points +100%
Lenovo ThinkPad 25
NVIDIA GeForce 940MX, i7-7500U
2849 Points +64%
Asus Zenbook UX310UQ-GL011T
NVIDIA GeForce 940MX, 6500U
2321 Points +34%
Average Intel UHD Graphics 620
  (1144 - 3432, n=244)
1749 Points +1%
HP EliteBook x360 1030 G3
Intel UHD Graphics 620, i5-8250U
1738 Points
Average Intel Core i5-8250U, Intel UHD Graphics 620
  (1420 - 1881, n=71)
1675 Points -4%
HP EliteBook x360 1030 G2
Intel HD Graphics 620, i5-7300U
1476 Points -15%
Dell XPS 13-9365 2-in-1
Intel HD Graphics 615, i7-7Y75
1370 Points -21%
1280x720 Performance Combined
Huawei Matebook X Pro i5
NVIDIA GeForce MX150, i5-8250U
3538 Points +138%
Lenovo ThinkPad 25
NVIDIA GeForce 940MX, i7-7500U
2975 Points +100%
Acer Swift 3 SF315-41-R6J9
AMD Radeon RX Vega 10, R7 2700U
2734 Points +84%
HP Envy x360 15-bq102ng
AMD Radeon RX Vega 8 (Ryzen 2000/3000), R5 2500U
2683 Points +80%
Asus Zenbook UX310UQ-GL011T
NVIDIA GeForce 940MX, 6500U
1823 Points +22%
Average Intel UHD Graphics 620
  (927 - 2505, n=244)
1578 Points +6%
HP EliteBook x360 1030 G3
Intel UHD Graphics 620, i5-8250U
1489 Points
Average Intel Core i5-8250U, Intel UHD Graphics 620
  (959 - 1853, n=71)
1437 Points -3%
HP EliteBook x360 1030 G2
Intel HD Graphics 620, i5-7300U
1347 Points -10%
Dell XPS 13-9365 2-in-1
Intel HD Graphics 615, i7-7Y75
1313 Points -12%
3DMark - 1280x720 Cloud Gate Standard Graphics
Huawei Matebook X Pro i5
NVIDIA GeForce MX150, i5-8250U
16553 Points +75%
Acer Swift 3 SF315-41-R6J9
AMD Radeon RX Vega 10, R7 2700U
15613 Points +65%
HP Envy x360 15-bq102ng
AMD Radeon RX Vega 8 (Ryzen 2000/3000), R5 2500U
15186 Points +60%
Lenovo ThinkPad 25
NVIDIA GeForce 940MX, i7-7500U
13362 Points +41%
HP EliteBook x360 1030 G3
Intel UHD Graphics 620, i5-8250U
9478 Points
Average Intel UHD Graphics 620
  (6205 - 16400, n=225)
9262 Points -2%
Average Intel Core i5-8250U, Intel UHD Graphics 620
  (7231 - 10331, n=62)
8742 Points -8%
Asus Zenbook UX310UQ-GL011T
NVIDIA GeForce 940MX, 6500U
8519 Points -10%
HP EliteBook x360 1030 G2
Intel HD Graphics 620, i5-7300U
8220 Points -13%
Dell XPS 13-9365 2-in-1
Intel HD Graphics 615, i7-7Y75
7839 Points -17%
3DMark 11 Performance
1902 points
3DMark Cloud Gate Standard Score
8008 points
Help
low med. high ultra
BioShock Infinite (2013) 68.6 34.9 29.5 9.4
The Witcher 3 (2015) 17.2 10.7 6.5
Rise of the Tomb Raider (2016) 20.7 13.2 6.6

Stress Test

We stress the system with synthetic loads in order to identify for any potential throttling or stability issues. When running Prime95, the CPU can be observed operating at 3 GHz for the first few seconds until core temperature reaches 67 C. When this temperature threshold is reached, clock rate falls to 2.1 GHz in order to maintain a cooler core temperature. The behavior mirrors our CineBench loop test results above where scores are highest on the first run before falling due to throttling. Nonetheless, 2.1 GHz is still well above the base 1.6 GHz clock rate of the i5-8250U and so at least some Turbo Boost is sustainable. Expect core temperature to be in the low 60 C range during heavy loads.

Both CPU and GPU performance are reduced when running on batteries. A 3DMark 11 test on battery power returns Physics and Graphics scores of 4884 and 1237 points, respectively, compared to 5571 and 1738 points when on mains.

System idle
System idle
Prime95 stress
Prime95 stress
FurMark stress
FurMark stress
Maximum stress
Maximum stress
CPU Clock (GHz) GPU Clock (MHz) Average CPU Temperature (°C)
Prime95 Stress 2.1 -- 61
FurMark Stress -- 848 58
Prime95 + FurMark Stress 0.8 648 57

Emissions

System Noise

Quiet fan noise profile
Quiet fan noise profile

HP has doubled the cooling solution from one fan and one heat pipe on the 1030 G2 to two fans and two heat pipes on the 1030 G3 and the results are terrific. The newer model is measurably quieter than its predecessor when subjected to similar medium and high processing loads. Perhaps unsurprisingly, overall results are not unlike what we've measured on the latest Spectre x360 13. At just 33.5 dB(A) when under extreme stress, the system is quieter than most Ultrabooks where just a single fan cooling solution is common.

Both fans will idle when under low loads like word processing or emailing. It doesn't take much to kick start the fans, however, as browsing or streaming will induce a fan noise of about 29 to 31 dB(A). It's loud enough to notice when in a quiet room but thankfully not distracting at the slightest.

Our test unit suffers from no coil whine or electronic noise.

Noise Level

Idle
28.5 / 28.5 / 28.5 dB(A)
HDD
29.5 dB(A)
Load
31.3 / 33.5 dB(A)
  red to green bar
 
 
30 dB
silent
40 dB(A)
audible
50 dB(A)
loud
 
min: dark, med: mid, max: light   Audix TM1, Arta (15 cm distance)   environment noise: 28.5 dB(A)
HP EliteBook x360 1030 G3
UHD Graphics 620, i5-8250U, Samsung PM871b MZNLN128HAHQ
HP EliteBook x360 1030 G2
HD Graphics 620, i5-7300U, Sandisk SD8TN8U-256G-1006
Lenovo ThinkPad 25
GeForce 940MX, i7-7500U, Samsung SM961 MZVKW512HMJP m.2 PCI-e
Lenovo Yoga 730-13IKB
UHD Graphics 620, i5-8550U, SK Hynix PC401 512GB M.2 (HFS512GD9TNG)
HP Envy x360 15-bq102ng
Vega 8, R5 2500U, Samsung PM961 MZVLW256HEHP
Noise
-4%
-5%
-11%
-11%
off / environment *
28.5
29
-2%
27.9
2%
29.7
-4%
30.13
-6%
Idle Minimum *
28.5
29
-2%
27.9
2%
29.7
-4%
30.13
-6%
Idle Average *
28.5
29
-2%
27.9
2%
29.7
-4%
30.13
-6%
Idle Maximum *
28.5
29
-2%
30
-5%
30.7
-8%
30.13
-6%
Load Average *
31.3
33.6
-7%
37.6
-20%
39.3
-26%
38.8
-24%
Load Maximum *
33.5
35.8
-7%
37.6
-12%
39.3
-17%
38.8
-16%
Witcher 3 ultra *
37.6

* ... smaller is better

Temperature

Dual rear exhaust under maximum load
Dual rear exhaust under maximum load

The temperature gradient is fairly symmetrical to reflect the symmetrical cooling solution within. The hot spots can become as warm as 45 C compared to just 37 C on the last generation EliteBook x360 1030 G2 when under similar processing load. We recommend working on a flat desk so as to not block the ventilation grilles underneath the system if running high processing loads for long periods.

Fortunately, the palm rests and keyboard keys remain relatively cool for comfortable typing. The warmest we can record on the keyboard was just 37 C after stressing the CPU at maximum load for nearly an hour.

System idle (top)
System idle (top)
System idle (bottom)
System idle (bottom)
Maximum load (top)
Maximum load (top)
Maximum load (bottom)
Maximum load (bottom)
Max. Load
 28.4 °C
83 F
38 °C
100 F
32.2 °C
90 F
 
 27.4 °C
81 F
37 °C
99 F
26 °C
79 F
 
 24.6 °C
76 F
23.8 °C
75 F
24.6 °C
76 F
 
Maximum: 38 °C = 100 F
Average: 29.1 °C = 84 F
30.6 °C
87 F
45.4 °C
114 F
31.4 °C
89 F
28.4 °C
83 F
36 °C
97 F
28.4 °C
83 F
26.4 °C
80 F
27.8 °C
82 F
26.6 °C
80 F
Maximum: 45.4 °C = 114 F
Average: 31.2 °C = 88 F
Power Supply (max.)  31 °C = 88 F | Room Temperature 20 °C = 68 F | Fluke 62 Mini IR Thermometer
(+) The average temperature for the upper side under maximal load is 29.1 °C / 84 F, compared to the average of 30.2 °C / 86 F for the devices in the class Convertible.
(+) The maximum temperature on the upper side is 38 °C / 100 F, compared to the average of 35.3 °C / 96 F, ranging from 19.6 to 55.7 °C for the class Convertible.
(-) The bottom heats up to a maximum of 45.4 °C / 114 F, compared to the average of 36.7 °C / 98 F
(+) In idle usage, the average temperature for the upper side is 24.7 °C / 76 F, compared to the device average of 30.2 °C / 86 F.
(+) The palmrests and touchpad are cooler than skin temperature with a maximum of 24.6 °C / 76.3 F and are therefore cool to the touch.
(+) The average temperature of the palmrest area of similar devices was 28.1 °C / 82.6 F (+3.5 °C / 6.3 F).

Speakers

Business laptops aren't typically known for their audio quality, but last year's x360 1030 G2 surprised us with its loud speakers and B&O audio software that catered towards conferencing and microphone controls. This year's x360 1030 G3 integrates even more speakers for a surprisingly good audio experience considering its classification and small size. Most affordable multimedia laptops like the Ideapad 530s or Pavilion 15 would be lucky to have the speakers found of this business laptop. Maximum volume is loud enough to fill a medium-sized conference room with no static or heavy imbalance. Slight reverberations, however, can be felt on the palm rests if on a high volume setting.

Four sets of speaker grilles around the laptop
Four sets of speaker grilles around the laptop
Pink noise profile
Pink noise profile
Direct VOIP controls from the B&O software
Direct VOIP controls from the B&O software
Functionality catered to conferencing
Functionality catered to conferencing
dB(A) 0102030405060708090Deep BassMiddle BassHigh BassLower RangeMidsHigher MidsLower HighsMid HighsUpper HighsSuper Highs2035.841.72535.935.53131.633.34032.333.15030.432.16330.730.78030.630.810028.94212528.251.116027.460.420026.463.825025.468.431525.670.840024.969.350024.667.663023.965.180023.568.9100023.568125023.367.7160023.465.520002361.2250023.167.231502362.740002368.7500022.974.863002380.4800022.878.81000022.972.21250022.770.61600022.767.4SPL35.484.8N2.461.5median 23.4median 67.7Delta1.13.635.335.132.931.831.83236.535.132.428.93328.936.328.848.32761.52752.924.860.92462.822.763.32269.521.267.82174.82075.919.472.718.97117.770.117.86917.671.817.668.117.671.417.673.717.670.417.571.617.671.617.669.617.459.717.583.630.662.51.5median 69.6median 17.84.72.4hearing rangehide median Pink NoiseHP EliteBook x360 1030 G3Apple MacBook 12 (Early 2016) 1.1 GHz
Frequency diagram (checkboxes can be checked and unchecked to compare devices)
HP EliteBook x360 1030 G3 audio analysis

(±) | speaker loudness is average but good (80.4 dB)
Bass 100 - 315 Hz
(±) | reduced bass - on average 9.6% lower than median
(-) | bass is not linear (15% delta to prev. frequency)
Mids 400 - 2000 Hz
(+) | balanced mids - only 1.8% away from median
(+) | mids are linear (4.8% delta to prev. frequency)
Highs 2 - 16 kHz
(±) | higher highs - on average 6% higher than median
(±) | linearity of highs is average (11.7% delta to prev. frequency)
Overall 100 - 16.000 Hz
(+) | overall sound is linear (12.6% difference to median)
Compared to same class
» 11% of all tested devices in this class were better, 3% similar, 87% worse
» The best had a delta of 6%, average was 21%, worst was 57%
Compared to all devices tested
» 8% of all tested devices were better, 2% similar, 90% worse
» The best had a delta of 4%, average was 25%, worst was 134%

Apple MacBook 12 (Early 2016) 1.1 GHz audio analysis

(+) | speakers can play relatively loud (83.6 dB)
Bass 100 - 315 Hz
(±) | reduced bass - on average 11.3% lower than median
(±) | linearity of bass is average (14.2% delta to prev. frequency)
Mids 400 - 2000 Hz
(+) | balanced mids - only 2.4% away from median
(+) | mids are linear (5.5% delta to prev. frequency)
Highs 2 - 16 kHz
(+) | balanced highs - only 2% away from median
(+) | highs are linear (4.5% delta to prev. frequency)
Overall 100 - 16.000 Hz
(+) | overall sound is linear (10.2% difference to median)
Compared to same class
» 5% of all tested devices in this class were better, 2% similar, 93% worse
» The best had a delta of 5%, average was 19%, worst was 53%
Compared to all devices tested
» 3% of all tested devices were better, 1% similar, 96% worse
» The best had a delta of 4%, average was 25%, worst was 134%

Energy Management

Power Consumption

Idling on desktop will demand anywhere between 4 W and 9 W depending on the Power profile and brightness setting. In fact, the difference between 0 percent and 100 percent brightness setting is about 4 W and this will only increase for SKUs with the 700-nit backlight.

Running on maximum load (Prime95+FurMark) draws a bit less from the outlet when compared to running on medium load (3DMark 06) because throttling occurs sooner. Even so, power consumption is still roughly on par with the similarly configured 13.3-inch Fujitsu Lifebook U938 since CPU throttling is not uncommon on many thin laptops.

The small (7.5 x 7.5 x 3 cm) 65 W AC adapter provides more than enough juice for the system and it can also be used to fast charge other devices via USB Type-C.

Prime95 initiated at the 20s mark. Note that consumption jumps to 45 W for the first few seconds before falling due to performance throttling
Prime95 initiated at the 20s mark. Note that consumption jumps to 45 W for the first few seconds before falling due to performance throttling
0 to 100 percent brightness initiated at the 20s mark. Maximum brightness demands 4 W more than the dimmest setting
0 to 100 percent brightness initiated at the 20s mark. Maximum brightness demands 4 W more than the dimmest setting
Power Consumption
Off / Standbydarklight 0.41 / 0.6 Watt
Idledarkmidlight 3.8 / 7.5 / 8.6 Watt
Load midlight 33.1 / 31.8 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 EliteBook x360 1030 G3
i5-8250U, UHD Graphics 620, Samsung PM871b MZNLN128HAHQ, IPS, 1920x1080, 13.30
Fujitsu Lifebook U938
i5-8250U, UHD Graphics 620, Micron 1100 MTFDDAV256TBN, IPS, 1920x1080, 13.30
Huawei Matebook X Pro i5
i5-8250U, GeForce MX150, Samsung PM961 MZVLW256HEHP, IPS, 3000x2000, 13.90
Dell XPS 13-9365 2-in-1
i7-7Y75, HD Graphics 615, Toshiba NVMe THNSN5256GPUK, IPS, 1920x1080, 13.30
HP EliteBook x360 1030 G2
i5-7300U, HD Graphics 620, Sandisk SD8TN8U-256G-1006, IPS, 1920x1080, 13.30
Lenovo ThinkPad 25
i7-7500U, GeForce 940MX, Samsung SM961 MZVKW512HMJP m.2 PCI-e, IPS, 1920x1080, 14.00
Power Consumption
19%
-36%
32%
9%
-34%
Idle Minimum *
3.8
2.4
37%
3.5
8%
3.1
18%
3.2
16%
4.2
-11%
Idle Average *
7.5
5.5
27%
8.9
-19%
4.3
43%
5.5
27%
7.3
3%
Idle Maximum *
8.6
6
30%
12.3
-43%
4.9
43%
6.5
24%
7.7
10%
Load Average *
33.1
31
6%
54.2
-64%
24.3
27%
29.7
10%
55.4
-67%
Load Maximum *
31.8
32.6
-3%
52.1
-64%
22.8
28%
41.3
-30%
64.4
-103%
Witcher 3 ultra *
42.4
49.1

* ... smaller is better

Battery Life

Since battery capacity, CPU TDP, and display resolution are all essentially identical to last year's model, runtimes on the x360 1030 G3 are very similar to the x360 1030 G2. Users can expect 10 hours of real-world WLAN use when set to the Balanced profile and a brightness of 150 nits. Results are comparable to other 13-inch Ultrabooks running on Intel U-series CPUs.

Charging from near empty to full capacity will take just under 2 hours.

Battery Runtime
Idle (without WLAN, min brightness)
23h 01min
WiFi Websurfing
10h 02min
Load (maximum brightness)
3h 9min
HP EliteBook x360 1030 G3
i5-8250U, UHD Graphics 620, 56.2 Wh
Fujitsu Lifebook U938
i5-8250U, UHD Graphics 620, 50 Wh
Huawei Matebook X Pro i5
i5-8250U, GeForce MX150, 57.4 Wh
Dell XPS 13-9365 2-in-1
i7-7Y75, HD Graphics 615, 46 Wh
HP EliteBook x360 1030 G2
i5-7300U, HD Graphics 620, 57 Wh
Apple MacBook Pro 13 2018 Touchbar i5
i5-8259U, Iris Plus Graphics 655, 58 Wh
Battery Runtime
-22%
-16%
-8%
11%
-3%
Reader / Idle
1381
1167
-15%
1243
-10%
971
-30%
1387
0%
WiFi v1.3
602
506
-16%
557
-7%
686
14%
630
5%
581
-3%
Load
189
123
-35%
133
-30%
175
-7%
244
29%
Witcher 3 ultra
94

Pros

+ great sound quality for the size; loud speakers
+ small footprint; portable and lightweight
+ proprietary multi-layer security features
+ keyboard keys have great feedback
+ optional 4G LTE and NFC
+ Thunderbolt 3 support
+ excellent build quality
+ USB Type-C charging
+ full sRGB coverage
+ good battery life
+ quiet fan noise
+ bright display

Cons

- warmer surfaces than on the EliteBook x360 1030 G2
- pulse-width modulation on lower brightness levels
- not as rigid as the thicker EliteBook 830 series
- unable to sustain maximum CPU Turbo Boost
- lower performance when on battery power
- serviceability could have been easier
- light-moderate backlight bleeding
- no SD or Smart Card readers
- no dedicated mouse keys
- no discrete GPU options
- high starting price
- soldered RAM

Verdict

In review: HP EliteBook x360 1030 G3
In review: HP EliteBook x360 1030 G3

The EliteBook x360 1030 G3 directly addresses our biggest complaint about the 1030 G2: the dim display. Our 1030 G3 unit is about 75 percent brighter than the 1030 G2 and that doesn't even include the 700-nit option. Combine this with the smaller footprint and narrower bezels and the best 13-inch business convertible just got even better in almost every way.

"Almost" is the key word here because this latest revision has dropped a couple of features. Both the MicroSD and Smart Card readers are seemingly gone for good and we're unlikely to see dedicated mouse keys or the TrackPoint nub return anytime soon. CPU Turbo Boost sustainability could be better and graphics performance is weak. Otherwise, everything else from the 1030 G2 is intact. It's amazing how HP has crammed 4G LTE, NFC, great speakers, Thunderbolt 3, and 4K UHD touchscreen options all onto a portable and relatively quiet 13-inch convertible. It's too bad that the $1900 USD starting price is such a tall obstacle for most because we can't recommend it enough for both office users and on-the-go students alike.

It's a shame that HP does not offer any Ryzen options since the Vega 8 or Vega 10 would have boosted graphics performance significantly over the UHD Graphics 620 for light editing tasks. We hope to see AMD or Intel Bean Canyon Iris Plus options in future models to expand the versatility of the series even further.

It's nearly twice the price of an Ultrabook without any core performance differences in CPU or RAM. All those extra dollars pay for the long list of auxiliary features including NFC, 4G LTE, Thunderbolt 3, quad speakers, convertible design, long battery life, and a touchscreen brighter than all other Ultrabooks in the market. This is a feature-packed system from top to bottom that shouldn't be overlooked.

HP EliteBook x360 1030 G3 - 10/17/2019 v7
Allen Ngo

Chassis
91 / 98 → 93%
Keyboard
92%
Pointing Device
93%
Connectivity
64 / 75 → 85%
Weight
72 / 20-75 → 94%
Battery
88%
Display
86%
Games Performance
50 / 78 → 65%
Application Performance
78 / 85 → 92%
Temperature
92%
Noise
97%
Audio
60 / 91 → 66%
Camera
45 / 85 → 53%
Average
78%
90%
Convertible - Weighted Average

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> Expert Reviews and News on Laptops, Smartphones and Tech Innovations > Reviews > HP EliteBook x360 1030 G3 (i5-8250U. FHD) Convertible Review
Allen Ngo, 2018-08-17 (Update: 2019-02-27)