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HP Pavilion 15 Notebook Review

Disappointing screen. HP demands almost 800 Euros (~$893) for its Pavilion 15. The buyer gets a 1 TB hard drive and a matte screen among other things. However, the latter is absolutely unsatisfactory.

For the original German review, see here.

Hewlett Packard offers a multitude of laptops in the most different price and performance categories for home use within its Pavilion 15 lineup. We have tested many members of the range, and now we are facing a model from the new Pavilion 15 generation. The Pavilion 15-ab022ng is a gaming suitable all-rounder. Its looks have not been modified much, but the latest Intel and Nvidia technologies are inside our review sample.

There are plenty of rivals, such as the just recently tested Acer Aspire V3-574G, Toshiba Satellite S50-B or Lenovo Z50-70.

HP Pavilion 15-ab022ng (Pavilion 15-cx Series)
Processor
Graphics adapter
NVIDIA GeForce 940M - 2048 MB VRAM, Core: 1176 MHz, Memory: 900 MHz, DDR3, 64 bit interface, ForceWare 353.62 (10.18.13.5362), Optimus
Memory
12 GB 
, DDR3-1600, dual-channel, two memory banks (both filled)
Display
15.60 inch 16:9, 1920 x 1080 pixel, BOE, TN LED, glossy: no
Mainboard
Intel Broadwell-U PCH-LP (Premium)
Storage
HGST Travelstar 5K1000 HTS541010A9E680, 1000 GB 
, 5400 rpm, 880 GB free
Soundcard
Realtek ALC290 @ Broadwell PCH-LP High Definition Audio Controller
Connections
1 USB 2.0, 2 USB 3.0 / 3.1 Gen1, 1 HDMI, 1 Kensington Lock, Audio Connections: combo audio, Card Reader: SD, Sensors: brightness sensor
Networking
RealTek Semiconductor RTL8101/2/3 Family Fast Ethernet NIC (10/100MBit/s), Realtek RTL8723BE Wireless LAN 802.11n PCI-E NIC (b/g/n = Wi-Fi 4/), Bluetooth 4.0
Optical drive
hp DVDRW SU208GB
Size
height x width x depth (in mm): 25.2 x 384.5 x 261.1 ( = 0.99 x 15.14 x 10.28 in)
Battery
41 Wh Lithium-Ion, 14.8 V, 2700 mAh
Operating System
Microsoft Windows 8.1 64 Bit
Camera
Webcam: HD webcam
Additional features
Speakers: stereo, Keyboard: chiclet, Keyboard Light: no, Cyberlink Media Suite 10, Cyberlink YouCam, Dropbox 25 GB, McAfee LiveSafe-Internet Security (trial), Microsoft Office (trial), 12 Months Warranty
Weight
2.2 kg ( = 77.6 oz / 4.85 pounds), Power Supply: 345 g ( = 12.17 oz / 0.76 pounds)
Price
799 Euro
Note: The manufacturer may use components from different suppliers including display panels, drives or memory sticks with similar specifications.

 

Case

The Pavilion's basic casing design has not changed compared with its precursors. Differences are found in details. The casing of our present review sample is also completely made of plastic. HP calls the laptop's color "Natural Silver," which is found on the lid's back and base tray. The wrist rest also features this color but gradually shifts to dark charcoal black toward the hinges. Furthermore, HP tries to convey the impression of brushed metal on the base unit's upper side. The most obvious modifications compared with the former Pavilion models are found above the keyboard. This area is now slightly more angular, and the speakers' openings are punched directly in the upper tray.

Major production flaws were not discovered. HP does not show any great shortcomings in stability, either. The casing can be dented slightly on both sides of the keyboard and below the touchpad - but we see this behavior in most laptops. The base unit's torsional stiffness is still satisfactory. The lid can be warped more strongly, and the screen displays image distortions when pressing the lid's back. The hinges keep the lid firmly in position but rock marginally. Opening the lid is possible with a bit of finger adroitness.

Connectivity

The Pavilion has the diversity of interfaces in common with its precursor. HP only installs a video-out (HDMI). Two of the three USB ports support the USB 3.0 standard. The interface positioning has been improved. They are now mostly in the rear area of both sides, which leaves the areas beside the wrist rest free of cables.

Left: power socket, Ethernet, USB 2.0, USB 3.0, memory-card reader, DVD burner
Left: power socket, Ethernet, USB 2.0, USB 3.0, memory-card reader, DVD burner
Right: combo audio, USB 3.0, HDMI, Kensington lock slot
Right: combo audio, USB 3.0, HDMI, Kensington lock slot

Communication

HP relies on a Wi-Fi module from Realtek (RTL8723BE). It supports the 802.1 b/g/n Wi-Fi standards and also provides Bluetooth 4.0 functionality. The connection between the router and laptop was always stable within a 15-meter radius. The Ethernet chip also comes from Realtek. HP only treats the Pavilion to a Fast Ethernet chip. That is beyond comprehension seeing that Gigabit Ethernet is standard nowadays. After all, other manufacturers can also equip their devices accordingly.

Accessories

The Pavilion is shipped with the usual accessories: A quick-start poster and warranty information.

Operating System

The Windows 8.1 (64-bit) operating system is preloaded. A recovery DVD is not included for the laptop. The Pavilion can be upgraded to Windows 10 free of charge. Positive: Users can install Windows 7 should they dislike Windows 8.1 or Windows 10. HP provides the needed drivers.

Maintenance

HP does not exactly make it easy for users to maintain/upgrade their Pavilion - there is no maintenance hatch, making it necessary to open the casing. The optical drive has to be removed before releasing all screws on the underside. Studying the hardware manual is advisable because some screws are hidden under flaps. The laptop is then turned right way up again, and the upper tray can be released from the base tray. That is quite easy to do with a putty knife. After that, the laptop is placed on its lid and the base tray can be removed. The base tray must be removed this way since the hard drive might fall out otherwise. The Pavilion features two working memory banks, which are both filled. The hard drive can be replaced without problems.

Warranty

The Pavilion comes with a one-year warranty. The warranty period can be extended, for example, with a three-year warranty for approximately 100 Euros (~$111).

Input Devices

Keyboard

The keyboard has not been modified compared with the precursor, either. The Pavilion is shipped with an unlit chiclet keyboard. The flat, lightly roughened keys have a short drop and clear pressure point. However, their resistance could be a bit crisper in our opinion. The keyboard at most yields marginally while typing, which does not have an adverse impact. HP delivers a keyboard that is absolutely sufficient for home use in total.

Touchpad

The Pavilion's multitouch ClickPad has a surface area of approximately 11 x 6.5 cm and thus offers enough room for gesture control. The various multitouch gestures can be turned on and off singly in the pad's configuration menu. The pad's sleek surface facilitates gliding with the fingers. The pad has a short drop and clear pressure point.

Input devices
Input devices

Display

HP installs a matte, 15.6-inch screen in its Pavilion. It has a native resolution of 1920x1080 pixels. The screen's rates are disappointing. Its brightness of 215 cd/m² and contrast of 293:1 would already be difficult to accept in a 500-Euro (~$558) laptop and are downright unacceptable in an 800-Euro (~$893) device like the Pavilion. We would have expected absolute minimum rates of 250 cd/m² (brightness) and 500:1 (contrast).

210
cd/m²
227
cd/m²
240
cd/m²
200
cd/m²
223
cd/m²
220
cd/m²
202
cd/m²
210
cd/m²
203
cd/m²
Distribution of brightness
BOE tested with X-Rite i1Pro 2
Maximum: 240 cd/m² (Nits) Average: 215 cd/m²
Brightness Distribution: 83 %
Center on Battery: 181 cd/m²
Contrast: 293:1 (Black: 0.76 cd/m²)
ΔE Color 8.5 | 0.5-29.43 Ø5
ΔE Greyscale 9.35 | 0.57-98 Ø5.3
66% sRGB (Argyll 1.6.3 3D)
42% AdobeRGB 1998 (Argyll 1.6.3 3D)
45.57% AdobeRGB 1998 (Argyll 2.2.0 3D)
66.4% sRGB (Argyll 2.2.0 3D)
44.11% Display P3 (Argyll 2.2.0 3D)
Gamma: 2.46
Pavilion vs. sRGB
Pavilion vs. sRGB
Pavilion vs. AdobeRGB
Pavilion vs. AdobeRGB

The Pavilion's screen cannot reproduce either the sRGB or the AdobeRGB color spaces. The coverage rates are 66% (sRGB) and 42% (AdobeRGB). The screen has a DeltaE shift of 8.5 in delivery state. A rate less than 3 would be desirable. Furthermore, the screen exhibits a bluish tint.

CalMAN - ColorChecker
CalMAN - ColorChecker
CalMAN - Grayscale
CalMAN - Grayscale
CalMAN - Saturation Sweeps
CalMAN - Saturation Sweeps

HP's Pavilion has a viewing-angle dependent TN screen, which cannot be read from every position. Changing the vertical viewing angle quickly leads to image distortions. The angle is more generous horizontally, and even several viewers can look at the screen simultaneously. The Pavilion is not really suitable for outdoor use. The screen's brightness is reduced in battery mode. Consequently, it can at most be used in shadowy environments.

Viewing angles: Pavilion 15
Viewing angles: Pavilion 15
The Pavilion outdoors
The Pavilion outdoors
HP Pavilion 15-ab022ng
TN LED, 1920x1080
Acer Aspire V3-574G-59MA
IPS, 1920x1080
HP Pavilion 15-p008ng
TN LED, 1920x1080
Toshiba Satellite S50-B-12U
TN, 1366x768
Asus N551JK-CN166H
IPS, 1920x1080
Lenovo IdeaPad Z50-70 (59427656)
TN LED, 1920x1080
Lenovo IdeaPad Z50-75
1366x768
Display
-10%
10%
-10%
50%
-18%
-8%
Display P3 Coverage
44.11
39.83
-10%
48.78
11%
39.83
-10%
67.3
53%
36.2
-18%
40.67
-8%
sRGB Coverage
66.4
59.5
-10%
71.3
7%
59.9
-10%
96.7
46%
53.8
-19%
61.2
-8%
AdobeRGB 1998 Coverage
45.57
41.21
-10%
50.4
11%
41.15
-10%
69.4
52%
37.48
-18%
42.02
-8%
Screen
20%
6%
8%
55%
8%
9%
Brightness middle
223
257
15%
343
54%
203
-9%
323
45%
202
-9%
225
1%
Brightness
215
247
15%
329
53%
208
-3%
312
45%
192
-11%
224
4%
Brightness Distribution
83
84
1%
87
5%
88
6%
83
0%
78
-6%
89
7%
Black Level *
0.76
0.45
41%
1.02
-34%
0.41
46%
0.38
50%
0.37
51%
0.42
45%
Contrast
293
571
95%
336
15%
495
69%
850
190%
546
86%
536
83%
Colorchecker dE 2000 *
8.5
7.36
13%
10.9
-28%
9.93
-17%
7.4
13%
10.23
-20%
11.59
-36%
Greyscale dE 2000 *
9.35
7.82
16%
12.09
-29%
10.84
-16%
6.24
33%
10.04
-7%
11.86
-27%
Gamma
2.46 89%
2.4 92%
2.01 109%
2.24 98%
2.98 74%
2.2 100%
2.3 96%
CCT
10402 62%
6939 94%
10388 63%
11605 56%
8098 80%
10347 63%
14580 45%
Color Space (Percent of AdobeRGB 1998)
42
38
-10%
46.1
10%
38
-10%
69
64%
35
-17%
39
-7%
Color Space (Percent of sRGB)
66
59.2
-10%
Total Average (Program / Settings)
5% / 12%
8% / 7%
-1% / 3%
53% / 54%
-5% / 1%
1% / 4%

* ... smaller is better

Performance

The Pavilion is a member of the 15.6-inch all-round laptops. It has enough computing power for all common application scenarios and can render computer games. Our review sample is available for approximately 800 Euros (~$893). HP will also release multiple configuration alternatives onto the market within this Pavilion 15 lineup - both with Intel as well as AMD innards. We, for example, found the Pavilion 15-ab052ng at test time. It sports AMD's A10-8700P APU and a Radeon R7 M360 graphics core at a price of 500 Euros (~$558).

CPU-Z
CPU-Z
CPU-Z
CPU-Z
CPU-Z
CPU-Z
GPU-Z
GPU-Z
HWInfo
HWInfo
LatencyMon
 

Processor

HP installs Intel's Core i7-5500U dual-core processor (Broadwell) in the Pavilion. It is one of the strongest models among the frugal ULV processors. It has more than enough computing power for everyday use and should satisfy most users. The CPU clocks at a base speed of 2.4 GHz, which can be boosted to 2.9 GHz (both cores) and 3 GHz (one core) via Turbo. The CPU cannot fully utilize its Turbo in multithread applications and runs at 2.7 to 2.8 GHz. Single-thread applications are performed at 2.9 to 3 GHz. The behavior is identical in both AC and battery modes.

The Broadwell processor scores up to 15% better than its Haswell precursors - the Core i7-4500U and Core i7-4510U - in the tests we performed. That is owed to the somewhat higher operating speeds and improved Broadwell architecture.

The processor is soldered
The processor is soldered
Cinebench R10 Shading 32Bit
6196
Cinebench R10 Rendering Multiple CPUs 32Bit
9792
Cinebench R10 Rendering Single 32Bit
4651
Cinebench R11.5 OpenGL 64Bit
48.21 fps
Cinebench R11.5 CPU Multi 64Bit
3.18 Points
Cinebench R11.5 CPU Single 64Bit
1.42 Points
Cinebench R15 Ref. Match 64Bit
99.6 %
Cinebench R15 OpenGL 64Bit
60.7 fps
Cinebench R15 CPU Multi 64Bit
289 Points
Cinebench R15 CPU Single 64Bit
112 Points
Help
Cinebench R15
CPU Multi 64Bit (sort by value)
HP Pavilion 15-ab022ng
GeForce 940M, 5500U, HGST Travelstar 5K1000 HTS541010A9E680
289 Points
Acer Aspire V3-574G-59MA
GeForce 940M, 5200U, Kingston RBU-SC150S37256GD
258 Points -11%
HP Pavilion 15-p008ng
GeForce 840M, 4210U, HGST Travelstar 5K1000 HTS541075A9E680
235 Points -19%
Toshiba Satellite S50-B-12U
Radeon R7 M260, 4210U, TOSHIBA MQ01ABD075
240 Points -17%
Gigabyte P15F v2
GeForce GTX 850M, 4710MQ, HGST Travelstar 7K1000 HTS721010A9E630
619 Points +114%
Asus N551JK-CN166H
GeForce GTX 850M, 4200H, HGST Travelstar 5K1000 HTS541010A9E680
323 Points +12%
Toshiba Satellite L50-B-1TD
Radeon R7 M260, 4510U, Toshiba HG6 THNSNJ256GMCU
272 Points -6%
Lenovo IdeaPad Z50-75
Radeon R6 M255DX, A8-7100, WDC Scorpio Blue WD10JPCX-24UE4T0
126 Points -56%
Lenovo IdeaPad Z50-75
Radeon R7 (Kaveri), FX-7500
137 Points -53%
CPU Single 64Bit (sort by value)
HP Pavilion 15-ab022ng
GeForce 940M, 5500U, HGST Travelstar 5K1000 HTS541010A9E680
112 Points
Acer Aspire V3-574G-59MA
GeForce 940M, 5200U, Kingston RBU-SC150S37256GD
108 Points -4%
HP Pavilion 15-p008ng
GeForce 840M, 4210U, HGST Travelstar 5K1000 HTS541075A9E680
103 Points -8%
Toshiba Satellite S50-B-12U
Radeon R7 M260, 4210U, TOSHIBA MQ01ABD075
101 Points -10%
Gigabyte P15F v2
GeForce GTX 850M, 4710MQ, HGST Travelstar 7K1000 HTS721010A9E630
137 Points +22%
Asus N551JK-CN166H
GeForce GTX 850M, 4200H, HGST Travelstar 5K1000 HTS541010A9E680
130 Points +16%
Toshiba Satellite L50-B-1TD
Radeon R7 M260, 4510U, Toshiba HG6 THNSNJ256GMCU
119 Points +6%
Lenovo IdeaPad Z50-75
Radeon R6 M255DX, A8-7100, WDC Scorpio Blue WD10JPCX-24UE4T0
40 Points -64%
Lenovo IdeaPad Z50-75
Radeon R7 (Kaveri), FX-7500
54 Points -52%
Cinebench R11.5
CPU Multi 64Bit (sort by value)
HP Pavilion 15-ab022ng
GeForce 940M, 5500U, HGST Travelstar 5K1000 HTS541010A9E680
3.18 Points
Acer Aspire V3-574G-59MA
GeForce 940M, 5200U, Kingston RBU-SC150S37256GD
2.78 Points -13%
HP Pavilion 15-p008ng
GeForce 840M, 4210U, HGST Travelstar 5K1000 HTS541075A9E680
2.59 Points -19%
Toshiba Satellite S50-B-12U
Radeon R7 M260, 4210U, TOSHIBA MQ01ABD075
2.53 Points -20%
Gigabyte P15F v2
GeForce GTX 850M, 4710MQ, HGST Travelstar 7K1000 HTS721010A9E630
6.68 Points +110%
Asus N551JK-CN166H
GeForce GTX 850M, 4200H, HGST Travelstar 5K1000 HTS541010A9E680
3.5 Points +10%
Toshiba Satellite L50-B-1TD
Radeon R7 M260, 4510U, Toshiba HG6 THNSNJ256GMCU
2.92 Points -8%
Lenovo IdeaPad Z50-70 (59427656)
GeForce 840M, 4510U, Seagate ST1000LM014 Solid State Hybrid Drive
2.89 Points -9%
Lenovo IdeaPad Z50-75
Radeon R6 M255DX, A8-7100, WDC Scorpio Blue WD10JPCX-24UE4T0
1.97 Points -38%
Lenovo IdeaPad Z50-75
Radeon R7 (Kaveri), FX-7500
1.54 Points -52%
CPU Single 64Bit (sort by value)
HP Pavilion 15-ab022ng
GeForce 940M, 5500U, HGST Travelstar 5K1000 HTS541010A9E680
1.42 Points
Acer Aspire V3-574G-59MA
GeForce 940M, 5200U, Kingston RBU-SC150S37256GD
1.26 Points -11%
HP Pavilion 15-p008ng
GeForce 840M, 4210U, HGST Travelstar 5K1000 HTS541075A9E680
1.18 Points -17%
Toshiba Satellite S50-B-12U
Radeon R7 M260, 4210U, TOSHIBA MQ01ABD075
1.12 Points -21%
Gigabyte P15F v2
GeForce GTX 850M, 4710MQ, HGST Travelstar 7K1000 HTS721010A9E630
1.55 Points +9%
Asus N551JK-CN166H
GeForce GTX 850M, 4200H, HGST Travelstar 5K1000 HTS541010A9E680
1.46 Points +3%
Toshiba Satellite L50-B-1TD
Radeon R7 M260, 4510U, Toshiba HG6 THNSNJ256GMCU
1.35 Points -5%
Lenovo IdeaPad Z50-70 (59427656)
GeForce 840M, 4510U, Seagate ST1000LM014 Solid State Hybrid Drive
1.37 Points -4%
Lenovo IdeaPad Z50-75
Radeon R6 M255DX, A8-7100, WDC Scorpio Blue WD10JPCX-24UE4T0
0.54 Points -62%
Lenovo IdeaPad Z50-75
Radeon R7 (Kaveri), FX-7500
0.61 Points -57%
Cinebench R10
Rendering Multiple CPUs 32Bit (sort by value)
HP Pavilion 15-ab022ng
GeForce 940M, 5500U, HGST Travelstar 5K1000 HTS541010A9E680
9792 Points
Acer Aspire V3-574G-59MA
GeForce 940M, 5200U, Kingston RBU-SC150S37256GD
8699 Points -11%
Gigabyte P15F v2
GeForce GTX 850M, 4710MQ, HGST Travelstar 7K1000 HTS721010A9E630
18555 Points +89%
Asus N551JK-CN166H
GeForce GTX 850M, 4200H, HGST Travelstar 5K1000 HTS541010A9E680
10668 Points +9%
Toshiba Satellite L50-B-1TD
Radeon R7 M260, 4510U, Toshiba HG6 THNSNJ256GMCU
9148 Points -7%
Lenovo IdeaPad Z50-75
Radeon R6 M255DX, A8-7100, WDC Scorpio Blue WD10JPCX-24UE4T0
4165 Points -57%
Lenovo IdeaPad Z50-75
Radeon R7 (Kaveri), FX-7500
5595 Points -43%
Rendering Single 32Bit (sort by value)
HP Pavilion 15-ab022ng
GeForce 940M, 5500U, HGST Travelstar 5K1000 HTS541010A9E680
4651 Points
Acer Aspire V3-574G-59MA
GeForce 940M, 5200U, Kingston RBU-SC150S37256GD
4131 Points -11%
Gigabyte P15F v2
GeForce GTX 850M, 4710MQ, HGST Travelstar 7K1000 HTS721010A9E630
5125 Points +10%
Asus N551JK-CN166H
GeForce GTX 850M, 4200H, HGST Travelstar 5K1000 HTS541010A9E680
4773 Points +3%
Toshiba Satellite L50-B-1TD
Radeon R7 M260, 4510U, Toshiba HG6 THNSNJ256GMCU
4527 Points -3%
Lenovo IdeaPad Z50-75
Radeon R6 M255DX, A8-7100, WDC Scorpio Blue WD10JPCX-24UE4T0
1471 Points -68%
Lenovo IdeaPad Z50-75
Radeon R7 (Kaveri), FX-7500
2177 Points -53%
Geekbench 3
32 Bit Single-Core Score (sort by value)
HP Pavilion 15-ab022ng
GeForce 940M, 5500U, HGST Travelstar 5K1000 HTS541010A9E680
2858 Points
Acer Aspire V3-574G-59MA
GeForce 940M, 5200U, Kingston RBU-SC150S37256GD
2654 Points -7%
HP Pavilion 15-p008ng
GeForce 840M, 4210U, HGST Travelstar 5K1000 HTS541075A9E680
2348 Points -18%
Gigabyte P15F v2
GeForce GTX 850M, 4710MQ, HGST Travelstar 7K1000 HTS721010A9E630
2992 Points +5%
Toshiba Satellite L50-B-1TD
Radeon R7 M260, 4510U, Toshiba HG6 THNSNJ256GMCU
2646 Points -7%
Lenovo IdeaPad Z50-75
Radeon R6 M255DX, A8-7100, WDC Scorpio Blue WD10JPCX-24UE4T0
1487 Points -48%
Lenovo IdeaPad Z50-75
Radeon R7 (Kaveri), FX-7500
1778 Points -38%
32 Bit Multi-Core Score (sort by value)
HP Pavilion 15-ab022ng
GeForce 940M, 5500U, HGST Travelstar 5K1000 HTS541010A9E680
5955 Points
Acer Aspire V3-574G-59MA
GeForce 940M, 5200U, Kingston RBU-SC150S37256GD
5268 Points -12%
HP Pavilion 15-p008ng
GeForce 840M, 4210U, HGST Travelstar 5K1000 HTS541075A9E680
4597 Points -23%
Gigabyte P15F v2
GeForce GTX 850M, 4710MQ, HGST Travelstar 7K1000 HTS721010A9E630
10955 Points +84%
Toshiba Satellite L50-B-1TD
Radeon R7 M260, 4510U, Toshiba HG6 THNSNJ256GMCU
5301 Points -11%
Lenovo IdeaPad Z50-75
Radeon R6 M255DX, A8-7100, WDC Scorpio Blue WD10JPCX-24UE4T0
3319 Points -44%
Lenovo IdeaPad Z50-75
Radeon R7 (Kaveri), FX-7500
4147 Points -30%
Sunspider - 1.0 Total Score (sort by value)
HP Pavilion 15-ab022ng
GeForce 940M, 5500U, HGST Travelstar 5K1000 HTS541010A9E680
96.9 ms *
Acer Aspire V3-574G-59MA
GeForce 940M, 5200U, Kingston RBU-SC150S37256GD
119.8 ms * -24%
Gigabyte P15F v2
GeForce GTX 850M, 4710MQ, HGST Travelstar 7K1000 HTS721010A9E630
93.3 ms * +4%
Asus N551JK-CN166H
GeForce GTX 850M, 4200H, HGST Travelstar 5K1000 HTS541010A9E680
88.3 ms * +9%
Toshiba Satellite L50-B-1TD
Radeon R7 M260, 4510U, Toshiba HG6 THNSNJ256GMCU
113.7 ms * -17%
Mozilla Kraken 1.1 - Total (sort by value)
HP Pavilion 15-ab022ng
GeForce 940M, 5500U, HGST Travelstar 5K1000 HTS541010A9E680
2275 ms *
Acer Aspire V3-574G-59MA
GeForce 940M, 5200U, Kingston RBU-SC150S37256GD
2609 ms * -15%
Gigabyte P15F v2
GeForce GTX 850M, 4710MQ, HGST Travelstar 7K1000 HTS721010A9E630
2013 ms * +12%
Asus N551JK-CN166H
GeForce GTX 850M, 4200H, HGST Travelstar 5K1000 HTS541010A9E680
2168 ms * +5%
Toshiba Satellite L50-B-1TD
Radeon R7 M260, 4510U, Toshiba HG6 THNSNJ256GMCU
2321 ms * -2%
Octane V2 - Total Score (sort by value)
HP Pavilion 15-ab022ng
GeForce 940M, 5500U, HGST Travelstar 5K1000 HTS541010A9E680
14240 Points
Acer Aspire V3-574G-59MA
GeForce 940M, 5200U, Kingston RBU-SC150S37256GD
12452 Points -13%
Gigabyte P15F v2
GeForce GTX 850M, 4710MQ, HGST Travelstar 7K1000 HTS721010A9E630
15924 Points +12%
Asus N551JK-CN166H
GeForce GTX 850M, 4200H, HGST Travelstar 5K1000 HTS541010A9E680
15140 Points +6%
Toshiba Satellite L50-B-1TD
Radeon R7 M260, 4510U, Toshiba HG6 THNSNJ256GMCU
13750 Points -3%
Peacekeeper - --- (sort by value)
HP Pavilion 15-ab022ng
GeForce 940M, 5500U, HGST Travelstar 5K1000 HTS541010A9E680
2744 Points
Acer Aspire V3-574G-59MA
GeForce 940M, 5200U, Kingston RBU-SC150S37256GD
2335 Points -15%
Gigabyte P15F v2
GeForce GTX 850M, 4710MQ, HGST Travelstar 7K1000 HTS721010A9E630
2991 Points +9%
Toshiba Satellite L50-B-1TD
Radeon R7 M260, 4510U, Toshiba HG6 THNSNJ256GMCU
2698 Points -2%

* ... smaller is better

System Performance

The system's overall performance is beyond reproach; it runs smoothly. The PCMark benchmark scores are very good. A look at our comparison chart shows that the Pavilion does not have any disadvantages compared with laptops based on a quad-core processor. Consequently, a laptop with a ULV processor is normally the better choice for home use because these models consume less power and produce less waste heat. Quad-core processors should be preferred when CPU-driven applications and programs optimized for several cores are to be executed. The Pavilion's system performance can be improved by replacing the installed hard drive with a solid state drive.

PCMark 7 Score
2937 points
PCMark 8 Home Score Accelerated v2
3069 points
PCMark 8 Creative Score Accelerated v2
3464 points
PCMark 8 Work Score Accelerated v2
3903 points
Help
PCMark 8 - Home Score Accelerated v2 (sort by value)
HP Pavilion 15-ab022ng
GeForce 940M, 5500U, HGST Travelstar 5K1000 HTS541010A9E680
3069 Points
Acer Aspire V3-574G-59MA
GeForce 940M, 5200U, Kingston RBU-SC150S37256GD
3187 Points +4%
HP Pavilion 15-p008ng
GeForce 840M, 4210U, HGST Travelstar 5K1000 HTS541075A9E680
2457 Points -20%
Toshiba Satellite S50-B-12U
Radeon R7 M260, 4210U, TOSHIBA MQ01ABD075
3223 Points +5%
Gigabyte P15F v2
GeForce GTX 850M, 4710MQ, HGST Travelstar 7K1000 HTS721010A9E630
3097 Points +1%
Asus N551JK-CN166H
GeForce GTX 850M, 4200H, HGST Travelstar 5K1000 HTS541010A9E680
3113 Points +1%
Toshiba Satellite L50-B-1TD
Radeon R7 M260, 4510U, Toshiba HG6 THNSNJ256GMCU
3291 Points +7%
Lenovo IdeaPad Z50-70 (59427656)
GeForce 840M, 4510U, Seagate ST1000LM014 Solid State Hybrid Drive
2909 Points -5%
PCMark 7 - Score (sort by value)
HP Pavilion 15-ab022ng
GeForce 940M, 5500U, HGST Travelstar 5K1000 HTS541010A9E680
2937 Points
Acer Aspire V3-574G-59MA
GeForce 940M, 5200U, Kingston RBU-SC150S37256GD
4857 Points +65%
HP Pavilion 15-p008ng
GeForce 840M, 4210U, HGST Travelstar 5K1000 HTS541075A9E680
2525 Points -14%
Toshiba Satellite S50-B-12U
Radeon R7 M260, 4210U, TOSHIBA MQ01ABD075
2766 Points -6%
Asus N551JK-CN166H
GeForce GTX 850M, 4200H, HGST Travelstar 5K1000 HTS541010A9E680
4131 Points +41%
Lenovo IdeaPad Z50-70 (59427656)
GeForce 840M, 4510U, Seagate ST1000LM014 Solid State Hybrid Drive
4023 Points +37%
Lenovo IdeaPad Z50-75
Radeon R6 M255DX, A8-7100, WDC Scorpio Blue WD10JPCX-24UE4T0
1835 Points -38%

Storage Device

The 1 TB hard drive (5400 revolutions per minute) provides plenty of storage capacity. The user has approximately 800 GB of the capacity available. The recovery partition and Windows installation reserve the remaining storage. CrystalDiskMark records a read speed of 93.43 MB/s. HD Tune delivers an average transfer rate of 76.8 MB/s. The rates are all still within a normal range for 5400 rpm hard drives, although they could be slightly higher.

The hard drive can be replaced
The hard drive can be replaced
HGST Travelstar 5K1000 HTS541010A9E680
Transfer Rate Minimum: 38.1 MB/s
Transfer Rate Maximum: 100.9 MB/s
Transfer Rate Average: 76.8 MB/s
Access Time: 17.6 ms
Burst Rate: 286.8 MB/s
CPU Usage: 4.2 %

Graphics Card

GeForce 940M mid-range graphics core has found its way into the Pavilion. In conjunction with the also present HD Graphics 5500, it creates a graphics-switching solution (Optimus). Nvidia's core is enabled in performance-demanding applications like computer games. Intel's GPU is responsible for everyday use and battery mode. Switching between both cores is automatic; the user does not have to intervene.

The 3DMark scores of the GeForce cores are just slightly higher than those of its precursor, the GeForce 840M GPU. The reason is soon discovered: The 940 core clocks at slightly higher maximum speeds (1124 MHz vs. 1176 MHz). Both GPUs are based on Nvidia's Maxwell architecture, making GeForce 840M laptops a less expensive alternative.

The GPU is soldered
The GPU is soldered
3DMark 11 Performance
2437 points
3DMark Ice Storm Standard Score
49599 points
3DMark Cloud Gate Standard Score
6512 points
3DMark Fire Strike Score
1391 points
Help
3DMark 11 - 1280x720 Performance (sort by value)
HP Pavilion 15-ab022ng
GeForce 940M, 5500U, HGST Travelstar 5K1000 HTS541010A9E680
2437 Points
Acer Aspire V3-574G-59MA
GeForce 940M, 5200U, Kingston RBU-SC150S37256GD
2450 Points +1%
HP Pavilion 15-p008ng
GeForce 840M, 4210U, HGST Travelstar 5K1000 HTS541075A9E680
2316 Points -5%
Toshiba Satellite S50-B-12U
Radeon R7 M260, 4210U, TOSHIBA MQ01ABD075
1922 Points -21%
Gigabyte P15F v2
GeForce GTX 850M, 4710MQ, HGST Travelstar 7K1000 HTS721010A9E630
4675 Points +92%
Asus N551JK-CN166H
GeForce GTX 850M, 4200H, HGST Travelstar 5K1000 HTS541010A9E680
4255 Points +75%
Toshiba Satellite L50-B-1TD
Radeon R7 M260, 4510U, Toshiba HG6 THNSNJ256GMCU
1905 Points -22%
Lenovo IdeaPad Z50-70 (59427656)
GeForce 840M, 4510U, Seagate ST1000LM014 Solid State Hybrid Drive
2373 Points -3%
Lenovo IdeaPad Z50-75
Radeon R6 M255DX, A8-7100, WDC Scorpio Blue WD10JPCX-24UE4T0
1857 Points -24%
Lenovo IdeaPad Z50-75
Radeon R7 (Kaveri), FX-7500
1424 Points -42%
3DMark
1280x720 Ice Storm Standard Graphics (sort by value)
HP Pavilion 15-ab022ng
GeForce 940M, 5500U, HGST Travelstar 5K1000 HTS541010A9E680
53467 Points
Acer Aspire V3-574G-59MA
GeForce 940M, 5200U, Kingston RBU-SC150S37256GD
53283 Points 0%
HP Pavilion 15-p008ng
GeForce 840M, 4210U, HGST Travelstar 5K1000 HTS541075A9E680
54415 Points +2%
Toshiba Satellite S50-B-12U
Radeon R7 M260, 4210U, TOSHIBA MQ01ABD075
54217 Points +1%
Gigabyte P15F v2
GeForce GTX 850M, 4710MQ, HGST Travelstar 7K1000 HTS721010A9E630
73171 Points +37%
Asus N551JK-CN166H
GeForce GTX 850M, 4200H, HGST Travelstar 5K1000 HTS541010A9E680
103768 Points +94%
Toshiba Satellite L50-B-1TD
Radeon R7 M260, 4510U, Toshiba HG6 THNSNJ256GMCU
30031 Points -44%
Lenovo IdeaPad Z50-75
Radeon R6 M255DX, A8-7100, WDC Scorpio Blue WD10JPCX-24UE4T0
46017 Points -14%
Lenovo IdeaPad Z50-75
Radeon R7 (Kaveri), FX-7500
39785 Points -26%
1280x720 Cloud Gate Standard Score (sort by value)
HP Pavilion 15-ab022ng
GeForce 940M, 5500U, HGST Travelstar 5K1000 HTS541010A9E680
6512 Points
Acer Aspire V3-574G-59MA
GeForce 940M, 5200U, Kingston RBU-SC150S37256GD
6160 Points -5%
HP Pavilion 15-p008ng
GeForce 840M, 4210U, HGST Travelstar 5K1000 HTS541075A9E680
5477 Points -16%
Toshiba Satellite S50-B-12U
Radeon R7 M260, 4210U, TOSHIBA MQ01ABD075
4366 Points -33%
Gigabyte P15F v2
GeForce GTX 850M, 4710MQ, HGST Travelstar 7K1000 HTS721010A9E630
13808 Points +112%
Asus N551JK-CN166H
GeForce GTX 850M, 4200H, HGST Travelstar 5K1000 HTS541010A9E680
9818 Points +51%
Toshiba Satellite L50-B-1TD
Radeon R7 M260, 4510U, Toshiba HG6 THNSNJ256GMCU
4307 Points -34%
Lenovo IdeaPad Z50-70 (59427656)
GeForce 840M, 4510U, Seagate ST1000LM014 Solid State Hybrid Drive
5934 Points -9%
Lenovo IdeaPad Z50-75
Radeon R6 M255DX, A8-7100, WDC Scorpio Blue WD10JPCX-24UE4T0
2663 Points -59%
Lenovo IdeaPad Z50-75
Radeon R7 (Kaveri), FX-7500
4014 Points -38%
1280x720 Sky Diver Score (sort by value)
HP Pavilion 15-ab022ng
GeForce 940M, 5500U, HGST Travelstar 5K1000 HTS541010A9E680
5398 Points
Acer Aspire V3-574G-59MA
GeForce 940M, 5200U, Kingston RBU-SC150S37256GD
5360 Points -1%
HP Pavilion 15-p008ng
GeForce 840M, 4210U, HGST Travelstar 5K1000 HTS541075A9E680
4976 Points -8%
Gigabyte P15F v2
GeForce GTX 850M, 4710MQ, HGST Travelstar 7K1000 HTS721010A9E630
10666 Points +98%
Toshiba Satellite L50-B-1TD
Radeon R7 M260, 4510U, Toshiba HG6 THNSNJ256GMCU
3740 Points -31%
Lenovo IdeaPad Z50-75
Radeon R6 M255DX, A8-7100, WDC Scorpio Blue WD10JPCX-24UE4T0
1722 Points -68%
1920x1080 Fire Strike Score (sort by value)
HP Pavilion 15-ab022ng
GeForce 940M, 5500U, HGST Travelstar 5K1000 HTS541010A9E680
1391 Points
Acer Aspire V3-574G-59MA
GeForce 940M, 5200U, Kingston RBU-SC150S37256GD
1432 Points +3%
HP Pavilion 15-p008ng
GeForce 840M, 4210U, HGST Travelstar 5K1000 HTS541075A9E680
1346 Points -3%
Toshiba Satellite S50-B-12U
Radeon R7 M260, 4210U, TOSHIBA MQ01ABD075
947 Points -32%
Gigabyte P15F v2
GeForce GTX 850M, 4710MQ, HGST Travelstar 7K1000 HTS721010A9E630
2908 Points +109%
Asus N551JK-CN166H
GeForce GTX 850M, 4200H, HGST Travelstar 5K1000 HTS541010A9E680
2675 Points +92%
Toshiba Satellite L50-B-1TD
Radeon R7 M260, 4510U, Toshiba HG6 THNSNJ256GMCU
946 Points -32%
Lenovo IdeaPad Z50-70 (59427656)
GeForce 840M, 4510U, Seagate ST1000LM014 Solid State Hybrid Drive
1312 Points -6%
Lenovo IdeaPad Z50-75
Radeon R6 M255DX, A8-7100, WDC Scorpio Blue WD10JPCX-24UE4T0
518 Points -63%
Lenovo IdeaPad Z50-75
Radeon R7 (Kaveri), FX-7500
793 Points -43%

Gaming Performance

Most computer games can be played using the HD resolution (1366x768 pixels) with medium to sometimes higher quality settings. Compromises in resolution/quality level have to be made in smash hits like Assassin's Creed Unity or The Witcher. Playable frame rates cannot be achieved otherwise. The graphics core installed in the Pavilion is generally too weak for the game Batman: Arkham Knight. The screen's native resolution (Full HD) is only possible with a few titles. Again true: The lower the hardware requirements of a game the sooner the Full HD resolution can be used.

Our comparison chart shows that the Pavilion only manages slightly higher frame rates than comparable GeForce 840M laptops. Therefore, a lot of money can be saved with the corresponding laptop. For example, a former model of our present review sample might be an alternative - the Pavilion 15-p110ng (Core i5-4210UGeForce 840M, matte Full HD screen). The laptop currently costs approximately 530 Euros (~$591).

low med. high ultra
Tomb Raider (2013) 129.1 61.6 34 16.7
Dirt Rally (2015) 187 45.8 23.7 12.5
Batman: Arkham Knight (2015) 20 18 14 8
Tomb Raider
1366x768 Normal Preset AA:FX AF:4x (sort by value)
HP Pavilion 15-ab022ng
GeForce 940M, 5500U, HGST Travelstar 5K1000 HTS541010A9E680
61.6 fps
Acer Aspire V3-574G-59MA
GeForce 940M, 5200U, Kingston RBU-SC150S37256GD
64.8 fps +5%
HP Pavilion 15-p008ng
GeForce 840M, 4210U, HGST Travelstar 5K1000 HTS541075A9E680
52.2 fps -15%
Acer Aspire E5-571G-520X
GeForce 840M, 5200U, Toshiba MQ01ABD100
62 fps +1%
Gigabyte P15F v2
GeForce GTX 850M, 4710MQ, HGST Travelstar 7K1000 HTS721010A9E630
132.3 fps +115%
Toshiba Satellite L50-B-1TD
Radeon R7 M260, 4510U, Toshiba HG6 THNSNJ256GMCU
36.2 fps -41%
Lenovo IdeaPad Z50-70 (59427656)
GeForce 840M, 4510U, Seagate ST1000LM014 Solid State Hybrid Drive
58.8 fps -5%
Lenovo IdeaPad Z50-75
Radeon R6 M255DX, A8-7100, WDC Scorpio Blue WD10JPCX-24UE4T0
39.7 fps -36%
1366x768 High Preset AA:FX AF:8x (sort by value)
HP Pavilion 15-ab022ng
GeForce 940M, 5500U, HGST Travelstar 5K1000 HTS541010A9E680
34 fps
Acer Aspire V3-574G-59MA
GeForce 940M, 5200U, Kingston RBU-SC150S37256GD
35 fps +3%
HP Pavilion 15-p008ng
GeForce 840M, 4210U, HGST Travelstar 5K1000 HTS541075A9E680
28.1 fps -17%
Acer Aspire E5-571G-520X
GeForce 840M, 5200U, Toshiba MQ01ABD100
33 fps -3%
Gigabyte P15F v2
GeForce GTX 850M, 4710MQ, HGST Travelstar 7K1000 HTS721010A9E630
71.9 fps +111%
Toshiba Satellite L50-B-1TD
Radeon R7 M260, 4510U, Toshiba HG6 THNSNJ256GMCU
21.3 fps -37%
Lenovo IdeaPad Z50-70 (59427656)
GeForce 840M, 4510U, Seagate ST1000LM014 Solid State Hybrid Drive
28.7 fps -16%
Lenovo IdeaPad Z50-75
Radeon R6 M255DX, A8-7100, WDC Scorpio Blue WD10JPCX-24UE4T0
25.5 fps -25%

Emissions

System Noise

The fan uninterruptedly spins in idle mode. The quiet noise is audible but not unduly distracting. An HP specific BIOS option is also responsible for the permanently spinning fan in the Pavilion. The fan is sometimes inactive when the option "Fan Always On" is disabled. The fan really gets active under load. We measure a noise level of 52.5 dB during the stress test. This level is too high for a laptop from this performance category.

Noise Level

Idle
34.5 / 34.5 / 34.5 dB(A)
DVD
38.2 / dB(A)
Load
44.1 / 52.5 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)
HP Pavilion 15-ab022ng
5500U, GeForce 940M
Acer Aspire V3-574G-59MA
5200U, GeForce 940M
HP Pavilion 15-p008ng
4210U, GeForce 840M
Toshiba Satellite S50-B-12U
4210U, Radeon R7 M260
Asus N551JK-CN166H
4200H, GeForce GTX 850M
Lenovo IdeaPad Z50-70 (59427656)
4510U, GeForce 840M
Lenovo IdeaPad Z50-75
A8-7100, Radeon R6 M255DX
Noise
7%
10%
10%
7%
17%
12%
Idle Minimum *
34.5
32.8
5%
31.4
9%
31.7
8%
32.1
7%
30
13%
32.4
6%
Idle Average *
34.5
32.8
5%
31.5
9%
32.5
6%
32.9
5%
30.4
12%
32.9
5%
Idle Maximum *
34.5
32.8
5%
32.1
7%
33.1
4%
33.7
2%
31
10%
33.1
4%
Load Average *
44.1
42.7
3%
41.5
6%
37.2
16%
42
5%
35
21%
37
16%
Load Maximum *
52.5
43.4
17%
43.6
17%
43.6
17%
44.8
15%
38.4
27%
36.4
31%

* ... smaller is better

Temperature

The Pavilion in the stress test
The Pavilion in the stress test

The Pavilion performed our stress test (Prime95 and Furmark run for at least one hour) in a similar manner in both AC and battery modes. The graphics core always ran stably at 1163 MHz. The processor ran the test at 2.3 to 2.5 GHz in AC mode. This speed range was also reached in battery mode, but the CPU was abruptly throttled to 500 MHz time and again. Although the CPU and GPU clocked at almost full speed, the laptop's temperatures were very moderate. We measured a maximum temperature of 40.2 °C. The fan's high speed during load pays off here. The low temperatures, however, also prove that a more conservative fan management would also cool the laptop sufficiently.

Max. Load
 28.8 °C
84 F
38 °C
100 F
37.1 °C
99 F
 
 28.2 °C
83 F
36.2 °C
97 F
38.7 °C
102 F
 
 27.2 °C
81 F
28.2 °C
83 F
31.2 °C
88 F
 
Maximum: 38.7 °C = 102 F
Average: 32.6 °C = 91 F
40.2 °C
104 F
34.2 °C
94 F
28.1 °C
83 F
37.7 °C
100 F
35 °C
95 F
28.5 °C
83 F
31.6 °C
89 F
28.6 °C
83 F
27.7 °C
82 F
Maximum: 40.2 °C = 104 F
Average: 32.4 °C = 90 F
Power Supply (max.)  55.5 °C = 132 F | Room Temperature 25.3 °C = 78 F | Voltcraft IR-360
(±) The average temperature for the upper side under maximal load is 32.6 °C / 91 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 38.7 °C / 102 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 40.2 °C / 104 F, compared to the average of 39.1 °C / 102 F
(+) In idle usage, the average temperature for the upper side is 27.7 °C / 82 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 31.2 °C / 88.2 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 (-2.4 °C / -4.4 F).
HP Pavilion 15-ab022ng
5500U, GeForce 940M
Acer Aspire V3-574G-59MA
5200U, GeForce 940M
HP Pavilion 15-p008ng
4210U, GeForce 840M
Toshiba Satellite S50-B-12U
4210U, Radeon R7 M260
Asus N551JK-CN166H
4200H, GeForce GTX 850M
Lenovo IdeaPad Z50-70 (59427656)
4510U, GeForce 840M
Lenovo IdeaPad Z50-75
A8-7100, Radeon R6 M255DX
Heat
-24%
0%
-6%
6%
-8%
2%
Maximum Upper Side *
38.7
50
-29%
39.6
-2%
40.3
-4%
39.4
-2%
44.9
-16%
39.5
-2%
Maximum Bottom *
40.2
62.7
-56%
42.2
-5%
57.1
-42%
37.6
6%
44.5
-11%
40
-0%
Idle Upper Side *
30.8
34.6
-12%
29.6
4%
26.8
13%
28.7
7%
31.5
-2%
28.6
7%
Idle Bottom *
30.4
29.5
3%
29.4
3%
27
11%
26.1
14%
31.3
-3%
29.7
2%

* ... smaller is better

Speakers

The speakers have been modified in the new Pavilion model. Unlike previous models, equipped with a system from Beats Audio, a system from Bang & Olufsen is now installed. The reason: Apple bought Beats Audio. The speakers of the new Pavilion model are still installed above the keyboard under a perforated cover. Differences to the former speakers cannot be established. The speakers produce a decent sound that lacks bass. It is possible to listen to them even for extended periods of time.

The speakers are above the keyboard
The speakers are above the keyboard

Energy Management

Power Consumption

The Pavilion's idle consumption remained below 10 watts, as we are used to from ULV laptops. The requirement climbed up to 61.1 watts during the stress test (Prime95 and Furmark run for at least one hour). This rate is still acceptable and is on par with that of comparable laptops. We recorded rates of around 42.5 watts (+/- 5 watts) in gaming routine. The power supply has a nominal output of 65 watts.

Power supply (nominal output: 65 watts)
Power supply (nominal output: 65 watts)
Power Consumption
Off / Standbydarklight 0.1 / 0.1 Watt
Idledarkmidlight 4.8 / 8.1 / 8.3 Watt
Load midlight 42.5 / 61.1 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.
HP Pavilion 15-ab022ng
5500U, GeForce 940M
Acer Aspire V3-574G-59MA
5200U, GeForce 940M
HP Pavilion 15-p008ng
4210U, GeForce 840M
Toshiba Satellite S50-B-12U
4210U, Radeon R7 M260
Asus N551JK-CN166H
4200H, GeForce GTX 850M
Lenovo IdeaPad Z50-70 (59427656)
4510U, GeForce 840M
Lenovo IdeaPad Z50-75
A8-7100, Radeon R6 M255DX
Power Consumption
4%
-2%
8%
-65%
6%
-12%
Idle Minimum *
4.8
3.9
19%
4.7
2%
4.5
6%
8.6
-79%
3.6
25%
6.8
-42%
Idle Average *
8.1
7.2
11%
9.1
-12%
6.7
17%
12
-48%
6.4
21%
9.6
-19%
Idle Maximum *
8.3
8.5
-2%
9.7
-17%
8.4
-1%
13
-57%
10
-20%
11.4
-37%
Load Average *
42.5
47.5
-12%
41.4
3%
40.2
5%
72.2
-70%
38.8
9%
41.6
2%
Load Maximum *
61.1
58.9
4%
53.3
13%
52.1
15%
104
-70%
64.4
-5%
38.6
37%

* ... smaller is better

Battery Runtime

The Pavilion achieves an idle runtime of 9:23 hours. Acer's Aspire V3-574G (11:13 h) rival lasts longer. Idle mode is checked using Battery Eater's Reader's test with minimum screen brightness, enabled energy-saving profile, and disable wireless modules. The Pavilion shuts down after 1:28 hours of load. This looks the same with the Aspire (1:31 h). The load runtime is ascertained with Battery Eater's Classic test; the screen's brightness is set to maximum, the high-performance plan is enabled, and the radio modules are on.

HP's laptop stops our real-world Wi-Fi test after 4:27 hours. The Aspire (4:41 h) can only offer a few minutes more. This test simulates opening websites using the "Balanced" profile, and a screen brightness of approximately 150 cd/m². We test the video playback time by running the short movie Big Buck Bunny (H.264 encoding, 1920x1080 pixels) in a loop. The wireless modules are disabled, and the screen's brightness is set to about 150 cd/m². The Pavilion lasts 4:54 hours; the Aspire (4:31 h) lags behind that.

The Pavilion's battery life is not awe-inspiring - which is also true for the Aspire's times. We have dealt with comparable laptops that display a considerably longer runtime. In total, the Pavilion is roughly on par with the former Pavilion 15-p008ng model.

The battery has a capacity of 41 Wh
The battery has a capacity of 41 Wh
Battery Runtime
Idle (without WLAN, min brightness)
9h 23min
WiFi Websurfing (IE 11)
4h 27min
Big Buck Bunny H.264 1080p
4h 54min
Load (maximum brightness)
1h 28min
HP Pavilion 15-ab022ng
41 Wh
Acer Aspire V3-574G-59MA
37 Wh
HP Pavilion 15-p008ng
41 Wh
Toshiba Satellite S50-B-12U
44 Wh
Asus N551JK-CN166H
56 Wh
Lenovo IdeaPad Z50-70 (59427656)
41 Wh
Lenovo IdeaPad Z50-75
32 Wh
Battery Runtime
5%
2%
10%
-19%
15%
-38%
Reader / Idle
563
673
20%
521
-7%
490
-13%
436
-23%
672
19%
311
-45%
H.264
294
271
-8%
287
-2%
140
-52%
WiFi v1.3
267
281
5%
Load
88
91
3%
100
14%
116
32%
76
-14%
97
10%
74
-16%
WiFi
285
306
271
281
155

Pros

+ Matte Full HD screen
+ Plenty of storage
+ Low temperature development
+ Gaming suitable

Cons

- Dark, low-contrast screen
- 12-month warranty only
- Fast Ethernet only

Verdict

In review: HP Pavilion 15-ab022ng. Test model courtesy of HP Store.
In review: HP Pavilion 15-ab022ng. Test model courtesy of HP Store.

HP's Pavilion 15-ab022ng provides more than enough everyday computing power in total. Furthermore, the laptop can even render computer games. Owners of this laptop will not soon be lacking storage capacity thanks to the 1 TB hard drive. The laptop runs quietly and barely heats up during normal use. The latter is also true for load. HP has made a major mistake with the screen. It is a viewing-angle dependent TN screen with only poor rates in brightness and contrast. HP demands approximately 800 Euros (~$893) for the Pavilion; we would have at least expected a viewing-angle stable IPS screen at this price.

However, we also have to criticize HP idiosyncrasies that we find in many laptops from the manufacturer. HP only includes a 12-month warranty. That is not acceptable in an 800-Euro (~$893) device, either. The competition from Acer is more progressive here and includes a two-year warranty. Beyond that, the Pavilion also only sports a Fast Ethernet chip. Gigabit Ethernet is today's standard.

Thus, the Pavilion is not free of shortcomings. Buyers who can ignore that fact will find a decent all-rounder.

Finally, we would like to mention the former HP Pavilion 15-p008ng model. It is currently available for approximately 530 Euros (~$592) as the Pavilion 15-p110ng version (Core i5-4210UGeForce 840M, matte Full HD screen), and is a less expensive alternative. Although it has some shortcomings in common with its successor, they are easier to ignore in view of the considerably lower price.

HP Pavilion 15-ab022ng - 07/31/2015 v4(old)
Sascha Mölck

Chassis
76 / 98 → 78%
Keyboard
74%
Pointing Device
81%
Connectivity
64 / 81 → 79%
Weight
62 / 20-67 → 89%
Battery
85%
Display
76%
Games Performance
82 / 85 → 96%
Application Performance
81 / 92 → 88%
Temperature
90%
Noise
67 / 95 → 71%
Audio
56%
Camera
40 / 85 → 47%
Average
72%
78%
Multimedia - Weighted Average

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Sascha Mölck, 2015-08- 9 (Update: 2015-08-12)