This is the first of a series of posts breaking down different laptop brands. I figured I’d start with HP because it’s the Toyota of laptops. It’s the brand with the most penetration in Kenya and you’re guaranteed to find a machine regardless of your budget.
The downside is there are so many available options which can be confusing and overwhelming. The good news is by the end of this post, you’ll know how to differentiate different HP models and make the best pick for your specific need.
If you’ve ever wondered what’s the difference between a HP probook and HP EliteBook you’ve come to the right place. Then to make things even easier for you, I’ll give you my 5 top picks for HP laptops in 2025.
An important point to remember though. The model in itself is not a major distinguishing factor. The best laptop ultimately boils down to the core features (processor, RAM, GPU, storage) and how well they meet your needs. Unsure what any of them means? Check out my post on the factors to consider when buying a laptop.
Table of Content
Interesting fact about HP laptops naming system
HP laptops follow a systematic naming system that provides important details about the machine and specifications. And the best part, it’s not that hard to decode. Here’s what usually included in the name:
- The series type: The main HP laptop series are the Probook, Elitebook, Pavillion, Envy, and Spectre. There’s also a specialized class of HP laptops comprising the Omen series, HP Victus, and HP Zbook. We will be exploring each category in more depth in the next section.
- Form factor: This represents the laptop build which can either be traditional or convertible. Under convertible laptops we have the x360 which can fold all the way back (360°) to look like a tablet. There’s also the X2 meaning laptops with detachable keyboards. The convertible laptops are sometimes referred to as 2 in 1.
- Screen size: You can always tell an HP laptop’s screen size based on the name. Sometimes, especially with the probooks and elitebooks, the size is not written in full. Rather, there will be one number that gives you a hint of the screen size. I’ll expound on that with an example below.
- Processor type: HP laptops with intel processors have a number ending with “0”, while laptops with AMD processors have a number ending with “5”.
- Generation of the model: HP laptops are classified into different generations usually denoted by the letter “G”. The generation of HP laptops has nothing to do with processor generation. For instance, G8 does not mean the laptop is using 8th gen processors.
And that’s all the information you need to decode HP laptops name.
Example, HP EliteBook X360 1030 G7. This means the laptop belongs to the elitebook series, can be folded all the way back and, since it ends with 0, it has an Intel processor. The “3” before “0” means it’s a 13 inch laptop. If it was 1040 G7, then that would mean it’s a 14” laptop.
Told you it was easy. Other models just list out the full screen size. Say, HP Pavilion 15. This means it’s a 15” laptop belonging to the Pavilion series.
I’ve got one for you, HP Probook 635 G7. What does the name tell you about the laptop?
If you said it’s a 13 inch generation 7 Probook with an AMD processor, congrats! You just became an HP laptop geek.
If you’re still confused, don’t worry. As of last year, HP has simplified the naming system so that all new laptops will either be categorized as HP Omnibook, HP Elitebook, or HP Probook.
All the different types of HP laptops explained
The truth is for many of these models, the distinction is not big. Usually, it’s a small tweak in the design or a new niche feature that won’t make any difference to the average user.
But companies need to keep “innovating” to stay profitable. We see it all the time with Samsung and Apple. Every year there’s a new iPhone and a new S-series Samsung. However, apart from saying you have the latest phone model, there’s little to boast of in terms of value addition.
All to say, there will always be a new model of your favorite brand coming out. That doesn’t mean your current model has become obsolete.
Here’s a detailed breakdown of the different types of HP laptops.
1. HP ProBook Series
The ProBook series is one of the earliest HP models, and has undergone multiple iterations starting with the s-series, b-series, m-series, to the current G-series. At the time of writing this, the newest Probook generation is G11.
With a few exceptions, ProBooks come with a black keyboard against an aluminium grey casing—like in the picture. Other variants include black and dark grey casing.
This laptop is the ultimate workhorse. Perfect for business settings where the laptop is constantly in use. The black keyboard means it doesn’t show dirt easily, and the aluminium casing means it can better withstand wear and tear.
ProBooks also come with essential business features like fingerprint scanners, smart card reader, HD cameras, and advanced microphones. They are also easily customizable allowing you to add more RAM and swap hard disks.
The best HP ProBooks in the market right now belong to the 400 and 600 variants. You can also choose between the X360 and the X2 convertible Probooks.
2. HP EliteBook
The Elitebook represents the next evolution stage of the Probook. Not so much in terms of performance, but appearance. While the HP ProBook was built with performance and durability in mind, it didn’t put much emphasis on looks. The EliteBook perfectly balances between performance and design.
HP EliteBook vs ProBook
The EliteBook has a slimmer profile than the ProBook and generally looks sleeker. It also features the newer HP logo unlike the ProBook which dorns the old HP initials engrained on a silver circle.
Other than that the two are pretty similar. The EliteBook is also characterised by a black keyboard against an aluminium grey casing which makes it perfect for business settings or environments that involve heavy daily usage.
Like the ProBook, the EliteBook series has undergone multiple iterations, starting from the xx30 generation to the current G series.
The most popular HP EliteBooks in the market right now are the 600, 700, 800, and the 1000 variants. Outside the numbered variants we have the Folio, Revolve, an x2, and the HP Dragonfly (my new favorite).
3. HP Pavilion
Unlike the business-focused ProBook and EliteBook series, the Pavilion lineup is built for home users who need a laptop for streaming, web browsing, and light productivity. It has the capacity to handle heavy applications like gaming and video editing, but it’s more suitable for hobbyists rather than professionals.
The Pavilion is characterized by matching keyboard and casing which is what gives it the domesticated look. That and the fact that most popular Pavilion laptops are pure white in color. Pavilion laptops have also stuck with the old HP logo even for the newer models.
Perhaps as an attempt to balance performance and affordability, the build quality of these laptops leans more toward plastic (premium) than metal. The assumption is at home they don’t face the same brutal beating as at work.
The most popular Pavilions in the market right now are Aero and Pavilion plus. Sizes range from 13″ to 16″.
4. HP Envy
The HP Envy represents the next evolution of the Pavilion. To begin with, it features a more durable build often incorporating aluminium for a sturdier and more polished design. It also comes with the new HP logo.
It’s still marketed as a consumer-grade laptop, but the Envy packs more power, making it a solid choice for users who need performance beyond casual multimedia use. With higher-end processors, better displays, and improved thermals, it’s well-suited for photo and video editing, light content creation, and multitasking at a professional level.
While the Envy laptops retain the homely Pavilion aesthetic of matching keyboard and casing colours (bright colours mostly), there’s a professional touch to it that’s hard to miss.
The Envy laptop lineup is primarily differentiated by screen size and form factor. Popular variants include HP Envy 13”, 15”, 17”, and the x360.
5. HP Spectre
The Spectre is the holy grail when it comes to HP laptops. I wouldn’t call it the most powerful HP laptop, but it does an excellent job of balancing performance and luxury. If you want a laptop that will turn heads and money is not a problem, you can’t go wrong with this one.
The HP Spectre stands out with a premium all-metal chassis, striking gem-cut edges, and a sleek, ultra-slim form factor. Beyond looks, the Spectre series delivers stunning high-resolution OLED and 4K display options, making it a great choice for creatives and professionals who need color accuracy and deep contrast.
The Spectre comes in two main sizes. The Spectre x360 14”, which is ideal for those who prioritize portability, and the Spectre x360 16”, which offers a larger screen for users who need extra workspace.
Specialized HP laptops
1. HP Omen
Unlike the mainstream laptops we’ve highlighted, Omen laptops belong to another class of HP’s specialized laptops. Specifically, the Omen is engineered for gaming, featuring high-end Intel and AMD processors, dedicated GPUs, and fast refresh rate displays to deliver smooth, lag-free gameplay.
This class also comes with unique features like a customizable RGB lighting which when combined with the rugged look fits a gamer’s profile perfectly. These laptops also feature advanced cooling systems to avoid overheating.
However, all this power comes at the cost of portability—Omen laptops are often bulkier and heavier than HP’s other series due to the hardware requirements for gaming.
2. HP Victus
The HP Victus series is HP’s entry-level gaming lineup, offering a solid gaming experience at a more affordable price compared to the high-end HP Omen series. It’s designed for casual gamers and those who want decent performance without spending a fortune.
Victus laptops come with mid-range Intel Core i5/i7 or AMD Ryzen 5/7 processors, paired with NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3050-4060 or AMD Radeon GPUs. They feature 144Hz Full HD displays, backlit keyboards, and efficient cooling to handle most modern games at 1080p with decent frame rates.
While they lack some of the premium touches of Omen laptops (like per-key RGB lighting or vapor chamber cooling), they still deliver great gaming performance for the price.
3. HP ZBook
If there was a debate on the most powerful HP laptop then the HP ZBook series are right at the top. This model is designed for professionals who need serious computing power on the go. Whether you’re a graphic designer, engineer, video editor, or data scientist, ZBook laptops offer desktop-class performance in a portable form factor.
The ZBook comes equipped with the most powerful processors like the Intel i9 and the Intel Xeon, dedicated GPUs, and ISV certifications for software like AutoCAD and Adobe Premiere Pro.
With high-refresh-rate displays, 4K DreamColor options, and superior cooling systems, the ZBook is ideal for handling large files, rendering, and high-performance computing tasks.
5 Best HP laptops to buy in 2025
These are the top recommended HP laptops currently in the Kenyan market.
1. HP Spectre Gem cut version – Best overall
Key features:
- 14” full HD touchscreen
- 11th generation Intel Core i7 processor
- 16GB RAM
- 512GB SSD storage
- Fingerprint reader
- Face unlock
- Tilt pen
- Intel Iris Xe Graphics
- Windows 11 compatible
Price:
A new one will start from KES 200,000, but you can get a refurbished one starting from KES 75,000.
2. HP Elitebook Dragonfly G3 – Affordable Spectre alternative
Key features:
- 13.3″ Touchscreen
- 8th generation Intel Core i5 processor
- 16GB RAM
- 512GB SSD storage
- Fingerprint sensor
- Facial recognition
- Windows 11 compatible
Price:
A new one costs around KES 85,000 while you can get a refurbished option starting at KES 45,000.
3. HP EliteBook 1040 G5 – Best for office professionals
Key features:
- 14″ Touchscreen & X360
- 8th generation Core i5 processor
- 16GB RAM
- 512GB SSD storage
- Face ID unlock
- Fingerprint reader
- Windows 11 compatible
Price:
These units are available starting at KES 38,000
4. HP EliteBook 840 G5 – Best for students
Key features:
- 14″ Non-touch screen
- 8th generation Core i5 processor
- 16GB RAM
- 2GB Radeon 540/540X dedicated GPU
- 256GB SSD storage
- Fingerprint sensor
- Windows 11 compatible
Price: Refurbished units are available starting KES 35,000.
5. HP EliteBook 840 G3 – Best budget
Key features:
- 14″ non-touch screen
- 6th generation Intel Core i5 processor
- 8GB RAM
- 256GB SSD storage
- Fingerprint reader
Price:
Available starting 25,000
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