The HP Dragonfly G4 leaves little room for user disappointment. Its design and performance merit a premium, making it an excellent choice for business professionals who frequently travel.
Pros:
- Boasts exceptional, cool-under-pressure performance.
- Thin, lightweight, and highly portable.
- Extended battery life enhances mobility.
- Features a stunning display tailored for productivity.
- Impressive port selection for versatile connectivity.
- A comfortable keyboard enhances user experience.
Cons:
- Commands a high price tag.
- Speakers lack mid-range richness.
- Absence of microSD or SD card slot.
HP DRAGONFLY G4: CONCISE REVIEW
While perfection remains elusive, the HP Dragonfly G4 stands remarkably close. As one of 2023’s premier thin and light laptops, it defies business norms with an Ultrabook aesthetic—thin, stylish, and enduring.
This laptop excels on business trips or extended travel, delivering potent performance. Despite minor drawbacks like subpar speakers and the absence of an SD card slot, these don’t break the deal.
However, near-perfection comes at a cost. The high price, typical of business laptops, may limit its appeal. While not exclusively for professionals, the steep tag narrows its potential user base.
HP DRAGONFLY G4: PRICING AND AVAILABILITY
Wondering about the cost and availability of the HP Dragonfly G4? Let’s break it down.
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Starting Price | $1,760 / £1,439.99 / AU$2,735 |
| Availability | Now available in the US, UK, and Australia |
However, navigating the pricing and availability is a bit intricate. Currently, only the base model is widespread, featuring an Intel Core i5-1335U, 16GB RAM, 512GB storage, and a 13.5-inch WUXGA+ touchscreen, priced at $1,760.
For an upgraded Intel Core i7-1365U configuration, the cost jumps to $2,279. This specific setup, inclusive of 16GB RAM and 512GB storage, is not available in the UK or Australia. Similar models with a slightly less powerful Intel Core i7-1355U are priced at £1,679.99 / AU$3,390.
Adding to the complexity, US customers can opt for a custom build starting at $2,548. Surprisingly, this configuration features a smaller 256GB SSD and a non-touch display.
Comparatively, the Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (2023) starts at $1,999, offering the M2 Pro SoC, 16GB RAM, 512GB SSD, and a Liquid Retina XDR display. However, transitioning to the Apple ecosystem comes with its own set of considerations, and maxing out configurations can reach a hefty $3,099.
On the other hand, the Dell XPS 13 Plus (2023) presents a competitive option with a lower base price of $1,249. While featuring an Intel Core i5-1340P, 16GB RAM, and 512GB SSD, it falls short on battery life compared to the HP Dragonfly G4’s impressive nearly 13 hours.
In the realm of pricing, the HP Dragonfly G4 scores 3.5 out of 5, aligning with its mobile workstation peers.
HP DRAGONFLY G4: TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS
The HP Dragonfly G4 offers four configurations, with the base model featuring an i5-1335U, 16GB RAM, and 512GB storage. Our review model houses an i7-1365U with identical memory and storage.
It gets complex with the priciest model having the same chip and RAM but half the storage. This cost difference might be attributed to Windows 11 Pro 64, designed for businesses.
| Component | Base Model | Review Unit | Top Configuration |
|---|---|---|---|
| Price | $1,760 / £1,439.99 / AU$2,735 | $2,279 (about £1879 / AU$3595) | $2,548 (about £2101 / AU$4019) |
| CPU | Intel Core i5-1335U | Intel i7-1365U | Intel Core i5-1335U |
| GPU | Intel Iris Xe Graphics | Intel Iris Xe Graphics | Intel Iris Xe Graphics |
| RAM | 16GB | 16GB | 16GB |
| Storage | 512GB PCIe NVMe SSD | 512GB PCIe NVMe SSD | 256GB PCIe NVMe SSD |
| Screen | 13.5″ diagonal BrightView WLED UWVA WUXGA+ (1920×1280), Low Blue Light, 400 nits touch | 13.5″ diagonal BrightView WLED UWVA WUXGA+ (1920×1280), Low Blue Light, 400 nits | 13.5″ diagonal BrightView WLED UWVA WUXGA+ (1920×1280), Low Blue Light, 400 nits |
| Ports | 2x Thunderbolt 4 with USB Type-C; 1x USB Type-A PD; 1x HDMI 2.1; 1x headphone / mic combo jack, Nano lock slot | 2x Thunderbolt 4 with USB Type-C; 1x USB Type-A PD; 1x HDMI 2.1; 1x headphone / mic combo jack, Nano lock slot | 2x Thunderbolt 4 with USB Type-C; 1x USB Type-A PD; 1x HDMI 2.1; 1x headphone / mic combo jack, Nano lock slot |
| Wireless | WiFi 6E, BT 5.3, and 5G | WiFi 6E, BT 5.3 and 5G | Intel Wi-Fi 6E AX211 (2×2) and Bluetooth 5.3 wireless card, non-vPro |
| Camera | 5MP, 88-degree FOV Camera | 5MP, 88-degree FOV Camera | 5MP, 88-degree FOV Camera |
| Weight | Starting at 2.2 lb (0.99kg) | Starting at 2.2 lb (0.99kg) | Starting at 2.2 lb (0.99kg) |
| Dimensions | 11.7 x 8.67 x 0.64 in (297.18 x 220 x 16.25 mm) | 11.7 x 8.67 x 0.64 in (297.18 x 220 x 16.25 mm) | 11.7 x 8.67 x 0.64 in (297.18 x 220 x 16.25 mm) |
For custom builds, expect potential cost increases, even with lower storage. Some configurations offer a non-touchscreen display, so confirm before committing.
HP DRAGONFLY G4: AESTHETICS AND USABILITY
- Effortlessly portable, feather-light yet resilient,
- The keyboard is a joy, trackpad responsive,
- Ports galore for productivity.
The HP Dragonfly G4 earns my applause, particularly for its impeccable design. Crafted for travel or hybrid work, its lightweight, sturdy build makes it the perfect on-the-go companion.
During a month-long European journey, it thrived in my backpack, enduring travel rigors without a scratch. The premium, recycled magnesium outer shell, contributing to its sub-2.5-pound weight, remained unscathed. Even on trains and planes, its robust hinge ensured a stable display.
Beyond its weight, the sleek 13-inch design enhances handling. Though not as compact as a tablet, its form occasionally made me ponder holding a tablet with a keyboard folio.
Upon opening, the centered layout, reminiscent of Wes Anderson’s precision, pleases. The well-aligned trackpad and speaker enhance the user experience.
The keyboard, while slightly squishy with petite keycaps, offers comfort without missed presses. The premium, responsive trackpad boasts commendable palm rejection.
For a compact laptop, the Dragonfly G4 impresses with its port selection—two Thunderbolt 4 USB-Cs, USB Type-A with Power Delivery, HDMI 2.1, headphone/mic combo jack, and Nano lock slot—a productivity arsenal.
HP DRAGONFLY G4: EXEMPLARY PERFORMANCE
Swift, cool under pressure, impressive display,
Advanced webcam features enhance versatility.
LAPTOP BENCHMARKS:
| Benchmark | HP Dragonfly G4 |
|---|---|
| 3DMark: Night Raid | 14,453 |
| 3DMark: Fire Strike | 4,326 |
| 3DMark: Time Spy | 1,590 |
| GeekBench 6: Single-core | 2,215 |
| GeekBench 6: Multi-core | 7,408 |
| 25GB File Copy | 735.7MBps |
| Handbrake 1.6 | 12:41 |
| CrossMark: Overall | 1,357 |
| CrossMark: Productivity | 1,344 |
| CrossMark: Creativity | 1,415 |
| CrossMark: Responsiveness | 1,231 |
| Civ VI: Gathering Storm | 27.36 fps |
| Web Surfing (Battery Informant) | 12 hours 44 mins |
Despite benchmark comparisons, real-world performance shines. Handling multitasking effortlessly, the Dragonfly G4 excels in tasks like image editing and Chrome multitab use.
The laptop handles high-res image batch editing on Adobe Photoshop or Lightroom without a hiccup. Even with an overloaded Chrome window and multiple apps running, it stays cool—impressive for its slim profile.
Audio quality, though not exceptional, matches standard laptop performance. The speakers lack richness, but this aligns with the laptop’s peers.
The 13-inch 1280p display dazzles with 391 nits brightness, 113.3% sRGB coverage, and a Delta-E color accuracy of 0.14—an improvement over its predecessor.
The Mixer feature in the myHP app allows simultaneous use of built-in and external webcams. The webcam delivers clean, crisp footage with excellent dynamic range, perfect for professional video meetings.
HP DRAGONFLY G4: ENDURING BATTERY LIFE
Extends beyond a full workday,
Benchmark showcases just under 13 hours.
In the realm of battery life, the HP Dragonfly G4 aligns precisely with professional expectations. Powered by the efficient Intel Core i7-1365U, it conserves energy with a mere 15W TDP.
During my workdays, it pleasantly surprised me by enduring not just a standard workday but even more. This is a boon for professionals on the move, especially during a month-long journey across southern Europe and northern Africa. Charging needs were minimal, and it often outlasted a full day, enhancing convenience and productivity.
Our Web Surfing (Battery Informant) benchmark test confirms this endurance, averaging an impressive 12 hours and 44 minutes, occasionally extending beyond 13 hours. While not surpassing the MacBook Pro 14-inch (2023), it ensures a full workday for those who routinely exceed the nine-hour mark.
SHOULD YOU CONSIDER THE HP DRAGONFLY G4?
Consider Buying If:
- You need a business or travel laptop.
- Seeking a powerful laptop for a full workday.
- Prioritize portability, durability, and cool performance.
Don’t Buy If:
- On a budget; it’s relatively expensive.
- Not in need of business laptop features.
HP DRAGONFLY G4: ALTERNATIVES TO CONSIDER
| Component | HP Dragonfly G4 | Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (2023) | Dell XPS 13 Plus (2023) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Price | From $1,760 / £1,439.99 / AU$2,735 | From $1,999 / £2,149 / AU$3,199 | From $1,249.00 / £1,198.99 / AU$2,398 |
| CPU | Intel Core i5-1335U | Apple M2 Pro (10-core) | Intel Core i5-1340P |
| GPU | Intel Iris Xe Graphics | Integrated 16-core GPU | Intel Iris Xe Graphics |
| RAM | 16GB | 16GB unified memory | 16GB LPDDR5 |
| Storage | 512GB PCIe NVMe SSD | 512GB SSD | 512GB PCIe NVMe SSD |
| Screen | 13.5″ diagonal BrightView WLED UWVA WUXGA+ (1920×1280), Low Blue Light, 400 nits touch | 14.2-inch, 3024 x 1964 Liquid Retina XDR display (mini-LED, 1,000 nits sustained brightness, wide color P3 gamut, ProMotion technology) | 13.4-inch FHD+ (1920 x 1200) OLED, 60Hz, Touch |
| Ports | 2x Thunderbolt 4 with USB Type-C; 1x USB Type-A PD; 1x HDMI 2.1; 1x headphone / mic combo jack, Nano lock slot | 3x Thunderbolt 4 (USB-C), HDMI, SDXC card slot, 3.5mm headphone jack, MagSafe 3 | 2x Thunderbolt 4 USB-C |
| Wireless | WiFi 6E and Bluetooth 5.3 | Wi-Fi 6e (802.11ax), Bluetooth 5.3 | Wi-Fi 6E, Bluetooth 5.2 |
| Camera | 5MP, 88-degree FOV camera | 1080p FaceTime HD webcam | 720p 30fps webcam, IR cam |
| Weight | Starting at 2.2 lb (0.99kg) | 3.5 lbs (1.6kg) | 1.26 kg |
| Dimensions | 11.7 x 8.67 x 0.64 in (297.18 x 220 x 16.25 mm) | 12.31 x 8.71 x 0.61 inches (313 x 221 x 16mm) | 29.5 x 19.9 x 1.5 cm |