ENVY 15-kXXX / ENVY 15-qXXX / ENVY 17-kXXX Notebooks (2014)

I just received my HP ENVY 15t, G7Z03AV, TPN-Q-140. Very exciting! But I am sad to say I am quite disappointed... Let me also say that this is my first ENVY model, having purchased and on my third HP Pavilion dv6t laptop since 2010. I don't mean to compare the ENVY with my Pavilion dv6t and I'll try not to, but it's a good reference point for those familiar with the model as I am brand new to the ENVY 15t laptop.

The plastic casing is mediocre to poor quality all around. However there is slight to little flex to the screen as I opened up the laptop. It doesn't feel like I'm using a quality product. It is a CLUNKER compared to my currently on 2012 HP Paviolion dv6t-7000. Again, the ENVY touting its sleek design, is a clunker with the casing being a cheap plastic. It just looks like a huge laptop compared to my dv6t. It is slightly wider, slightly longer, and considerably taller when opening the screen. But I can say that it is quite a thin laptop. There is a huge space between the laptop base and the screen where the hinges are, which isn't too distracting, but the screen quality is awful. With the upgraded 1080 HD screen, the viewing angles are unpalatable, with colors washing out when viewing solid colors. The uneven lighting is very slight if not too noticeable on the sides of the screen. To some, like myself, it is an issue. I'm not exactly sure which screen my dv6t uses exactly, but it is one of the best screens I have ever seen with its impeccable viewing angles and clear and crisp colors. A note, though, the unevenness of the lighting coming from the sides of the screen may dissipate a bit after some time of use, which is a good thing.

With its i7-4510U Dual Core processor, I am regrettably reporting conjecturally that there is a slight slowdown during casual use coming from an i7-3610QM Quad-Core on the dv6t, however that might be due to other factors as well. I also upgraded to a hybrid hard drive on my ENVY and the start-ups are incredibly fast!

The backlit keyboard is a nice addition as this is my first backlit keyboard computer. The keys are mushy compared to the clicky tactile feel on the dv6t. The keyboard is very quiet when in use which I like a lot. There is slight sinking around the Q and S keys as well as around the L key.

In light of all these complaints and issues, it is an all around usable computer as opposed to a completely solid computer. The speaker and sound quality is very good! I am surprised as the speakers on the dv6t crackle when turned up towards 100 (maximum). Audio quality is surprisingly good. This might be a good upgrade for regular and fans of the ENVY line, however, I am sadly going to return this computer as soon as I can, maybe after a few days of use. Very unfortunate.

 

Anybody know anything about a customizable version of the slim quad? Originally I was going to buy a best value version and mod it (hard drive, wireless card and ram, and maybe an ips screen if I could find one that would work with it), but the customer service told me that the wireless card was soldered on, so I wanted to wait for a version with AC wifi.

 

Thanks for the review. Basically the Envy 15t-k000 is a "okay" laptop.

 

pretty sure its not soldered on. I have never heard of soldered on wireless card or at least not yet. Look at this review as it shows the insides of the same model laptop, and you can clearly see it has a 'user upgradeable' wireless card

http://forum.notebookreview.com/hp-...q-nvidia-gtx-850m-haswell-maxwell-review.html

 

You're welcome. Sadly it is just an "okay" laptop. I am growing accustomed to it so far but the screen does not pass whatsoever. If I can find somehow to replace the screen to a 1080 HD matte IPS display, I will be a million times happier. (Is the IPS screen the correct one with the very huge vewiing angle?)

 

Both K and Q models this year feature BGA chips (Ball Grid Array) which are pin less processors that are soldered onto the motherboard. Thus motherboard part numbers actually include the soldered on chip. I don't think HP will create more motherboard/processors variants, in order to keep cost down.

 

This is another proof that HP is not doing a good business with the Envy line. To me choosing to mount that LCD is deprecable. In 2014 a so bad screen should never used.

Sent by Tapatalk

 

@ pizzasogood

Honestly keep you dv6 Ivy Bridge. There is a mSATA slot inside that thing, you can use RST with it if you don't already have it enabled. The dv6 unofficially was shipped with a IPS panel, and as far as I know is the same panel used in the HP dream colour models, which is a high end panel.

I have said this before, the dv6 was HP last and best model built around this price point, then after than the envy was rebranded as a dv6 with the removal of feature or lessening of quality.

Have a look on Amazon, I brought my dv6-7XXX backlit keyboard from here for about $70-80, once that was installed I didn't need much else. Keyboard is soild on the dv6 and has no flex and no mushy or weak keys.
Install keyboard is just two screws, pop out remove zip connector, pop in new keyboard.

 

The IPS panel on my dv6 is one of the best screens I have laid my eyes on. I am so happy I chose to do that upgrade when I purchased it online. All screens look inferior now. I am also thinking about replacing my HD on my dv6 to an SSD. Or just keep it the way it is.

I am actually interested in replacing my dv6's keyboard to a backlit one. Is the keyboard an official HP keyboard? Exactly of the same quality and feel? Where can I get one?

Also, is it possible to upgrade my wireless card to a bluetooth/ AC network card?

 

I would not sell it, I still have my AMD based dv6 which I am keeping mainly due the awesome panel. If you sell it you will regret it.

Yeah the keyboard is an HP one, just is the backlit model. Under your keyboard there is another connector for the lighting that is available on the motherboard on all models. Make sure when you look on the internet you buy the backlit model. The only different is the lighting, the keyboard is exactly the same.

I run an Intel 7260AC wireless card in my dv6, and is smoking fast.

I have now had a HP Envy 15-J (2012) and HP Envy 15-Q (2013), one has been sold, the other I took back because was the same junk. Do yourself a favour and keep the dv6 and add SSD, backlit keyboard, and AC wireless

 

Thank you for your suggestions, I really appreciate it!

While I plan to upgrade and mod my dv6t, would you recommend any other mods while I'm going to be opening my laptop up anyway? And to clarify, the Intel 7260AC is compatible with my i7-3610QM? As of now, I am thinking of installing the AC card you suggested, a backlit keyboard, and maybe/ maybe not an SSD. Thanks again.

Also a note on my ENVY 15t k000, the colors on the LCD are a bit better after some use. I forgot that upon first impressions, the quality of the screen is bad but that is the case for any LCD panels like this. It needs to be burned in a bit. Unevenness is still present and colors are still a bit washed out, but otherwise, it is much better than first reported! Viewing angle is still mediocre, sadly. I also want to note that I just noticed my number "8" key under my F8 key is completely loose! The right bottom corner of the key is sunken in... This is a very unfortunate quality assurance issue and I think I have to return the laptop asap. It is a huge waste of my time.

Anyone an expert at the HP release calendar know if we are in for a refresh or new additions internally in terms of specs for the ENVY line? If so, when? I may return this laptop and order a new one right away or wait for better chipsets.

 

Wireless card work with any processor. Be careful although HP backlist certain cards from working with the system, but the 7260AC works which I know that much.

i7-3610QM is better the any dual core i7 model for raw performance, now and into the future for awhile yet.

You could rip your panel out and put it into the K model providing they are both slim types, which I would be 95% sure they are. Although from what I hear would be a downgrade machine

Not surprised about the keyboard, I have seen several of the same keyboards that I have had myself. Most units I had either 1 or more keys that were sticking up in the air, loose, and jamming in the frame recess. I was able to fix my keys a little bit, I had to jam in a screw driver underneath the key (almost breaking it) and push down the metal retaining clips that were not flat.

Terrible keyboard from HP since mid 2013, can tell they changed the design, it looks like same design used for all models these days, keys, retaining clips, support bracket.

The keyboards use to be replaceable e.g. the dv6 and before that were all drop in, which rested on a fairly solid and flat support recess.

Now the keyboards are pushed under the keyboard frame with a useless support bracket that is causing all the keyboard flexing. There is almost nothing underneath strong enough to support it properly.

Get rid of that rubbish before you are stuck with it. I don't regret getting rid of my 2013 and 2014 model. I was hoping for fixes but that not happening, if anything slightly worse. These laptop now are for people that just don't notice anything and don't care. No way an Envy, shame on the name.


If I was to guess there is something coming from HP very soon. Expect the see some very small notebook around Christmas using the Broadwell M processor which will be the fan less dual cores.
Then expect something around the start of 2015, they may reuse same platform and then put in the Broadwell ULV dual core processors.
I would think a 15" quad core will be around May-June 2015 which will use Broadwell quad processors. This will likely be the resign then.
If I was to guess more, I think that Skylake quad processors might be July-August 2015, and HP will just reuse whatever chassis used during the May-June 2015 time frame.

 

@ T2050

Thanks for the response! Exactly what I was looking for. Well, it looks like I'll be waiting an entire year for the possibility of quad-cores in the ENVY. Still hoping they surprise us with some ability to get quad-cores into the ENVY's with that kind of battery capacity, but still very unlikely...

I won't replace the display from my dv6t and slap it onto my ENVY. I think I'll go ahead and just throw an Intel 7260AC into my dv6t for now. And then wait for some update or chassis/design update to the ENVY.

I have to add though, the ENVY is very light weight and doesn't heat up as much or easily as does my dv6t i7 ivy bridge does. It certainly has that.

 

Hey Everyone,

I am planning to buy this Quad core laptop. I have some concerns, tho. For example the new control zone touchpad doesn't work for everyone. Is this problem always occur? Or maybe HP is gonna fix this problem with a new driver? My other concern is the keyboard. I've used an old DV5 for quite a while, and I loved it. How is it compared to this new Envy? I've read that it flexes a lot. How bad it is compared to the DV5?

Thanks!

 

Which dv5 did you own? I'm assuming you own the pre-2012 dv5.

I have also owned that model laptop [2012 dv6t], but the dv6 version, and the keyboard style and the keyboard on the ENVY are totally different. The ENVY keyboard is somewhat of a better keyboard in that your fingers or sleeves won't get caught in the keys like how the keys on the pre-2012 dv5/6 models can snag. There is a considerably big difference in quality and type between the 2012 dv6 style keyboard, with it being better. I had to return my ENVY 15t due to many issues with the laptop that I've mentioned earlier in the thread.

As for the control zone touchpad, I found it difficult to use and found my wrist hitting the pad as I was using the keyboard which would trigger the windows 8 side charms, which was an annoyance. If you plan on using the laptop mainly on a desk/ at home, I would simply use an external wireless mouse and keyboard as a substitute.

It is a far better upgrade from the old dv5 models if you own the older pre-2012 models, as they have unfortunately replaced the 2012 Pavilion dv6t models (which are awesome, to say the least) with the ENVY 15t-k000 ones.

So, depending on your use will that determine if the upgrade is worth it. What and how do you plan on using it?

 

I've been using a really old dv5-1002nr back from 2009, so yes, it is pre-2012 Mostly I will use the ENVY for CAD modelling with a mouse, so I don't think the trackpad will be a huge dealbreaker for me, however I want it to function properly. I know it is not a workstation laptop, but I assume that the GTX 850m and a Quad Core processor is still a better combo than a laptop with integrated graphics... Sadly I can not afford a workstation laptop for 3000$.
Can someone measure how much this laptop exactly weights? I've read 5,09-5,2-6 lbs. Which one is the most accurate? I will carry around a lot... Thanks!

 

Actually, this Quad Core Best Value laptop is quite different than the laptop I reviewed. The specs seem quite good and I'm almost certain you won't regret it. I would suggest, however, to check for specials and coupon codes to get a discount toward your new laptop.

Good luck!

 

I'm looking to get the m7-k010dx which is the HP TS 17" with the i7-4710HQ processor. I have my own 1TB SSD. Will I be able to swap out the primary hard drive? Any BIOS issues?

Thank you.

 

You shouldn't run into any issues with the BIOS whatsoever. Are you looking at cloning the drive or doing a complete clean install of your SSD? I'd suggest doing a clean install of your OS when you install the new drive, and then transferring your files and reinstalling apps after.

There should be a thread on this board that addresses your exact issue. I can't provide the link at the moment, but if you browse the board a bit, I'm sure you can find it.

Good luck!

 

Thank you. I did find the 209 step process to get to hard drive!

Sent from my HTC6525LVW using Tapatalk

 

Is there any word on new model releases or allowable spec upgrades that are better than the previous offerings?

 

Does anyone know if its possible to put an IPS-screen in to the new Envy-series, like this one: New AUO B156HAN01.2 Laptop Screen 15.6" LED BACKLIT Full-HD Compatible | eBay

I still have my DV6 wich I upgraded to B156HW01 and love it but its time to upgrade and I want a good scrren in the computer.

 

I believe you can. If you do a quick search in this thread for IPS or screen replacement or the like, you may find what you're looking for. As for the details, I would share them if I absolutely knew, but I'm almost positive there's something in the thread about that!

 

I looked up some screens and from what I understand the LG Display LP156WF4-SLC1 is the one to get..? Best contrast in the spec of the ones that I have found, 800:1 stated versus 400:1 for the SLB6.

LG Display LP156WF4-SLC1 Overview - Panelook.com

Also discussed a lot is the LG Display LP156WF4-SLB6

LG Display LP156WF4-SLB6 Overview - Panelook.com

Anyone that could please give me some input so I order "the best" screen.

 

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Happy holiday shopping!

 

For those who are interested EET Europarts list the original HP Envy DV6 panel (slim ips SL B6) and it is a matching number, not a compatible. Costs ~250€ though...

 

Guys can anybody send me a picture of single key "holder / socket" (under the key) in ENVY 15 k-xxx series? I want to buy that laptop but with diferend keyboard and since I cant replace only keyboard in that model, I must replace key after key so must know what socket type that is.

Thanks

 

I think I found my models thread finally.. Mini-review/impressions here. http://forum.notebookreview.com/hp-envy-hdx/767224-envy-m7-k111dx-best-buy.html

did anyone decide if the 17-K is mSATA or M.2?

 

I'll answer my own question for the record, it's M.2 SATA

 

So guys i have Envy q version .. no way to make the msata work on it? it's impossible to life with one HDD :/

 

I just got a 17-K as a replacement. I haven't put it through it's paces yet (gaming) but I noticed the keyboard (the "O" key) doesn't pick up key presses sometimes. Is this an issue or is there a fix?

 

I had this issue before, just remove and reinsert the key