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Verdict: The HP ZBook X2 G4 is still an unusually capable Windows drawing computer, but it is not a modern powerhouse. A 32GB model with the Quadro M620, 4K DreamColor display, NVMe storage, original Wacom EMR pen, and healthy battery can be excellent for Photoshop, Illustrator, Lightroom, and design annotation at a low used price. Its 2017-era quad-core processor, 2GB GPU, heavy tablet body, aging batteries, and uncertain long-term driver support make it a poor choice for demanding video, 3D, AI, gaming, or buyers who expect current-laptop performance.
Technically, this is a detachable workstation, not a 360-degree convertible. That distinction matters: nearly all the weight sits behind the screen, so it is superb on a desk or drawing surface but less comfortable on a lap than a conventional laptop.
What the ZBook X2 G4 is
HP announced the ZBook X2 on October 18, 2017, with availability from December and a historical starting price of $1,749. HP positioned it as a professional detachable workstation, not a consumer tablet. It can be used in four ways:
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- Laptop mode: attach the keyboard and deploy the kickstand.
- Detached mode: use the tablet and Bluetooth keyboard separately.
- Docked mode: connect through Thunderbolt 3 to external displays and peripherals.
- Tablet mode: draw or annotate directly on the screen.
The detached keyboard can remain connected over Bluetooth, allowing Adobe shortcuts while the tablet is flat or held separately. HP’s launch description and historical performance claims should be read as 2017-era comparisons, not evidence of 2026 performance (HP launch announcement).
#1 Best Overall
- 32GB ( 16GBx2 ) DDR4 2666 MHz Non-Parity/Non-ECC Unbuffered SODIMM DRAM Memory 260 pin Dual Rank Module.
- PC4-21300 | 2Rx8 | 1.2v | SODIMM
- Compatible with HP ZBook x2 G4 Detachable Workstation Laptop
Specifications that matter when buying used
| Component | What to look for |
|---|---|
| Processor | Prefer Core i7-8650U or i7-8550U. Avoid paying extra for 7th-generation dual-core i7-7500U/i7-7600U models. |
| Graphics | Optional NVIDIA Quadro M620 with 2GB GDDR5. Some units have only Intel HD/UHD 620 graphics. |
| Memory | Two SODIMM slots, up to 32GB DDR4-2133. Choose 16GB minimum; 32GB is preferable. |
| Storage | Prefer a 512GB or larger PCIe NVMe SSD. HP also listed SATA, FIPS, and capacities up to 2TB. |
| Display | 14-inch, 3840×2160 IPS anti-glare touch. DreamColor was optional, not standard. |
| Pen | Battery-free HP ZBook X2 Pen using Wacom EMR, with 4,096 pressure levels, tilt, and an eraser. |
| Weight | From 3.64lb (tablet) and 4.78lb (with keyboard), before considering a charger or accessories. |
| Ports | Two Thunderbolt 3 USB-C ports with DisplayPort 1.2, USB-A, HDMI 1.4, SD, and headset jack. |
| Battery claim | HP rated it for up to 10 hours; that is a historical laboratory-style claim, not a used-device expectation. |
Confirm the exact product number rather than trusting a generic “ZBook X2 G4” listing. HP’s datasheet documents the configuration range, while HP’s support page explains product identification.
Display: excellent potential, but verify DreamColor
Every listed configuration uses a sharp 14-inch 4K touch panel with an anti-glare finish. The optional DreamColor version was advertised with 10-bit, one-billion-color capability and 100% Adobe RGB coverage, making it attractive for color-sensitive illustration and photography. Do not assume that every 4K X2 has DreamColor. Verify the product number, Windows display information, HP documentation, or clear seller photographs.
At 4K on 14 inches, text and panels can be tiny without Windows scaling. Some older applications handle scaling poorly, and the high-resolution panel consumes more power than a lower-resolution screen.
Do these 3 things before closing this tab:
1Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problems2Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minute3Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsPen and drawing experience
The X2’s strongest reason to exist is its pen workflow. Wacom EMR means the supplied pen needs no battery or charging interruption. Pressure and tilt support suit brush control, retouching, handwriting, and markup, while the dedicated eraser is useful in applications that support it.
Rank #2
- 16GB ( 16GBx1 ) DDR4 2666 MHz Non-Parity/Non-ECC Unbuffered SODIMM DRAM Memory 260 pin Dual Rank Module.
- PC4-21300 | 2Rx8 | 1.2v | SODIMM
- Compatible with HP ZBook x2 G4 Detachable Workstation Laptop
HP also fitted the sides of the display with 18 configurable Quick Keys. They can be assigned to actions such as brush-size changes, panning, zooming, touch toggling, and full-screen preview. They are particularly valuable to Photoshop and Illustrator users who want physical controls while drawing. They are less useful for browser-heavy or office workflows, and their behavior depends on HP software and drivers that may be harder to maintain on a newer Windows installation.
On a used machine, test pressure response, tilt, calibration, palm rejection, and every button. Confirm that the original pen is included; a generic active stylus should not be assumed compatible with the EMR digitizer.
Creative application performance
Photoshop, Illustrator, and InDesign
These are the X2’s best workloads. With 16GB or 32GB RAM, NVMe storage, and the Quadro configuration, it can handle layered Photoshop files, vector illustration, photo retouching, and page layout well for its age. Large documents, many linked assets, heavy filters, and simultaneous applications will expose the older low-power CPU and cooling limits. Illustrator is comfortable for normal vector work, but exceptionally complex artwork can become sluggish. InDesign is usable, although a 14-inch screen leaves less room for panels and multi-page layouts.
Lightroom
Catalog management and ordinary editing are reasonable. Imports, preview generation, exports, and newer AI-assisted features will be substantially slower than on current processors and GPUs. A fast SSD and 32GB RAM help, but they cannot make this a modern photo workstation.
Rank #3
- Elite Performance with Intel 11th Gen Core: The renewed HP ZBook Firefly 14 G8 Mobile Workstation is powered by an Intel Core i5-1135G7 processor (up to 4.2GHz) and a massive 16GB DDR4 RAM, delivering blazing-fast performance for demanding tasks like data analysis, virtualization, and multitasking with dozens of browser tabs—perfect for developers, engineers, and business power users.
- Superfast 512GB SSD for Instant Responsiveness: Experience rapid boot-ups, near-instant file access, and smooth application performance with the renewed HP 14 G8 ZBook Firefly laptop's high-speed 512GB SSD, ensuring you stay productive without delays—whether you're editing large documents, running complex spreadsheets, or managing cloud applications.
- Crisp 14" FHD Display for Professional Clarity: Work with precision on the renewed HP ZBook Firefly 14 G8 Mobile Workstation's 14-inch Full HD (1920x1080) anti-glare display, offering sharp visuals for presentations, video conferences, and detailed spreadsheet work—all while minimizing eye strain during long work sessions.
- Future-Ready Connectivity with USB-C & Versatile Ports: Stay fully connected with the refurbished HP ZBook Firefly 14 G8 i5 laptop's modern USB-C ports, USB-A ports, HDMI, and a 3.5mm audio jack, allowing seamless connections to monitors, docking stations, external drives, and peripherals—ideal for hybrid work setups and office productivity.
- Enterprise Security & Windows 11 Pro Multi-Language Support: The renewed HP ZBook Firefly 14 G8 notebook comes pre-loaded with Windows 11 Pro (English/Spanish/French), featuring advanced security protections like BitLocker encryption, TPM 2.0, and HP's own security suite—making it a trusted choice for corporate IT departments, government users, and security-conscious professionals.
Premiere Pro and After Effects
Light projects, proxies, and short edits are possible. It is not a sensible choice for sustained 4K editing, effects-heavy timelines, or frequent encoding. The M620’s 2GB VRAM is a major constraint.
Blender, CAD, and 3D
“Quadro” describes professional-driver positioning, not contemporary graphics power. The M620 can assist compatible period applications, but its old architecture and 2GB VRAM are poor fits for modern scenes, GPU rendering, large textures, simulation, or AI tools.
Keyboard, desk use, and mobility
The backlit detachable keyboard has a full-size layout, a large clickpad, and Bluetooth operation when separated. The kickstand offers flexible desk angles, and the port selection is unusually practical for a tablet: USB-A, SD, HDMI, and two Thunderbolt 3 ports.
Do these 3 things before closing this tab:
1Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problems2Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minute3Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsThe compromises are physical. At 3.64lb in tablet mode, it is heavy beside an iPad Pro or mainstream tablet. In laptop mode it is top-heavy, less stable on a lap, and lacks the rigid hinge of a clamshell. Think of it as a portable workstation or pen display with a computer inside, not a lightweight tablet.
Rank #4
- Elite Professional Performance: Engineered for demanding workflows, the renewed HP ZBook Firefly 15 G8 Workstation features an Intel Core i7-1185G7 processor (up to 4.8GHz) and a substantial 32GB of DDR4 RAM, delivering exceptional speed and responsiveness for complex 3D modeling, financial analysis, and seamless multitasking across resource-intensive applications.
- High-Speed 512GB SSD Storage: Experience rapid system boot-ups, near-instant application loading, and quick file access with the renewed HP 15 G8 ZBook Firefly laptop's 512GB Solid State Drive, ensuring you can work efficiently without storage-related bottlenecks.
- Future-Ready Connectivity with Thunderbolt 4: Equipped with Thunderbolt 4 ports (USB-C), the refurbished HP ZBook Firefly 15 G8 Mobile Workstation supports ultra-fast data transfer (40Gbps), dual 4K displays, and quick charging, alongside multiple USB-A and HDMI ports for a fully integrated and expandable workstation.
- Immersive 15.6-inch FHD Display: Review intricate details with clarity on the renewed HP ZBook Firefly 15 G8 laptop's spacious 15.6-inch Full HD (1920x1080) screen, offering ample real estate for side-by-side coding windows, detailed design canvases, and expansive financial spreadsheets.
- Enterprise-Grade Security & Durability: The renewed HP ZBook Firefly 15 G8 i7 laptop is built to last, meeting MIL-STD-810H standards for durability, and comes with Windows 11 Pro multi-language support and advanced HP security features to protect sensitive data in corporate and remote work environments.
Ports and external displays
Thunderbolt 3 supports docks, DisplayPort output, and high-speed peripherals. HP claimed that a suitable dock could drive two additional 4K displays, or five total displays in a docked setup. That maximum depends on the dock, drivers, display arrangement, and operating mode; test your actual dock rather than treating the claim as a guarantee.
Battery, thermals, and sustained work
HP’s “up to 10 hours” rating and 50% charge-in-30-minutes claim with a suitable 65W adapter are historical manufacturer figures. A 4K panel, Quadro GPU, high brightness, creative applications, and battery wear can reduce runtime sharply. Ask sellers for a Windows battery report showing design capacity and full-charge capacity. Check for swelling, shutdowns under load, and correct charger operation.
The dual-fan design was intended to cool both CPU and GPU. Actual fan noise, surface temperature, and throttling vary by configuration, dust, thermal condition, power mode, and kickstand position. Do not accept “silent” or “throttle-free” claims without testing the exact unit during a sustained export or render.
Windows and support in 2026
The X2 originally shipped with Windows 10, including Pro and Pro for Workstations editions. Windows 10 reached end of regular support on October 14, 2025. A unit may boot Windows 11, but that does not mean HP officially supports every feature on every product number. Check HP’s current driver resources and Windows 11 requirements for the exact machine.
Best Value
- 8GB ( 8GBx1 ) DDR4 2666 MHz Non-Parity/Non-ECC Unbuffered SODIMM DRAM Memory 260 pin Single Rank Module.
- PC4-21300 | 1Rx8 | 1.2v | SODIMM
- Compatible with HP ZBook x2 G4 Detachable Workstation Laptop
Potential upgrade problems include missing Quick Keys, pen or NVIDIA driver issues, fingerprint and camera failures, sleep problems, and unreliable docking. Before reinstalling or upgrading, download exact-product-number drivers and create a complete backup or recovery image.
Used-buying checklist
- Request the exact product number and a BIOS or system-information photograph.
- Confirm the CPU, 16GB/32GB RAM, Quadro M620 presence, SSD type, capacity, and DreamColor status.
- Require the original pen, detachable keyboard, kickstand, and correct charger.
- Review a battery report: design capacity, full-charge capacity, cycles where available, and swelling.
- Test the digitizer, pressure, tilt, eraser, touch, screen uniformity, dead pixels, and all Quick Keys.
- Test keyboard attachment, Bluetooth pairing, charging, USB-A, both USB-C/Thunderbolt ports, HDMI, SD reader, audio, camera, and fingerprint reader.
- Check fan noise, heat, SSD health, sustained performance, BIOS passwords, corporate management locks, and Windows activation.
- Price a possible battery, pen, keyboard, or dock replacement before deciding.
Alternatives
A current Microsoft Surface Pro is lighter and better supported, but generally lacks the X2’s workstation GPU and built-in Quick Keys. A Wacom MobileStudio Pro is more pen-focused but less convenient as a general laptop. Current HP ZBooks, Dell Precision systems, and Lenovo ThinkPad or Yoga workstations offer newer processors, graphics, support, and serviceability, but usually sacrifice the X2’s detachable EMR drawing design.
Who should buy it?
Buy only if you specifically want Windows, Wacom-style EMR, a matte 4K screen, Adobe shortcut buttons, physical ports, and a genuinely low used price. A healthy 16GB unit can be worthwhile; 32GB is ideal. Condition and included accessories matter more than small differences between similar CPUs.
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Outbyte PC Repair FREERepair Windows errors before they cause bigger problemsFix Now →Outbyte Driver Updater FREEFix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitchesFind Drivers →Avoid it for modern video production, demanding 3D or CAD, machine learning, gaming, all-day tablet carrying, guaranteed current drivers, or conventional lap comfort. Do not pay near the cost of a newer supported laptop simply because a listing says “workstation” or “Quadro.”
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Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
