HP 14 Ultrabook Review: Fast, Spacious Back‑to‑School Edition

Ultrabook Performance & Specs

- Processor: Intel Celeron N4120 (4 cores, 4 threads, up to 2.6 GHz burst, 4 MB L2 cache) – smooth for multitasking but feels underwhelming for heavy workloads.
- Memory: 32 GB DDR4 SDRAM – overkill for a budget ultrabook, keeps the OS snappy and allows easy multitasking.
- Storage: 128 GB SSD + free 512 GB external drive + 1 TB OneDrive – total 1.6 TB; the internal drive can fill fast but the combination meets most student needs.
- Graphics: Intel Graphics – adequate for office, web browsing, and light media, but not for gaming or GPU‑intensive tasks.
- OS: Windows 11 Home 64‑bit – modern interface, yet the Celeron’s limited CPU syncs a bit of the newer UI.
- Bundled Software: One‑year Microsoft 365 subscription – useful for word processing, spreadsheets, and cloud collaboration.
- Ports: USB‑C (data only), HDMI 1.4b, USB‑2.0, USB‑3.2 Gen 1, SD card reader, headphone/mic combo, AC smart pin – decent spread but USB‑C lacks video output and power delivery.

Pros:

32 GB RAM
Large cloud + external storage
Affordable price for “back‑to‑school” bundle

Cons:

Celeron CPU feels sluggish with heavier tasks
Low‑resolution screen limits multitasking space
USB‑C only data‑transfer

Display & Audio Quality

Screen: 14″ HD 1366 × 768, micro‑edge, 220 nits, 45 % NTSC – the smallest resolution for an ultrabook; color accuracy is fine for text but not for videos or design.
Brightness: 220 nits – adequate indoors but becomes washed out on sunny days.
Audio: Stereo speakers (1.5 W × 2) + High‑Definition Audio – clear for calls; music playback is pleasant though not loud.
Webcam: HD 720p – passes eye‑contact tests, good enough for student video‑calls.
Keyboard: US English, full‑size, non‑backlit – well‑tactile keys, but lack of backlighting can be an issue in dim rooms.

Strengths:

Comfortable for everyday reading and note‑taking.
Speakers and webcam perform fairly well for budget tier.

Weaknesses:

Low resolution limits side‑by‑side window usage.
Brightness not ideal for outdoor classes.

Connectivity & Portability

Wireless: Realtek RTL8821CE 802.11ac (1×1) + Bluetooth 4.2 – reliable Wi‑Fi speeds, but no Wi‑Fi 6 support.
USB‑C: 3.2 Gen 1 (data only) – no Thunderbolt, no DC power delivery.
HDMI 1.4b: Enables external display, but limited to 1080p at 60 Hz.
Dimensions: 12.7 × 8.8 × 0.7 inches – compact enough for bag carry, 0.71″ thin.
Weight: 3.2 lbs (1.45 kg) – lighter than many 14″ ultrabooks, easy to transport.
Extras: AC smart pin, SD card reader – useful for everyday tasks.

Highlights:

Broad port selection for class projects.
Ultra‑light build enhances mobility.

Lowlights:

USB‑C limited – no power or video support.
Lack of Wi‑Fi 6 can be a bottleneck on faster networks.

Battery Life & Build Quality

Battery: Estimated 11.5‑hour endurance – comfortably covers a full school day with moderate use.
Charging: Powered via AC smart pin; no USB‑C charging option.
Build: Matte black chassis, sturdy plastic frame – feels solid but not premium.
Thermals: Maintains safe temperatures, even during heavy multitasking, but fans are audible under load.

Positives:

Long battery life for commuting students.
Durable feel and good thermal management.

Negatives:

No adaptive battery feature to extend life further.
No USB‑C charging limits flexibility.

Overall Verdict and Value

Why It Works
The ultrabook’s massive 32 GB RAM and generous combined storage make it a surprisingly capable machine for students juggling multiple applications and cloud projects. The bundled 1‑year Microsoft 365 subscription adds clear value for academic users. Its lightweight, slim profile, and decent battery life make it highly portable.

Where It Struggles
The Intel Celeron N4120 is the biggest headache—tasks that push the CPU feel sluggish. The 1366 × 768 panel hampers multitasking, and the lack of modern connectivity standards (USB‑C video, Power Delivery, Wi‑Fi 6) is a noticeable drawback in tech‑savvy classrooms.

Who Should Consider It

Freshman or sophomore students needing a dependable, budget‑friendly laptop primarily for note‑taking, research, and Microsoft 365 productivity.
Users who value huge RAM for virtual machines or background processes.

Who Should Skip It

Anyone planning to do video editing, graphic design, or gaming.
Professionals who need a bright, high‑resolution display or advanced ports for peripherals.

Bottom Line
This back‑to‑school ultrabook strikes a niche: an affordable, heavy‑RAM machine with extensive storage that can handle basic office and learning tasks while staying portable and battery‑efficient. It’s a solid choice for budget‑conscious students who don’t need top‑tier specs or a higher‑resolution screen, but those expecting serious performance or premium connectivity should look elsewhere.