HP Stream 11.6-inch HD Laptop
Review & Specs

HP Stream 11-AK0020NR features a slim, lightweight design in a diamond white color scheme. Its compact size and 2.37-pound weight make it highly portable for students and professionals on the go. The 11.6-inch display is small but offers an anti-glare HD resolution for comfortable viewing. However, the thick bezels around the screen limit the screen-to-body ratio to just 73%.

The HP Stream 11's 11.6-inch HD display offers a serviceable viewing experience for its size and price point. The 1366x768 resolution provides decent clarity for everyday tasks like web browsing, document editing, and casual video streaming.

However, the limited screen real estate and lower resolution may not be ideal for extended media consumption or multitasking. The display's brightness and color reproduction are adequate for indoor use but may struggle in brighter environments. While not exceptional, the display suits the needs of students and users seeking a compact, affordable laptop for basic computing tasks.

HP Stream is powered by an Intel Celeron N4000 dual-core processor, which offers adequate performance for basic tasks such as web browsing, document editing, and media playback. With a base clock speed of 1.1 GHz and a burst frequency of up to 2.6 GHz, this processor can handle everyday computing needs without significant lag. However, it may struggle with more intensive tasks or multitasking with numerous applications.

The laptop relies on the integrated Intel UHD Graphics 600 for visual processing. This entry-level graphics solution is suitable for basic tasks, such as video playback and light photo editing. However, it lacks the power to handle demanding games or complex graphics work. Users can expect smooth performance in everyday applications, but more intensive graphics tasks may result in slower performance or reduced visual quality.

HP Stream 11 comes with a 32GB eMMC storage, which offers faster read and write speeds compared to traditional hard disk drives. This storage capacity is sufficient for basic documents, a modest collection of photos, and a few applications. However, users with extensive media libraries or large project files may find the storage limiting. The laptop does not offer expandable storage options, but users can utilize cloud storage or external storage devices to supplement the built-in eMMC.

This laptop features 4GB of DDR3L SDRAM, which is adequate for basic multitasking and everyday computing needs. This memory capacity allows users to run a few applications simultaneously, such as a web browser with multiple tabs, a word processor, and a media player. However, more memory-intensive tasks, such as photo or video editing, may cause performance to slow down. Unfortunately, the RAM is not upgradeable, so users cannot expand the memory capacity to improve performance.

This HP Laptop offers reliable wireless connectivity with its 802.11ac Wi-Fi 5 and Bluetooth 5.0 capabilities. The 2x2 Wi-Fi 5 adapter ensures fast and stable connections to wireless networks, making it suitable for browsing, streaming, and online collaboration in home, office, or school environments. The laptop also supports MU-MIMO technology, which allows for efficient communication with multiple devices simultaneously. However, the lack of an Ethernet port may be a drawback for users who require a wired connection for faster speeds or increased stability.

It offers a basic selection of ports to support various peripherals and accessories. With two USB 3.1 Gen 1 Type-A ports, users can connect external storage devices, mice, or keyboards. The USB 3.1 Gen 1 Type-C port provides a versatile connection for newer peripherals and supports data transfer and charging. The HDMI 1.4 port allows users to connect the laptop to external displays for presentations or multimedia enjoyment. The inclusion of a media card reader is convenient for transferring photos and files from SD cards. However, the lack of an Ethernet port may be a limitation for users who require a wired internet connection.

The HP Stream 11's keyboard and trackpad prioritize functionality within the compact form factor. The keyboard layout is standard, with well-spaced keys that offer decent travel and tactile feedback. While the key size may feel slightly cramped for users with larger hands, the typing experience remains comfortable for short to medium sessions.

The trackpad, although small, is responsive and supports essential multi-touch gestures. The click mechanism is firm and accurate, allowing for precise navigation and selection. Overall, the keyboard and trackpad are suitable for basic productivity tasks and general navigation, catering to the needs of students and users on the go.

The Laptop's audio and camera capabilities are basic but functional. The dual speakers, located on the bottom of the laptop, deliver clear and audible sound for personal use. While the audio quality is not exceptional, it suffices for video calls, online lectures, and casual music playback. The volume output is adequate for a small room, but external speakers or headphones are recommended for a more immersive experience.

The front-facing VGA webcam provides standard definition video quality, suitable for video conferencing and online classes. The camera captures reasonably clear images in well-lit environments but may struggle in low light conditions. The integrated microphone picks up voice effectively, enabling clear communication during virtual meetings or recordings.

The battery life is a standout feature, providing excellent portability for users on the move. With a reported battery life of up to 12 hours, this laptop can easily last through a full day of classes or work without needing to be plugged in. The long-lasting battery is a significant advantage for students and professionals who require a reliable device for extended periods away from power outlets. The laptop's power-efficient Intel Celeron processor and HD display contribute to its impressive battery performance. While the exact battery life may vary depending on usage intensity and settings, the HP Stream 11 offers a compelling solution for users prioritizing portability and all-day productivity.

The laptop comes with a few additional features that enhance the user experience. The laptop includes a one-year subscription to Office 365, providing access to popular productivity tools like Word, Excel, and PowerPoint. The Windows 10 Home in S Mode operating system offers a streamlined and secure computing experience, though users can switch out of S Mode for more flexibility. The front-facing VGA webcam and integrated digital microphone enable video conferencing and online collaboration. The dual speakers with HP custom tuning provide decent audio quality for a laptop of this size. However, the lack of advanced security features like a fingerprint reader or facial recognition may be a drawback for some users.