HP early Monday launched three pro notebook, each of which claimed a first. The 12.1-inch EliteBook 2760p is its first real EliteBook tablet and brings the swivelling screen to the same US military-grade metal chassis as its predecessors. Performance also meets the label’s expectations with 2011 Core i5 and i7 processors as well as an optional HSPA+ 3G modem.
The screen can support both finger touch as well as a pen for handwriting. Storage ranges from a 250GB, 7,200RPM hard drive to a 160GB SSD. An outdoor-friendly display and a DisplayPort-based docking station with an optional DVD burner make it useful alternately out in the field and as a desktop replacement.
EliteBook 2760p models will be available immediately and should start off at $1,499.
A close cousin, the EliteBook 2560p, uses a conventional 12.5-inch display but makes it the smallest and lightest model in the line at 3.7 pounds. Even at the size, it still has a built-in DVD burner and can afford a current-generation Core i5 or i7. Its storage is also very aggressive at between 250GB to 750GB for a rotating drive along with SSDs up to 160GB. The metal chassis and optional HSPA+ cross over.
The 2560p should be ready for May 23 and start from $1,099 along with a $149 docking station that packs four USB ports, DisplayPort, eSATA, and VGA.
Just one mid-tier notebook is coming but will have its own uncharacteristic twist. The ProBook 5330m is the only HP business notebook with Beats audio decoding to improve its sound quality and acknowledges that some buyers want the system at home. Its aluminum case isn’t as tough as on the EliteBooks but keeps the 13.3-inch system light at 3.9 pounds, albeit without the DVD burner.
Processor picks, the HSPA+ modem and other options are intact on the 5330m, which should cost a much lower $799 and will be ready today.
Elitebook 2760p
Elitebook 2560p
Probook 5330m
