After spending several weeks thoroughly testing the HP 470 G7, I have developed a clear perspective on its overall strengths and areas that could benefit from some improvement. In this comprehensive review, I share my firsthand experience with the laptop, offering insight and analysis that can assist any potential purchaser in making an informed decision. The HP 470 G7 presents itself as a well-equipped, affordable mid-range laptop that combines robust performance with a vibrant 17.3” Full HD IPS display and flexible configuration options.
HP 470 G7: Specs
| Specification | HP 470 G7 |
|---|---|
| Price | Starting at US $880 (May 2020); typical Core i7 + 8 GB RAM + 256 GB SSD configuration ~ US $1,579 |
| Display | 17.3″ Full HD (1920 × 1080) IPS (≈ 90 % sRGB, ~ 283 nits); optional 17.3″ HD+ (1600 × 900) TN |
| Storage | Up to 8 TB SSD (M.2 PCIe x2/SATA) + up to 2 TB HDD (2.5″ bay) |
| Battery Time | 41 Wh (3‑cell): video playback ~ 6 h 26 m; web browsing ~ 6 h 55 m |
| Dimensions | 414.8 × 272 × 24.5 mm (16.33″ × 10.71″ × 0.96″) |
| RAM | Up to 64 GB DDR4‑2666 MHz (2 × SODIMM slots); typical SKU ships with 8 GB DDR4‑2400 |
| GPU | Intel UHD Graphics 620 (integrated) or AMD Radeon 530 (2 GB GDDR5/DDR3) |
| CPU | Intel Core i3‑10110U / i5‑10210U / i7‑10510U (Comet Lake-U, 15 W) |
| NPU | None (no dedicated neural‑processing unit) |
| Weight | 2.36 kg (5.2 lbs) |
| Operating System | Windows 10 Pro, Windows 10 Home, or “No OS” (FreeDOS) preinstall |
HP 470 G7: Price and Configurations
After extensive use, I can confidently say that the price and configurations of the HP 470 G7 offer a flexible range suitable for different needs. The laptop is available in several configurations, ranging from a base model priced at approximately $880 up to more advanced setups reaching nearly $1579. In the configuration I tested, the machine was equipped with an Intel Core i7-10510U processor, paired with an AMD Radeon 530 graphics card that features 2GB GDDR5 memory. This unit also came with 8GB DDR4 RAM and a 256GB SSD as the primary storage.
What struck me about the pricing was the balance between affordability and the quality of components. Although this laptop is marketed as a mid-range option, the inclusion of a 17.3” Full HD IPS display and modern CPU and GPU options make it competitive against similarly priced models. For those looking for a system that can manage daily productivity tasks while also offering light multimedia and gaming capabilities, the HP 470 G7’s configurations represent a well-thought-out compromise between performance and cost.
HP 470 G7: Design
The design of the HP 470 G7 initially caught my eye due to its surprisingly functional aesthetics. Despite being constructed primarily from plastic, the overall design of the laptop is cleverly executed. The chassis manages to create an impression of robustness even though it lacks the premium feel found in higher-end metallic alternatives. Measuring 414.8 x 272 x 24.5 mm and weighing 2.36 kg, the laptop is quite manageable for a 17-inch model.
In my daily use, I found the wide bezel design to be both a blessing and a curse. On the one hand, the generous bezel allowed for a more spacious keyboard layout, which contributes to a comfortable typing experience during prolonged use. On the other hand, the overall appearance feels slightly dated compared to the more modern, sleek ultrabooks available today. However, what really matters to me is the practicality of the design rather than just the aesthetics.
HP 470 G7: Display
One of the standout features of the HP 470 G7 is its 17.3” Full HD IPS display, which truly elevates the overall user experience. The panel, identified as a BOE BOE077B, offers a resolution of 1920 x 1080 pixels, delivering sharp and vibrant visuals that are suitable for both productivity and entertainment purposes. From the moment I started using the device, I was impressed by its bright and clear display. The IPS technology ensures wide viewing angles and excellent color reproduction, making it ideal for tasks that require precise color accuracy—whether it’s professional work or enjoying multimedia content.
HP 470 G7: Ports
Connectivity is a crucial aspect of any laptop, and the HP 470 G7 does not disappoint in this area. Although the overall design is focused on practicality, it offers a variety of ports that cater to the needs of a typical professional. On the left side of the device, I found the majority of input/output options, including an RJ-45 Ethernet port, an HDMI 1.4 output, and multiple USB Type-A 3.1 Gen 1 ports that support fast data transfers. Additionally, there is an SD card reader that facilitates easy media transfer, which can be very beneficial for photographers and creative professionals alike.
HP 470 G7: Battery Life
Battery life is often the litmus test for any portable laptop, and my experience with the HP 470 G7 revealed a performance that is, while not groundbreaking, certainly acceptable for everyday use. Equipped with a 41Wh, 3-cell battery, the HP 470 G7 managed to offer a runtime of approximately 6 to 7 hours under moderate usage scenarios, including web browsing and video playback. In one of the test conditions, the laptop provided about 6 hours and 26 minutes of continuous video playback, while another session during web browsing extended close to 6 hours and 55 minutes.
HP 470 G7: Keyboard and Touchpad
A comfortable typing experience is essential for any laptop intended for extended use, and the HP 470 G7 does not disappoint in this regard. The keyboard on this machine offers a full-size layout with a numeric keypad, which is especially beneficial for tasks that involve data entry and extensive typing. I found the key travel and tactile feedback to be highly satisfying, making it a pleasure to compose long emails, reports, and documents. Although the backlighting is optional in some configurations and might be missing in the base model, the overall ergonomics of the keyboard are designed to support long typing sessions without fatigue.
HP 470 G7: Performance and Heat
The overall performance of the HP 470 G7 is one of the areas where I noticed significant strengths. Powered by an Intel Core i7-10510U, the laptop is engineered to handle a variety of tasks with efficiency. Whether running multiple applications simultaneously, browsing complex web pages, or engaging in light multimedia tasks, I observed that the system remained responsive and smooth throughout my sessions. The presence of 8GB DDR4 RAM and a 256GB SSD further bolsters the performance, resulting in fast boot times and quick application launches that enhance overall productivity.
I observed that during tasks such as video rendering or multitasking across several demanding applications, the cooling system maintained stability. The integration of a dedicated cooling solution ensured that the high-performance components were well-protected, preserving both efficiency and longevity. This balance between raw performance and effective heat dissipation is one of the defining characteristics of the HP 470 G7, providing users with a reliable tool for both work and entertainment.
HP 470 G7: Gaming and Graphics
While the HP 470 G7 is not marketed as a high-end gaming machine, it nevertheless offers respectable performance when it comes to casual gaming and multimedia tasks. The device comes with two primary graphics options: the integrated Intel UHD Graphics and an optional AMD Radeon 530 with 2GB GDDR5 memory. The configuration I used featured the Radeon 530, and it proved to be capable enough for light gaming scenarios, as well as handling video playback and creative tasks with relative ease.
In practice, I was able to enjoy several popular titles on low to medium settings without encountering major performance issues. The laptop’s graphics performance is best suited for casual gaming and non-intensive multimedia applications. For instance, games like DOTA 2 and other similar titles could run smoothly at reduced settings, which is a commendable performance given the laptop’s energy-efficient design. However, those seeking the latest AAA gaming experiences might find this system underpowered.
HP 470 G7: Webcam
The built-in webcam on the HP 470 G7 is a standard HD camera designed primarily for video conferencing and virtual meetings. In an era where digital communication has become indispensable, I was pleased with the quality of the webcam, which provided clear and reasonably well-lit images during video calls. Although it does not offer advanced features such as 4K resolution or specialized low-light performance, it performs admirably in typical indoor settings.
HP 470 G7: Audio
Sound quality is another area where the HP 470 G7 managed to strike a reasonable balance between clarity and performance. The built-in speakers deliver clear audio that is more than adequate for video conferencing, media consumption, and casual music listening. From my experience, the audio output was balanced with good clarity across low, mid, and high frequencies, making for an enjoyable auditory experience during both work and leisure.
HP 470 G7: Software and Warranty
Another crucial component of my experience with the HP 470 G7 is the software environment and the accompanying warranty. The laptop comes pre-installed with Windows 10 Pro, which offers a familiar and robust operating system that caters to both professional needs and general usage. The version of Windows included was well-optimized for performance, featuring a streamlined interface with minimal bloatware. This allowed me to focus on my tasks without unnecessary distractions or frequent updates interrupting my workflow.
Regarding the warranty, HP provides a standard coverage package that instills confidence in the product’s durability. During my time with the device, knowing that there was dependable customer support and a clear warranty policy in place added an extra layer of assurance, particularly for professional users who depend on the reliability of their equipment. While the warranty terms are standard and comparable to those of other mid-range laptops, they nonetheless provide sufficient protection, ensuring that any potential hardware issues can be addressed promptly by the manufacturer.
Conclusion
In conclusion, my experience with the HP 470 G7 has been largely positive. It has proven itself as a versatile, well-rounded laptop that delivers a consistent performance benchmark across different tasks. Its innovative design, robust internal architecture, and thoughtful configuration options position it as a competitive option in its class. If you are looking for a laptop that combines practical functionality with an appealing display and balanced performance, the HP 470 G7 is a device that I would readily recommend for both everyday use and professional applications.
