The HP Pavilion dv6 series has long been a staple in the realm of mid-range laptops, offering a blend of performance, design, and affordability. In this detailed review, we’ll dive into the configurations available for the HP Pavilion dv6, explore its features, and weigh the pros and cons to help you decide if this is the right laptop for your needs.
Configurations
The HP Pavilion dv6 comes in various configurations to cater to different user needs, from casual browsing to more demanding tasks. Below is a list of typical configurations you might find for the HP Pavilion dv6:
Processor Options
- Intel Core i3-370M (2.4 GHz, 3 MB L3 cache)
- Intel Core i5-450M (2.4 GHz, Turbo Boost up to 2.66 GHz, 3 MB L3 cache)
- Intel Core i7-720QM (1.6 GHz, Turbo Boost up to 2.8 GHz, 6 MB L3 cache)
Graphics
- Integrated Intel HD Graphics
- ATI Mobility Radeon HD 5650 (1 GB DDR3 dedicated)
- NVIDIA GeForce GT 230M (1 GB DDR3 dedicated)
Memory
- 4 GB DDR3 RAM (expandable up to 8 GB)
- 6 GB DDR3 RAM
- 8 GB DDR3 RAM
Storage
- 500 GB 5400 RPM SATA
- 750 GB 7200 RPM SATA
- 1 TB 5400 RPM SATA
Also Read: A Comprehensive Review of the HP Pavilion 15 Laptop.
Display
- 15.6-inch diagonal HD BrightView LED display (1366 x 768)
- 15.6-inch diagonal Full HD HP Ultra BrightView LED display (1920 x 1080)
Optical Drive
- SuperMulti DVD Burner
- Blu-ray ROM with SuperMulti DVD±R/RW Double Layer
Operating System
- Windows 7 Home Premium (64-bit)
- Windows 7 Professional (64-bit)
Connectivity
- Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n
- Bluetooth
- HDMI port
- VGA port
- USB 2.0 ports (3)
- USB 3.0 port (1)
- Ethernet LAN (RJ-45)
- Multi-format digital media card reader
Battery
- 6-cell Lithium-Ion battery (up to 5 hours)
- 9-cell Lithium-Ion battery (up to 9 hours)
Also Read: HP 250 G5 Review, everything you need to know
Additional Features
- Altec Lansing speakers with Dolby Advanced Audio
- HP TrueVision HD Webcam with integrated digital microphone
- Full-size island-style keyboard with numeric keypad
- HP CoolSense technology
Pros of the HP Pavilion dv6
Performance
The HP Pavilion dv6 offers a range of powerful processors from the Intel Core i3 to the i7, making it suitable for various tasks from everyday computing to more intensive applications. The availability of discrete graphics options such as the ATI Mobility Radeon HD 5650 and NVIDIA GeForce GT 230M also enhances its capability for gaming and multimedia tasks.
Design
The Pavilion dv6 sports a sleek and stylish design, with a brushed metal finish that gives it a premium look. The build quality is robust, making it a durable option for everyday use.
Display
With options for both HD and Full HD displays, the dv6 provides crisp and vibrant visuals. The Full HD option is particularly appealing for those who consume a lot of media or do photo and video editing.
Audio Quality
The Altec Lansing speakers with Dolby Advanced Audio offer superior sound quality, which is a significant plus for media consumption and video calls.
Connectivity
The laptop is well-equipped with a variety of ports, including USB 3.0 for faster data transfer and HDMI for easy connectivity to external displays. The inclusion of both Wi-Fi and Bluetooth ensures versatile wireless connectivity.
Battery Life
The option for a 9-cell battery extends the usage time significantly, making it a good choice for those who need to work on the go without frequent charging.
Cons of the HP Pavilion dv6
Weight and Portability
At approximately 5.5 to 6 pounds, the DV6 is on the heavier side compared to ultrabooks and some other mid-range laptops. This makes it less ideal for users who need a highly portable device.
Heat and Noise
Under heavy loads, the laptop tends to get quite warm, and the fan can become noticeably loud. While the HP CoolSense technology helps to manage heat, it may not be sufficient for extended gaming or intensive processing tasks.
Battery Life
While the 9-cell battery offers extended usage, the standard 6-cell battery’s life is relatively modest at around 5 hours, which may not be adequate for all-day use without access to a power outlet.
Bloatware
As with many HP laptops, the Pavilion dv6 comes pre-installed with a significant amount of bloatware. These unnecessary programs can take up storage space and potentially slow down the system, requiring users to spend time uninstalling them.
Conclusion
The HP Pavilion dv6 is a versatile and powerful mid-range laptop that offers excellent performance, especially with higher-end configurations. It shines in areas like design, display quality, and audio performance. However, its weight and potential for heat buildup under heavy use are considerations to keep in mind.
For those looking for a robust laptop that balances performance with affordability, the HP Pavilion dv6 is a solid choice. Whether you’re a student, a professional, or a casual gamer, the dv6’s range of configurations means you can find a model that meets your specific needs. Just be prepared to manage the pre-installed bloatware and consider investing in the extended battery for better mobility.
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