Is the HP 15.6" Pavilion Touch Laptop Core i7-1355U Worth It in 2026?
Quick Verdict:
Maybe—its strong specs appeal to productivity users, but limitations affect overall value.
Is HP 15.6" Pavilion Touch Laptop Core i7-1355U worth it? Is the HP 15.6" Pavilion Touch Laptop Core i7-1355U worth it in 2026? For those seeking a reliable productivity-focused machine, this laptop offers solid performance. With a capable Intel Core i7-1355U processor and 16GB of RAM, it caters well to everyday tasks, including multitasking and light creative work. However, budget-conscious consumers should weigh its limitations against similar options available in the market. PageBen aims to provide clarity on whether this investment is justified. The combination of a 15.6" FHD IPS touchscreen display and modern connectivity features like Wi-Fi 6 makes it appealing for users who value usability and performance. Nonetheless, the absence of backlit keys and a modest battery capacity could hinder its functionality for users who often work in dimly lit environments or require extended battery life. This analysis will help you determine if the HP Pavilion's price aligns with what you get in return.
💰 Is the Price Justified?
The HP Pavilion comes equipped with an Intel Core i7-1355U, which is a strong performer in mid-range laptops. This processor has 10 cores and can boost up to 5.0 GHz, making it suitable for demanding applications while maintaining efficiency for lighter tasks. The 16GB RAM ensures smooth multitasking, which is a significant advantage against competitors that may offer only 8GB at a similar price point. In terms of performance per dollar, this laptop positions itself well compared to others in its class.
The 512GB PCIe NVMe SSD provides fast storage, enhancing overall system responsiveness and boot times. When compared to standard HDDs or slower SATA SSDs found in some competitors, this solid-state drive presents a clear advantage. Users looking for quick access to files and applications will appreciate this feature, adding value to the overall investment.
Another highlight is the 300-nit display brightness, which is above the typical standard of 250 nits in this category. This brightness makes the laptop more usable in various lighting conditions, a key factor for productivity-focused users who may work in different environments. However, the 45% NTSC color gamut might not satisfy users looking for high-fidelity color reproduction for tasks like photo editing, which could diminish its value for creative professionals.
While the lightweight design at 3.52 lbs enhances portability, the 41 Wh battery capacity is a limitation. This smaller battery may not support extended use away from power outlets, which is a drawback for users who prioritize mobility. When assessing the price-to-performance ratio, it's crucial to consider how battery life impacts day-to-day usability, especially for students and professionals on the go.
Overall, the HP Pavilion offers a compelling mix of specifications and features for the price. However, potential buyers should compare it with alternatives that may offer more robust battery life or additional features like dedicated GPUs to ensure they get the best value for their investment.
✓ 3 Reasons to Buy
1. Strong Performance with Upgradability
The HP Pavilion's Intel Core i7-1355U processor paired with 16GB of RAM provides a robust performance for everyday tasks and multitasking. Users can handle everything from office applications to light photo editing without lag. Additionally, the upgradeable RAM allows for future-proofing, enabling users to enhance their system as their demands grow. This feature is particularly appealing for students and professionals who may require more memory for intensive projects down the line.
Moreover, the 512GB PCIe NVMe SSD ensures fast boot-up times and quick access to files, enhancing overall productivity. While many competitors offer slower storage solutions, this SSD dramatically improves the user experience, making the laptop a worthwhile investment for those who value speed and efficiency.
2. Enhanced Connectivity and Usability
With Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth 5.3, the HP Pavilion ensures that users can connect to modern networks with high speeds and stable connections. This is increasingly important in our wireless-first world, as more devices rely on robust connectivity. The inclusion of a 720p HD webcam with a privacy shutter also adds a layer of security and usability for video calls, making it suitable for remote work or virtual meetings.
The 15.6-inch FHD IPS touchscreen further enhances user interaction, allowing for intuitive navigation and control. This feature is particularly beneficial for users who prefer touch interfaces, making the laptop a versatile tool for both work and entertainment.
3. Lightweight Design for Portability
Weighing in at just 3.52 lbs, the HP Pavilion is a lightweight option for a 15-inch laptop, making it easy to carry around for students and professionals alike. Its portability is complemented by a design that doesn't compromise on performance, allowing users to take their productivity on the go without feeling burdened by weight. This is especially significant for individuals who need to travel frequently or work in different locations.
The laptop's 300-nit display brightness also enhances usability in various environments, ensuring that users can work comfortably without straining their eyes. The combination of portability and usability makes the HP Pavilion an attractive option for those who prioritize flexibility in their work setup.
✗ Reasons to Skip It
Limited Battery Life
The 41 Wh battery is a significant limitation for users who require long-lasting performance without being tethered to a power outlet. This smaller battery capacity may not support extended work sessions, especially for those working in mobile environments like cafes or during commutes. Users seeking a laptop for all-day use might find this aspect frustrating, as it can lead to interruptions and reduced productivity.
For professionals or students who often attend classes or meetings without easy access to charging, this limitation could be a dealbreaker. Competing laptops with larger batteries may offer a better experience for this demographic, making it essential to consider how battery life impacts daily use.
Lack of Backlit Keyboard
The absence of a backlit keyboard can be a notable drawback for users who work in low-light environments. This feature is often standard in many mid-range laptops and provides a significant usability advantage during nighttime or dimly lit situations. For students or professionals who frequently find themselves working after hours, this limitation can hinder typing accuracy and comfort.
Additionally, the lack of advanced features like a dedicated GPU or high-end display technology may make the laptop less appealing for creative professionals who require a more robust setup for design work or content creation. Those users might find better value in alternatives that offer a more comprehensive set of features.
Technical Analysis
Key Specs at a Glance
The Intel Core i7-1355U processor is a notable feature, being a part of the Raptor Lake family with its 10 cores and impressive boost capability. This architecture provides excellent single-threaded performance, which is beneficial for both productivity tasks and casual content consumption. In 2026, this CPU remains competitive, but users should be aware of the advancements in newer architectures that may offer better performance or efficiency.
For graphics, the Intel Iris Xe Graphics integrated into this laptop is suitable for everyday tasks and light gaming. However, it lacks the oomph required for serious gaming or graphic-intensive applications. Users looking for robust graphic performance should consider dedicated GPUs which are becoming more common in laptops at similar price points.
With 16GB of DDR4 RAM, the laptop offers good multitasking capabilities, and the upgradeable RAM feature allows users to future-proof their investment. The ability to increase RAM up to 64GB is a strong selling point, especially for professionals who may require more memory as software demands increase. This flexibility can justify the initial investment as users can adapt their machine to future needs.
The 15.6-inch FHD IPS touchscreen provides decent viewing angles and color accuracy, but the 300-nit brightness is a standout spec. While this brightness is adequate for most environments, it falls short for outdoor use in direct sunlight. The touchscreen functionality adds value for users who prefer interactive displays, yet the 45% NTSC color gamut may not meet the needs of creatives who rely on precise color accuracy.
Battery life is a critical aspect, and the 41 Wh battery is on the lower side compared to competitors. Users might find themselves tethered to a power outlet more often than desired, especially during extended work sessions or when traveling. This limitation can significantly affect productivity for those who need to work without frequent charging intervals.
Compare with similar options:
Who Is This For?
The HP 15.6" Pavilion Touch Laptop is best suited for productivity-focused users who require a solid performance for everyday tasks and multitasking. With its Intel Core i7-1355U processor and 16GB of RAM, it caters well to students, professionals, and casual users who engage in office applications, web browsing, and light content creation. The lightweight design (3.52 lbs) and modern connectivity options like Wi-Fi 6 make it an appealing choice for those needing a portable solution.
However, this laptop may not be ideal for gamers or creative professionals who require advanced graphics capabilities or extensive battery life. The integrated Intel Iris Xe Graphics provides limited gaming performance, and the 41 Wh battery may not support long working hours without access to charging. Users in these categories should explore alternatives that offer more powerful graphics and better battery longevity to ensure they meet their specific needs.
Final Decision: Should You Buy It?
✓ Buy if:
- •You need a reliable laptop for everyday productivity and multitasking.
- •You value upgradability and plan to enhance your RAM in the future.
- •You often work in well-lit environments and don't require a backlit keyboard.
✗ Skip if:
- •You require long battery life for extended use without charging.
- •You need a laptop for gaming or graphic-intensive tasks.
In conclusion, the HP 15.6" Pavilion Touch Laptop Core i7-1355U presents a strong option for productivity-focused users looking for a solid balance of performance and features. However, its limitations in battery life and lacking certain features may affect its overall value. If you're considering this laptop, be sure to check current prices on PageBen to ensure you're making a wise investment.