HP Laptop 15z EF100: At First Glance
HP (Hewlett Packard) is a popular multinational computer brand that has been around for a very long time – it was founded in 1939. Furthermore, the brand is known for manufacturing customer-oriented PCs and laptops with adequate performances at fair prices.
Hence, in order to continue with what they know how to do best, the brand released the HP Laptop 15z EF100 in 2021. This HP laptop is an AMD-powered laptop that offers decent performance at a reasonable price.
Speaking of price, the HP Laptop 15z EF100 had a starting price of $549 as of May 2022, when I published this review article. Having said a few things about this HP laptop, I know you are curious to know more.
Well, why not read the subsequent sections below to find out?
HP Laptop 15z EF100: Design, Display, Ports, and Connectivity
The HP Laptop 15z EF100 may be a laptop below a thousand dollars, but it sure looks and feels otherwise. As a matter of fact, this laptop should be able to grab your attention at first sight.
Going into detail, the entire body of the laptop is made of plastic with a silver color. Impressively, this laptop is also available in other colors such as pale rose gold and black.
Besides, despite being made of plastic, the laptop’s body is very sturdy and feels solid. In actual fact, the HP Laptop 15z-ef100 should be able to withstand rough handling and hard knocks.
That aside, the lid of the laptop features an HP logo at the center to add more elegance to its overall design. This logo has a reflective glossy surface that shines gracefully when exposed to direct light.
Focusing more on the lid, it is attached to the base of the HP Laptop 15z-ef100 by a bar hinge. This hinge prevents the lid from wobbling too much, and it is flexible enough for you to open the lid with one hand.
On opening the lid, you will notice the HP Laptop 15z-ef100’s 15.6-inch display. Extremely slim bezels surround this display, with the bottom bezel housing a silver “HP” logo at the center.
Meanwhile, there’s an HP TrueVision HD webcam with an integrated dual-array digital microphone at the center of the top bezel. Unfortunately, this webcam generates blurry and grainy pictures.
Hence, it is not ideal for taking selfies or groupies. Regardless, the webcam offers decent performance for casual video calls via Skype, Zoom, and so on.
Going back to the display, HP offers two resolution options for this laptop’s display. These resolution options are HD (1366 x 768 pixels) and FHD (1920 x 1080 pixels).
With either resolution option, the HP Laptop 15z-ef100’s display should deliver decent picture quality for video streaming and other computing tasks. However, with the FHD resolution option, the display’s picture quality should be far better as it features a higher number of pixels.
Moreover, with this resolution option, the display features a maximum brightness of 250 nits. With the HD resolution option, however, the display offers a maximum brightness of 220 nits.
Hence, the FHD display should be a better option for working outdoors or in bright areas than the HD display. Besides, the FHD display option comes with an IPS panel that allows it to deliver wide viewing angles.
Thus, you can watch the display off-center or from the sides without losing picture quality or colors looking washed out. Although the laptop’s HD display option lacks an IPS panel, it features an SVA panel that makes images appear more colorful and brighter.
Interestingly, the HP Laptop 15z EF100 offers optional touchscreen functionality for its display. However, you must be willing to pay more for the touchscreen display than the non-touchscreen display.
Moving on, the HP Laptop 15z EF100 features an island-style keyboard on its deck. This keyboard offers a full numeric keypad and two-stage backlit functionality.
Due to this backlit feature, typing in dark areas should be problem-free. However, the HP Laptop 15z EF100’s keyboard has a short key travel of 1.25 mm, making typing a bit inconvenient.
Nevertheless, the keyboard offers an overall decent typing experience. In case you’re wondering, key travel is the distance between a key at a resting point and full depression.
That said, you will see a touchpad below the HP Laptop 15z EF100’s keyboard. This touchpad comes with integrated click buttons that are clicky and register inputs accurately.
Also, the touchpad features a smooth surface for seamless navigation and cursor control. That’s not all; the touchpad also supports multi-touch gestures like pinch-to-zoom.
Having said all that, let us move to the sides of the laptop, where the ports are located. To start with, the HP Laptop 15z EF100 offers a good number of ports that I believe would satisfy most users’ connectivity needs.
Specifically, on the left side, there is an HDMI port, a USB 3.0 port, an auxiliary audio jack, and a micro SD card reader. Meanwhile, on the right side, you have a charging port and two USB 2.0 ports.
Unfortunately, the laptop lacks a Thunderbolt port, and it doesn’t have an Ethernet port for wired internet connectivity. Nevertheless, for wireless internet connectivity, the HP Laptop 15z EF100 offers Realtek 802.11b/g/n/ac (1 x 1) or Realtek Wi-Fi 5 (2 x 2).
Moreover, for transferring files wirelessly, the laptop features Bluetooth 4.2 / 5.0.
As the last focal point in this section of the HP Laptop 15z EF100 review, we’ll now consider the laptop’s dimensions and weight. In the aspect of dimension, this laptop measures 358.4 x 242.1 x 18 mm (W x D x H).
When it comes to weight, weighing just 1700.9 g, the HP Laptop 15z EF100 isn’t too heavy for a 15-inch laptop. As a matter of fact, compared to most of its 15-inch competitors, this laptop weighs significantly less.
For example, the Lenovo ThinkPad P50s weighs 2200 g. Also, the Dell Latitude 5590 weighs 1880 g.
In conclusion, despite not being too expensive, the HP Laptop 15z EF100 offers an attractive design with multiple color options. Also, this laptop offers two resolution options with an optional touchscreen feature.
All things considered, it will be fair to rate the HP Laptop 15z EF100 an eight out of ten in this design review section.
HP Laptop 15z EF100: Processor (CPU) Performance
The HP Laptop 15z EF100 offers two processor options – an AMD Athlon Gold processor and an AMD Ryzen 3 3250U processor. The former has a base frequency of 2.40 GHz and a boost frequency of 3.30 GHz.
Meanwhile, the latter has a base frequency of 2.60 GHz and a boost frequency of 3.50 GHz. However, both processors are dual-core processors, meaning they feature two cores each.
Also, they both have a cache memory of 4 MB each. Performance-wise, both processor options are entry-level low-end processors.
Hence, with either processor option, don’t expect the HP Laptop 15z EF100 to handle intensive operations like video editing or heavy multitasking. Nevertheless, the laptop should be able to effectively carry out basic productivity tasks like web browsing.
As a matter of fact, with either processor, the HP Laptop 15z EF100 will be able to perform light multitasking and play low-end games. Having said that, it is worth mentioning that this review focuses on the HP Laptop 15z EF100 with the AMD Athlon Gold processor.
Hence, in order to further verify the processing performance of this laptop, let us discuss its result on a Cinebench R20 benchmark test. In brief, the Cinebench R20 test is a benchmark test that reveals the strength of a computer’s processor by putting its cores through extreme workloads.
Thus, this benchmark test is divided into two separate tests – the single-core and multi-core performance tests. While the single-core test shows the CPU’s performance when one of its cores is in use, the multi-core test does the opposite.
To be more specific, the Cinebench R20 multi-core test evaluates the processor’s performance when all of its cores are in use. That aside, you need to note that a high score on these tests indicates good processor performance.
In other words, the higher the score, the better the processor’s performance. So, according to the test results, the HP Laptop 15z EF100’s AMD Athlon Gold processor recorded 303 points on the single-core test.
Meanwhile, on the multi-core test, it recorded 795 points. In comparison, this laptop’s processor has a better performance than the HP Stream 13’s Intel Celeron N2830 processor.
Specifically, the HP Stream 13‘s Intel Celeron N2830 processor delivered a single-core test score of 41 points. Also, it delivered a Cinebench R20 multi-core test score of 76 points.
All in all, I will rate the HP Laptop 15z EF100 an eight out of ten in this processor review section. This rating is based on the fact that the laptop offers two processor options and beats its competitor on the benchmark test.
HP Laptop 15z EF100: Memory (RAM) Performance
In terms of memory, the HP Laptop 15z EF100 offers a memory type of DDR4 2400 or 2666 MHz SDRAM. Whichever memory type you chose, the laptop features a standard memory of 8 GB.
Impressively, the laptop also comes with two memory slots and supports a maximum memory of 16 GB. Due to this, you should be able to upgrade the laptop’s standard memory to up to 16 GB RAM.
Having said that, it is crucial to mention that this review is based on the HP Laptop 15z EF100 with 8 GB 2666 MHz SDRAM. With this memory size, you should be able to multitask decently.
Speaking of multitasking, this HP laptop will be able to conveniently run 10 Chrome tabs simultaneously without lagging. Moreover, you can also stream two YouTube videos on the laptop while these Chrome tabs are running.
At this point, let’s consider the laptop’s results in a PCMark 8 benchmark test to further verify its memory performance. For your information, the PCMark 8 is used to estimate the overall performance of a computer’s RAM by simulating day-to-day computing tasks like word processing.
Also, a high score on this test implies good memory performance. So, at the end of the test, the HP Laptop 15z EF100 delivered a score of 5011 points.
In comparison, this HP laptop has a better performance than the Dell Latitude E7270, which recorded a score of 5590 points.
Hence, I believe the HP Laptop 15z EF100 deserves a rating of eight out of ten in this memory review section.
HP Laptop 15z EF100: Storage Options and Performance
The HP Laptop 15z EF100 offers a PCIe NVMe M.2 SSD and supports a maximum storage capacity of 1 TB. In my opinion, this amount of maximum storage capacity should be enough for most users.
However, if you think otherwise, the laptop offers a microSD card reader for storage expansion. Besides, because the laptop uses SSD, it should offer fast boot time and rapid storage operations.
To prove this, I’ll highlight the HP Laptop 15z EF100’s result on the CrystalDiskMark test. In case you are curious, CrystalDiskMark is a benchmark test that measures the read and write speed of a computer’s storage drive.
For better understanding, read and write speed simply mean how fast a storage drive can open and save files, respectively. Moreover, a high “MB/s” value on the CrystalDiskMark test indicates a fast read and write speed.
Hence, based on the test result, the HP Laptop 15z EF100 delivered a sequential read speed of 1431.55 MB/s. Also, it recorded a sequential write speed of 1040.07 MB/s.
Although this laptop’s read and write speeds are significantly fast, they are slow compared to that of the Lenovo ThinkPad T580. Specifically, the Lenovo ThinkPad T580, which features PCle SSD, has a read speed of 1453.55 MB/s.
Also, it has a write speed of 1324.07 MB/s.
Nonetheless, I will rate the HP Laptop 15z EF100 an eight out of ten in this storage review section.
HP Laptop 15z EF100: Graphics Card Performance
Coming to the GPU, the graphics card responsible for graphics-related tasks on the HP Laptop 15z EF100 is an AMD Radeon Graphics. This graphics card is an integrated graphics card that has a standard frequency of 1200 MHz.
However, because this graphics card is an integrated type, it is embedded into the laptop’s processor. Hence, it lacks a dedicated VRAM and depends on the system memory to carry out graphics-related tasks.
Due to this, the HP Laptop 15z EF100 won’t be able to perform graphics-demanding tasks or play high-end games. However, it should be able to effectively play casual and low-end games such as Asphalt 8.
For more insight into the laptop’s graphics performance, let us consider its result on a 3DMark test. In short, 3DMark is a benchmark test for checking the 3D graphics rendering performance of a computer.
In addition to that, a high score on this test depicts a good graphics performance. Thus, based on the test result, the HP Laptop 15z EF100 scored 1011 points.
Meanwhile, the Samsung Galaxy Book Ion scored 1674 points, and it has an Intel UHD Graphics. Hence, this Samsung laptop has a better 3D graphics rendering performance than the HP Laptop 15z EF100.
To wrap up this graphics card review section, I will rate the HP Laptop 15z EF100 a six out of ten.
HP Laptop 15z EF100: Battery Life and Performance
The HP Laptop 15z EF100 comes with a 3-cell 41 Wh Lithium-ion prismatic battery. Although HP didn’t mention how long this laptop can last, it did say the laptop comes with fast-charge technology.
Thanks to this technology, it takes the laptop only 45 minutes to charge up to 50%. Hence, in about 1 hour and 30 minutes, the laptop should be able to charge from 0% to 100%.
Having said that, let us discuss the laptop’s result on a battery rundown test to know its battery life. By the way, this battery rundown test involves continuously surfing the internet via a Wi-Fi network until the laptop runs out of battery.
At the end of this test, the HP Laptop 15z EF100 delivered a battery life of 5 hours and 30 minutes. Although this battery life isn’t particularly good, it is longer than that of its competitors.
For example, the HP Stream 13.3, which uses a 3-cell 37 Whr Li-ion battery, delivered a battery life of 5 hours and 5 minutes.
In conclusion, even though the HP Laptop 15z EF100’s battery life can’t last a full day, it is pretty decent. Besides, the laptop has a longer battery life compared to some of its closest rivals.
Thus, I will rate the HP Laptop 15z EF100 a seven out of ten in this battery life and performance review section.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, the HP Laptop 15z EF100 offers a 15.6-inch touchscreen display. However, it is an optional feature.
Yes, the HP Laptop 15z EF100 offers standard memory of 8 GB and can be upgraded to up to 16 GB RAM. This is due to the fact that the laptop comes with two memory slots and supports a maximum memory of 16 GB.
Yes, it does. According to HP, the HP Laptop 15z EF100 comes with fast-charge technology that allows it to charge up to 50% in just 45 minutes.
The HP Laptop 15z EF100 had a starting price of $549 in May 2022, when this article was published.
The HP Laptop 15z EF100 was released in 2021.
Conclusion
The HP Laptop 15z EF100 is a well-priced laptop that offers a solid plastic build and can handle rough handling. Also, this laptop is quite attractive and offers multiple color options.
Additionally, the laptop features a 15.6-inch display with two resolution options and optional touchscreen functionality. That’s not all, the HP Laptop 15z EF100 features a fast SSD and offers sufficient storage space.
However, due to its low-end processor, this laptop cannot handle intensive tasks like video editing and heavy multitasking. Also, the laptop features an integrated graphics card that can only play casual games.
Nevertheless, if you need a laptop for basic computing tasks or office-related workloads, the HP Laptop 15z EF100 is worth considering.
I hope you found this HP Laptop 15z EF100 review helpful. If you found the review helpful, click on “Yes” beside the “Was this page helpful” question below.
You may also express your thoughts and opinions by using the “Leave a Comment” form at the bottom of this page.
Finally, for more laptop reviews, visit our Laptop Reviews page. You may also find our Laptop Specs page very helpful.
