The Elite x2 is a Windows 10 tablet that comes with a detachable backlit keyboard, and also includes a Wacom pen and digitizer, as well as integrated 4G LTE support. Verizon is pitching the device directly at business customers, rather than consumers, promising "enterprise-class power" and describing it as focused on "security, connectivity, long battery life and on-the-go productivity".
Its key specs include:
11.6-inch LED-backlit IPS LCD with Full HD (1920x1080px) resolution and Corning Gorilla Glass 3
Intel Core m3-6Y30 processor
4GB RAM
128GB SSD (plus microSD card support up to 200GB)
5MP rear-facing camera with 1080p video recording
2MP front-facing camera with 1080p video recording
4G LTE (bands 4/5/13)
Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac (2x2)
Bluetooth 4.2
1 x USB 3.1 Type C with Thunderbolt support
1 x USB 3.0 Type A
Bang & Olufsen dual stereo speakers and dual microphone array
40Whr Li-ion polymer battery
Windows 10 Pro
The Elite x2 tablet has also passed MIL-STD-810G testing, which Verizon says means "you don"t need to worry about drops or spills". However, it also notes that "damage under the MIL STD test conditions or any accidental damage requires an optional HP Accidental Damage Protection Care Pack."
That might sound like a lot of money, but it appears pretty competitive when compared to Microsoft"s entry-level Surface Pro 4. Indeed, the Elite x2 has a lot in common with that device, from the detachable keyboard and retractable kickstand, to the stylus and overall size. But the Elite x2 might just have the upper hand over its Microsoft rival, on paper at least.
The most affordable Surface Pro 4 with Core m3 processor, 4GB RAM and 128GB SSD is priced at $899 - but while the Microsoft tablet also comes with a pen, you"ll have to pay an additional $129.99 if you want a Type Cover keyboard. The Pro 4 doesn"t have the Elite x2"s MIL-STD-810G rating either, nor does it offer any option for 4G LTE connectivity, although it does have a higher-resolution display than the HP tablet.
