Have you managed to get hold of a cheaper product with equivalent specifications, in stock and brand new? Let us know and we'll tip our hat to you.
The Core i7 processor is no longer the top dog in Intel's CPU family but it remains a formidable component, even if the Core i5 models have been upgraded to quad-core status. Even compared to the i9, it packs a powerful punch, as it shares plenty of higher end features with its more expensive brethren.
Lately, we've seen an anecdotal downwards movement in price, across all laptop brands, caused by the current global situation, disruptions in the supply chain and the overnight closures of physical stores that is driving more people away from brick and mortar to online retailers.
The most affordable laptop that carries an Intel Core i7 processor right now is the HP Laptop 15T (7fq32av) and it's a great choice for those that are currently remote working. Other than the fact HP should have chosen a more memorable name, there’s not much to dislike about it.
At the heart of this laptop is an Intel Core i7-10510U CPU and, at $520 direct from HP, it costs less than most Core i5 devices we've seen but will likely deliver a far smoother computing experience.
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The Laptop 15T is equipped with 8GB of DDR4 memory (upgradable) and a 128GB M.2 SATA SSD. Bluetooth 4.2 and 802.11ac connectivity are supplied by Realtek, while the operating system is Windows 10 Home.
There are two microphones to enhance calls and video conferencing (thanks to advanced noise reduction software), plus a card reader, a GbE port, three USB ports, an HDMI connector and an HD video camera.
Note, despite the machine's entry level status, it comes with HP’s fast charge, which allows its 41WHr battery to reach 50% charge in 45 minutes.
The screen remains its weak point; it's HD only rather than full HD, and uses SVA technology rather than the superior IPS. On a 15.6-inch display, that is likely to be a sub-optimal experience.
At 3.84 pounds, it is not the lightest laptop around and its natural silver finish is unlikely to turn heads.
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