Pros
- Large 17-inch screen
- Dual-Core 11th-Gen Core i3 processor
- Up to 8 hours of battery life
- Windows 11 Home preinstalled
Cons
- 256 GB storage instead of 512 GB
- There isn't a USB-C port
When it comes to balanced laptops for everyday and professional users, HP comes to our mind thanks to its trustworthy and affordable devices, whether you're looking for a 13'', 15'' or even a 17-inch model that meets your day-to-day needs.
In that sense, the HP 17-by4025nr packed with an 11th-Gen Core i3 processor, generous SSD storage, ample connectivity suite, and large battery life may be the right choice for those needing a laptop with a big screen in order to get things done on time without distractions.
With that said, in this review of the HP 17-by4025nr we will uncover everything you need to know to be able to make an informed decision on this 17-inch notebook.
Warning: this laptop is not for gaming but for the casual user and students looking for a budget-friendly laptop to do general and non-demanding tasks such as surfing the web, streaming video, chatting with friends, and working on cloud-based software.
Table of contents
Tech Specs of HP 17-by4025nr
| Brand/Model | HP 17-by4025nr |
| Dimensions | 16.33 x 10.72 x 0.96 inches |
| Weight | 5.25 pounds |
| Display | Anti-glare | 17.3'' | 220 nits |
| Resolution | HD+ (1600 x 900 pixels) |
| Processor | 11th-Gen Dual-Core Intel Core i3-1115G4 |
| RAM | 4 GB (DDR4) |
| Integrated GPU | Intel UHD Graphics |
| Storage | 256 GB (SSD) |
| Battery | 41 Wh (Li-Ion) | Up to 8 hours |
| Operating System | Windows 11 Home |
| Connectivity | WiFi 5 Bluetooth 4.2 1x RJ-45 1x USB-A 2.0 2x USB-A 3.2 1x HDMI 1.4b 1x Audio jack (3.5 mm) 1x SD card reader HD Webcam |
Design, Display, and Keyboard
At first sight, the HP 17-by4025nr sports an elegant and minimalist appearance, featuring a silver plastic chassis and black not-so-thin bezels. And although it's a large 17-inch model, we like the fact that it is relatively portable, measuring just 0.96 inches.
As expected for an HP laptop of this lineup, this model comes with an HD+ 17.3-inch display which is not a touch screen, offering an acceptable definition, with a decent color gamut and brightness (220 nits), as some users can attest to. Also, its anti-glare layer could be helpful while working in lighted environments, reducing reflections.
On the other hand, its non-backlit keyboard provides a comfortable feel and key travel when typing. It also features a separate number pad on the right and a convenient multi-gesture touchpad with two physical buttons.
The 17-by4025nr is powered by an 11th-Gen Intel processor (Core i3-1115G4), which has two cores, four threads, and a 6 MB of L3 SmartCache memory. Its burst frequency can go up to 4.1 GHz with Intel Turbo Boost Technology while you're handling your daily productivity tasks. It's not a powerhouse processor by any means, but it's a solid CPU for the average user.
As for the RAM, it packs just 4 GB in one DDR4 slot delivering a good performance on basic multitasking (web surfing, spreadsheet editing, social media, and video calling, amongst other tasks.).
Having said that, if you're looking for better performance at a low price point that keeps the 17-inch format, you can consider the HP 17-cn0021nr already reviewed, which packs an 11th-Gen Quad-Core Intel Core i5 processor and 8 GB of RAM for more intensive users.
Integrated into the processor, the Intel UHD Graphics GPU is primarily suited for basic multimedia tasks such as 4K streaming -through an external monitor via HDMI output- amateur photo/video editing, and low-graphically-intensive games. AKA, you won't be playing any AAA games on this bad boy.
In terms of storage, this model comes with a 256 GB SSD drive, which assures you a fast workflow thanks to its faster loading speed and quicker booting times compared to the old HDD drives. And if needed, you can upgrade it or use the SD card reader to expand the storage quickly and affordably.
Connectivity and Extras
Another reason for buying the HP 17-by4025nr could be due to its good selection of ports and connections.
Specifically, it has an Ethernet port (RJ-45), three USB Type-A ports (two of them gen 3.2), an HDMI 1.4b output, the aforementioned SD card reader, and a headphone jack. There's also an HD webcam.
Obviously, it comes with Bluetooth 4.2 and WiFi 5 technologies, but if you want a more up-to-date WiFi connection, you can look at the recently reviewed HP 17-cn0025nr equipped with Bluetooth 5.0 and WiFi 6, which offers up to 250% faster download speeds, and a USB-C port as well.
And if you're still confused about the new WiFi standard names, it's important to mention that WiFi 5 was previously known as 802.11b/g/n/ac, and WiFi 6 corresponds to the 802.11 b/g/n/ac/ax protocol. They changed up the names a few years back and switched to a number-based name which is really what they should've done in the first place.
Battery Life
When it comes to the battery life of the HP 17-by4025nr, its manufacturer claims to last up to 8 hours of mixed usage, which usually means that, in real terms, 5-6 hours could be a more realistic scenario in that case, according to our experience and many user's opinions.
When looking at battery claims for laptops, you should always consider that they use pretty unrealistic tests to make such statements, such as testing the computer with a 50% brightness and no WiFi connection. Ergo, it's always in your best interest to assume that battery life is anywhere between 25-30% lower than the company claims.
Having said that, another feature we quite like about this model is that it features HP's fast charging technology, being able to charge the battery from 0 to 50% in just 45 minutes. That's pretty useful if you're in a rush and need a quick charge.
Verdict: Should you buy the HP 17-by4025nr?
The HP 17-by4025nr reviewed today is an excellent choice for you to replace your old computer, especially if you don't want to spend a lot of money just for doing everyday tasks at home or in the workplace, and you aren't a hardcore user or professional gamer.
Besides its HD+ display instead of a Full HD one, and the absence of a USB-C port, its balanced hardware, comfortable keyboard, fast SSD storage, and brand-new Windows 11 software allow you to efficiently finish your day-to-day tasks without any hesitation.
It's a great option if you know what you're buying.
You will be sorely disappointed if you're buying this laptop expecting a MacBook Air performance. However, if you are looking to buy this laptop for casual users, students, or elderly citizens who aren't planning to work on RAM or GPU-intensive software but rather stream video, and browse the web, edit documents, and so forth, then it's a great budget-friendly option.