The laptop does not differ from its predecessor on the outside; it comes with the same black and silver case. HP uses mostly plastic, only the upper side of the base unit is made of metal. The rubberized lid makes the device easier to grip, but it is also somewhat prone to fingerprints. HP did not put a maintenance hatch on the notebook. Removing the bottom shell gives you access to the hardware, but more on that later. The battery is permanently installed.

The device does not manifest any major manufacturing flaws. The base unit below the touchpad and in the area of the optical drive gives in slightly when placed under pressure. It can be twisted a bit as well. However, this is still within limits. Overall, the lid is too unstable for a notebook that costs more than 1,000 Euros (~$1062). The hinges hold the display firmly in position, but they teeter lightly.