HP Envy x360 15: Broken hinge which is common is a paid problem for the customer

[ltvd07]

After just 2.5 years of light use, the hinge on my HP Envy 15 broke. When I reached out to HP for support, I was informed that the only option was a chargeable repair service. This response was disheartening, especially considering the widespread nature of this issue among HP consumer PCs, including those in the mid-tier line marketed for personal use and small businesses.

The problem with HP laptop hinges is not isolated as is well documented on this forum and elsewhere. Many users have reported similar issues, with hinges breaking after a relatively short period of normal use. This has led to HP being colloquially referred to as “Hinge Problem” on the internet. It’s frustrating to see a company that once had a stellar reputation fail to stand by its products.

I paid the full retail price of around $1,000 for my HP Envy 15, which makes this issue even more upsetting. There are numerous other products available at a similar price point that offer better service records and do not suffer from the same hinge issues. It’s disappointing that HP has not addressed this design flaw more effectively, leaving many customers with broken laptops and costly repair options.

I also had numerous recalls for the battery of this laptop, which got replaced multiple times, with no effect. After the warranty expired they offered to replace the battery as a paid repair option, even though I've had it replace multiple times under warranty. This behaviour is unacceptable. Now with the broken hinge the laptop is basically an expensive metal slab, with HP only wanting to repair it if I pay for the repairs, even though the laptop has been normally used.

While other PC makers also face similar issues, the prevalence of hinge problems in HP laptops is particularly concerning. It’s time for HP to acknowledge this widespread defect across many of their product lines and offer better support to their customers. Until then, I would advise potential buyers to consider other brands with a more reliable track record and perhaps opt for a business line.