HP ProBook 6560b 15.6-inch Review

The HP ProBook 6560b isn't flashy or as refined as an HP EliteBook and it's aimed at small business users rather than corporate types. It's not perfect by any means, but there are lots of things to like about it: good performance, solid build quality and plenty security features. However, there are also many things to dislike: it's heavy, it's noisy, it doesn't make use of switchable graphics, it could use a better keyboard and touchpad, and our review model came with the 32-bit version of Windows 7 Pro installed by default.

The HP ProBook 6560b we tested came with a 2.50GHz Intel Core i5 2nd Gen mobile processor with the ability to TurboBoost up to 3.20GHz when you have more demanding tasks. The notebook uses the more powerful Intel HD 3000 integrated graphics and has a 15.6″ anti-glare display with a 1366 x 768 resolution. The notebook has a 320GB 7200RPM hard drive and 4GB RAM. The model we reviewed has a DVD RW Drive, but you can swap out the drive for a secondary hard drive or leave the spot empty to save on weight. The notebook also has an integrated 720P webcam with dual array microphones, wireless a/b/g/n and comes with a 6 cell HP ProBook 6560b battery.

HP ProBook 6560b Specs:

• Intel Core Processor i5-2410M (2.66/2.9 GHz, 3MB L3 Cache)
• 2GB DDR3 / 320GB Hard Disk
• 15.6" WXGA (1366x768 Resolution)
• Intel HD Graphics
• WIFI N / Bluetooth / Display Port / DVDSM / Fingerprint Reader / 1394a
• Windows 7 Professional / Office 2010 Starter
• 6-Cell Lithium Ion HP CC06 battery

The 15.6-inch LED backlit HD screen was not made for entertainment purposes. The image appears to look semi-washed out. As opposed to its cousins that are for consumers, the image quality does not quite compare. The standard 300:1 contrast ratio isn’t as apparent as it would be found on other models. Fortunately, for those who desire more out of their screen, HP does have an HD+ option for this model. Even though this machine was made to be durable, the screen and lid seem to be a little too flexible. This is a bit concerning, makes us wonder how much flexion it would take to damage the screen.

The ProBook 6560b includes second generation Intel Core i dual core processors for improved performance and higher graphics processing ability. The machines can support up to 16GB total DDR3 RAM, with two slots supporting dual channel memory, and internal storage is offered up to 500GB.

There is a full complement of ports included on the HP ProBook 6560b, including: 4 USB 2.0 ports; 1 eSATA/USB 2.0 Combo; 1 external VGA monitor; 1 DisplayPort (there is no HDMI port); an Ethernet port; 1 stereo microphone in; 1 stereo headphone/line-out; the charging port; and ports to attach an HP docking device or secondary HP ProBook 6560b battery. There are also slots for Express Cards and SD cards, so almost everything you could want to connect to the machine will be compatible.

Speaking of security, this Windows 7 Professional OS running ProBook 6560b XU053UT#ABA notebook features an integrated Trusted Platform Module (TPM 1.2) security chip inside, and offers a bundled security software within such as HP ProtectTools, Central Management capable, Enhanced Pre-Boot Security and HP Spare Key (requires initial user setup) right out the box. It also has security lock slot as well for added security.

Spec-wise, the ProBooks are very similar to the EliteBooks — they’re available with Intel Celeron, Core i3, i5, and i7 processors, up to 8GB of RAM, and AMD Radeon 6470 graphics. Oh, and did we mention they’ll have an HD webcam option? Both the ProBooks and the EliteBooks have HP’s new facial recognition software and the usual HP QuickWeb pre-boot environment. The b-series will start at $799.

Versatility expert. Get the job done-anywhere, anytime. From writing reports to attending mobile meetings, this HP ProBook with a 15.6-inch diagonal HD display is perfect for everyday business tasks.

Create documents, presentations and spreadsheets and quickly share them with co-workers. The new Intel architecture features 2nd generation Intel® Core™ i5 and i3 dual-core processors, offering incredible performance, responsiveness and enhanced graphics. Choose Intel® HD Graphics 3000 for responsive performance and rich media capabilities. Or, choose the AMD Radeon™ HD 6470M discrete graphics processor for an amazing visual experience with powerful performance.

Armed with SRS Premium Sound speakers, the sound is well done for a business model. The position of the speakers on this particular model is designed for docking use, as some of the other features are. Even if you’re not docked, the sound quality is still pretty good and enjoyable.

The ProBook 6560b has several options for connecting to the company network or Internet available right away. For one thing, the 10/100/1000 compatible LAN socket and for another wireless LAN standard IEEE 802.11 b/g/n. Besides that, our configuration of the ProBook has Bluetooth 2.1 EDR, a 56k modem and a 3G compatible WWAN module.

Features

1. Genuine Windows 7 Professional
2. All new design with bead-blast aluminum display enclosure, magnesium-reinforced chassis, wear-resistant tungsten-colored HP DuraFinish, HP DisplaySafe frame, precision latches, and keyboard in full aluminum deck
3. 15.6" diagonal Widescreen LED-backlit display (1366 x 768)
4. Easily hot dock with one of the optional HP docking stations
5. Security features including HP ProtectTools, with central management across HP and non-HP client PCs
6. HP Power Assistant allows you to conserve power, stretch HP CC06 battery run-time, accurately monitor your reported power need, and report workforce power consumption.

Because of its size and weight, the 15.6in ProBook should be considered only if you want a desktop replacement-style notebook that you'll rarely have to take on the road with you. It's quite heavy, it doesn't have USB 3.0, it doesn't make use of switchable graphics and it could use better input devices, as well as 64-bit Windows by default. HP reckons many of its customers still want the 32-bit version of Windows and by installing the 32-bit version by default, it reduces the time it takes those customers to re-image back to the 32-bit version. Since you have to set up the ProBook when you get it anyway, we think the selection for 32- or 64-bit Windows should be one of the first steps in the procedure (it didn't give us this option).