HP’s new g6 budget notebook line is wholly unremarkable – almost. The econo-laptops have one thing going for them, but it’s pretty stellar – a completely seamless, invisible trackpad. Our only question is, why is this awesome feature stuck in cheap-o land?
The trackpad on the g6 is entirely unseen. No lines, no varying texture, no gaudy glow – no nothing. Just a sheer, continuous plane of smooth plastic – and still highly responsive. The only mark on the otherwise pristine bar is a little dimpled touch sensor, considerately allowing you to switch the pad on or off (should you want to type out an essay without your arms nudging the pad, for instance). It’s a deliciously designed feature, and a highly attractive one. The notebook itself is no beauty queen, but the uninterrupted form stands out wonderfully.
So why is the only HP computer getting this treatment the cheapest one on the lot? HP’s new “premium” laptop models – the Pavilion dv6 and dv7 – show off their trackpads, rather than sleekly concealing them. They’re high contrast. They’re bright. They pop. They scream, HELLO, I AM A TRACKPAD. HERE I AM Interface should never be in your face.
The g6’s invisi-pad isn’t perfect. It doesn’t click or have the satisfying roominess of, say, a MacBook Pro’s pad. But it’s an attention to detail that other manufacturers (and HP itself!) should look to. And not just to stick in the bargain bin.