HP 15.6" FHD Touch Laptop, Intel i5, vs HP 17.3" Laptop for Home, Students, Business,
Updated August 2026 — HP 15.6" FHD Touch Laptop, Intel i5, wins on price and weight, HP 17.3" Laptop for Home, Students, Business, wins on display and features.
The HP 15.6" FHD Touch Laptop excels in portability and performance, while the HP 17.3" Laptop for Home offers a larger display and additional features. Choose based on your specific needs.
Why HP 15.6" FHD Touch Laptop, Intel i5, is better
Portability
HP 15.6" is lighter and more compact.
Performance
HP 15.6" has a faster SSD.
Price
HP 15.6" is significantly cheaper.
Why HP 17.3" Laptop for Home, Students, Business, is better
Display
HP 17.3" has a larger screen.
Memory
HP 17.3" can be configured with more RAM.
Features
HP 17.3" includes AI Copilot and privacy shutter.
Overall score
Specifications
| Spec | HP 15.6" FHD Touch Laptop, Intel i5, | HP 17.3" Laptop for Home, Students, Business, |
|---|---|---|
| Processor | Intel i5 | Intel i3-N305 |
| RAM | 16GB | 32GB |
| Storage | 512GB SSD | 128GB eMMC + 1TB SSD |
| Display Size | 15.6" | 17.3" |
| OS | Windows 11 Pro | Windows 11 Pro |
Dimension comparison
Design and Display
The HP 15.6" FHD Touch Laptop features a compact 15.6-inch touchscreen, while the HP 17.3" Laptop for Home boasts a larger 17.3-inch display. The bigger screen of the HP 17.3" provides enhanced visual clarity, making it ideal for both productivity and entertainment. The HP 15.6" offers a Full HD (1920×1080) resolution, ensuring sharp visuals and accurate colors, while the HP 17.3" has a lower HD+ (1600 x 900) resolution. Despite the larger size, the HP 17.3" is designed with anti-glare technology, which is beneficial for extended use. Ultimately, if screen size and display quality are your priorities, the HP 17.3" is the better option.
Performance
In terms of performance, the HP 15.6" is powered by an Intel Core i5 processor, providing robust performance suited for professional workloads. Meanwhile, the HP 17.3" features an Intel Core i3-N305 with 8 cores. While the latter is capable for everyday tasks, it may not match the performance level of the HP 15.6" for demanding applications. The HP 15.6" includes 16GB of RAM for smooth multitasking, whereas the HP 17.3" can be configured with up to 32GB, offering substantial memory for heavy users. For those focused on high-performance tasks, the HP 15.6" is likely the more suitable choice, although the HP 17.3" provides ample support for everyday use.
Storage and Memory
The HP 15.6" FHD Touch Laptop comes with a 512GB SSD, providing fast boot-up times and ample storage for files. On the other hand, the HP 17.3" has a combination of 128GB eMMC and a 1TB PCIe SSD, which offers significant storage capacity but may result in slower speeds for the eMMC portion compared to the SSD in the HP 15.6". This makes the HP 15.6" a more efficient option for users who prioritize speed. However, if you require extensive storage for media files or large projects, the overall capacity of the HP 17.3" might be more appealing despite its mixed storage speeds.
Software and Features
The HP 15.6" comes pre-installed with Windows 11 Pro, which includes advanced business security features like BitLocker encryption and Remote Desktop. In contrast, the HP 17.3" also runs Windows 11 Pro and adds a dedicated AI Copilot key, enhancing workflow efficiency through AI assistance. Both models are equipped with modern connectivity options, including Wi-Fi 6, ensuring fast and stable internet access. However, the HP 17.3" offers additional features like a camera privacy shutter and an ergonomic lift-hinge design for better user comfort. If software capabilities and additional features are a priority, the HP 17.3" holds an edge with its innovative enhancements.
Portability
The HP 15.6" weighs less than the HP 17.3", making it the more portable option for users on the go. Its compact size is ideal for students and professionals who require a laptop that is easy to carry. The HP 17.3", while offering a larger screen, weighs 6.54 lbs, which could be cumbersome for frequent travel. If you plan to use your laptop in various locations or during travel, the HP 15.6" is the better choice due to its lighter and more compact design, making it easier to transport.
Price and Value
Currently, the HP 15.6" FHD Touch Laptop is priced at $519.00, while the HP 17.3" Laptop for Home costs $829.00. This makes the HP 15.6" about 37% cheaper than its counterpart. For budget-conscious consumers, the HP 15.6" presents a compelling value proposition, especially considering its performance capabilities. The HP 17.3", however, justifies its higher price with additional features like a larger display and enhanced memory options. Ultimately, the decision may come down to how much you are willing to invest in extra features and performance.
Customer Reception
The sales rank of the HP 15.6" stands at 619, while the HP 17.3" has a better rank at 365. This indicates that the HP 17.3" may have broader appeal or higher customer satisfaction among users. The higher sales rank can suggest that buyers appreciate its features or performance more than those of the HP 15.6". However, both laptops have proven popular choices in their respective markets, with the HP 15.6" catering to value-seeking customers and the HP 17.3" appealing to those looking for a more feature-rich experience.
Which should you buy?
In conclusion, the decision between the HP 15.6" FHD Touch Laptop and the HP 17.3" Laptop for Home largely depends on your specific needs. If you prioritize portability, speed, and lower cost, the HP 15.6" is the ideal choice. Conversely, if you need a larger display, additional features, and more storage options, the HP 17.3" would serve you better, despite its higher price tag. Ultimately, both laptops offer distinct advantages, making them appealing to different user groups.

