Is the 1600 x 900 screen sharp enough for a 17.3-inch laptop?

It is usable, but pixel density is low at this size. Text and photos look less crisp than on a 1920 x 1080 panel, so it suits casual browsing and office work better than photo editing.

Can the RAM and storage be upgraded?

The 16 GB of RAM and 512 GB SSD cover most users as sold. Check HP's service manual for this model before buying if you plan to add memory or storage yourself.

Is this laptop good for gaming?

No. Intel integrated graphics handle video and light casual games, not modern titles. A laptop with a dedicated GPU is the better choice for gaming.

How does it compare with a 15.6-inch laptop?

You get a noticeably bigger screen and a full keyboard layout, at the cost of size and weight. If you carry the laptop daily, a 15.6-inch model is easier to manage.

What comes in the box?

Expect the laptop and its power adapter. A stylus, mouse and sleeve are not typically included, so budget for those separately.

When is the best time to buy it?

At $744.99 on eBay as of November 7, 2026, it is at the low end of its recent range. Back-to-school and Black Friday periods are when large-screen laptops usually see their deepest discounts.