Can you remember the last time a 4G LTE-enabled Windows tablet was sold directly by Verizon or, for that matter, any of the other three major US mobile operators? The Nokia, yes, Nokia Lumia 2520 perhaps? No, we got it, it was probably the non-Pro Surface 3.

The point is, it’s been a while, and aside from the just-released HP Elite x2, Big Red exclusively carries Android and iOS tabs at the moment. Not to be confused with the 6-inch Elite x3 phablet, the x2 1012 G1 costs $900 on-contract or $1,000 full retail starting today, LTE connectivity included.

“Strikingly thin and powerful”, the 2-in-1 12-incher comes with a built-in kickstand, detachable travel keyboard and HP Active Pen stylus as standard, very clearly competing against “sister” Windows 10 Pro hybrid Surface Pro 4.

Only Microsoft’s entry-level configuration, unfortunately, as there’s no way to upgrade the Intel Core m3 processor or 128GB SSD, let alone the 4GB RAM. On the bright side, Verizon’s HP Elite x2, like Wi-Fi-limited SKUs available elsewhere, touts unrivaled “enterprise-class” security, MIL-STD-810G-certified robustness, as well as premium Bang & Olufsen sound powered by dual stereo speakers and a dual microphone array.

All in all, business convertible tablet/laptop users should be satisfied with what they’re getting here. Everyday consumers, not so much.

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