Even though HP is exploring different notebook form factors with its x360 products across the Spectre, Envy and Pavilion line, the PC-maker isn't giving up on the traditional laptop design. This year's Pavilion notebooks, available in 14-, 15- and 17-inch displays, represent HP's continued investment in the affordable laptop space.The biggest changes this year include support for Intel's latest Broadwell architecture as well as HP's shift to its newest music partner Bang Olufsen with the BO Play branding. As the entry models to HP's back-to-school lineup, the Pavilion comes in at an affordable starting price of $479 (£321, AU$621). With varying options for processors, storage, and RAM, the Broadwell-equipped Intel Core i3 Pavilion in a 14-inch form factor starts at $549 (£368, AU$712). At this price, you're getting more power - and screen real estate - than a netbook without breaking the bank.The 14-inch Pavilion competes against Dell's 14-inch Inspiron 5000 series ($499, £335, AU$645), Lenovo's G40 ($429, £290, AU$555), and the Intel Celeron-powered Asus Vivobook X200MA with an 11-inch display ($300, £200, AU$370). Even Microsoft's recently announced Surface 3 comes in at the $499 (£335, AU$645), though the cost quickly increases if you add in accessories like a keyboard and USB hub to get additional ports.