Series HP Laptop 15-bs1xx are budget but functional laptops that have gained popularity among students, office workers and users looking for a reliable device for everyday tasks. Models of this family, released in 2017–2019, are still relevant due to their balanced characteristics, maintainability and ample upgrade opportunities. However, before purchasing or upgrading such a laptop, it is important to understand its features - from hardware to software nuances.

In this article we will analyze in detail technical specifications, compare the modifications of the series 15-bs1xx (For example, 15-bs100, 15-bs146), let's reveal hidden BIOS features, we will give step-by-step instructions for replacing components and solve typical problems - from overheating to errors with drivers. You will also find current tips for optimizing Windows 10/11 for this model and answers to frequently asked questions from owners.

Technical specifications: what's under the hood HP 15-bs1xx?

Laptop series HP 15-bs1xx built on a platform Intel Kaby Lake (7th generation) and Coffee Lake (8th generation), which determines their performance. Basic modifications were equipped with processors Intel Core i3-7020U or i3-8130U, while the top versions received Core i5-8250U and even Core i7-8550U. It is important to note that all chips in this series soldered - it is impossible to replace them.

RAM in 15-bs1xx represented by two slots DDR4-2400, which allows you to increase the volume from standard 4–8 GB to 32 GB (maximum supported capacity depends on BIOS version). Hard drives range from HDD 500 GB to SSD 512 GB in top configurations, but most users immediately change the drive to a faster one NVMe or SATA SSD.

  • 🔹 Processors: from Intel Celeron 3865U (in the most budget versions) up to Core i7-8550U (in premium)
  • 🖥️ Video card: integrated Intel UHD Graphics 620 (no discrete graphics)
  • 💾 Drives: support M.2 SATA/PCIe + 2.5" SATA (in some modifications)
  • 🔋 Battery: 3- or 4-cell Li-ion (capacity 41–52 Wh)

A unique feature of the series: the presence of a port USB Type-C (without Thunderbolt support) even in budget versions, which is rare for laptops from 2017–2019. However, this port only works in USB 3.1 Gen 1 (up to 5 Gbps) and does not support video output.

Characteristics Min. configuration Max. configuration
Processor Celeron 3865U (2 cores, 1.8 GHz) Core i7-8550U (4 cores, 4.0 GHz)
RAM 4 GB DDR4-2133 32 GB DDR4-2400
Storage HDD 500 GB SSD 1 TB (NVMe) + HDD 2 TB
Screen 15.6" HD (1366×768), TN matrix 15.6" Full HD (1920×1080), IPS (in rare versions)
📊 What processor is in your HP 15-bs1xx?
  • Intel Celeron
  • Core i3
  • Core i5
  • Core i7
  • I don't know

Comparison of modifications: 15-bs100 vs 15-bs146 vs 15-bs199

Inside the series HP 15-bs1xx There are more than 20 modifications, differing in processors, amount of RAM and storage type. The most common ones on the secondary market are: 15-bs100, 15-bs146 And 15-bs199. Let's look at their key differences:

HP 15-bs100 — the most budget version with processors Celeron 3865U or Pentium 4415U. It is suitable for office tasks, but does not cope well with multitasking. 15-bs146 - "golden mean" with Core i3-7020U/8130U, which draws light photoshop and video in 1080p. Finally, 15-bs199 equipped Core i5/i7 8th generation and often comes with SSD by default, making it the best choice for graphics or programming.

  • 💰 Price (used, 2026):
    • 15-bs100: 12 000–18 000 ₽
    • 15-bs146: 18 000–25 000 ₽
    • 15-bs199: 25 000–35 000 ₽
  • ⚡ Performance: difference between i3-7020U And i5-8250U can reach 40% in multi-threaded tasks
  • 🔧 Upgrade: in 15-bs199 often already worth it M.2 SSD, but it can be replaced with a faster one PCIe 3.0 x4
⚠️ Attention: Modifications with index xx (For example, 15-bs146nr) may have regional restrictions on the keyboard or pre-installed software. Before purchasing, check the Russian language support in the BIOS!

Upgrade HP 15-bs1xx: what can be improved?

The main advantage of the series 15-bs1xx — ease of modernization. Even an inexperienced user can independently replace RAM, storage or thermal paste. Let's look at how to upgrade step by step:

1. Replacing RAM. The laptop supports two modules DDR4 SODIMM. The best option is to install a kit of two 8 GB sticks (for example, Crucial CT2K8G4SFS824A) for operation in dual-channel mode. Important: Some BIOS versions limit the maximum capacity to 16 GB, so check the compatibility website before purchasing Crucial.

2. Installation of SSD. The laptop has a slot M.2 2280 (supports SATA And PCIe NVMe) and compartment for 2.5" SATA. For maximum performance, select NVMe-storage (for example, WD Black SN770 or Samsung 980). If your budget is limited, this is suitable SATA SSD (For example, Crucial MX500).

Check BIOS version (update if necessary)

Purchase compatible components (use PCPartPicker)

Prepare your screwdriver PH0 and a plastic spatula

Back up your data

Disconnect the battery before operation-->

3. Replacing thermal paste. Laptops HP 15-bs1xx prone to overheating due to a weak cooling system. We recommend using thermal paste Arctic MX-6 or Noctua NT-H2. Also check the condition of the fan - it can be cleaned of dust or replaced (part number: 833644-001).

How to remove the back cover without damage?

1. Turn off the laptop and disconnect the charger.

2. Turn the device over and unscrew the 11 screws (one is hidden under the rubber foot).

3. Gently pry the cover open with a plastic spatula, starting at the corner near the touchpad.

4. Lift the cover, but do not remove it completely - first disconnect the battery cable (connector J1).

Typical problems and their solutions

Despite the reliability, HP 15-bs1xx There are a number of common faults. Here are the most common of them and how to eliminate them:

1. The laptop does not turn on (the power indicator is blinking). The reason may lie in a faulty battery or power supply. Try:

  • 🔌 Connect another charger (original adapter: 19.5V 3.33A, 65W)
  • 🔋 Remove the battery and start the laptop from the network
  • 🔧 Reset BIOS (close contacts CLR_CMOS on the motherboard)

2. Overheating and throttling. If your laptop suddenly slows down, check:

  • 🌡️ Temperature in HWMonitor (norm: up to 85°C under load)
  • 💨 Fan operation (must turn on at 60°C)
  • 🧴 Thermal paste condition (replace if temperature exceeds 90°C)

3. The touchpad or keyboard does not work. Most often this is a software glitch. Update drivers via HP Support Assistant or manually download them from official website. If the problem persists, check the cables (they may come off during disassembly).

⚠️ Attention: When replacing the keyboard in models 15-bs1xx Pay attention to the regional layout! Articles differ: 833645-001 (US), 833645-291 (RU). A mismatch will result in the keys not working properly.

Optimizing Windows 10/11 for HP 15-bs1xx

Even after an upgrade, the laptop may run slowly due to incorrect OS settings. Here are the key steps for optimization:

1. Disable unnecessary services. B HP 15-bs1xx Often there is pre-installed software from the manufacturer that slows down the system. Remove it via Control Panel → Programs or use the utility HP Software Framework for cleaning. Also disable background processes in Task Manager (Startup tab).

2. Set up a power plan. Go to Control Panel → Power Options and select a plan"High performance". To balance performance and battery life, create a custom plan with the following parameters:

  • 🔋Minimum processor state: 5%
  • ⚡ Maximum CPU state: 90% (battery powered) / 100% (from the network)
  • 💤 Turn off the display: via 5 minutes inaction

3. Update drivers. Use HP Support Assistant or download drivers manually from the official website. Pay special attention to:

  • 🖥️ Chipset driver (Intel Management Engine)
  • 🎮 Graphics driver (Intel UHD Graphics 620)
  • 🔊 Audio driver (Realtek High Definition Audio)
💡

If artifacts appear on the screen after updating the drivers, roll back to the previous version via Device Manager → Video adapters → Properties → Rollback.

Hidden BIOS functions and their settings

BIOS in HP 15-bs1xx hides several useful options that can be activated to improve performance or compatibility. To get into the BIOS, when you turn on the laptop, press F10 (or Esc → F10).

1. Enabling virtualization (VT-x). This function is required to work VirtualBox, Docker or Android emulators. Go to section System Configuration → Virtualization Technology and set the value Enabled.

2. Setup Secure Boot. If you plan to install Linux or an older version of Windows, disable Secure Boot in section Security → Secure Boot Configuration. You can also reset your platform keys here (Clear All Secure Boot Keys).

3. Change the download priority. To install the OS from a flash drive, go to Storage → Boot Order and move USB Diskette to first place. If the flash drive is not detected, check that Legacy Support installed Enabled.

💡

Updating BIOS in HP 15-bs1xx can unlock support for 8th generation processors in models launched with 7th generation. However, the process is risky - if it fails, the laptop will turn into a “brick.”

Alternative OS: Linux and Hackintosh on HP 15-bs1xx

The laptop is well suited for experimenting with alternative operating systems. Let's consider two popular options:

1. Installing Linux (Ubuntu, Mint, Fedora). Most distributions work out of the box, but problems may arise with:

  • 🎧 Sound (decided by installing the driver alsa)
  • 🔋 Power management (use tlp to save battery)
  • 🖱️ Touchpad (set up via xinput or libinput)

Recommended distribution: Linux Mint 21.3 with core 5.15+, as it supports the hardware better HP.

2. Install macOS (Hackintosh). The laptop is suitable for creating Hackintosh thanks to integrated graphics Intel UHD 620. You will need:

  • 🍎 Download image macOS Monterey or Ventura (newer versions are not supported)
  • 🛠️ Use bootloader OpenCore (configuration can be found at Dortania)
  • 🔧 Disable Secure Boot in BIOS
⚠️ Attention: On models with processors 8th generation (Coffee Lake) Wi-Fi may not work (the module needs to be replaced with Broadcom BCM94360). Also won't work Sleep Mode without additional patches.

FAQ: Answers to frequently asked questions

❓ Is it possible to put in HP 15-bs1xx discrete video card?

No, there is no slot in this series MXM or PCIe x16 for discrete graphics. The most you can do is use external GPU through USB Type-C, but the port capacity (USB 3.1 Gen 1) will limit performance.

❓ How to check RAM compatibility before purchasing?

Use the service Crucial Advisor or Kingston Configurator. Enter the exact laptop model (for example, HP 15-bs146nr) — the system will show supported modules. You can also focus on the motherboard specifications: all versions 15-bs1xx support DDR4-2400.

❓ Why does my laptop discharge quickly?

The reasons may be different:

  • 🔋 Battery wear (check the condition via powercfg /batteryreport in CMD)
  • ⚡ Background processes (disable unnecessary programs in startup)
  • 🌡️ High temperature (cleaning the cooling system can increase operating time by 20–30%)

If the battery capacity drops below 40% from the original one, it should be replaced (original article number: T0J48AA for 4-cell).

❓ How to reset BIOS to factory settings?

There are two ways:

  1. Soft reset: go to BIOS (F10), select File → Restore Defaults.
  2. Hard reset: turn off the laptop, remove the battery, short-circuit the contacts CLR_CMOS on the motherboard (located next to the battery CR2032) for 10 seconds.

After the reset, set the time, date and download priority again.

❓ Where to download official drivers for HP 15-bs1xx?

Official drivers are available on the website HP Support. Enter the laptop serial number (located on the sticker under the battery) or select the model manually. An alternative way is to use the utility HP Support Assistant, which will automatically detect the necessary updates.

For older versions of Windows (7/8.1), drivers can be found on archived resources, for example, DRP.