HP OmniBook 3 Review: $520 16-inch Laptop
An in-depth look at the $520 HP OmniBook 3 featuring a Snapdragon X chip, 16GB RAM, and 512GB storage, proving value in a pricey market.
Stock photo for illustration only, not from the actual event
- The budget HP OmniBook 3 features 16GB of RAM and a 512GB SSD
- Powered by a base Snapdragon X chip for solid battery life
- Features a plastic chassis, 16-inch display, and basic speakers
- Retails regularly around $520 USD at Walmart and Amazon
Laptop pricing has faced significant disruption recently, with entry-level and mid-range devices seeing corners cut on storage, CPU power, and build quality. While machines like the $950 Surface Laptop still start with an insufficient 8GB of RAM, manufacturers are struggling to balance specs against lower-cost competitors.
Amidst this climate, the 16-inch HP OmniBook 3 has emerged as a surprising productivity option, typically selling for around $520 USD at retailers like Walmart and Amazon. Equipped with Qualcomm’s base Snapdragon X processor, it delivers dependable everyday performance alongside exceptional battery life.
Stock photo for illustration only, not from the actual event
Examining the hardware specifications, the entry-level model tested features an 8-core Snapdragon X processor, 16GB of RAM, a 512GB SSD, and a 16-inch 1920 x 1200 anti-glare IPS LCD screen. The laptop maintains a maximum thickness of 0.63 inches or 16mm while remaining only slightly heavier than a 14-inch MacBook Pro, offering great portability for its screen size.
Key highlights and observations from the review include:
- Pros: Highly affordable for a 16-inch device with 16GB RAM, great battery life, and a spacious number pad
- Cons: Basic screen and speakers, minor chassis flex, and a somewhat stiff keyboard layout
"As much as I would like to see more cheap Windows laptops with the sleek looks and sturdy all-metal build of the MacBook Neo, I wouldn’t mind if more of them were like the OmniBook 3."
Antonio G. Di Benedetto
From an analytical perspective, prioritizing 16GB of RAM in budget laptops marks a crucial shift in hardware expectations. The adoption of ARM-based chips like the Snapdragon X allows affordable portable computers to achieve high energy efficiency, even if compromises must be made in speaker quality and chassis materials.
Although the 1920 x 1200 resolution 60Hz display peaks at 300 nits and struggles under direct sunlight, and the dual speakers lack adequate bass response, the 1080p webcam provides sharp video and supports Windows Hello face unlocking. Additionally, the device features ample ports and charges via USB-C utilizing a compact 65W GaN charger.
Source: The Verge
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