HP OmniBook 5 Launches at $699 to Challenge Apple's MacBook Neo
HP has released the OmniBook 5, a 14-inch Windows laptop priced at $699, designed to compete with Apple's recent MacBook Neo. The device features an OLED display, up to 42 hours of battery life, and Intel Core 5 or 7 processors with AI capabilities. Available in four colors, it targets consumers seeking premium features at an entry-level price point.
Key points
- The base model costs $699 and includes an Intel Core 5 320 processor, 8GB of RAM, and a 256GB SSD.
- The laptop features a 14-inch OLED display with Gorilla Glass 3 protection and 100% DCI-P3 color coverage.
- HP claims up to 42 hours of battery life for local video playback, with fast charging reaching 50% in 30 minutes.
- The device is available in pink, silver, blue, and green, weighing 2.6 pounds and measuring 0.46 inches thick.
- Higher configurations offer up to an Intel Core 7 350, 16GB of RAM, and a 1TB SSD.
Background
Apple's introduction of the sub-$600 MacBook Neo in early 2026 prompted several PC manufacturers to release budget-friendly alternatives. Dell, Acer, and Lenovo have already launched colorful, affordable laptops to counter Apple's move. HP's OmniBook 5 joins this trend, aiming to capture students and young professionals with a premium feel at an accessible price.
How outlets are covering it
TechSpot emphasizes the OmniBook 5's colorful design and OLED display as key differentiators, noting its arrival in time for the holiday season. The Verge highlights the laptop's thin and light form factor, comparing it directly to the MacBook Neo's specifications, while noting that the base model's brightness is lower than higher-end options. Engadget focuses on the battery life and OLED screen, positioning the OmniBook 5 as a strong contender for Windows users seeking high-end features at a budget price. HP's official announcement frames the laptop as a premium consumer device for those wanting more from their everyday computing experience.
Why it matters
The OmniBook 5 intensifies competition in the budget laptop market, forcing Apple and other PC makers to innovate on price and features. Its OLED display and long battery life at $699 set a new benchmark for entry-level Windows laptops, potentially influencing future product launches from competitors.
What to watch
The OmniBook 5 is expected to hit stores like Best Buy in October 2026. A higher-resolution 2560 x 1600 OLED version with 400 nits of brightness is scheduled for release in March 2027. Consumers can expect more budget laptops with similar features as manufacturers continue to respond to the MacBook Neo's market impact.
- HP joins the MacBook Neo fight with colorful OmniBook 5 laptops starting at $699 TechSpot
- HP Brings Premium PC Experiences to More Consumers HP
- HP’s answer to the MacBook Neo is thinner, lighter, and comes with OLED The Verge
- HP's Omnibook 5 Features An OLED Screen And Costs $699 Engadget
- HP’s MacBook Neo competitor is $699 with an OLED display and plenty of catches 9to5Google
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