HP Omnibook 3 review: AI smarts, budget roots

The rise of AI-integrated laptops is reshaping the tech landscape, and HP's latest offering, the OmniBook 3, aims to make these advancements accessible to budget-conscious consumers. Priced at ₹69,999, this 15.6-inch laptop promises 'next-gen AI performance' tailored for everyday tasks. After using the device, it's evident that while it boasts some impressive features and AI capabilities, it is primarily designed for a specific audience. Upon unboxing, the OmniBook 3 presents a sleek and professional aesthetic, featuring a Glacier Silver finish that strikes a balance between elegance and simplicity. Weighing in at 1.7 kg, it may feel a bit hefty, but its weight distribution makes it manageable for daily use. Notably, HP has made strides towards sustainability, incorporating ocean-bound plastics and post-consumer recycled materials into its construction. While these eco-friendly choices don’t alter its feel, they do reflect a commendable commitment to the environment. The laptop's 15.6-inch Full HD anti-glare display performs adequately for typical activities like browsing the web and streaming videos, though its 250 nits brightness and 62.5% sRGB coverage may not satisfy creative professionals. While the bezels could be slimmer, they don’t detract significantly from the overall experience. When it comes to typing, the full-size keyboard includes a numpad, but some users might find the experience less than satisfactory. The key spacing felt slightly off, leading to a higher number of typographical errors than expected. Moreover, the trackpad lacked the tactile feedback that many users value, making it feel somewhat unresponsive. While it meets basic navigation needs, those engaged in extensive typing might prefer an external keyboard and mouse. One highlight of the keyboard is the dedicated microphone mute switch and the privacy shutter on the webcam, features that enhance user experience and security in an increasingly digital world. Powered by AMD’s Ryzen AI 5 340 processor, a six-core chip with 12 threads and a dedicated NPU capable of 50 TOPS, the OmniBook 3 is equipped to handle everyday tasks with ease. With 16GB of DDR5 RAM and a 512GB PCIe Gen4 SSD, it performs well for browsing, video calls, and even light creative work. The AI features, such as background blurring during video calls and productivity enhancements via the HP AI Companion app, set this laptop apart from typical entry-level devices. However, it falls short in gaming or high-end editing due to its integrated Radeon 840M graphics. In terms of thermal performance, the OmniBook 3 generally manages heat effectively, remaining cool and quiet during standard use. However, under heavy workloads, it can become warm, particularly around the palm rest area, though it never reaches uncomfortable temperatures. The fan noise is minimal, ensuring a non-disruptive working environment. Connectivity options are solid, featuring a USB-C port (with Power Delivery and DisplayPort), two USB-A ports, HDMI 1.4b, and a headphone/mic combo jack. This variety makes it a practical choice for students and remote workers alike. Additionally, the laptop supports Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth 5.4, ensuring modern connectivity standards, and its 41Wh battery provides over seven hours of use on a typical workday. Fast charging capabilities allow users to reach 50% in just 45 minutes, a handy feature for busy schedules. In conclusion, the HP OmniBook 3 caters to practical users rather than demanding power users. It offers a reliable and modern computing experience, complete with AI enhancements and solid performance for everyday tasks. While there are areas for improvement, such as the keyboard and trackpad, the laptop’s affordability and sustainable design make it an appealing option for those upgrading from older devices or purchasing their first Windows laptop.