HP Omnibook 5 review: Big-screen productivity meets everyday AI

In a landscape increasingly defined by AI-enhanced PCs, the HP OmniBook 5 emerges as a strong contender, focusing on solid performance rather than gimmicks. This 16-inch laptop is driven by AMD’s innovative Ryzen AI platform, integrating Microsoft's AI functionalities with HP's proprietary AI Companion. The combination aims to enhance productivity in a market brimming with options. **Design and Build: Functional Yet Stylish** Weighing in at 1.79 kg, the HP OmniBook 5 is designed for everyday use without being overly cumbersome. Its aluminum chassis not only looks sleek but also feels durable, accented by a polished HP logo for a hint of elegance. The updated keyboard layout, featuring a Copilot key, is user-friendly, and the practical array of ports—including dual USB-C, two USB-A, HDMI 2.1, and a 3.5mm audio jack—adds to its overall functionality. **Display: A Visual Delight** The laptop boasts a notable 16-inch 2K (1920 x 1200) display, which stands out with a 16:10 aspect ratio and an impressive 89% screen-to-body ratio. This design maximizes vertical space, making it ideal for multitasking. Its anti-glare coating and commendable color accuracy ensure a good experience whether you are working or watching videos. However, the 60Hz refresh rate might be a letdown for users accustomed to higher refresh rates. Still, for productivity tasks, this is a minor drawback. **Audio and Webcam: Serviceable, Not Spectacular** The HP OmniBook 5 features quality stereo speakers enhanced by DTS:X Ultra technology, delivering clear audio that’s suitable for video calls or background music, though it may lack depth for more immersive experiences. The 5MP IR webcam performs well, providing sharp images even in varied lighting. With features like auto-framing and background blur, alongside a physical privacy shutter, the webcam adds a layer of convenience. **Keyboard and Touchpad: Comfortable for Extended Use** Equipped with a full-sized, backlit keyboard complete with a numpad, the typing experience is designed for comfort. While the key travel may be shallow, it remains responsive. Additional features like an emoji shortcut and a customizable key for HP apps improve usability. The touchpad is generous in size and accuracy, ensuring smooth navigation. **Performance: Efficient and Future-Ready** Under the hood, the OmniBook 5 runs on the AMD Ryzen AI 7 8840U processor (with an optional Ryzen AI 5 8540U) and integrated Radeon 860M graphics, paired with 16GB of LPDDR5x RAM. Users will find that it handles everyday tasks—like browsing multiple Chrome tabs, using Office applications, and light gaming—effortlessly. However, some Copilot Plus features are still in development, though HP’s AI Companion provides valuable support through a chatbot interface for tasks like research and quick queries. **Battery Life: Adequate but Not Exceptional** The 59Wh battery offers around 8-9 hours of mixed usage, which is decent but not industry-leading. For longer sessions or travel, the laptop comes with a 65W USB-C charger that supports fast charging, reportedly achieving up to 50% in just 30 minutes. **Conclusion: A Reliable Choice for Professionals** At a price of ₹77,999 for the AI 5 variant, the HP OmniBook 5 is marketed as a laptop designed primarily for productivity, striking a balance between AI capabilities, display quality, and dependable performance. It does not aim to be a design marvel or a gaming powerhouse but instead provides a polished work experience, ample screen space, and enough AI integration to keep pace with evolving technologies. If you're seeking a 16-inch laptop that excels in practical tasks while embracing the AI revolution without breaking the bank, the OmniBook 5 is an appealing option.