HP OmniBook Ultra 14 Review: Stunning Design, Strong Performance Make It a MacBook Killer
Windows users get a true MacBook Pro alternative with HP's top-end consumer laptop.
Matt Elliott
CNET
2 min read
6/10
Key Takeaways
The HP OmniBook Ultra 14 is powered by the AMD Ryzen AI 9 HX 370 processor, which in Geekbench 6 multi-core scores 14,200—outpacing the Apple M3 Pro by 18%.
It features a 14-inch 3K OLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate and 100% DCI-P3 color gamut, matching the MacBook Pro's XDR panel in color accuracy.
Battery life reaches 15 hours in mixed usage, compared to the MacBook Pro's 17 hours, though fast charging via USB-C 100W brings it to 50% in 30 minutes.
Pricing starts at $1,499.99 for the base model with 16GB RAM and 512GB SSD, undercutting the equivalent MacBook Pro by $300.
The laptop includes a dedicated Copilot key for instant AI assistance, plus a 5MP IR webcam with Windows Hello support for secure logins.
The HP OmniBook Ultra 14 isn't just another Windows laptop—it's the first serious contender to unseat the MacBook Pro from its throne. With a stunning all-metal design and class-leading performance, this machine proves Windows users no longer have to settle for second best. CNET's review positions the HP OmniBook Ultra 14 as a true MacBook Pro alternative, built for professionals who demand both style and power. The laptop combines a sleek, lightweight chassis with AMD's latest Ryzen AI processors, delivering desktop-level performance in a portable package. Its 14-inch OLED display offers vibrant colors and deep blacks, matching the Retina-quality screens Apple users love. Battery life reaches up to 15 hours on a single charge, closing the gap with Apple's M-series efficiency. The OmniBook Ultra 14 runs Windows 11 with Copilot+, integrating AI features for real-time transcription, image generation, and system optimization. This marks a turning point: Windows laptops finally have a premium contender that can go toe-to-toe with the MacBook Pro in build quality, performance, and ecosystem maturity. The device starts at $1,500, positioning it directly against the 14-inch MacBook Pro. Early benchmarks show the Ryzen AI 9 HX 370 outscoring the M3 Pro in multi-core tasks, though single-core lags slightly. The HP OmniBook Ultra 14 review underscores that this laptop is for power users: video editors, developers, and business travelers who need a reliable, fast machine. It features a 120Hz OLED touchscreen, up to 32GB of LPDDR5X RAM, and a 1TB SSD. Port selection is generous with two USB-C, one USB-A, HDMI 2.1, and a headphone jack—something the MacBook lacks. The keyboard offers satisfying travel, and the trackpad is large with haptic feedback. Speakers support DTS:X Ultra, providing rich audio for media consumption. Critics initially dismissed Windows laptops as uncompetitive, but this device changes the narrative. Demand for premium Windows hardware is surging as hybrid work persists, and HP is capitalizing with a laptop that doesn't compromise. The OmniBook Ultra 14 represents a broader shift: PC makers are betting on AI-optimized chips and refined designs to win over creative professionals. Analysts expect this device to pressure Apple to innovate faster, especially on memory configurations and accessory pricing. The HP OmniBook Ultra 14 goes on sale next month, with reviews flooding in ahead of a major laptop refresh cycle. Watch for hands-on comparisons and long-term durability tests. If early verdicts hold, Windows users finally have the MacBook killer they've been waiting for.
Frequently Asked Questions
The HP OmniBook Ultra 14 is a premium Windows laptop designed as a direct competitor to the Apple MacBook Pro. It features a 14-inch OLED display, AMD Ryzen AI processors, up to 32GB RAM, and long battery life, targeting creative professionals and business users.
The HP OmniBook Ultra 14 matches the MacBook Pro in build quality and display quality, and exceeds it in multi-core performance with the AMD Ryzen AI 9 HX 370. However, battery life is slightly shorter, and it runs Windows 11 with Copilot+ AI features. Starting at $1,500, it is $300 cheaper than the equivalent MacBook Pro.
Key specs include a 14-inch 3K OLED 120Hz display, AMD Ryzen AI 9 HX 370 processor, up to 32GB LPDDR5X RAM, up to 1TB SSD, 5MP IR webcam, Wi-Fi 7, Bluetooth 5.4, and a 68Wh battery rated for 15 hours.
The HP OmniBook Ultra 14 is not designed for heavy gaming. It relies on integrated Radeon 880M graphics, which can handle esports and older titles at medium settings, but dedicated gaming laptops or eGPUs are better for AAA gaming.
The HP OmniBook Ultra 14 starts at $1,499.99 for a model with 16GB RAM and 512GB SSD. Higher configurations with 32GB RAM and 1TB SSD are priced around $1,799.99.
The HP OmniBook Ultra 14 was announced in early 2025 and is expected to ship in late February 2025. Pre-orders began in mid-February.
