HP OmniBook 5: Your Productivity-Focused Laptop with AI Integration

The HP OmniBook 5 stands out in a year where Copilot Plus PCs are on the rise. This laptop prioritises the essentials over extravagant features, ensuring a practical and efficient experience. With its AMD Ryzen AI platform, it integrates Microsoft’s AI capabilities alongside HP’s proprietary AI Companion, but the question remains: is this enough to thrive in a competitive AI PC landscape?

Design and Build: Clean, Conservative, Capable

Designed to function as a reliable workhorse, the HP OmniBook 5 weighs 1.79 kg. While not the lightest option available, it remains easy to carry on a daily basis. The sturdy aluminium chassis showcases quality workmanship, complemented by a polished HP logo adding a hint of elegance. The updated keyboard layout features improvements in contrast and design, including a dedicated Copilot key. Port options are practical, outfitted with dual USB-C, two USB-A, HDMI 2.1, and a 3.5mm audio jack.

Display: Size and Sharpness in Perfect Balance

Arguably the standout feature of the HP OmniBook 5 is its 16-inch 2K (1920 x 1200) display. With a 16:10 aspect ratio and an impressive 89% screen-to-body ratio, it offers ample vertical space and ample screen real estate for multitasking. The anti-glare coating along with good colour accuracy enhances both work efficiency and leisure viewing.

However, users accustomed to smoother refresh rates of 90Hz or 120Hz panels may find the standard 60Hz refresh rate somewhat underwhelming. For most productivity tasks, though, this trade-off is minor.

Audio and Webcam: Practical, Not Premium

HP incorporates quality stereo speakers with DTS:X Ultra support in the OmniBook 5. While the audio remains clear and sufficiently loud for calls or background music, it doesn’t deliver the immersive sound experience expected for entertainment purposes.

The 5MP IR webcam is commendable, providing clear video even in less-than-ideal lighting conditions. Features like auto-framing and background blur function effectively, and the Windows Hello login is a convenient feature. Additionally, the physical privacy shutter adds an extra layer of security.

Keyboard and Touchpad: Reliable Inputs for Long Hours

The HP OmniBook 5 features a full-sized, backlit keyboard, including a numeric keypad that facilitates comfortable typing. The key travel is shallow yet responsive, with useful shortcuts such as an emoji key and a custom key designated for HP’s applications.

The touchpad is spacious and precise, offering a trouble-free user experience.

Performance: Everyday Power, Future-Ready AI

Powered by AMD’s Ryzen AI 7 8840U, with a Ryzen AI 5 8540U variant also available, and integrated Radeon 860M graphics, the HP OmniBook 5 showcases impressive day-to-day performance. It manages multiple Chrome tabs, Office applications, media editing, and light gaming without any hiccups.

However, some Copilot Plus features are not fully available yet, though HP’s AI Companion somewhat compensates for this by allowing users to interact with personal files through a chatbot. This feature aids in research, summarisation, and quick look-ups.

Battery Life: Almost Enough

With a 59Wh battery, the HP OmniBook 5 lasts around 8-9 hours under mixed usage, which is decent yet not exceptional. For those longer days or while travelling, the included 65W USB-C charger supports rapid charging (reportedly reaching 50% in 30 minutes, closely matching real-world usage).

Verdict: Solid All-Rounder with Room to Grow

Priced at ₹77,999 for the AI 5 variant, the HP OmniBook 5 positions itself as a laptop centred on productivity, boasting a solid mix of AI functionality, display quality, and dependable performance. Rather than aiming for visual flair or gaming capabilities, it prioritises a refined work experience, a large touchscreen, and sufficient AI integration to ensure your workflow is future-proof.

For those seeking a 16-inch laptop adept at handling practical tasks while keeping pace with AI advancements without breaking the bank, the HP OmniBook 5 is a worthwhile choice.