I tried HP's $500 MacBook Neo alternative, and it's a better budget laptop in two ways

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The 2026 HP OmniBook 3 is a humble laptop. It may not win an award for the most innovative design or world-class performance, but what it does offer is value. So much so, that it has become one of my favorite laptops of the year simply because HP understood what was needed to confidently execute that vision.

Also: The best HP laptops of 2026: Expert tested and reviewed

It's a low-cost laptop that delivers all the essentials consumers want in an everyday PC. It's a great option for school, ideal for office and remote work, and it's easy to travel with thanks to its sleek design. More importantly, it proves how impactful Qualcomm's entrance into the laptop market has been with affordable, efficient devices that don't feel cheap or underpowered.

While it won't impress power users, the HP OmniBook 3 excels as an affordable everyday laptop with great longevity and a vibrant OLED screen.

Design-wise, the HP OmniBook 3 sticks to the basics and focuses on being practical. It measures 14.12 x 9.91 x 0.58 inches and weighs just under four pounds. Its sleek profile makes it easy to slide into backpacks or messenger bags, a perfect companion for the road. As the proverbial cherry on top, it passes the one-finger test with flying colors.