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| OmniBook Ultra 14 redesign looks great, but the new keyboard is an unexpected change |
HP’s flagship OmniBook Ultra 14 finally sheds its Spectre skin – yet two surprising downgrades leave prosumers questioning the trade-offs.
When HP introduced the OmniBook series in 2024, it was clear the company intended to phase out the beloved Spectre line of prosumer laptops and convertibles. The original OmniBook Ultra 14 borrowed heavily from Spectre’s design language – including those iconic diamond-cut corners – but the freshly unveiled 2026 model marks a turning point. For the first time, HP has crafted a laptop that feels wholly original, capable of standing on its own merits. However, shedding an established legacy isn’t without growing pains. Two features inherited from the Spectre era have been quietly downgraded, and loyal users are taking notice.
Keyboard Redesign: A Step Backwards in Typing Comfort
The most noticeable change on the 2026 OmniBook Ultra 14 is the revamped keyboard. HP has replaced the familiar chiclet-style layout of the 2024 model with a new beveled design. On paper, this sounds like a refinement – but real-world usage tells a different story.
Key feedback now feels noticeably spongier, while travel depth has become shallower. The result is a less satisfying typing experience compared to the previous generation. This is particularly disappointing because the Spectre and EliteBook series have long been praised for having some of the best keyboards in the Windows laptop space. By deviating from that proven formula, the OmniBook Ultra 14’s keyboard now feels like a downgrade rather than an evolution.
For writers, coders, or anyone who spends hours typing, this could be a dealbreaker. HP may have wanted to slim down the chassis or create a distinct feel, but the execution misses the mark.
Missing Ports: The Slow Erosion of Legacy Connectivity
Another notable omission is the complete lack of integrated USB-A ports. This is a first for the OmniBook series – even the lighter and thinner OmniBook X includes a single USB-A port. HP’s decision to go all-in on USB-C may alienate users who still rely on older peripherals, from flash drives to wired mice.
Worse, the trend could accelerate. We wouldn’t be surprised to see HP eventually drop the 3.5 mm headset jack on future OmniBook models. That move would mirror what Lenovo has already done on its competing Lenovo Yoga Slim 7 Ultra lineup – a sleek, lightweight alternative that prioritizes minimalism over legacy support. For a deeper look at how Lenovo’s offering compares, check out our full breakdown: Lenovo Yoga Slim 7 Ultra lightweight review.
If the port purge continues, owners who depend on USB-A or wired audio will have no choice but to rely on annoying USB-C dongles and adapters. That might be acceptable for ultra-portables, but for a prosumer device priced above $2000, many will expect better.
Everything Else: Where the OmniBook Ultra 14 Shines
Despite these two stumbles, the 2026 OmniBook Ultra 14 remains one of the best prosumer subnotebooks in HP’s extensive catalogue – provided you can afford its steep $2000+ asking price. The original design language finally gives HP a distinct flagship identity, moving beyond Spectre’s shadow. Build quality, display vibrancy, and performance (powered by Intel’s latest Core Ultra 200-series chips) are all top-tier.
Battery life has also improved modestly over the 2024 model, and the 14-inch OLED panel (optional) delivers stunning contrast and color accuracy. For creative professionals who don’t mind the keyboard and port trade-offs, this laptop still delivers a premium experience.
Final Verdict: A Worthy Successor With Caveats
The OmniBook Ultra 14 (2026) successfully establishes HP’s new flagship identity – but it’s not the unequivocal upgrade fans hoped for. The spongier keyboard and missing USB-A ports are genuine regressions that may push some users toward alternatives like the Lenovo Yoga Slim 7 Ultra or even remaining with older Spectre models.
If you prioritize a sleek, original design and cutting-edge internals, the OmniBook Ultra 14 is worth considering. But if typing comfort and legacy port support are non-negotiable, you might want to test the keyboard in person before buying – or look elsewhere.
*For comprehensive benchmarks, thermal imaging, and side-by-side comparisons with the 2024 OmniBook and Spectre series, be sure to read our full in-depth review of the 2026 HP OmniBook Ultra 14.*