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| HP's new OmniBook 7 16 also contains a built-in numberpad. |
Last month, HP released a slew of laptops that it had announced a few months earlier. While many fell under its business portfolio, the company also refreshed its OmniBook series with options like the OmniBook 7 14. As we discussed at the time, the OmniBook 7 14 is one of an increasing number of 14-inch laptops that can be paired with Intel's powerful Arc B390 graphics.
Now, HP is offering the same Intel Panther Lake platform within a 16-inch chassis to replace older Lunar Lake-based models (curr. $833 on Amazon). Currently, the OmniBook 7 16 can only be purchased in the US. However, we would expect HP to expand availability to other markets later this year, such as the Eurozone and the UK. For those stateside, you can already configure your ideal model directly through HP's official product page, where the company is currently running a 4th of July promotion that brings significant savings on select configurations.
In the meantime, HP sells the OmniBook 7 16 with a comprehensive processor lineup that caters to different performance needs and budgets. Here's the full breakdown:
Processor Options:
- Intel Core Ultra 5 325 (8 cores, 8 threads, up to 4.5 GHz)
- Intel Core Ultra 7 356H
- Intel Core Ultra X7 358H
- Intel Core Ultra 9 386H
- Intel Core Ultra X9 388H
Of those five processors, only the Core Ultra X7 358H and Core Ultra X9 388H bring the Arc B390 and its 12 Xe3 cores to the table. Meanwhile, HP's other three processor options include a lesser iGPU with just 4 Xe3 cores. This distinction is crucial for anyone planning to do creative work or light gaming, as the Arc B390 offers significantly better graphics performance than the base Intel Graphics solution.
Memory and Storage: Plenty of Room for Power Users
Setting iGPU options aside, the OmniBook 7 16 also comes with flexible memory and storage configurations to suit various workflows. Buyers can choose between 16 GB, 24 GB, 32 GB or 64 GB of LPDDR5X RAM, paired with up to 2 TB of storage. It's worth noting that the OmniBook 7 14-inch model, which we covered in depth here, topped out at 32 GB of RAM, making this larger sibling a better choice for memory-intensive tasks like virtualization, large database work, or complex 3D rendering.
The battery capacity remains consistent across all configurations at 70 Wh, which should deliver all-day battery life for most productivity tasks, though power users pushing the Arc B390 graphics will naturally see shorter runtimes.
Display Options: From Basic to Breathtaking
Moreover, the OmniBook 7 16 can be configured with one of three displays, each catering to different needs and budgets:
- Entry-Level IPS Panel: Starting with a 1200p IPS panel combining a 60 Hz refresh rate with 300 nits peak brightness and 62.5% sRGB colour space coverage. While this display is adequate for office work and web browsing, the limited colour gamut makes it unsuitable for any creative work.
- Premium IPS Panel: Alternatively, a 1600p and 240 Hz IPS option exists, which also boosts peak brightness to 500 nits and colour accuracy to 100% of the sRGB colour space. This is an excellent choice for gamers and productivity users who want smooth scrolling and vibrant colours without the premium cost of OLED.
- OLED Panel: Finally, HP sells a 120 Hz OLED panel, which drops to a 1280p resolution with 400 nits SDR peak brightness, 620 nits HDR peak brightness and 100% DCI-P3 colour space coverage. This display delivers the deep blacks and infinite contrast that OLED is famous for, making it ideal for media consumption, photo editing, and HDR content.
Pricing and Availability: Launch Discounts Make a Difference
Officially, the OmniBook 7 16 starts at $1,309.99 with a Core Ultra 5 325, 16 GB of RAM, a 512 GB SSD and a 1200p IPS display. HP has already discounted its entry-level SKU to $849.99, though. This represents a significant 39% saving, making the base model much more attractive for budget-conscious buyers.
At the time of writing, a fully configured model costs $3,079 with a Core Ultra X9 388H, 64 GB of RAM, a 2 TB SSD and a 120 Hz OLED display. This premium configuration is clearly aimed at professionals who need maximum performance and don't mind paying for the best.
HP expects to begin shipping OmniBook 7 16 pre-orders on July 31. This timeline aligns well with back-to-school shopping season, giving students and professionals a chance to get their hands on these new machines just in time for the fall semester.
How Does It Compare to the 14-Inch Model?
For those trying to decide between the 14-inch and 16-inch versions, there are a few key differences worth considering beyond just screen size. The 14-inch model starts at $1,299 and offers similar processor options, though its 1800p OLED display upgrade (available on the smaller unit) provides higher resolution than the 16-inch's top-tier OLED option. However, the 16-inch chassis naturally offers better cooling potential, which could translate to sustained performance under heavy loads, especially when using the powerful Arc B390 graphics.
Who Should Buy the OmniBook 7 16?
The larger OmniBook 7 16 is an excellent choice for professionals who need a spacious screen for multitasking, content creators who want accurate colours (particularly with the OLED or premium IPS display), and anyone who prefers a larger chassis for better cooling and more comfortable typing. The multiple configuration options mean you can build a machine that fits both your performance needs and budget.
The 16-inch form factor also typically offers better thermal management than smaller laptops, which is crucial when you're pushing the Intel Panther Lake processors and Arc B390 graphics to their limits. This makes it a more suitable choice for sustained creative workloads compared to the thinner 14-inch variant.
Final Thoughts
HP's OmniBook 7 16 represents a significant step forward for the company's consumer laptop lineup. By bringing Intel's Panther Lake platform with optional Arc B390 graphics to a larger chassis, HP is offering a compelling alternative to similarly equipped Dell XPS and Lenovo Yoga models. The generous configuration options, from entry-level productivity machines to fully-loaded creative powerhouses, ensure there's an OmniBook 7 16 for virtually every type of user.
The early discount on the base model makes it particularly attractive for budget-minded buyers, while the premium configurations compete directly with high-end alternatives from other manufacturers. As HP expands availability to international markets later this year, it's likely we'll see the OmniBook 7 16 become a popular choice for professionals and students alike who need a capable, large-screen laptop with next-generation Intel performance.
For those in the US looking to get their hands on one early, you can configure your ideal build and secure a pre-order through HP's official store before the July 31 shipping date. And if you're considering the older Lunar Lake-based models, you can still find discounted options on Amazon while supplies last.
Source : HP
