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HP's latest OmniBook finally sold me on the 2-in-1 form factor (and it's on sale)

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ZDNET's key takeaways HP's new OmniBook X Flip 16 is on sale for $999 on HP's site.

Thanks to its stylish, lightweight design and vibrant 3K OLED, this laptop is sure to turn heads.

Its midrange hardware comes with limitations. View now at Best Buy View now at HP more buying choices

One of the best things about reviewing the latest tech is seeing how companies influence each other. Brands get inspired by each other, and then implement those features into their own products. That's how I feel about the new HP OmniBook X Flip 16, a laptop with design elements found in competitors, but still unique in its own right. In fact, nothing about this computer feels stale.

Also: The best HP laptops you can buy: Expert tested

Déjà vu hit me when I took the OmniBook out of the box and looked at it for the first time. It has a lattice-style keyboard surrounded by heat vents, reminiscent of the Dell XPS 16 from 2024. Certain aspects are similar, although there are notable differences, namely its slim form factor, measuring just 0.61 inches thick and weighing 4.15 pounds.

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Because of this laptop's thin form, heat can be an issue. Much of the hot air is expelled through the bottom vents, so your legs may feel uncomfortable, but your hands will be okay. The keyboard warmed up a little after running nine different benchmark tests back to back, but that's as bad as it got.

Also: How to clear the cache on your Windows 11 PC (and why you shouldn't wait to do it)

Its speakers are located below the wrist rest, pointing towards the user. You won't have to fret over muffled audio, because these drivers are decently powerful. Multiple pieces of software (DTS: X, HP Audio Boost, and Poly Studio) work together to output impressive sound. The speakers don't get super loud, but the clarity lets you hear the finer details in songs. The OmniBook's woofers are quite nice, too, providing punchy bass.

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