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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.
If it's not broken...
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.
My review unit came in Glacial Silver with a slightly darker gray keyboard. I'm not always a big fan of rubber-capped keys like the ones on the OmniBook. They often feel "mushy", but that's not the case here. The keys have a decent travel distance, ensuring a comfortable typing experience on long workdays.
Cesar Cadenas/ZDNET
HP also enlarged the trackpad compared to the previous generation, giving users more room for unique hand gestures and smoother cursor control. What's interesting is that the trackpad sits slightly off-center. This results in a more natural hand position since more of your right hand can rest more comfortably on the wrist rest. The company also rounded off the edges of the wrist rest. You won't have sharp edges poking directly into your wrist.
Bright screen, quiet speakers
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