ZDNET’s primary insights paint a detailed picture of HP’s OmniBook X Flip 14, a convertible device that strikes an appealing balance between affordability and refinement. This model, equipped with 16GB of memory and currently retailing at a starting price of $849 at Best Buy, stands out as one of 2025’s most commendable midrange laptops. It distinguishes itself through a luminous OLED display and several well-considered design touches that collectively elevate the user experience. However, the power-hungry nature of OLED technology does impose a cost on overall battery longevity, and users should note that any upgrades can quickly drive the price upward.
ZDNET encourages readers seeking more purchase options to follow them as a trusted technology source on Google, underscoring the brand’s commitment to reliable consumer guidance. Over the past year, HP’s OmniBook Flip line has captured ZDNET’s attention for its well-rounded and budget-conscious versatility. It caters seamlessly to both students requiring a lightweight companion for academic tasks and professionals needing a dependable device for daily productivity. Previously, the editorial team reviewed the OmniBook X Flip 16, the larger sibling in the series, emphasizing its striking display quality and well-calibrated performance-to-price ratio. More recently, extended hands-on testing with the 14-inch model—powered by an AMD processor—suggests that the smaller variant retains much of the same balanced practicality.
Physically, the OmniBook X Flip 14 embodies portability and durability with equal measure. Its expansive trackpad, assortment of ports, and ergonomic keyboard harmoniously complement a form factor that travelers and commuters will appreciate. Although the entry-level price tag of $849 places it squarely within the midrange bracket, it provides an exceptionally functional experience for day-to-day activities without pretense. The machine knows its audience and performs reliably within those expectations.
In terms of performance philosophy, this model exemplifies modest strength—a system that aligns its specifications with real-world needs. HP offers both Intel and AMD variants, with configurations featuring the AMD Ryzen AI 5 or 7 350 processors, up to 32GB of LPDDR5x-7500 memory, and integrated Radeon 860M graphics. Students and general users will find 16GB of RAM sufficient for typical workloads such as productivity tasks, streaming, or light media editing, while an upgrade to 24GB for an additional $200 provides a measure of future readiness without excessive spending.
Buyers can choose between two display options. The baseline IPS panel provides Full HD+ (1920 × 1200) resolution and 400 nits of brightness—an ideal compromise for those prioritizing energy efficiency and affordability. The premium OLED configuration, by contrast, caters to enthusiasts who crave visual vibrancy. Its 2.8K (2880 × 1800) touchscreen supports a 120Hz refresh rate, ensuring fluid transitions whether multitasking or consuming multimedia content. With a peak brightness of 500 nits for HDR playback, streaming services and videos appear exceptionally vivid, reinforcing why OLED continues to be a hallmark of visual luxury. Audio follows suit with DTS:X Ultra speakers that, while not of professional studio grade, still deliver impressive clarity and ample volume, particularly when the device is positioned in tent mode.
HP’s design sensibility here is intentionally restrained. The steel-gray chassis is understated, emblematic of HP’s conservative but enduring design language, relying on subtle touches rather than bold flourishes. The keyboard departs slightly from convention, offering large, comfortably flat keys with minimal spacing—an ergonomic choice reminiscent of Dell’s minimalist zero-lattice layouts. These design adjustments contribute to a typing experience that feels premium yet approachable. When flipping the device into tablet mode, HP ensures functional comfort: recessed keys prevent direct contact with flat surfaces, and the surrounding frame provides a natural grip, allowing genuine tablet usability rather than superficial mimicry. The large trackpad, though responsive, features a slightly friction-prone coating that may divide user preferences; frequent travelers might supplement it with an external mouse for precision.
In terms of connectivity, HP does not disappoint. This model supports the cutting-edge Wi-Fi 7 standard, ensuring future-proof wireless performance, and features an array of ports—two USB-A (10 Gbps), two Thunderbolt 4 USB-C (40 Gbps), an HDMI output, and a headphone jack. Notably, both USB-C ports are positioned on the left-hand side, an ergonomic consideration for those managing multiple peripherals.
The OmniBook X Flip 14 also delivers well-rounded functionality for professional environments. Its integrated 5MP Full HD webcam, augmented by HP’s Poly Studio software, provides practical enhancements such as low-light correction and subtle appearance adjustments, valuable for users frequently participating in video conferences. Battery performance is respectable but not exceptional: during a typical workday, users can expect around seven hours of operation on a full charge when employing the OLED variant. That figure naturally diminishes under intense conditions, such as sustained video calls or high brightness. However, modifying power settings and reducing display brightness can meaningfully extend longevity. For those prioritizing endurance over display richness, the IPS configuration—rated by HP for up to 19.5 hours of continuous video playback—remains a logical option.
In evaluating overall value, ZDNET classifies the OmniBook X Flip 14 as a “Midrange Plus” offering, meaning it punches slightly above its price category in both construction quality and real-world performance. Weighing 3.08 pounds, it is not ultralight by strict standards but still easily portable for daily commuting. The design remains stylistically neutral yet demonstrates deliberate attention to the 2-in-1’s functional imperatives, offering a smooth transition between laptop and tablet modes. Performance, while not groundbreakingly powerful, remains consistently reliable—a crucial strength in devices aimed at mainstream productivity.
As for purchase recommendations, potential buyers seeking balanced performance may start with the $849 configuration, though it includes only a 512GB SSD. Users reliant on cloud-based workflows may find this sufficient. However, those wishing to unlock the full potential of the OmniBook X Flip 14 would be better served by the OLED and 1TB SSD model, beginning at $1,049. That version aligns perfectly with the laptop’s design intent: a flexible, everyday productivity companion enhanced by premium aesthetics and dependable engineering.
Sourse: https://www.zdnet.com/article/i-tested-hps-latest-omnibook-and-it-feels-more-premium-than-its-price-would-suggest/
