RTX 5080 gaming laptop deals haven't been looking too healthy as of late. The high-end rigs have taken the year's component shortages hard, with MSRPs scaling up the price ladder and the regular sale prices we'd grown accustomed to disappearing from the shelves. HP seems to have a surplus of older HP Omen Max machines in its warehouse this week, though.

The RTX 5080 configuration of the best gaming laptop I've tested has taken a tumble all the way down to $2,299.99 (was $3,799.99) in a sale that makes me feel a year younger already. There was a time when these machines settled at between $2,000 and $2,500 when discounts were applied (depending on whether you opted for an OLED or IPS display), but prices have been stuck closer to $3,000 for a few months now.

This is last year's model, the newer versions are branded as HyperX Omen Max, but it's those 2025 releases that hold all the power right now. 2026 has seen RAM shortages pushing prices of new gaming laptops sky-high - RTX 5060 machines now cost RTX 5070 prices and even the new 12GB RTX 5070 models are going to have a tough time defending their rates. Stock of last year's machines, however, has managed to fend off these increases a little longer. Yes, they're seeing their own surges now that demand is starting to squeeze supplies a little tighter, but you'll generally find better rates overall.

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It's handy, then, that the HP Omen Max 16 is actually a standout machine in its own right. I gave this rig 4.5/5 stars in my review last year, with only that particularly low battery life taking away from full marks. This isn't one to cart around all day without access to a plug point, but if you're happy keeping a charger (or USB-C) in your bag, you're getting a fantastic design and excellent performance all in one.

The spec on offer above matches the laptop I had on my test bench exactly, with that high-end Intel Core Ultra 9 275HX processor supporting the full RTX 5080 experience. In testing, it beat the similarly specced Asus ROG Zephyrus G16 and even the RTX 5090 Razer Blade 16 across Time Spy and Fire Strike, only just nudging under the latter in Steel Nomad.

At full QHD+ resolution and in each game's highest graphical setting, this 16-incher was pummelling lighter benchmarks like Shadow of the Tomb Raider (average 192fps) and Total War: Three Kingdoms (average 113fps), while keeping well above the 60fps baseline in Cyberpunk 2077's RT:Ultra run (average 70fps).

In short, this is a slimline and stylish gaming laptop that doesn't sacrifice performance for a more manageable form factor. That's something even the Asus ROG Zephyrus G and Razer Blade lines can't always match.

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For some different brand options, check out the best Asus gaming laptops I've tested as well as the best Razer laptops and best Alienware laptops on the market.

The HP Omen Max 16 is dead, long live the HyperX Omen Max 16 - or should it?

Name change aside, the 2026 refresh of the best gaming laptop I've tested so far has just hit the shelves, and that price tag is... not kind. Rather, it's the 16GB RAM and 512GB SSD that's looking a little awkward when standing next to this machine's predecessor this week. Priced up at $2,679.99 with an RTX 5070 Ti GPU and Intel Core Ultra 7 270HX Plus processor, this is a classic example of just how far value is sliding away from us in the portable PC space.

The new release may feature a total 300W power level, a boost that provided a tangible uplift in the MSI Raider Max 16 I reviewed earlier this month, a redesigned cooling system, and a high-speed polling rate on its keyboard - but at $2,679.99 it's still miles behind that aging 2025 release. An RTX 5080 HP Omen Max 16, with double the RAM and storage, and the older (but beefier) Intel Core Ultra 9 275HX comes in at $2,499.99 at Best Buy this week. That's tough to battle with.

I'm not completely shocked, though. We've known that 2026 was going to be an expensive year for gaming laptops for a long time now, and HP isn't being shifty here. Unfortunately, it looks like it's got the tough end of the stick when negotiating around RAM shortages and rising SSD prices.

It still doesn't change the fact that buying a 2025 HP Omen Max 16 is going to present vastly better value than opting for the new release. The RTX 5080 GPU under the hood is more comparable to an RTX 5070 Ti than the RTX 5070 in the brand's mid-range option last year, sure, but it's still a class up, and the older machine is still cheaper with (I'll say it again) double the RAM and storage.

Even without that Best Buy discount (a saving that's been sticking around for a good while now), the previous generation is only $170 more expensive, with a boosted processor, the full component trimmings, and a higher-class GPU.

I'd expect to find a 512GB SSD in a $700 gaming laptop; I'd get squirmy about recommending it in a $1,000+ machine. At $2,679.99, it's a shocking sign of the times.

HP isn't alone in this battle, though Razer's latest Blade launch seems to have stayed level with last year's prices. While I'm not sure Dell can completely blame the component crisis for launching an RTX 4050 machine at $1,300 earlier this month, rates are certainly up, and components are down.

The new HyperX Omen Max 16 isn't limited to this RTX 5070 Ti configuration. Availability spans up to the Intel Core Ultra 9 290HX, 64GB RAM, RTX 5090, and maintains that OLED display upgrade (note the model listed above uses the same IPS tech as the previous generation RTX 5080 version it's being compared with). AMD builds are also available - the same RTX 5070 Ti build sits at $2,699.99 with a Ryzen AI 7 450 CPU.

The moral of the story? HP isn't being sly here; the state of the industry right now means that the gaming laptops manufactured last year, with cheaper component prices, are always going to offer better value for money. The HyperX Omen Max launch is a symptom of the whole story rather than the greed of the individual brand, but it still demonstrates just how important it is not to fall into the 'newer=better' trap of 2026.

• See all gaming laptop deals at Best Buy

I'm also rounding up the best Asus gaming laptops and the best Razer laptops I've tested so far. Or take a look at the best Alienware laptops on the shelves right now.

HP is expanding its long line-up of gaming tech with the influx of a new range of HyperX goodies. Announced on April 30, 2026, the brand unveiled the HyperX Clutch Talon Controller, but as the resident audio tech nerd who regularly tests and rounds up the best gaming headsets, I was far more intrigued by the announcement of two new HyperX Cloud Stinger 3 gaming headsets.

Starting from $49.99 (HyperX), there are two new pairs available in total: the new HyperX Cloud Stinger 3 and the HyperX CloudX Stinger 3. Both headsets are available in wired and wireless models, with the wireless versions sporting both Bluetooth and 2.4Ghz support, along with a $99.99 MSRP. The main difference between the two is that the CloudX version is compatible with Xbox Series X/S consoles, yet both pairs share the best feature of the lot in my eyes, the up to 80-hour battery life.

Up to 80 hours of juice isn't the most impressive battery life I've seen in a headset. That award still goes to the brand's own HyperX Cloud Alpha Wireless, which can reach an unrivaled 300 hours on a single charge. However, it is pretty impressive given the $99.99 MSRP of both the HyperX Cloud Stinger 3 and the CloudX Stinger 3. Some of my personal favorite pairs of cups around a similar price range, like that of the $109.99 SteelSeries Arctis Nova 3 Wireless, can only muster up to 40 hours max, whereas this new Cloud Stinger 3 can achieve double that.

It's not the only thing these new headsets have going for them. Both pairs are also equipped with dual wireless 2.4 GHz and Bluetooth wireless, noise-cancelling swivel to mute microphones, and 50 mm-sized audio drivers. The official HyperX product page, nor the HP Press Release, doesn't elaborate on the type of drivers used, other than that they're "big," but their large size, combined with the advanced spatial audio support on PC via the latest NGENUITY Audio Engine, is a surefire combo for high-quality sound.

While the HyperX Cloud Stinger lineup of headsets has got some new additions, so has the NGENUITY software that goes along with them. It's available to download straight from the HyperX official website and is powered by HEAR360 to introduce parametric and graphic equalizers, game and chat audio balance, along with the ability to customize the headset's spatial audio and spatial chat features.

The NGENUITY audio engine's new upgrade also includes real-time dynamic microphone processing, voice monitoring, EQ presets, and AI noise reduction for these new headsets, and a long range of existing HyperX products. Including that of the HyperX Cloud Alpha 2 Wireless, which I reviewed late last year, and more of the brand's accessories you might currently have in your gaming setup.

Both the HyperX Cloud Stinger 3 and HyperX CloudX Stinger 3 are available in black and white colorways for $99.99 at HyperX today. If that's out of your price range, you can grab the wired versions for $49.99 instead, which are available for both the PS5 and Xbox Series X/S consoles.

• View all HyperX gaming headsets at Amazon

Check out our guides to the best PS5 headsets, best PC headsets for gaming, and the best Nintendo Switch headsets if you need an even bigger battery life.

It's always a little embarrassing when a retailer beats a brand on its own prices. That's exactly what's happening this week, though, and on the best gaming laptop I've tested so far, no less.

The HP Omen Max 16 is down to $2,449.99 at Best Buy this week, a $400 discount on the $2,849.99 MSRP for the RTX 5080 configuration. The only problem for HP is that its own web store currently has a $2,799.99 sales price on the exact same spec. Over there, the brand is touting a $1,000 saving pretty proudly - but it's far from the best deal on the web.

Best Buy is obviously the way to go if you're in the market for a high-end gaming laptop this week. Is the HP Omen Max 16 right for you though?

I tested this exact spec on review, and it easily took out the competition, even putting the (admittedly slimmer) RTX 5090 Razer Blade 16 on blast. That GPU gets revved up with 175W TDP, giving it plenty of space to handle more demanding games without breaking a sweat. It's a dark horse in this race, with a relatively slimline chassis, fantastic display (even at this IPS level), and a gorgeous design all propping up that excellent performance.

You'll be running Cyberpunk 2077 in top settings at full resolution without even nearing that 60fps threshold. I was at a solid 70fps in my testing under these conditions, with lighter games like Shadow of the Tomb Raider nearing 200fps.

The HP Omen Max 16 has been at the top of my gaming laptop recommendation list since it launched, and so far, very few gaming laptops have come close to knocking it off the top spot. If you're looking to sink some cash into a future-proofed system that can run all of today's games no problem, this is absolutely where I'd be looking first.

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Checking out the competition? I'm also reviewing all the best Alienware laptops and best Asus gaming laptops. Or, for more slimline options check out the best Razer laptops on the market.

HP is running a 72 hour flash sale this week, and we're coming up to the tail end of the event. That's not stopping the HP Omen Max 16, the best gaming laptop I've tested so far, from dropping a whole $1,000 down the price scale though. There's just one hitch. You'll have to be happy sacrificing an OLED display.

The RTX 5080 gaming laptop has sailed down from $3,099.99 to $2,099.99 at HP this week, a fantastic rate for this GPU and even better considering this rig sits at the top of my recommendation list. Instead of the OLED panel normally on the shelves, though, you're getting the same QHD+ 240Hz IPS screen I had on my test bench.

RTX 5080 gaming laptops don't get this close to $2,000 all too often, especially at this time of year. The closest you'll get to this kind of pricing at Best Buy is $2,399 on an MSI Vector 16 AI, and Newegg's cheapest RTX 5080 rigs are all open-box or refurbished - even then you're looking at $1,799.99 at the lowest end of the spectrum. If you're looking brand new, Newegg's cheapest offer matches HP's above - on the exact same configuration, of the exact same gaming laptop.

This is the cheapest RTX 5080 gaming laptop I've seen on the market this week, then, and it just so happens to be the rig I've recommended the most over the last year.

Should you buy the HP Omen Max 16?

Ok, so that OLED sacrifice might be a big one if you're upgrading your rig with the intention of improving overall image quality. The jump to OLED is a big one, and it's a leap I've greatly appreciated from my own Razer Blade 14. In a dark room, you'll benefit from far greater contrast for a particularly immersive, impactful experience.

At the same time, I had this same IPS screen when I first completed my HP Omen Max 16 review and was still impressed. With a good amount of energy behind ever frame and a surprising amount of power behind particularly vibrant scenes those coming from an IPS screen are still going to have a good time here. The Omen Max 16 also doesn't suffer from the same glossy glare that holds many rigs (like the Lenovo Legion 5) running OLED panels back. That means it's just as potent in a well-lit environment as it is a dark bedroom.

It's still a downgrade, but with the OLED option setting you back $2,979.99 at Best Buy this week, it's a sacrifice I'd urge you to consider.

For nearly a grand less, you're getting the same RTX 5080 graphics grunt while dropping a little in your CPU power. The AMD Ryzen AI 9 HX 375 sits marginally behind the Intel Core Ultra 9 275HX available in that Best Buy offer, and in the configuration I tested. Considering I use an even weaker AMD Ryzen AI 9 365 processor whenever I'm not testing a new gaming laptop, and still get along with both work and gameplay just fine, it's not going to be the end of the world.

For reference, the RTX 5080 HP Omen Max 16 I had on the bench posted some fantastic benchmark results. It's beaten the RTX 5080 Alienware 16 Area-51, Asus ROG Zephyrus G16, and even the RTX 5090 Razer Blade 16 in 3D Mark Fire Strike, while trading places throughout other tests.

Put simply, this is a machine that can handle the most demanding games at its top resolution in the highest graphical settings. There's not much more you can ask for than that.

If performance is at the top of your priority list, but you still want to keep that svelte, work-friendly, 16-inch form factor this is a no-brainer. The Omen Max 16 is among the more powerful gaming laptops I've had on my test bench and it's far from the most expensive.

However, if you're either coming from an OLED gaming laptop or expressly looking to upgrade your visuals it's worth holding out for a $2,500 sales price on the more premium model.

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I'm also rounding up all the best Asus gaming laptops and the best Alienware laptops on the market. For something a little more slimline, check out the best Razer laptops I've tested so far.

I have gaming laptop news coming out of my ears every January, and CES 2026 is proving no different. I always keep a close eye on my top recommendations and this year HP is changing more than just its processor. The previously-named HP Omen Max 16 will relaunch as the HyperX Omen Max 16 in 2026, with the inclusion of new Intel Core Ultra 200HX processors and AMD Ryzen AI CPUs. With an upgrade to 300W of total power, an additional 50W over the previous generation, this year's refresh is all about under-hood performance.

Not only that, but HP is removing itself from the title entirely this year. The brand is merging its HyperX and Omen divisions to turn my favorite machine into the 'HyperX Omen Max 16.' Because why not.

It's a mid-cycle step up for many of the best gaming laptops on the market this year, with RTX 50-Series GPUs continuing to mature and last year's push for OLED displays levelling out across the shelves. The story's the same here, which makes last year's releases all the more compelling.

We're only a year out from Nvidia's RTX 50-Series launch, so there are no major native graphical upgrades out for 2026 (though DLSS 4.5 is eyeing us up from the horizon). An extra 50W of total power is nice to have, but if you'd prefer to save yourself some cash I can certainly see a future where 2025's HP Omen Max 16 is vastly better value overall.

Of course, the material benefits to that extra boost will be seen when I get my hands on the new release, but for now I'm keeping a close eye on the price tags on both generations.

For now, we only know that the HyperX Omen Max 16 will be available in the spring, with those all-important numbers hitting closer to that time. This is a machine capable of running up to an RTX 5090 with all-new processors, so don't expect to leave that piggybank unbroken.

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I'm also hunting down all the best Asus gaming laptops and the best Razer laptops on the market. Or, take a look at the new roster of the best Alienware laptops heading our way.

I feel like I'm writing about the HP Omen Max 16 every other day at the moment, but it seriously impressed me in testing and sees far more regular discounts than its contemporaries. How can I not shout about the lowest price I've seen on an RTX 50-Series machine, especially when it just so happens to have landed on the best gaming laptop I've tested so far.

HP has dropped the 2025 Omen Max 16 down to just $1,199.99 from its $1,999.99 starting position. You'll need to move fast if you're in the market for an RTX 5060 configuration, though - this $800 saving comes to an end today. At the time of writing you've got just under 19 hours to take advantage of this offer, and considering I've never seen an RTX 50-Series gaming laptop go near this price in the past it's well worth the leap.

The specs

This is a bargain build, so you're not getting the top-line Intel Ultra processor or RTX 5080 graphics card that I tested for my HP Omen Max 16 review. However, those components worked particularly hard under the chassis of that more expensive model, outpacing others particularly easily. That means this rig's RTX 5060 performance should stand tall.

The AMD Ryzen AI 7 H 350 under the hood performs at around the same level as a more traditional Ryzen 7, though has more AI features than integrated graphics grunt. Still, with the RTX 5060 in tow this is a solid spec for faster 1080p competitive players while those looking to play more demanding cinematic titles like Cyberpunk 2077 and Black Myth: Wukong might have to lean a little heavier on DLSS upscaling for the best experience.

16GB RAM is a little short compared to high-end rigs, but considering you're only running an RTX 5060 up top it's still more than workable. I generally recommend 32GB to anyone picking up an RTX 5070 Ti and above, though if you want to future-proof yourself right from the get-go it's worth investigating upgrade options.

Should you buy the HP Omen Max 16?

I loved my time with the HP Omen Max 16. It's a slimline device that looks and feels far less imposing on a desk top, while still offering high-end performance under the hood. That's a rare combination. The best Razer laptops often drop some of this end power to keep their waistlines trim, while the best Alienware laptops bulk up to spit out high frame rates. Here, you've got both style and substance.

The RTX 5080 version I tested certainly impressed from its benchmarks. Not only was it comfortably out-performing others in its class, but it even took on RTX 5090 numbers in certain runs.

The display offers a good amount of detail and clarity, though drops the punch of fancier OLED rigs. I'd certainly take performance over that additional visual pop if you're looking to push framerates to their limits, though.

I have two concerns that might stop you from buying the HP Omen Max 16, but they're certainly not enough to keep it from the top of my list. First up, the keyboard does exhibit a surprising amount of flex for a machine in this price range. It's noticeable when casually typing. It doesn't actually detract from the experience as a whole (there are some particularly snappy switches in here making up for that extra bend), but if you already know you hate a softer deck it's worth considering.

The Omen's battery life isn't great either. If you need a laptop for hybrid work and play while on the go I'd recommend something with a sturdier charge under the hood.

I'm also rounding up all the best Asus gaming laptops. Or, take a look at the best gaming handhelds and best gaming PCs for more ways to play.

I've just added the HP Omen Max 16 to my roundup of the best gaming laptops on the market right now, and lo and behold it's $700 off.

The very same RTX 5080 configuration I've just spent the last two weeks testing has dropped its price from $3,299.99 to $2,599.99 at HP's own store this week, for a massive discount and a particularly tasty final price. It's going to be tough to find a rig of this caliber (that will run at its full 175W TGP) for that price particularly often.

While it has been $200 cheaper in the past, that was during a brief flash sale when the 16-inch gaming laptop first launched. The MSRP was set slightly lower during that promotional period, which means I'm not expecting to see too many improvements over today's sale prices in the near future.

Should you buy the HP Omen Max 16?

The fans on the HP Omen Max 16 have only just settled from my testing process, but it's already soared into a position among my top recommendations. The framerate and synthetic benchmark numbers I managed to squeeze out of this rig at full throttle were incredible, rivalling some RTX 5090 machines in fact.

Here are the numbers. The RTX 5080 HP Omen Max 16 beat the RTX 5090 Razer Blade 16 in most titles, coming out on top across Shadow of the Tomb Raider, Total War: Three Kingdoms, and Horizon Zero Dawn Remastered. It didn't quite claim victory in larger releases, but only slightly lagged behind in Cyberpunk 2077 and Black Myth Wukong.

It absolutely roared through 3D Mark's synthetic benchmarks as well, nudging ahead of the Blade 16's 37,246 Fire Strike score with a 37,344 score of its own and topping the Blade's Time Spy score in a similar manner. It did fall short by 425 points in Steel Nomad, but it still tore past the 2025 Asus ROG Zephyrus G16 by an additional 1,242 points.

Performance is big, but it's not the end of the story. The HP Omen Max 16 also features a super slick design with a crisp white finish that evades fingerprints and balances chassis size with portability better than most slimline devices. Yes, you're dropping the OLED display of Asus and Razer competitors, and there's a little drop in overall vibrancy, but it's still sharp, vivid, and bold overall.

No gaming laptop is perfect, though, and I wouldn't recommend the HP Omen Max 16 to anyone looking to run their device away from a power outlet. If you need a dedicated 'gaming' machine then there's nowhere I'd rather look at this price point, but considering the battery struggles to extend much further than two hours even at 0% screen and RGB brightness and in eco mode this isn't one for on-the-go work and play.

I'm also rounding up all the best Razer laptops, best Asus gaming laptops, and the best Alienware laptops for those after a different brand.

The HP Omen Max 16 is everything I wanted it to be. I'm a disillusioned fan of this range, having landed with a GTX 1050 Omen as my first ever gaming laptop before falling out of love with its fairly janky releases in the years following. It's had some wins in the last few years, even if the more recent HP Omen 17 was fairly uninspired, but 2025's release changes everything.

This is a powerful machine, but it's wrapped up in a slick, streamlined chassis that keeps things slim while still hiding enough space to let those components reach their full potential. With a price tag that holds its own against the rest of the market and a wealth of additional features packed in, this is one of the best gaming laptop I've tested in 2025 so far.

Configurations

HP has gone wide with its configuration options for the Omen Max 16, spanning the mid to high range in its GPU offerings and splitting devices across both Intel and AMD. We kick off at an RTX 5070 with Intel's Core Ultra 7 255HX processor for a $2,299.99 / £2,399.99 base price, soaring up to the full-whack RTX 5090 and Intel Core Ultra 9 275HX / AMD Ryzen AI 9 HX 375, high-end models costing around $3,600 / £4,000.

The model I'm testing packs an RTX 5080 GPU and Intel Core Ultra 9 processor, with 32GB RAM and a 1TB SSD into a $3,299.99 / £2,999 price tag. That's not cheap, but it's certainly not as expensive as some.

An RTX 5080 configuration of the 2025 Razer Blade 16 comes with a slightly weaker AMD Ryzen AI 9 365 processor and equal RAM / storage amounts for $3,499.99 (though with an upgrade to an OLED display). The Alienware 16 Area-51 that's patiently waiting its turn on my testing bench goes for $3,349.99 with the same specs as well.

The Asus ROG Strix G16 lowers the price tag to $2,899.99, while the Asus ROG Strix Scar 16 halves your RAM (but doubles your storage) for the same $3,299.99 MSRP.

That means the HP Omen Max 16 sits squarely in the middle for an RTX 5080 rig, though with the additional benefits of cheaper configurations that others may drop.

There's one difference between this rig and others in its price league that makes the HP Omen Max 16 stand just a little taller. It's on sale far more regularly. Even as I'm writing this review, the configuration I'm testing has dropped from $3,299.99 to $2,599.99 and it's far from the first time I've seen savings here.

Design

I unbox a lot of gaming laptops, but every now and then I unsleeve a machine that makes me audibly coo. The HP Omen Max's crisp white chassis and soft-touch coating was love at first sight.

That white has stayed resistant to stains and scuffs in the time I've been carting it around and the lighter tone means fingerprints aren't an issue either. The main chassis' clean lines and tapered lip design makes a statement without being too bold - that's where the RGB comes in.

HP has outfitted the Omen Max 16 with a strikingly vibrant set of LEDs under the main keyboard, as well as a light strip that casts a clean glow on the surface below. It's not quite as strong as that of the Asus ROG Strix Scar 18 or the Asus ROG Strix G16, but it still creates a slick floating effect.

This smart form factor means the Omen offers the best of both worlds. It's easy enough to throw into a backpack and doesn't overwhelm a desk setup like chunkier models, but there's still enough space to let those components breathe. Rather than the boxy, square designs of the best Razer laptops or the Asus ROG Zephyrus G16, the Max 16 maintains a 'gaming laptop' shape but with a slimmer profile overall.

The back panel is also free from larger RGB panels or garish stamps, with a classy Omen logo stamped into the lid and covered with a sophisticated glossy effect. Inside, we do have a little iconography going on, but it's restricted to a light gray '016' in the lower right corner and a 'Max' stamp on the opposite side. Those dotted grills running along the top look very HP as well, keeping space for a speaker without overwhelming the internal design.

Display

I'll say it now, Razer and the best Asus gaming laptops have an edge on their displays. The HP Omen Max 16 is configurable with an OLED panel (though there are fewer of those options on the shelves at the moment) but I've been testing the standard IPS. There's a drop in vibrancy and contrast compared to more premium display options out there, but this is still a pretty face.

It doesn't quite pack the same punch as the IPS featured on the Asus ROG Strix G16, which does a particularly good job of keeping its color contrast up without an OLED screen, but there's still a nice amount of energy here. Color reproduction is well balanced with more naturally vivid scenes benefitting from a satisfying injection of power.

HP still maintains its upper hand against the competition, as OLED options are available, and the IPS screen I tested was still impressive. It's just not quite the jewel in the Max's crown.

Ports

The HP Omen Max 16 is one of the few slimline 16-inch gaming laptops I've seen throwing its more permanent ports on the rear of the device. This is a big win in my books. I hate having cables sprawled out across the desk, especially when they start interfering with my mouse hand.

The Max 16 positions its power, RJ45, HDMI 2.1, and a USB-A port on the back, keeping the sides free for more ad-hoc accessories. The second USB-A port is the only connection on the right flank, with two Thunderbolt 4s (and the 3.5mm audio jack) sitting neatly on the left. If you're regularly swapping out USB-A devices, that rear placement might grow a little tiresome, but having a more accessible port on the side keeps things a little more versatile.

You do drop a Type-A connection from the Asus ROG Strix G16 and Razer Blade 16, which both offer three traditional ports, though the Omen Max doubles the number of Thunderbolt options compared to Asus's devices. Razer builds off an AMD base, so these are swapped for USB-4.

If you're looking to wire in your internet, it's also worth noting that both the Razer Blade 16 and Asus ROG Zephyrus G16 sacrifice the RJ45 present on the HP Omen Max 16, but trade in an SD card reader in its place.

Keyboard and trackpad

HP's keyboard looks oh so inviting with its pudding style keycaps and soft finish, but actually going hands on with the deck reveals one issue. There's a noticeable amount of flex in this deck, even when typing more casually. Thankfully, that bending doesn't equate to a spongy feel overall - in fact, there's a good amount of spring and tension in these keys. It is still a little disappointing in a more premium build, though.

You're not getting the snap of Razer's scissor switches, but it's still a satisfying feel. With plenty of action under each press, there's a good amount of space for fast repeated inputs and an actuation pressure that still feels comfortable during longer typing periods.

Functionality is a top priority here, though. The HP Omen Max 16 is one of the few 16-inch gaming laptops I've tested with a full number pad. Yes, things are a little squished on that right hand side, with half-sized up/down arrows feeling like more of a sacrifice than anything else on the deck.

The trackpad feels fantastic, with just enough tension underneath to provide a light but tactile full click. Tap gestures are picked up immediately and with a speedy response from the system, while the surface area feels smooth under the fingertips as well. Overall, it's a much better pad than the somewhat hollow version on the Asus ROG Strix G16.

Performance

I tested the HP Omen Max 16 with an RTX 5080 under the hood, but this thing behaves more like an RTX 5090 at times. At full throttle (the system's "Unleashed Mode" with full power unlocked), this machine tore through synthetic benchmarks and in-game framerates sometimes knocking far more expensive machines out of the race.

First up, 3D Mark. These are artificial GPU tests that stress various elements within the system's graphical rendering systems to spit out a final score at the end of each run. After three attempts, the HP Omen Max's final average scores are below.

The RTX 5080 inside this rig beat the RTX 5090 in the Blade 16 across both Time Spy and Fire Strike runs, though did fall slightly behind in the newer and more demanding Steel Nomad course. Still, it's well above my current overall top-pick, the Lenovo Legion Pro 7i Gen 9 (which sports a previous generation RTX 4080) and maintains its lead against similar Asus devices as well.

In-game, the HP Omen Max 16 trades places with the Razer Blade 16 a lot more, especially in FHD+ resolution. At 1920 x 1200 it's slightly beaten by Lenovo's previous juggernaut in easier runs like Shadow of the Tomb Raider, but comes out at the top of the pack across Total War: Three Kingdoms and Horizon Zero Dawn Remastered.

Things get a little spicier when we crank that resolution up to the full QHD+. Here, the HP Omen Max 16 takes the lead over the previous generation Lenovo, while also beating out the higher-specced Razer Blade 16 in all but Cyberpunk 2077 and Black Myth: Wukong.

Of course, the RTX 5080 isn't better than the RTX 5090, but it's allowed to rev its engines a little more in this iteration. The HP Omen Max 16 might not offer top-of-the-range performance in more demanding titles, but it's still leading the pack across the majority of casual games, and Horizon is far from an easy run. Of course, the RTX 50-Series also comes with 4x Multi-Frame Generation which can bump those framerates in more demanding titles should you wish to use it.

When you consider that the RTX 5090 Blade 16 I tested for these numbers comes in at $4,499.99, the Max is thriving.

A lot of that is being helped by the CPU as well. I'll eat my hat after saying this (I've not been a fan of Intel's Ultra-range processors so far), but the Core Ultra 9 275HX is a beast under this hood. It's beaten out the Intel i9-14900HX, the previous generation's gaming golden child, inside the Lenovo Legion Pro 7i and even topped the much larger Asus ROG Strix Scar 18's numbers.

For an even greater sense of just how far this CPU can go when pushed, it's second only to the massive MSI Raider A18 HX with a blinder of brain in the AMD Ryzen 9 9955HX3D in a humungous chassis.

All of that data is recorded, as always, in the HP Omen Max 16's highest performance settings. That means fan noise, and lots of it. If you want to play this way for long periods of time you'll need to crank that cooling up and things get incredibly loud.

Battery

The HP Omen Max 16 may thrive when connected to power, but it flounders without that cable attached. I played Doom: The Dark Ages on battery and can normally still set a gaming laptop to performance mode without being plugged in. Despite disabling 'balanced' mode from Windows itself, however, it seems that the Omen Max 16 doesn't go full into its more powerful preset without that tether. That meant I could barely make it through a mission. The whole game feels slowed to a snail's pace, with an almost laughable amount of time between frames and a grainy visual profile overall.

This is how gaming on the go used to be, but I've been impressed by more recent gaming laptops' abilities to run titles smoothly without a power connection. It's simply not an option here.

At 50% screen and 25% RGB brightness, I drained the battery to zero in just over an hour - about average for a machine of the previous generation, but still below some scores across RTX 50-Series machines.

In Balanced Mode with 50% screen brightness and 25% RGB lighting, the HP Omen Max 16 fell short of the Asus ROG Strix G16's 6.5-hour lifespan, coming in at just under four hours.

Should you buy the HP Omen Max 16?

Yes, it's got some battery woes and there's a little flexing to the main keyboard but ultimately the HP Omen Max 16 is the most well-rounded gaming laptop I've tested so far. With a comfortable, sleek, portable design but performance metrics that push larger chassis out the way, the Max is a must-see machine. It's at a similar price to slimmer, more OLED-friendly devices, and its overall productivity experience isn't going to match that of the Razer Blade 16. It is, however, far more likely to drop that MSRP (and has been regularly over the last couple of months). That makes it my new go-to for anyone after a future-proofed rig for a value-packed price/performance ratio - as long as you keep it plugged in.

How I tested the HP Omen Max 16

I used the HP Omen Max 16 for two weeks before completing this review, while also testing directly against the Asus ROG Strix G16. I performed three sets of 3D Mark graphical benchmarks, running Time Spy, Fire Strike, and Steel Nomad three times each and taking an average result as each final score. I also tested the rig in in-game benchmark scenarios across Shadow of the Tomb Raider, Total War: Three Kingdoms, Horizon Forbidden West, Cyberpunk 2077, and Black Myth Wukong. Each of these tests were also run three times, across 'High' and 'Highest' settings in FHD+ and QHD+ resolutions. I then performed separate DLSS Frame Generation tests in Cyberpunk 2077.

All performance benchmarks were recorded in the system's 'Unleashed' power mode, with full available wattage supplied.

For more information on how we test gaming laptops, check out the full GamesRadar+ Hardware Policy.

I'm also hunting down the best Alienware laptops to buy right now - or check out the best gaming handhelds and best gaming PCs for different ways to play.

RTX 5080 gaming laptop pre-orders are reaching a fever pitch this week, and HP has sweetened the deal on its very own Omen Max 16. This is a $2,899.99 gaming laptop at full price, and it's been up on the shelves for a little while now. However, the brand has slashed $500 off that MSRP during the pre-order stage, making it one of the few value-busting rigs in the new generation.

You'll find the RTX 5080 HP Omen Max 16 available for $2,399.99 at HP's own site right now. That's actually a fantastic price considering the new-generation GPU, latest Intel Core Ultra 9 275HX processor, and 32GB RAM. It was tough to find even RTX 4080 gaming laptops for much cheaper over Black Friday this year, making today's offer particularly compelling.

With its reverse cooling fans and strong pricing, the HP Omen Max 16 will take on the best gaming laptops on the market when it starts shipping on April 29. If you're in the UK, it's worth noting that the same machine is also available for pre-order, though at £2,999 there's no discount up for grabs.

Should you pre-order the HP Omen Max 16?

Aside from some more budget-minded MSI chassis, the HP Omen Max 16 is actually one of the more decently priced RTX 5080 gaming laptops available for pre-order right now, especially with that price cut in play. The Razer Blade 16 will set you back $3,499.99 for a similar configuration and the Alienware 16 Area-51 matches the same components for $3,199.99.

You're spending more than $1,000 less to get the same kind of horsepower in the HP Omen Max 16 and benefitting from some of the brand's newer innovations as well. HP made sure we all knew about the Omen Max's new cooling developments when it was announced back at CES. Sure, there's all the usual vapor chamber technology packed in here (though this is the first time an Omen machine has used it), but reversible fans also spin backwards to keep your system free from dust. Those particles aren't to be underestimated either, any build up certainly contributes to weakening cooling performance over time.

Today's pre-order deal sits on an Intel model, but AMD is also in this game with Ryzen AI 9 HX 375 processing options joining the shelves. If you so choose, you can also equip the HP Omen 16 Max with an OLED display, instead of the stock IPS panel.

I'm also hunting down all the best Asus gaming laptops and the best Alienware laptops on the market. Or, for more Sneki vibes, check out the best Razer laptops I've tested so far.

HP just announced the latest Omen Max 16 gaming laptop, a next-generation machine with the latest Intel Core Ultra 9 and AMD Ryzen AI 9 processors, up to 64GB RAM, and RTX 50-Series graphics cards. But I'm more interested in the cooling system.

As components get more powerful, they need increasingly sophisticated tech to keep them running smoothly. Most of the best gaming laptops employ Vapor Chamber thermal pads as well as a robust system of fans and vents to keep airflow moving, but these machines last a long time - and dust often undoes all that hard work pretty quickly. So what did HP decide to do? The HP Omen Max 16 periodically reverses its fans to dissipate dust, preventing build up and keeping that system running efficiently for far longer. That's on paper, anyway - I've yet to see it in action.

It's such a simple solution I can't believe nobody's done it before. Unless they have, and found out it doesn't work. Regardless, on a show floor obsessed with graphics card upgrades and AI integrations, it's refreshing to see a brand focusing on innovations in other build aspects that we know contribute significantly to performance without the brute force of a whole new set of components.

Overall, the rig is HP's most powerful Omen gaming laptop to date. Configuration options span CPUs including the AMD Ryzen AI 9 HX 375, AMD Ryzen AI 7 350, Intel Core Ultra 9 275HX, and Intel Core Ultra 7 255HX, with between 16GB and 64GB DDR5-5600 RAM. Cheaper specs can ship with 512GB SSDs, but there's also space for larger 2TB options as well. Meanwhile the display tops it all off with a QHD+ OLED 240Hz panel running with 500 nit HDR in full edge-to-edge glass. That's a screen built for the very top spec, with cheaper IPS panels at both QHD+ and FHD+ resolutions.

Alongside the Max 16, HP also announced its new Omen AI Beta program. It's a piece of software that promises to optimize your system's settings with specific presets based on your own gameplay and hardware. I'm less convinced on this one at the moment. At launch, Counter Strike 2 is the only compatible game, but I'm more than happy to be proved wrong should HP fill this library with a strong supply of titles.

If you're not sold on HP's new cooling tech, check out the best Razer laptops and the best Alienware laptops on the market. Or, take a look at the best Asus gaming laptops available now.

HyperX has added five new gaming mice to its Pulsefire range this year, with the new Saga line offering brand-new customization options that go beyond traditional DPI and keybinding adjustments. Both the wireless HyperX Pulsefire Saga Pro and the wired Pulsefire Saga use a modular chassis with magnetically attaching main mouse clicks and rear domes that can be swapped in and out for a range of different grip types.

That's a fix for something even the best gaming mouse models can sometimes struggle with - if you've got all the internal specs you want, you're pretty stumped if the actual chassis doesn't bend to your will. It's a novel concept, where personalization is usually limited to software features, HP's latest range can shape itself to whatever you feel is most comfortable - especially since additional parts can be downloaded and 3D printed.

That last part does make it seem like HyperX won't be releasing its own accessories alongside the Pulsefire Saga and Pulsefire Saga Pro - which would defeat the purpose for anyone who doesn't have one of the best 3D printers stashed away. The Saga comes with two shells, two button covers, and two side button pairs straight out of the box, so there is still some wiggle room from day one.

Both mice feature HyperX's 26K sensor running at up to 650 IPS and 50G acceleration. The wireless Saga Pro is capped at a sensible 4,000Hz polling speed, but the cable on the Saga allows it to move up to more competitive 8,000Hz rates as well. Optical main switches will make for a faster response than more traditional mechanical clickers, and - of course - everything will be customizable with the brand's Ngenuity software. The wireless Saga Pro comes in at a slightly higher 79g, taking it away from the featherlight FPS-first mice across the rest of the market. However, if you want that reliable 8K polling in the wired Saga you can slim that waist down to 69g. That's still a little heavier than more premium entries from Razer or Logitech, but it's a cheaper device overall.

The HyperX Pulsefire Saga and Saga Pro will be available from March, with the Saga starting at $79.99 and the Saga Pro coming in at $119.99. HP also announced the budget-minded Pulsefire Fuse at CES this year, a 75g ambidextrous wireless mouse with a 12,000 DPI sensor that runs off a replaceable AAA battery for $49.99. Plus, the Pulsefire Haste line is seeing a refresh with the 2 S and 2 Pro 4K, two wireless gaming mouse models with a slick design, low weight, and the same HyperX 26K sensor. They will launch for $149.99 and $119.99 respectively.

We're also rounding up all the best Logitech gaming mouse models and the best left-handed gaming mice. If you're looking to keep your pointer running smoothly, though, check out the best mouse pads for gaming.

HP’s budget Victus range is a little younger than the competition, but the most recent refresh brings a massive range of components into the equation. This is a bargain hunter’s best friend, offering fantastic 1080p gaming with some sacrifices along the way. Just how much those sacrifices will impact your day to day play will depend on how much you value your display and keyboard, but considering the very best gaming laptops can run you for three times the Victus’s price point, it’s a cheaper avenue well worth exploring. I’ll be primarily comparing the HP Victus 16 against two similarly priced rivals; the Acer Nitro 16 and the Asus TUF A15 (currently my top pick for a budget gaming laptop).  

Design

•  Subtle but still slick aesthetic 
•  Feels less gamerfied than other cheap gaming laptops 
•  Slightly heavier but still portable 

The HP Victus 16 keeps things low profile. While that was a thorn in the side of the bland-looking HP Omen 17, this smaller rig seems to get away with it. Maybe it’s the less ‘rounded’ look, with sharper angular corners and a more ‘gamified’ rear shelf, or maybe it’s the fact that the glossy Victus logo on the lid just looks cooler than an Omen stamp - but this machine just looks and feels slicker. 

This is a cheaper gaming laptop, so an all-plastic construction is to be expected. However, I was impressed with how sturdy everything feels - there’s no rattling in the main chassis and no creaking when grabbed in a hurry. While the hinge does have some considerable wobble and the screen flexes far more than you’d find on something like the Razer Blade 16, that opening mechanism never feels crunchy or loose - something I often find in more budget-oriented rigs. Unlike the Omen, however, this is not a one-hand opening job, the base does lift when the screen reaches the halfway point. There’s also no extended lip around the top bezel to help either. That said, the hinge extends along the centre of the device - a far more durable solution long-term compared to the bracket hinges on the Nitro 16 and TUF A15. 

At 5.14lbs, the HP Victus 16 is lighter than the Acer Nitro 16 (6.15lbs), a much stockier device overall, but is slightly heavier than the Asus TUF A15 (4.85lbs). That’s still easily within the realm of portability, especially considering the Victus is actually (and only just) the thinnest machine in this testing pool at 0.94-inches compared to the 0.98-inches of both the Asus and Acer. While it puts a little more strain on the back compared to the 4lb Razer Blade 14 I tend to carry around, I was still able to comfortable travel with the Victus in a backpack for a couple of hours.

Under the hood, you’ll find a one-zone RGB keyboard offset against the darker gray base with a lighter keycap color. That’s a nice touch, steering clear of looking more like an everyday machine while still avoiding tacky gamer frills. Asus tends to color its WASD keys or make them translucent on its TUF range and it can cheapen the experience. Overall, I prefer the internal slab of the Victus over the fairly heavily gamerfied Asus TUF A15. It also looks far more grown up than the heavy white bordering on the Acer Nitro 16 as well. The only branding you’ll find inside is an almost imperceptible gray Victus logo at the bottom of the display chin, a small Victus stamp to the left side of the keyboard, and a B&O logo squeezed in the corner of the number pad. 

Features

•  Loads of configurations available 
•  Display lacks brightness and vibrancy 
•  Soft feeling keyboard 

The HP Victus 16’s configuration options are fairly typical of a budget laptop. You’ve got a whole roster of AMD and Intel builds available, running from RTX 4050 to RTX 4070 graphics cards, with individual spec sheets that seem to change with every retailer you check. It’s a little tricky to fully map the Victus’s full range, especially considering there are still older RTX 30-Series models floating around and even some with ludicrously slow 60Hz displays. However, the majority of models on the shelves right now pair a low to mid-range processor with an entry level GPU. My Ryzen 5 7640HS / RTX 4050 build comes with 16GB DDR5 RAM and a 1TB M.2 SSD, but most models on HP’s site up that CPU to an 8000-series, for example. 

The specs put this machine at the lower end of mid-range or, more often, in the budget category, so its feature set does make a lot of sense. The display, for example, is more than serviceable at 144Hz FHD, but it lacks the brightness and vivid immersion of more expensive machines. I’m still able to see everything I need to, but darker scenes need a darker room and colors rarely pop off the screen. It’s a little dulled in everything from contrast to sharpness as well. Still, that HDMI 2.1 port means you can easily output to a dedicated gaming monitor and still reap the rewards of a lower price tag. 

That’s not to say the display is bad for the price - in fact, it functions pretty much as expected considering this lower cost. However, the Acer Nitro 16 does go beyond this average with a more vibrant panel overall. I did test a QHD model of the Nitro 16, but the boost in resolution will only affect the sharpness and clarity of the overall picture. Even at an FHD level, you’re still getting better brightness from Acer, which means you’ll have a much better time with darker horror games. The display of the Asus TUF A15 performs similarly to that of the Victus. 

The keyboard is much the same. This is a kitted out deck of keys with a full number pad, function row, excellent spacing, and a comfortable feel. Yes, you’re getting smaller half keys for the arrow buttons, but overall everything looks pretty solid. I could feel that lower price tag under the fingertips, though. Key presses are a little too soft to truly be called tactile, and travel feels a little shorter than usual. It’s certainly quiet and still offers an energetic feel, but it’s far from the super satisfying switches of something like the Alienware M16 R2. Overall the typing experience is slightly better than that of the Asus TUF A15, though not quite as snappy as the Acer Nitro 16.  

The Victus does offer a good range of ports, though shows its age by opting for only one USB-C. While you’re still getting DisplayPort 1.4 and power delivery via this connection, most gaming laptops ship with two of these ports these days. Both the Acer Nitro 16 and Asus TUF A15 do so, with the latter even stretching into USB4 territory. You’re still getting three slightly older though still serviceable USB-A 3.2 Gen 1 ports, an HDMI 2.1, an RJ-45 Ethernet, and a 3.5mm audio jack as well.  

All of these connections are run around the sides of the machine, with no rear ports, and mostly cluster around the right edge. That means those using their gaming laptop in a full desk setup will need to manage their cables to avoid them taking over the desk top. I generally prefer a rear selection of ports to keep everything tidy, and the Nitro 16 provides just that, but fewer cheap gaming laptops offer this form factor. 

The Victus comes with a few programs pre-loaded, but the first one you’ll be checking out is the Omen Gaming Hub. This is a fairly bloated program with a lot of marketing, but once you’ve filtered through the menus you’ll be able to configure that one-zone RGB lighting, set performance presets, and monitor your system. You’re also getting a 1080p webcam that provides a nicely crisp image in well-lit environments but quickly becomes blurred and blocky once that sun’s gone down. If you’re a streamer you might need to grab a dedicated webcam for this one. 

Performance

•  Impressive entry level performance 
•  Efficient cooling system 
•  Hits 60fps in more demanding games  

The HP Victus 15 is actually my first foray into the mobile RTX 4050, and I’m impressed. Between three-figure framerates on Shadow of the Tomb Raider and 60fps in Returnal running on Epic mode, this thing can put its components to work. The older Ryzen 5 holds things back a little when the heat is on - The Talos Principle 2 is a little jagged in its actual running, with some stutters and slow-downs before returning to form. That accounts for the 35fps average rate I saw in my benchmarking at Ultra settings, but as long as you’re tweaking those dials to suit your setup this thing can fly.  

It’s coming close to the HP Omen 16 Transcend’s RTX 4060 performance across a number of benchmarks, another budget-minded FHD machine. As an RTX 4050 machine, it’s generally always going to be at the bottom of the graph in this testing pool. After all, at the top we’ve got an RTX 4070 GPU in the Acer Nitro 16. However, those numbers aren’t trailing by nearly as much as I’d expected, and I suspect that’s down to the Victus’s impressive cooling system.  

This chassis never climbed the temperature scale too high, even running games like Returnal and Assassin’s Creed Valhalla that can push far more substantial machines to the red zone. Vents are plentiful across the Victus, and the brand has used the machine to debut its Tempest cooling system as well. That’s incredibly rare on an entry level machine, comfortable temperatures are usually one of the first things you sacrifice to keep that price low. 

Synthetic Time Spy and Fire Strike benchmarks from 3D Mark told a similar story, the Victus trails behind its RTX 4060 and RTX 4070 contemporaries but doesn’t fall off a ledge. In fact, it holds steadily firm in a solid set of scores. Yes, it’s not pushing out to the QHD resolution display of some of the RTX 4070 models, but a 20,660 / 8,565 set of scores makes it perfectly playable across newer games. 

It looks like, in these more relaxed conditions, the AMD Ryzen 5 7640HS might be pulling a little more weight than we give it credit for. In a pure productivity setting (simulated by the PC Mark 10 benchmark), the HP Victus scored above machines with far more sophisticated CPUs on paper. At 7,152, it’s second in the testing pool, only dropping behind the larger HP Omen 17 and its AMD Ryzen 7 8845HS. 

In everyday use, despite the lower quality display, the HP Victus 16 never let me down. While some heavier outdoor scenes could give it pause for thought, it generally ran everything smoothly and without too much complaint. That performance did drop when connected up to a QHD monitor, revealing slight cracks in those framerates but for casual play the raw performance on offer here would suit me just fine.  

Should you buy the HP Victus 16?

The HP Victus 16 is a master of 1080p performance even in a super cheap RTX 4050 form factor. If you’re going all out on getting the best value for money purely from a performance standpoint, this is going to be a fantastic buy. However, other machines like the Asus TUF A15 and Acer Nitro 16 have the Victus beat in terms of features. If you don’t want to make too many sacrifices to your screen quality, I’d opt for the Nitro 16, but if you want a more well-rounded experience overall the TUF A15 remains my go-to.  

How I tested the HP Victus 16

I used the HP Victus 16 for a period of two weeks, with one spent testing alongside the HP Omen 17. The second week was spent purely running the Victus for all work, play, and streaming content. In that time I tested across the games I’m currently working my way through at the moment; Assassin’s Creed: Valhalla, Fallout 4, and The Outer Worlds (fine, there was a little TCG Card Shop Simulator Prologue thrown in there for good measure). On top of that I used in-game benchmark tools across Shadow of the Tomb Raider, Total War: Three Kingdoms, Returnal, and The Talos Principle 2 as well as synethetic benchmarks in 3D Mark, and PC Mark 10. For more information on how we test gaming laptops, check out the full GamesRadar+ Hardware Policy.  

For a look at the competition, be sure to check out the best Asus gaming laptops and the best Alienware laptops on the market - or take a look at the best Razer laptops for something a little more premium. 

I say it every time I review an HP Omen gaming laptop, but this range will always have a special place in my heart. My very first rig was an RTX 1050 HP Omen 15, in all its chunky metallic form. The 2024 HP Omen 17 could not be further from those days. Yes, it’s still a hefty device, but gone are the red accents, textured lids, and angular decals - this is a slab of black plastic prioritizing performance over flashy external sing-song. Marrying an 8000-Series AMD processor with an Nvidia RTX 4070 GPU, it’s just on the cusp of mid-range, offering big-screen play without the hefty price tag of most 18-inch devices. The best gaming laptops pair form with functionality, and the HP Omen 17 falls short of the competition in one of these areas. 

Design

The HP Omen 17 is understated as it is, a matte black chassis with very little branding. That’s perfect for those looking to double up their gaming machine as an everyday work laptop - and something I generally praise in gaming laptop design. Very few of us want to go back to the old days of monstrously large devices extending their footprint with heavy angular detailing and constant strobing light effects. I say I normally praise an understated design in a gaming laptop because that praise is handed out when the option to add a little flair to the equation also exists. There’s no such option here. 

RGB lighting is all but non-existent on the HP Omen 17, save for a single-zone keyboard array that doesn’t even run any effects. There’s usually at least a wry nod to a laptop’s gaming roots through a lit logo or intricate grill design, but the Omen is almost pedestrian in its aesthetics. That’s certainly not helped by the all-plastic construction.

Considering you can easily spend over $2,000 on a mid-range configuration, this cheaper material is disappointing. While it’s certainly sturdy, picking up the machine from any angle still feels safe with no creaks or bends, it looks and feels far lower in budget than it should. If it weren’t for the ‘Omen’ logo embossed on the top, I could easily mistake this machine for the ageing laptop my mother bought in 2012 that begs for death every time it’s turned on. Yes, the Razer Blade 16 is minimal, but it backs that aesthetic up with an incredibly high-quality construction. 

All this is to say, this is a very basic design in both aesthetic and build materials. The quality of that assembly is still reliable, though. While there’s a little flex to the main lid and internal palm rest area, it was only noticeable when directly searching for it. The fully attached hinge also operates nice and smoothly, with just a little wobble to the main display when opened. I could easily open the whole clamshell with one hand without the base tipping over. 

That’s because the heft of this device works in its favor in terms of durability. While the 2.88kg form factor might limit your travels with the 17-inch device and that 1.18-inch thickness is certainly taller than the Alienware M16 R2 (0.93-inch) and Acer Nitro 16 (0.98-inch), the Omen doesn’t feel like a brick on the desk. The heavily tapered front lip and all-black design go a long way to keep the Omen 17’s presence low-key, especially when compared to the blocky-feeling Asus ROG Strix Scar 18. Like most big-screen gaming laptops this isn’t a device designed for portability, but if you are keeping it close to your desk it’s not going to take over either. Plus, as we’ll see later, that extra size works particularly hard for you once you actually fire up a game. 

Features

There are a number of HP Omen configurations floating around at the moment, but they all pair AMD’s 8000-series CPUs with Nvidia’s entry-level and mid-range graphics cards. At the top end of the scale, you can pack an AMD Ryzen 9 8945HS and RTX 4070 into this chassis, with 32GB DDR5 5,600MHz RAM, a 1TB SSD, and a QHD 240Hz display. That’s a fantastic set of specs for a dutifully reliable mid-range device looking to play the latest and greatest games. Having seen the results from a weaker configuration, though, I’m curious as to the potential performance we would have seen from a high-end GPU in this situation. Those after an RTX 4080 or RTX 4090 powerhouse will need to look elsewhere. 

My testing spec offers up a more middle of the road set of parts; an AMD Ryzen 7 8845HS, Nvidia RTX 4070, 16GB DDR5 RAM, 1TB SSD, and FHD 144Hz display. That’s still going to cost you over $2,000 at full price, though there are regular discounts on these kinds of machines.

That screen is the weakest link in the chain here, though. We’re certainly looking at some sacrifices in this panel - it’s not quite as dark as the HP Victus I’m currently testing alongside the Omen, but it’s nowhere near as bright as the Acer Nitro 16. I never struggled to play in well-lit environments, and the matte finish kept glare at bay, but there are far more powerful screens out there at this (and even lower) price point. 

I was impressed with the colors on offer across this panel, though. Greens popped with a particularly abundant vibrancy, while the more delicate handling of reflections and more complex forest scenes holding up particularly well. You’re not quite getting the more sophisticated OLED technology of the Razer Blade 16 or the HDR capabilities of certain Asus gaming laptops, but considering you’re spending far less here than you would on either of those devices it’s an impressive experience overall. 

The keyboard is another story. With very low key travel, an echoey feel, and a slightly sloppy debounce, this is not a deck worthy of a gaming laptop at over $2,000 MSRP. I’m not saying a keyboard has to reach the super snappy heights of the mechanical switches featured in many Alienware laptops, but the majority of machines I’ve tested have offered far more tactility under the fingertips. There’s energy here, mostly due to the lower travel, but a too-soft landing borders on spongey. Combine that with the aforementioned lack of per-key RGB and the HP Omen 17 is lacking in its control panel. The trackpad is still more than serviceable, and remains nicely responsive with a large base. 

Most of the Omen’s ports are located to the rear of the machine - a win for anyone looking to keep their setup free of cable webs - but there are a few sacrifices here as well. There’s only one USB-C option on the whole device, which feels a little outdated. The majority of 2024 gaming laptops are shipping with at least two USB-C options and while you’re still getting DisplayPort 1.4 and power delivery through this connection, there’s not a Thunderbolt in sight. The lack of USB-C options and Thunderbolt might be a worthy sacrifice on a $1,500 machine, but at over $2,000 it’s difficult to rally behind. You’ll still find three USB-A ports (two on the rear and one of the right panel), as well as an Ethernet RJ45, HDMI 2.1, and 3.5mm audio.

Strangely for a machine that’s looking more geared towards staying at home, the HP Omen 17 does pack a pretty impressive battery life. HP rates it at five hours on a single charge - fantastic for a gaming-specific rig. I managed to swing around two to three hours of gaming on balanced power presets, something I could never dream to achieve on other machines. How much you’ll really put that battery to the test considering the size and weight of the Omen is another matter.  

Performance

The HP Omen just nudges itself near the top of the pack in my testing comparison pool. While it can’t quite take on the Alienware M16 R2 across in-game benchmarks, it out-performs the Acer Nitro 16 with the same GPU in everything but Returnal. It’s the second highest performing RTX 4070 gaming laptop I’ve tested yet, scoring over 60fps in every test I threw at it. That’s a solid backbone to work with, proving the competitive edge to that larger chassis and additional cooling space. 1080p performance can sail you through more demanding titles and take on more Nvidia-friendly games with room to spare. 

Things get even more interesting when we take synthetic benchmarks into account. The Omen 17 led the pack across both Fire Strike and Time Spy in my testing, posting scores that edged a lead over the Alienware M16 R2 and more than proved themselves against the Acer Nitro 16. These are both tests of GPU, CPU, and RAM combined performance, and such high scores within the comparison pool suggest the components selected by HP for this particular rig are playing particularly nicely with each other. With fans and operating modes set to max performance there was no evidence of throttling from either the CPU or GPU, and temperatures remained nice and cool during stress tests as well. 

That AMD 8000-Series GPU means business. The Ryzen 7 8845HS employed by the Omen 17 tops my comparison pool, largely featuring previous generation Ryzen offerings and Intel processors from the last two years. The Asus ROG Zephyrus G14 bumps things up to a Ryzen 9 and still comes up short against the Omen’s PC Mark 10 score - once again demonstrating the performance boost you’ll find in a larger chassis device.  

The Omen 17 excels in its CPU output and its thermal management (though those fans can grow loud once you crank up the dial). Its real-world gaming performance remains at the top of the middle, beating cheaper models comfortably in most games but struggling to get the same lift-off you’ll find in an RTX 4080 rig. 

Should you buy the HP Omen 17?

The HP Omen 17 prides itself on its performance, bleeding its RTX 4070 dry and putting a fantastic Ryzen CPU in centre stage. If you’re looking for a solid mid-range performer that won’t take over your desk with RGB lights then this is absolutely the machine for you. While ports are a little limited, you’ve still got that DisplayPort 1.4 USB-C to connect to a range of external monitors - and that also gives you the chance to hook up your own gaming keyboard if you want a more tactile experience while at home. Ultimately, I’d recommend the Omen 17 to anyone who wants to keep their laptop closed when connected to a full gaming setup but still needs the option to play in different locations when required. 

If you’re after an everyday machine that can double up as a gaming rig, I’d look elsewhere. The Asus ROG Zephyrus G16 or G14 are far better suited to the work / play hybrid lifestyle at around the same price for an RTX 4070 configuration. They make marked improvements to your display, form factor, and overall portability, though you are making some minor sacrifices to performance. 

If you’re wondering whether the 17.3-inch HP Omen can be used as a full desktop replacement, I’d think again. The screen just isn’t high quality enough to take on other 18-inch rigs at similar prices, and the keyboard experience falls far short of the rest of the market. I’d look to an Alienware M18 for a better value desktop replacement experience. Prices can jump here as you scale the GPU ladder, but you’re still getting plenty of power at a fair rate. 

How I tested the HP Omen 17

I used the HP Omen 17 for all daily work and play for a period of one week, with another week spent testing the device alongside the Lenovo Legion Pro 7i Gen 9. During this time, I primarily played The Outer Worlds, Fallout 4, and Assassin’s Creed: Odyssey, while also stress testing in-game benchmarks across Shadow of the Tomb Raider, Total War: Three Kingdoms, Returnal, and The Talos Principle 2. I carried out synthetic benchmarks in 3D Mark’s Time Spy, Fire Strike, and Steel Nomad tests as well as Geekbench 6, and explored CPU performance using PC Mark 10 and Cinebench R24. For more information on how we test gaming laptops, check out the full GamesRadar+ Hardware Policy.  

We’re also rounding up all the best Razer laptops on the market as well as the best gaming PCs for those looking for a more permanent setup. 

It wasn't too long ago that a gaming laptop would take up an entire backpack and leave you with permanent spinal issues should you actually have to carry it. Thankfully, those days are over. Brands like Razer and Asus have always modelled slimline rigs packing weaker versions of high end components into almost impossibly thin chassis' for the sake of portability, and HP entered the game last year with its Omen Transcend 16. Now we have an even smaller version.

I'm incredibly impressed with the HP Omen Transcend 14, the 14-inch, OLED-toting, 1.6kg rig with conservative but still powerful specs and a relaxed aesthetic. This is a machine for those looking to take their rig pretty much anywhere, and sometimes for less cash than similarly specced options from Asus and Razer. It's not the best gaming laptop overall, but if you want to trade back pain for a few settings tweaks it's a must-see. 

Design

At first glance, the HP Omen Transcend 14 reminded me of a Chromebook. That sounds worse than it is, this is a sleek piece of kit with a sturdy feel overall. However, the soft rounded corners, matte black coating, and small form factor have an air of, dare I age myself, netbook about them. It's a far cry from the unibody brick of the Razer Blade 14 or the MacBook-esque Asus ROG Zephyrus G14, but ultimately keeping those materials light means this is a particularly easy machine to transport.

It also looks much less like a gaming laptop. Gone are the chunky lids and angular shapes of HP's previous releases, we're instead in for a sophisticated, understated experience here. I'm a proud owner of a now purely decorative GTX 1050 HP Omen, and as I mentioned in my review of last year's HP Omen Transcend 16, I've been waiting for this slimline revolution. The top of the lid bares a simple 'Omen' logo stamped in a light silver, and some small text along the slightly protruding rear. Everything is uniform, clean, and crisp - it's Chromebook-esque but I mean that as a compliment.

The body itself supports its price tag with a full aluminum construction. This is a little softer than the rock solid slab of Razer's CNC milled designs, with some flex to the main keyboard area. Similarly, the display does carry a significant amount of wobble that could have been reduced with a tighter hinge. Despite its thin profile, though, I never had any concerns about longer term durability during testing. Still, you're saving yourself a lot of cash and 200g in weight as well. Asus's G14 does win the weigh-in at just 1.49kg.

While weighing slightly more than the G14, the HP Omen Transcend 14 feels smaller. That's likely due to the floating design, with steep angles to the super thin front lip and extra space employed around the main deck leading down to the actual base of the unit. That means the Transcend 14 is both smaller in physical footprint compared to the G14, but also feels noticeably more streamlined in the hand as well.

Features

The HP Omen Transcend 14 remains conservative in its specs. You're maxing out at an RTX 4070 GPU here, which is the standard for a slimline 14-inch machine. RTX 4050 and RTX 4060 specs both ship with Intel's newer Meteor Lake Core Ultra 7 155H, while the RTX 4070 model whacks you up to an Intel Core Ultra 9 185H for a combined price boost of $500 over the $1659.99 MSRP of the RTX 4060 model. There's no opportunity to build your own spec between these components, which is tricky when you get to the RAM department. The two cheaper units offer up 16GB RAM but you'll need to spring for the full RTX 4070 model to up that to 32GB. I'm not mad about it, though. 

Chances are, if you need to run something more substantial you're already eyeing up the RTX 4070 GPU. The Transcend 14 is designed as a hybrid work / play device, so packing extra RAM into the price tag would likely ward off more players than it would attract with fixed configurations. Still, it would have been nice to see more flexibility in the build process for anyone who does want to Frankenstein their own kit. 

The RTX 4060 is where the HP Omen feels most at home, though. The brand's software allows for a good amount of control over fan speeds and power profiles, and once settings are maxed out there's a surprising level of performance on offer here. The system itself is fairly clunky, though. Omen Gaming Hub wants to be too many things at once to truly be useful for any of them. It's a shopfront, newsstand, and configuration tool all rolled into one, which means menus are sometimes hidden and the initial UI is particularly cluttered. Once you've found your way around, though, you've got access to system performance, RGB lighting controls, power settings, graphics switching, and fan presets. 

That's all displayed on one of the best screens I've used in a long time. The glossy OLED panel is absolutely the Transcend's best feature, offering a similar color profile and super vivid contrast to the Asus ROG Zephyrus G14 while cashing in at the same 1800p resolution. It's a particularly shiny display, which means reflections can get in the way if you're playing in a bright environment, but in the dark this screen absolutely sings. Everything is crisply defined, running super smooth, and with an explosion of color.

Underneath, you'll find a standard set of keys without additional number pad or navigation options, as is standard for a gaming laptop of this size. The lattice-free design means that despite the smaller form factor, you're still getting full-sized keycaps for a particularly easy typing experience - a major benefit for anyone using a smaller laptop for everyday work. These are shallow keys, but still retain a nice clack to each press with a satisfying tactile feel and springy debounce for good measure. The RGB lighting surrounding each cap (and highlighted by the translucent, almost pudding-style design) is strong and vibrant, but can only be configured in four-zones unlike other laptops which offer per-key customization.

I wouldn't recommend keeping those LEDs on when running off battery power, though. Of course, gaming laptops rarely excel without their chargers but considering the Transcend 14 has such a flexible work / play use-case I would have expected a slightly beefier battery. As it stood, I was able to draw around five hours of work use out of the machine, running a few Chrome tabs.

Performance

The Intel Core processor inside the Transcend 14 is largely identical to last year's 13th generation in performance. That's pretty universal for 2024's roster of gaming laptops, but it does mean those after big gains in performance will be waiting another year. As it stands, the HP Omen manages to keep this CPU running nicely in its slimline form factor - the actual hardware isn't going to compete with that of the Asus ROG Zephyrus G14 but in itself there's some strong numbers here. 

Similarly, the RTX 4060, while running at a reduced power rate of 65W in this configuration, puts some serious work in. With everything dialled up to 11, Time Spy and Fire Strike performance is within spitting distance of that posted by the larger HP Omen Transcend 16 last year - a fantastic result considering just how skinny the new release is. 

The story in-game is much the same. I was impressed by these numbers during benchmarking - a 14-inch slimline gaming laptop packing 70fps in Returnal's Epic setting at 1080p just wouldn't have existed a few years ago. Even though we do drop down below 60fps at full whack 1600p in both Total War: Three Kingdoms and Returnal, these are heavy benchmarks and I wouldn't expect a machine this slim at this price to do much more. 

These are all benchmarked from the HP Omen running at full fan speed and with the system's smart performance toggle set to the full 15W. The HP Omen doesn't have the biggest specs on the street to work with, but with a handful of nifty additional settings it can certainly punch above its configuration's weight. These are impressive performance benchmarks for anyone looking to play the latest and greatest titles at high settings, though more demanding games might need some additional tweaks if you're boosting up to 1600p and beyond to the full 1800p of the display. 

Should you buy the HP Omen Transcend 14?

In this RTX 4060 configuration, the HP Omen Transcend 14 is slightly more expensive than the latest Asus ROG Zephyrus G14 ($1,599.99 for an AMD Ryzen 9 8945HS model). Of course, that's only taking MSRP into consideration. With current sale prices putting the same model at $1,359.99 on HP's own site, the story is a little different (UK shoppers can find the full range at Currys). At that rate, this is an excellent option for anyone after a portable PC with enough grunt to take on moderately demanding games with a few tweaks helping you over the 60fps hump. The OLED panel is pulling a considerable amount of weight in that valuation as well, offering incredible visuals I'm yet to see on another rig at this price point. 

As it stands, this is an excellent option for both work and play. Battery woes aside, you're getting a slick device with plenty of power and features rarely spotted at this price point - all in a super compact chassis. 

How we tested the HP Omen Transcend 14

I used the HP Omen Transcend 14 for two weeks, testing alongside other new releases for one and dedicating the other to solely working and playing from HP's device. In that time, I worked directly from the laptop for two days, and played from both the device by itself and connected to a separate monitor in the evenings. I primarily played through Assassin's Creed Odyssey and House Flipper during casual testing, while stress testing in Apex Legends, Shadow of the Tomb Raider, Total War: Three Kingdoms, Returnal, and Hitman 3. For more information on how we test gaming laptops, check out the full GamesRadar+ Hardware Policy. 

If you already know which brand you're after, check out our guides to the best Asus gaming laptops, best Razer laptops and all the best Alienware laptops currently on the market.

QD-OLED gaming monitors have picked up some serious traction over the last few years, with Alienware and Samsung leading the pack. Both brands have stepped up the game at CES, though, unveiling new 4K panels with HP in tow as well. Previous QD-OLED gaming monitors have tapped out at QHD resolutions (or various versions of them), and while it'll take some serious grunt to run each panel at its highest possible refresh rate, those after a high-end setup are well served here. 

We've got Alienware, HP, and Samsung bringing 4K resolution to QD-OLED gaming monitors this year, with new announcements springing up all over the showfloor. All of these competing panels feature 32-inch form factors with UHD resolution and a 240Hz refresh rate, but there are some more important differences between the three. 

The HP Omen, for example, employs KVM switching technology to allow you to use a single monitor as a hub between two PC devices - dragging and dropping files between them and seamlessly switching between inputs. Samsung's Odyssey G8 has a similar function, but only with Samsung technology (no surprises there), and Alienware is behind in this department with no such feature that we know of baked in. However, if you're after a curved gaming monitor you'll be heading to Dell - unlike Samsung's previous form in the 1000+ R space, the Odyssey G8 is a flat screen, leaving the Alienware AW3225QF the only option for those after a more immersive experience.

It's no surprise that these aren't going to be cheap gaming monitors. QD-OLED panels already command a high price tag and these first few steps into a 4K world aren't going to be budget-friendly. Not only that, but with 240Hz refresh rates packed into the UHD resolution and a whole plethora of extra KVM and HDR features baked in, these panels are going to be for the enthusiasts.

We have, however, fallen in love with the super crisp QD-OLED panels we've seen so far - the Alienware AW3423DW still sits at the top of our shopping list. With speedy panels and 4K resolutions, these monitors truly can do it all - and if you're in the market for an investment piece now's a fantastic time to jump in. After all, we've been waiting for 4K resolution, but 8K is still too far off to be thinking about. Refresh rates used to be low on 4K OLED panels, but 240Hz is a sweet spot we'll be happy at for a long time. There's nothing on the horizon to scare off potential upgraders - we'll just have to see who wins out of this three-way race. 

In Association with ROG Ally

We're also rounding up all the best 4K gaming monitors on the market, as well as the best ultrawide monitors for those after a particularly immersive experience. If you're building a console setup, though, be sure to check out the best monitor for PS5.

The HP Omen Transcend 14 has gently drifted onto the CES showfloor today, making HP the proud brand behind the world's lightest 14-inch gaming laptop. The 1.6kg device beats the Alienware x14 R2's latest 1.9kg weigh in and still manages to keep all its components housed in a high strength aluminum chassis. 

This is an ultrathin device, and while it may not keep up with the best gaming laptops in all their RTX 4090 glory, it certainly looks compelling for anyone looking to prioritize portability while still maintaining the power needed to run the latest games. The 'Transcend' moniker is one we first saw last year, with the excellent HP Omen Transcend 16. It marks the well known range's newer focus on slimline luxury machines, but the 14-incher takes things a step further. 

A 140w USB-C power adapter means you can easily plug in wherever you find yourself (and keep a spare cable handy in a laptop backpack) and when it comes to cooling HP has another trick up its sleeve. The HP Omen Transcend 14 will launch with a new cooling system developed alongside Intel. Smaller gaming laptops (and particularly ultrathin ones) typically fall down in the cooling arena - and it can spoil the entire experience. If everything goes to plan, though, that notion could be out of the window. 

On top of that, this is the first Omen machine to pack an OLED display up top. These models offer a 2.8K OLED panel with variable refresh rates up to 120Hz. Under the hood, the HP Omen Transcend 14 will feature processors up to an Intel Core Ultra 9 with AI Boost, and an 11.5-hour battery life (though presumably those numbers haven't been tested in-game). 

If you're an HP fan, there's even better news. The Transcend 14 also comes with 2.4GHz ultra low latency audio connectivity. While HP's headsets that support this particular connection direct to the laptop are still limited, owners of the HyperX Cloud III Wireless headset will also be able to hook straight up without the need for a dongle. 

The HP Omen Transcend 14 is available for pre-order at HP.com with a starting price of $1,499.99. 

In Association with ROG Ally

We're also watching out for all the best gaming PCs and best gaming monitors heading to CES this year, or for more portable options check out the best gaming handhelds on the market. 

HP is joining the QD-OLED race at CES this year, with its 4K 240Hz HP Omen Transcend 32 Gaming Monitor. Those are some serious specs considering we've only just started seeing UHD QD-OLEDs running at such speeds at this year's show - but HP also has another trick up its sleeve. 

The brand claims this is the first gaming monitor with switchable inputs. That means you can run two devices from the same display without having to re-wire or grab an external HDMI box. If you're lucky enough to be in a PC and console split setup, this is going to be a dream - but there's applications for those without a PS5 or Xbox whirring away at their desks. 

That's because the HP Omen monitor also supports KVM functionality - the ability to control more than one computer from a single device. That means you can drag and drop between PCs (or more likely your PC and your laptop) via the single display. After years of incremental upgrades to speeds, resolutions, and display tech, it's impressive to see HP adding serious functionality benefits in 2024. 

This isn't just for the PC crew, though. Two HDMI 2.1s mean console players are just at home here, and you've still got DisplayPort 2.1 for extra connectivity as well. On top of that there are two USB-C ports, sporting an impressive 140W USB-C power delivery, and an expansive RGB panel to the rear. 

We're still awaiting pricing and release information for the HP Omen Transcend 32, with more details to come closer to release later this year.

In Association with ROG Ally

Of course, you'll find plenty of the best 4K gaming monitors also on the shelves right now, as well as the best curved gaming monitors and the best high refresh rate monitors for the speed demons as well. 

HP has struggled to really be considered alongside the big guns of gaming laptops over the last few years. Its Omen machines always seem to have been sidelined, due some design flaws and a general sluggishness when it comes to updating to new ports and protocols. My first ever gaming laptop was a GTX 1050 HP Omen and I loved it - so I've been following each new release closely since. The HP Omen Transcend is the first to truly get me excited. 

This is a machine that might actually compete with some of the best gaming laptops on the market for the first time. A super slimline chassis housing some of the latest components without fans roaring in the background - and a Mini LED display to watch all the action on - HP means business this time around. 

I didn't receive the top-end Mini LED Omen Transcend for review. But I was more than happy with my more realistic RTX 4060 configuration, and took it out for a spin over the course of three weeks to see exactly how well it stacks up. 

Design

I have a small gaming desk that plays host to a number of gaming laptops every month, and none have fit so well as the HP Omen Transcend 16. It's got a similar footprint to nearly every other 16-inch gaming laptop I've had my hands on, but it somehow feels smaller, more compact, and certainly more portable. 

This is the first time I've looked at a larger screen and wondered what trickery it was using to seem so svelt. Don't get me wrong, you're still getting the extra immersion of a 16-inch device, and plenty of this year's laptops have managed to keep close to a 15.6-inch form factor by swapping out the aspect ratio. However, there's something about this understated, super skinny matte black design that makes it feel particularly special. 

So many new generation rigs are moving away from the slimline design trends of the last few years in order to boost the quality of components under the hood, so it's refreshing to see the 2.1kg Omen Transcend holding down the portable fort. 

The main body itself is composed of magnesium-aluminium alloy, with some hints of plastic here and there. It also helps that the chassis itself is free from any overly gamer aesthetic choices. The lid swaps the diamond emblem of yore for a classy 'Omen' embossed logo with a subtle but impressive gloss set against the matte material. Inside you'll find a keyboard with everything but the number pad included, some smaller Omen design elements (a gray logo underneath the display and an embossed 16 just visible in the right corner). 

The bezels are more pronounced than something like the Asus ROG Zephyrus G14, especially along the bottom of the display. That's my only real design gripe - and it is hard to squat a 16:10 aspect ratio screen - but even the far chunkier Alienware M16 offers more screen-to-body goodness. 

The Transcend also benefits from the improved hinge design hitting certain models over the last year. The full width hinge feels sturdy under hand and can move up to 180 degrees should you need it to as well. 

Features

The components available in the HP Omen Transcend 16 aren't going to light a fire under a particularly rich enthusiast, but they do cater to the vast majority of players out there. Unlike the chunkier HP Omen 16, which also received a refresh this year, the Transcend maxes out at an RTX 4070 GPU running at 130 watts of TGP. That's not going to make something like the Razer Blade 18 sweat, but it doesn't need to. This is an everyday 1080p machine at its finest, with new generation specs that certainly overpower previous models and will continue to keep up with the latest games for years to come. Of course, you can excel in other areas if you have more cash to splash. 

The Omen Transcend 16 is configurable up to an Intel i9-13900HX with 32GB DDR5 5600 MHz RAM and a 2TB SSD if you're looking to push the boat out. Throw in a Mini LED 240Hz QHD+ display and you're looking at a seriously beefy (though well over $3,000 / £3,000) unit. 

Our RTX 4060 test machine sits at the more affordable end of the spectrum, packing a 1920 x 1200 IPS display with a 165Hz refresh rate. Coming off the back of some seriously impressive screens (see the Asus ROG Strix Scar 16), I was surprised how easy it was to slip back into the world of 1080p (well, the 16:10 version of 1080p). That's more testament to the quality of this display than it is to the detriment of newer Mini LED panels.

Despite its weaker specs on paper, this was still an excellent screen to to stare at, with super smooth motion, excellent handling of darker lighting effects, and an impressive color range as well. The contrast and dynamics obviously aren't up to the level of a far more expensive panel, and a brighter playing environment did wash out more intricate scenes. That's only noticeable when watching these screens back to back, though. The FHD webcam sitting up top is also a welcome addition in a world plagued with 720p lenses.

Port selection is solid, with two USB-C Thunderbolt 4 options covering you for both power delivery and DisplayPort on the left and a single USB-A on the right. That's a comfortable setup for keeping your gaming laptop on a desktop, and combined with the rear port setup made for a relatively tidy, yet still easily accessible, cable situation. Running along the back you'll find the power port, HDMI 2.1, another USB-A, and an RJ45.

The keyboard offers a soft landing to each keypress that isn't going to satisfy those after a more tactile feel but certainly feels speedy and comfortable. The spacing is a little strange, and it took me a while to work out why I was suddenly all over the deck. It feels like the array of extra navigation buttons and the dedicated slot for the arrow keys on the right is pushing the main keyboard slightly too far to the left to feel truly natural to type on. After about a week of constant typo fixes, muscle memory did start to kick in and I was able to get my head around the balance and spacing issues. It also helps that the trackpad below is smooth and responsive with a snappy clack to every click.

Audio is decent, but it does sit in the higher ranges far more comfortably. Bassier experiences suffered for this slightly tinnier audio profile, so I'd still recommend using a gaming headset.

Performance

The HP Omen Transcend 16 isn't going to top the framerate charts in this RTX 4060 configuration, but it does give us hope for more portable options in the future. The cooling system under the hood is working particularly hard to keep everything stable here - and while it doesn't quite do the work of a larger design, it does its job for the most part. The best bit is this is a particularly quiet machine. In fact, the Alienware M16 was louder while running a few Chrome tabs as I benchmarked the Transcend 16. Those fans were astonishingly quiet during both gameplay and everyday use. 

Yes, the Alienware M16 does use its larger chassis to draw more out of the exact same processor and graphics card (hitting 10,139 in Time Spy and 23,624 in Fire Strike), but the Omen Transcend is only dropping down by between 2 and 8% in these tests and is infinitely more portable for it which is a major win. That does translate to the M16's higher framerates in in-game testing (with the exception of Hitman 3 which HP handled better), but there's still some solid numbers here with the chassis size factored in. 

Three-figure framerates are the norm with new components under the hood, and the HP Omen Transcend 16 makes the most of this raw power. We managed to hit an average of 169fps in Rainbow Six Siege Extraction, for example - a stunning result from the lower mid-range card. Of course, those kinds of numbers are going to be more reliable in High settings, with Ultra dropping down to two-figures far more regularly. 

Should you buy the HP Omen Transcend 16?

The HP Omen Transcend 16 may not top the performance charts, but it's certainly a must-see for anyone looking to take their gaming laptop out and about. Yes, the Asus ROG Zephyrus G14 is going to be offering up some stiff competition here, and an RTX 4060 configuration of this super portable device is available for around $400 less than the Transcend (with half the SSD but a boosted QHD resolution screen). The G14 is still our go-to for portable play, but if you don't want to sacrifice display size to get that more compact footprint, you absolutely need to be taking the HP Omen 16 Transcend seriously. 

Despite its slightly reduced performance, I would also recommend the Transcend over the Alienware M16. Its significantly reduced fan noise, svelt design, and similar price point makes for a compelling case, especially considering even the cheaper 1080p IPS display looks particularly strong here. 

How we tested the HP Omen Transcend 16

I used the HP Omen Transcend 16 for all daily work and play, in both a desk based setup and on the lap. During that time I was testing across Alan Wake Remastered, High on Life, Apex Legends, and The Sims 4, while also running through in-game benchmark tools across Shadow of the Tomb Raider, Total War: Three Kingdoms, Rainbow Six Extraction, Returnal, and Hitman 3. For more information on how we test gaming laptops, be sure to check out the full GamesRadar+ Hardware Policy. 

For more on the competition, check out the best Asus gaming laptops and the best Alienware gaming laptops on the market. We're also rounding up all the best Razer laptops for something a little pricier as well. 

HP has announced a new 4K HDMI 2.1 gaming monitor at CES 2022, bringing its Omen line into the generation of the Xbox Series X and PS5. Built with new consoles in mind, but still firmly specced out for the PC crowd, the HP Omen 27u is the latest 27-inch panel to hit HP's shelves, and the first to strip bezels back across all four sides. 

The Omen 27u will sit alongside the previous 27i model, but bumps your resolution up to native 4K over the 2560 x 1440 QHD display found on the former 27-inch flagship. You are dropping down to a 120Hz refresh rate over the native 165Hz found on the lower resolution device, but that's plenty speedy for those plugging in consoles. 

On top of what HP terms "plug-and-play" connectivity with PS5 and Xbox Series X, the HP Omen 27u also ups the brightness to 450 nits and packs VESA DisplayHDR 400, DCI-P3 95%, and true 8-bit color. We've also got integrated stereo speakers gracing an HP Omen monitor for the first time as well, so no fiddling with extra speakers when hooking up your console.

Ports include two USB-A connections and a USB-C for good measure, but you've also got that all-important HDMI 2.1 alongside an extra HDMI 2.0 as well. PC players will be glad to know that DisplayPort connectivity is also available.

The HP Omen 27u will hit the market in Spring 2022, at a price of $699.99 and has been announced alongside a whole roster of new devices heading to the market this year. HP also revealed its compact Victus by HP 15L, the first gaming PC to hit the new affordable Victus range and one packing Intel's 12th generation i7 / AMD Ryzen 7 5000G processors and up to RTX 3060 Ti GPUs.

If you can't wait until the Spring, check out our guide to the best gaming monitors. Or, for something more console focused, take a look at the best monitors for PS5. We're also rounding up the best gaming TVs as well. 

The new HP Envy 34 all-in-one features an RTX 3080 and 11th generation Intel i9 processor, starting from $1,999, and will release next month. While it's mostly been marketed on its productivity proficiency, we're most excited about seeing what an all-in-one rocking a sneaky RTX 3080 can do in this form factor. 

The premiere configuration of the AIO PC comes with an Intel i9-11900 CPU, an RTX 3080 Max-Q graphics card, as well as 32GB DDR4 RAM, and a 512GB NVMe SSD which can be user upgraded. Other variants will be available, though a full specification list has yet to be revealed. 

The display is very much the priority here (according to HP) utilizing a 5K HDR (5,120 x 2,160) 21:9 ultrawide IPS panel. However, that doesn't count out the HP Envy 34's potential gaming prowess, especially given its more-than-competitive starting price considering you can't currently build or buy an RTX 3080 PC for under $2,000. It may be a mobile version of the video card, which you mostly see in RTX 3080 laptops, but it's impressive that the Max-Q variant can hold its own against some of the full-size RTX cards in the 30-series line. 

This fact is exacerbated further given that the current RTX 3080 price online starts from around $1,463 (at Newegg), and can jump as high as $2,003 (at Newegg), a far cry from its proposed $699 MSRP. These specs mean this machine could certainly rival some of the best 4K monitors for gaming and best gaming PCs for its price point. 

The main focus of this computer is to provide a powerful setup in order to make the most of hardware-intensive productivity tasks, such as 3D rendering and video production. There's also a 16MP magnetically detachable webcam, to make streaming on websites such as YouTube and Twitch easier. 

While essentially a mobile graphics card unit, you can still expect high-end performance from the RTX 3080 Max-Q's 8GB VRAM, making it comparable to the RTX 3070 Ti, which isn't much cheaper on its own when you can find it online.

The main drawback that you may encounter for gaming, however, is the 60Hz refresh rate of the HP Envy 34 AIO's in-built display. 4K60 should be achievable given the processing power and the efficiency of the graphics card inside, though you aren't going to be able to benefit from a high FPS in competitive titles from its in-built display.

However, given that the HP Envy 34 AIO will feature an HDMI port, you could easily hook it up to one of the best gaming monitors in order to achieve 4K120 (assuming it's an HDMI 2.1 port), though it's more likely that 2K (QHD) in higher refresh rates is going to be more comfortable for more demanding titles. The actual performance of the PC remains to be seen, but on paper, from a purely technical perspective, it certainly has a lot to offer the PC gaming crowd. 

The HP Envy 34 AIO is scheduled to release in October. The PC has a listing page, though no exact date or a pre-order page has been confirmed yet.

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