This New $700 Windows Laptop Is HP’s Equivalent to the MacBook Neo

There’s no denying that Microsoft and Apple are rivals of epic proportions. It almost seems that one cannot go without the other since the companies were founded in 1975 and 1976 respectively. So it’s no surprise that a new Windows laptop announcement from HP appears to have sparked a new battle in the tech war.

HP has announced the launch of its new OmniBook 5 on October 1, 2026. It is a $699 Windows laptop that promises a premium consumer experience. The device offers users extended battery life, a vibrant OLED display, and greater creative potential, among other features and benefits. HP’s stated goal is to provide users with a powerful and intuitive laptop containing a wide range of features. “Today’s consumers expect technology that fits naturally into their lives – beautifully designed, easy to use, and powerful enough to support everything from collaboration and content creation to entertainment and everyday productivity,” said Samuel Chang, senior vice president, HP. Some tech enthusiasts may recognize that the OmniBook 5 is positioned to compete with an Apple device championed for its unbeatable value: the MacBook Neo.

The MacBook Neo also costs $699 after a post-launch price hike, and it also promises potential buyers a powerful yet efficient product designed to help users complete daily tasks and easily pursue leisurely, creative pursuits. While their marketing similarities may sound like general corporate talk, what the OmniBook 5 and MacBook Neo ultimately have in common comes down to their screens and features.

The Apple MacBook Neo and HP OmniBook 5 apparently have similar priorities in terms of their respective designs and capabilities. Each device emphasizes its clear and vibrant presentation: the MacBook comes with a 13-inch “Liquid Retina” display, while the HP comes with a 14-inch 2.8K OLED display. Each laptop is equipped with improved cameras and audio for high-end video calls, and both advertise excellent battery life.

Each device also prioritizes durability, efficiency, and value without hindering performance. Both models combine sleek design, fast performance, and mobility, while carrying a price tag just under $700. Depending on the specific needs and sensitivities of the consumer, these devices are easily neck and neck in the race for modern technology.

The MacBook Neo and HP OmniBook 5 also prioritize an efficient experience for users taking advantage of apps and AI features. The Neo’s A18 Pro chip quickly runs AI tasks and other applications, in general, while the OmniBook 5’s Intel Core 7 processor accelerates AI tasks with a neural processing unit (NPU) that promises speeds of up to 17 TOPS. Between their quality-of-life additions designed for productivity and creativity and their display features implemented for visual enjoyment, both options are budget-friendly laptops perfect for both work and entertainment.