The HP Omen is a gaming notebook focused on performance and portability. Powered by a quad-core 2.5GHz (3.5GHz in boost mode) Intel Core i7 CPU and with Nvidia Geforce 860M graphics, the Omen is said to be optimised for smooth framerates.
Heat has a large affect on notebooks, especially when they are used for gaming, so the Omen is designed to manage thermals. Dual fans pull cool air through the bottom of the system and push hot air through the exhaust at the back. Rubber feet on the bottom of the unit help to direct the cool air in and keep the hot air out. A custom hinge keeps hot air away from the 15.6″ display and enables 360 deg swivel.
HP has made the Omen from solid aluminium. The chassis is 19.9mm thick and the product weighs less than 2.1kg. All ports are at the rear of the device, to keep the sides free for accessories such as mice. They include mini-DisplayPort, HDMI and USB 3.0 (x4). As well as the standard keyboard, the Omen features six programmable keys.
An IPS panel with 1920 x 1080 resolution is used; customers can choose to have an optional touchscreen installed. The laptop runs Windows 8.1, with 8GB of RAM (16GB available) and a 128GB SSD (256GB and 512GB options available).
HP is selling the Omen in the USA now with a $1,500 starting price; it will reach Europe in December, starting at €1,345 ex VAT.
