HP Challenges MacBook Neo With New Intel-Powered StarBook Plus 14

HP has introduced its own competitor to the MacBook Neo with the official launch of the HP StarBook Plus 14. Designed to compete directly with Apple’s affordable laptop variant, this new ultra-thin notebook emphasizes performance efficiency by integrating the latest Intel Wildcat Lake processors, a high-fidelity touchscreen OLED display, and a comprehensive selection of physical connectivity options.

A core technical highlight of the device is the Intel Core 5 320 processor. This component features a six-core CPU configuration, consisting of two high-performance P-cores and four power-efficient LP E-cores, achieving maximum clock speeds up to 4.6 GHz alongside a two-core Intel Xe3 integrated graphics unit. Developed specifically for budget-friendly portable computers, early leaked benchmark evaluations show this Wildcat Lake chipset delivering performance levels that match the A18 Pro silicon utilized in the MacBook Neo line.

To ensure performance longevity, the StarBook Plus 14 comes equipped with 16 GB of LPDDR5X RAM and a 512 GB solid-state drive supporting subsequent storage expansion. This hardware combination aligns the notebook directly with higher-tier configurations of its Apple counterpart. Furthermore, the 14-inch touchscreen OLED display provides an advantage over typical IPS LCD screens, offering a 1920 x 1200 pixel resolution, a 16:10 aspect ratio, a 60 Hz refresh rate, and 100% coverage of the wide DCI-P3 color gamut.

Physically, the laptop weighs approximately 2.87 pounds (1.3 kg) and maintains a slim profile of 0.54 inches (13.7 mm) while offering extensive ports. The configuration includes two USB-A ports, two USB-C 3.2 Gen 2 ports supporting Power Delivery and DisplayPort capabilities, one HDMI 2.1 output, and a 3.5 mm audio combo jack. Power is managed by a 59 Wh battery with 65W fast-charging capabilities. Security features include an HD webcam paired with an infrared sensor for facial recognition biometric authentication and an integrated privacy shutter.

Initially launched in China for 5,998 yuan (~$882 USD), global branding on the chassis indicates the device carries the “OmniBook 5” designation, suggesting a broader international release. Further availability details are anticipated at Computex.

Filed in Computers. Read more about HP and HP Laptops.