We use cookies and similar technologies to improve your experience, serve personalized ads, and analyze traffic. You can manage your preferences or accept/reject all.
Cookie Preferences
EssentialRequired for the site to function. Always active.
AnalyticsHelp us understand how visitors interact with the site.
AdvertisingUsed to deliver personalized ads.
FunctionalEnable enhanced functionality and personalization.
An okay laptop with 16GB of RAM is better than a nice laptop with 8GB, and this $520 HP OmniBook proves it
·1 min read
Key Takeaway
Laptop prices are out of whack. $500 used to get you a tolerable laptop, and $900 got you a really good one.
Published August 22, 2026 · Category: Tech
Overview
The OmniBook 3 isn’t a sweet treat, but it gets things done on the cheap. | Photo: Antonio G. Di Benedetto / The Verge
Laptop prices are out of whack. $500 used to get you a tolerable laptop, and $900 got you a really good one. They often had similar CPU, RAM, and storage options because that stuff was comparatively cheap; the difference was often in build quality and screen rather than power. But RAMageddon has thrown everything off. Even laptops like the $950 Surface Laptop now start with 8GB of RAM, which isn't enough. And on the lower end, where manufacturers are struggling to compete with the $700 MacBook Neo, they're cutting corners on storage, CPU, and build quality too.
However, one low-cost laptop has bucked this and genuinely surprised me. HP's 16 …
What is "An okay laptop with 16GB of RAM is better than a nice laptop with 8GB, and this $520 HP OmniBook proves it" about?+
Laptop prices are out of whack. $500 used to get you a tolerable laptop, and $900 got you a really good one. They often had similar CPU, RAM, and storage options because that stuff was comparatively cheap; the difference was often in build quality and screen rather than power. But RAMageddon has thrown everything off. […]
We use cookies and similar technologies to improve your experience, serve personalized ads, and analyze traffic. You can manage your preferences or accept/reject all.
Cookie Preferences
EssentialRequired for the site to function. Always active.
AnalyticsHelp us understand how visitors interact with the site.
AdvertisingUsed to deliver personalized ads.
FunctionalEnable enhanced functionality and personalization.
