HP launches new MacBook Neo rival with Intel Wildcat Lake and OLED display

HP has entered the premium ultraportable market with the StarBook Plus 14, a new laptop featuring Intel's latest Wildcat Lake processors. Launching first in China, this device directly challenges Apple's upcoming MacBook Neo with competitive specifications and a notably lower price point, while offering key advantages like an OLED display.

What's New: Wildcat Lake Meets OLED

The standout feature of the HP StarBook Plus 14 is its 14-inch OLED display, which immediately differentiates it from the MacBook Neo's expected IPS panel. HP has confirmed the display offers a 1920x1200 resolution with a 16:10 aspect ratio, providing more vertical workspace than traditional 16:9 screens. The panel covers 100% of the DCI-P3 color gamut, making it suitable for creative work, though HP hasn't specified the peak brightness rating which is a critical factor for OLED displays in various lighting conditions.

Under the hood, the laptop features the Intel Core 5 320, a mid-range processor from the Wildcat Lake family. This 6-core CPU pairs with Intel's Xe3 integrated graphics, representing a notable improvement over previous generations of Intel's integrated solutions. The system comes configured with 16GB of LPDDR5X RAM and a 512GB SSD, with the latter being user-upgradable according to HP.

Comparative Analysis: HP vs. Apple

The StarBook Plus 14 positions itself as a direct competitor to Apple's MacBook Neo, but with several key differences. While both devices target the premium ultraportable segment, HP's offering includes an OLED display versus Apple's expected IPS panel. The OLED technology typically offers superior contrast ratios, deeper blacks, and more vibrant colors compared to traditional IPS displays.

In terms of connectivity, the HP device appears more versatile, offering a comprehensive selection of ports: two USB Type-A ports, two 10Gbps USB Type-C ports with Power Delivery and DisplayPort Alt modes, an HDMI 2.1 port, and a 3.5mm audio jack. This contrasts with Apple's typically minimal port approach, often requiring dongles for expanded connectivity.

The physical specifications are competitive, with HP claiming the StarBook Plus 14 weighs 1.3kg (approximately 2.86lbs) and measures just 13.7mm at its thickest point. These dimensions place it in direct competition with other premium ultraportables in the market.

Battery and Charging

HP has equipped the StarBook Plus 14 with a 59Wh battery, paired with 65W fast charging support. While battery life will depend on real-world usage patterns, this capacity should provide adequate endurance for a day of typical productivity work. The inclusion of fast charging is a practical feature for users who need to quickly top up their battery between meetings or while traveling.

Additional Features

The laptop includes an IR infrared camera with physical shutters, addressing privacy concerns that have become increasingly important in modern computing devices. The thin chassis doesn't compromise on security features, which is a notable achievement in ultraportable design.

Pricing and Availability

In China, the HP StarBook Plus 14 launched with an initial price of CNY 5,998, which converts to approximately $882. This pricing significantly undercuts Apple's MacBook Neo, which is expected to command a premium in the market. The laptop is expected to make a global debut alongside other Wildcat Lake-powered devices that HP has announced recently.

Who It's For

The HP StarBook Plus 14 appears targeted at professionals and students who need a premium, portable computing device without the premium price tag typically associated with Apple products. The OLED display makes it particularly suitable for content creators, photographers, and designers who benefit from accurate color representation. The comprehensive port selection appeals to users who require connectivity without dongles, making it a practical choice for business travelers and power users.

For those considering the MacBook Neo, the StarBook Plus 14 presents a compelling alternative with superior display technology, more connectivity options, and a lower price point. However, potential buyers should wait for independent reviews to assess real-world performance, battery life, and build quality before making a final purchasing decision.