HP Released New Budget Wildcat OmniDesk Configuration
The base model switches to UFS storage and DDR5 memory to reach a sub-$500 entry price point.
Updated on Sept. 29, 2026 in Computers
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HP has released a new entry-level configuration of its Wildcat OmniDesk mini PC, which is now available for $499.99. This base model utilizes 128GB of UFS storage and 8GB of DDR5 RAM to achieve a lower price than the existing 256GB SSD version.
Why it matters
By swapping high-performance SSD and RAM components for more cost-effective alternatives, HP is targeting the budget segment of the mini PC market. This move allows the company to lower the barrier to entry for its desktop hardware line.
The unit is powered by an Intel Core 3 304 CPU and features 8GB of onboard DDR5 RAM running at 5,600MT/s. It includes 128GB of UFS storage, though the internal board retains an M.2 NVMe SSD slot for user-performed storage upgrades.
The players
HP
A multinational technology company known for its diverse range of personal computers, workstations, and printing hardware.
The details
HP configured the new OmniDesk by replacing the previous LPDDR5X RAM with 8GB of onboard DDR5 memory. The machine features three USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-C ports, two USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-A ports, and an HDMI 2.0b output. Connectivity is handled via WiFi 6 and Bluetooth 5.4, while a dedicated LAN port and 3.5mm audio jack round out the I/O set.
Timeline
September 29, 2026: Article publication date.
The Tech Race
HP is moving to compete in the highly price-sensitive mini PC market currently dominated by compact workstation vendors. By utilizing UFS storage, the company follows a trend seen in mobile-adjacent hardware to reduce bill-of-materials costs while maintaining essential I/O parity.
The $499.99 price applies to the base configuration available at Best Buy, representing a $90 savings compared to the standard $589.99 retail price. Users who require higher capacity storage can utilize the empty M.2 NVMe slot for expansion.
The takeaway
The move to UFS storage suggests a strategy to provide a lower-cost platform for entry-level computing tasks. Potential buyers should watch for benchmark tests comparing the UFS storage speeds against the standard M.2 SSD model before finalizing their purchase.
Further reading
For more on the latest hardware releases, visit our Computers section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Notebookcheck.
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