HP Chromebook 14c Review: A Real Windows Challenger?

The HP Googlebook 14c is a premium laptop featuring a dark blue metal chassis and a specialized RGB light strip for Gemini AI interactions. While HP has launched the hardware, Samsung Magazine reports a separate potential entry into the Googlebook OS ecosystem via a Snapdragon X Elite-powered device spotted on Geekbench.

HP Googlebook 14c features a metal chassis and Gemini integration

The HP Googlebook 14c is built with a dark blue metal chassis that Notebookcheck reported is nearly indistinguishable from the high-end HP Spectre line. The device includes a small RGB light strip on the lid that signals charging status or reacts to inputs from the Gemini AI.

The hardware is designed for some user maintenance. Notebookcheck noted that the bottom plate is secured by four screws, allowing users to clean the two internal fans or replace the M.2-2280 SSD.

Did you know? The Googlebook 14c’s screen has a maximum opening angle of approximately 135 degrees.

Connectivity limits and hardware performance

The laptop provides two USB-C ports, though Notebookcheck confirmed these lack USB 4.0 support. It does include a Wi-Fi 7 module and a 5 MP webcam equipped with an IR sensor and a mechanical privacy shutter. There is no 5G connectivity available on the device.

User input tools offer mixed results. While the haptic touchpad supports gestures effectively, Notebookcheck described the backlit keyboard as precise but loud, with keys that feel sluggish compared to the HP EliteBook series.

Samsung Galaxy Book linked to Googlebook OS on Geekbench

  • Processor: Snapdragon X Elite (codename Hamoa) 12-core CPU
  • Graphics: Adreno X1-85 GPU
  • Memory: 16 GB RAM
  • Benchmarks: 2,513 single-core and 15,214 multi-core points

Googlebook OS vs Windows and ChromeOS

The emerging Googlebook OS represents a shift toward Android-based laptop computing. According to Samsung Magazine, the XE940XSA does not appear to use Windows or ChromeOS, instead utilizing the Android 17-based Googlebook OS to potentially integrate Samsung’s One UI interface into a laptop form factor.

Hardware Comparison: HP 14c vs Samsung XE940XSA

Feature HP Googlebook 14c Samsung XE940XSA
Chassis Dark Blue Metal Not specified
Processor Not specified Snapdragon X Elite
RAM Not specified 16 GB
OS Base Googlebook OS Android 17 / Googlebook OS

Does the HP Googlebook 14c support 5G?

Does the HP Googlebook 14c support 5G?

No, the HP Googlebook 14c does not have 5G connectivity, according to Notebookcheck.

Can the storage be upgraded on the HP 14c?

Yes, the device features an M.2-2280 SSD that can be replaced by removing four screws from the bottom plate, per Notebookcheck.