HP has launched a subscription service for its OMEN gaming laptops.
Instead of buying hardware outright, users can rent devices with fixed monthly fees. The highest tier includes RTX 5080 GPUs for $129.99 per month, but subscribers will never own the laptop.
The service begins with a 30‑day trial, but after that, users are locked in for at least 12 months. Cancellation fees apply if you leave early, with the highest tier charging $1,429.89 in the second month. That fee decreases gradually over time.
HP offers multiple tiers, each with different specifications, with accessories and monitors also available for monthly rental. Prices range from $3.99 for a USB‑C hub to $9.99 for higher‑tier monitors. A headset costs $7.99, while a microphone is $7.99. However, the service currently appears limited to the US.
The upside is that subscribers can upgrade their laptops every year. This ensures access to relatively current hardware without waiting for traditional upgrade cycles, with HP also including 24/7 customer support.
However, it is important to reiterate that ownership is never part of the deal. If you fail to return equipment, HP can charge up to $3,299 for its highest‑tier laptop, roughly equal to retail pricing.
This financial trade‑off raises questions. At $129.99 per month, the RTX 5080 tier costs about the same as buying outright after 16 to 18 months. Yet subscribers end up with no hardware to keep. For some, the appeal lies in avoiding high upfront costs. For others, subscription fatigue makes the model less attractive.
HP’s move comes amid rising hardware demand. AI workloads have driven shortages in RAM and storage, pushing prices higher. Renting hardware may appeal to gamers who want flexibility without waiting for components to stabilise.
Still, the model highlights a broader trend. Companies increasingly push subscription services, from software to entertainment to hardware. Critics argue this erodes ownership, leaving users perpetually paying for access. Supporters see it as a way to stay current without major investments.
Ultimately, HP’s OMEN Gaming Subscription offers convenience but raises long‑term value concerns. Renting ensures upgrades and support in the short-term, but ownership remains off the table.
This service represents a new experiment on how we access hardware.
