The HP OMEN 35L is a versatile mid-tower gaming desktop that combines a polished design with relatively standardized components. HP offers the system in a wide range of configurations, from entry-level 1080p machines to high-end models with an Intel Core Ultra 9 285K and GeForce RTX 5080.

For this review, the reference configuration is HP’s upper-end Intel platform: an Intel Core Ultra 9 285K processor, GeForce RTX 5080 graphics, up to 64GB of DDR5-5600 memory, multiple SSDs, an optional 240mm liquid cooler, and a graphics card up to 335mm long. Because the OMEN 35L is sold with many different CPU and GPU combinations, actual gaming performance and value depend heavily on the selected configuration.

The OMEN 35L’s biggest strengths are its quiet cooling, attractive tempered-glass design, standard replacement parts, modular power supply, Wi-Fi 7, and straightforward internal layout. PCMag praised the desktop’s quiet operation and industry-standard component selection, giving it an Editors’ Choice award for mainstream mid-tower gaming desktops.

Its limitations include configuration-dependent value, the unusual pairing of Ryzen G-series processors with a motherboard that lacks display outputs in some models, and a software bundle that includes several unnecessary HP utilities and a McAfee trial. Overall, the OMEN 35L is one of the more upgrade-friendly major-brand prebuilts, especially for buyers who want a capable 1440p gaming system without assembling it themselves.

Specifications

The following list reflects HP’s current Intel OMEN 35L platform and its maximum advertised configuration. Exact specifications vary by model and retailer listing.

• Product: HP OMEN 35L gaming desktop
• Operating system: Windows 11, configuration-dependent
• Processor options: Up to Intel Core Ultra 9 285K
• Maximum processor specification: Up to 5.70GHz Turbo Boost, 36MB cache, 24 cores, and 24 threads
• Graphics options: Up to NVIDIA GeForce RTX 5080 with 16GB GDDR7
• Graphics card clearance: Supports graphics cards up to 335mm long
• Memory: Up to 64GB Kingston FURY DDR5-5600 MT/s
• Storage: Up to two 2TB SSDs and one 2TB hard drive
• CPU cooling: 120mm four-heatpipe RGB air cooler or up to a 240mm RGB liquid cooler with optional LCD screen
• Radiator support: One 240mm radiator
• Case dimensions: Approximately 8.27 x 16.06 x 16.14 inches
• Case weight: Approximately 31.97 pounds, depending on configuration
• Front ports: 3.5mm audio jack, one 10Gbps USB-C port, and two 5Gbps USB-A ports
• Rear connectivity: USB-C, USB-A, Ethernet, audio connections, and a clear CMOS button
• Wireless networking: Wi-Fi 7 and Bluetooth 5.4 on reviewed and selected configurations
• Power supply: Configuration-dependent; PCMag’s high-end review unit used a 1,000W modular power supply
• Chassis: Metal internal frame with tempered-glass front and side panels on selected configurations
• Lighting: RGB fans, memory, CPU cooler, and interior components on selected configurations
• Storage expansion: 3.5-inch drive cage and additional storage options depending on the motherboard and configuration
• Reference independent test: AMD Ryzen 7 8700G, GeForce RTX 4080 Super, 64GB RAM, 2TB SSD, additional 2TB SSD, 2TB hard drive, liquid cooling, and 1,000W PSU

Gaming Performance

The OMEN 35L is best evaluated by its graphics card rather than by the product name alone. Entry-level versions aimed at 1080p gaming can use a Ryzen 5 8500G, Radeon RX 7600, 16GB of memory, and a 512GB SSD, while higher models can include an RTX 5080 and Core Ultra 9 285K.

PCMag’s high-end review unit used an RTX 4080 Super and performed strongly in modern games, delivering more than enough frames for 1440p gaming. That configuration also outperformed the other mainstream comparison systems in PCMag’s gaming tests, though it was behind an RTX 4090-powered enthusiast system.

The upper-end OMEN 35L configurations should be comfortable for high-refresh 1440p gaming and capable of demanding 4K gaming with appropriate settings, especially when paired with an RTX 5080. The more affordable configurations are better suited to 1080p or 1440p gaming, depending on the installed GPU.

The 35L’s compact size makes it easier to place than a full tower, but buyers should check the exact graphics card length and power requirements. HP advertises clearance for cards up to 335mm, which is useful for modern large GPUs but does not guarantee compatibility with every aftermarket card.

Productivity and Multitasking

The OMEN 35L is capable of general productivity, streaming, content creation, and moderate workstation use. The higher Intel configurations provide up to 24 cores and 24 threads, while HP offers up to 64GB of DDR5 memory.

PCMag found its high-end review unit strong in general PCMark 10 productivity performance and reasonable in Photoshop. However, it did not stand out in CPU-centric tests as much as its liquid cooling and full-size desktop form might suggest. Buyers who perform regular CPU rendering, simulation, or professional video production should compare the exact processor against competing Ryzen and Core Ultra systems rather than relying on the OMEN brand alone.

The high-end memory and multi-drive options are useful for large creative projects. Lower configurations with 16GB of RAM and 512GB of storage may need upgrades sooner, particularly for users who keep many games or media files installed.

Cooling, Noise, and Maintenance

HP offers both air cooling and a 240mm all-in-one liquid cooler. The 120mm air cooler uses four heat pipes, while the liquid option can include an LCD screen on the CPU block. This gives buyers a practical choice between lower complexity and stronger sustained cooling.

PCMag found the liquid-cooled OMEN 35L impressively quiet, with the fans barely noticeable during gaming. Its tested airflow layout used two 140mm intake fans, two 120mm radiator fans, and a 120mm rear exhaust fan. That is a sensible arrangement for a compact mid-tower and helps explain the desktop’s favorable acoustic results.

Maintenance is also easier than on many prebuilt competitors. The front panel can be removed to access a washable dust filter, and another filter sits underneath the case. Standardized parts reduce the risk that a failed fan, drive, power supply, or memory kit will require an OEM-specific replacement.

Design and Build Quality

The OMEN 35L has a more conventional gaming appearance than some aggressively styled prebuilts. Its metal structure, tempered-glass front and side panels, and bright RGB lighting give it a premium visual presence. HP also offers color variations in some markets, including a white version with black accents.

PCMag considered the OMEN 35L’s build quality exceptional and said that it felt more high-end than the similarly sized Alienware Aurora. The case is compact enough for typical desks while still providing room for large graphics cards and a 240mm radiator.

The RGB lighting is customizable through HP’s OMEN Gaming Hub. Lighting zones can be configured separately, and the bright internal illumination showcases the memory, CPU cooler, fans, and graphics card. Users who prefer a subdued setup can reduce or disable the lighting.

Upgradeability and Standard Components

Upgradeability is one of the OMEN 35L’s strongest selling points. PCMag emphasized that the desktop relies on industry-standard components, allowing users to replace parts through the aftermarket rather than depending entirely on HP.

The modular power supply is a particular advantage. It allows only the necessary cables to be connected, keeps the interior cleaner, and is easier to replace than a fully proprietary unit. The case also includes a 3.5-inch drive cage, and HP offers multiple SSD and hard-drive combinations.

There are still limits. The motherboard layout and available expansion slots depend on the configuration, and the 35L chassis cannot provide the same expansion capacity as a full tower. Buyers should also confirm the exact motherboard, power supply wattage, memory configuration, and available M.2 slots before planning major upgrades.

The unusual AMD configuration deserves special attention. PCMag found that some OMEN 35L models pair a Ryzen G-series processor with a motherboard that has no HDMI or DisplayPort output. The integrated graphics therefore cannot be used, although the processor still provides adequate CPU performance when a dedicated graphics card is installed.

Connectivity and Software

The OMEN 35L provides convenient front connectivity with a 3.5mm audio jack, one 10Gbps USB-C port, and two 5Gbps USB-A ports. Rear connectivity includes additional USB ports, Ethernet, audio connections, and a clear CMOS button.

Wi-Fi 7 and Bluetooth 5.4 are available on reviewed and selected configurations, giving the desktop modern wireless performance. Buyers should verify these features on lower-cost models because networking hardware can vary across the product family.

HP’s OMEN Gaming Hub handles lighting, performance profiles, diagnostics, updates, and game management. It is more useful than a simple RGB utility, but PCMag also found unwanted software, including a McAfee antivirus trial and several HP applications of varying usefulness. A clean Windows installation or selective uninstall may improve the experience.

Value for Money

The OMEN 35L has a broad price range. HP’s entry-level models can target 1080p gaming, while high-end systems with liquid cooling, RTX 5080 graphics, large memory, and multiple drives can cost considerably more. PCMag tested a high-end unit at $2,449.99 through Best Buy and noted that the configuration’s value depended heavily on its exact hardware and price.

The desktop is most compelling when its standardized parts, quiet operation, and polished design are priced competitively against similarly equipped prebuilts. It is less attractive when HP charges a large premium for memory, storage, or graphics upgrades that could be installed more cheaply by the buyer.

For many users, the OMEN 35L’s upgrade-friendly construction adds meaningful value. A buyer who expects to replace storage, memory, or the graphics card later may prefer it to an OEM system with proprietary internals, even if the initial price is not the lowest available.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the HP OMEN 35L good for gaming?

Yes. The right configuration can deliver excellent 1440p gaming and strong 4K performance. Models with an RTX 5080 are intended for demanding high-resolution gaming, while lower models should be selected for 1080p or mainstream 1440p use.

Is the OMEN 35L quiet?

Yes. PCMag found the liquid-cooled OMEN 35L impressively quiet, with its fans barely noticeable during gaming. Acoustic performance will vary between the air-cooled and liquid-cooled configurations.

Can the OMEN 35L be upgraded?

Yes, more easily than many OEM gaming desktops. PCMag found that it uses industry-standard components, a modular power supply, accessible storage, and replaceable cooling hardware. The exact motherboard, power supply, available slots, and case clearance should still be checked before planning an upgrade.

Does the OMEN 35L support Wi-Fi 7?

Selected and reviewed configurations support Wi-Fi 7 and Bluetooth 5.4. Buyers should confirm the networking hardware on the specific listing, especially for lower-cost models.

What is the difference between the air cooler and liquid cooler?

The air-cooled model uses a 120mm four-heatpipe RGB cooler, while the upper option uses a 240mm RGB liquid cooler and may include an LCD screen. The liquid cooler is more suitable for high-power CPUs and sustained workloads, while the air cooler is simpler and easier to maintain.

Is the 35L case large enough for an RTX 5080?

HP lists support for graphics cards up to 335mm long and offers configurations with an RTX 5080. Exact clearance depends on the card’s length, thickness, power connector placement, and the installed front fans or radiator.

Does the OMEN 35L include a keyboard and mouse?

Accessories vary. PCMag’s review unit did not include a keyboard or mouse, although HP or a retailer may bundle basic peripherals with specific configurations or promotions.

Is the OMEN 35L worth buying?

It is a strong choice when priced competitively and configured with the right GPU. Its standardized components, quiet cooling, design, and upgradeability make it especially appealing to buyers who want a supported prebuilt but do not want a fully proprietary system. Compare the exact price with equivalent systems from Alienware, iBUYPOWER, CyberPowerPC, and custom builders before ordering.

Verdict

The HP OMEN 35L is one of the better upgrade-friendly gaming prebuilts in its class. It combines strong 1440p performance, high-end configuration potential, quiet cooling, modern wireless connectivity, attractive tempered-glass styling, and industry-standard parts that simplify future repairs and upgrades.

Its weaknesses are primarily configuration-related. A low-end model is a very different product from an RTX 5080 system, and the unusual Ryzen G-series configurations may leave some integrated graphics features unusable. HP’s software bundle and premium upgrade pricing are also worth considering.

The OMEN 35L is best for buyers who want a polished, quiet, and serviceable gaming desktop without building from scratch. Overall, it earns 4.5/5 stars, provided the buyer chooses a well-balanced configuration and avoids paying too much for easily upgraded components.