Google’s Chrome OS excels when it comes to the essentials. Therefore, purchasing a Chromebook laptop is worth considering for both home and work use since they’re perfect for performing numerous online activities such as playing games, surfing the internet, listening to songs, and watching your favorite movies. Since Chrome is a browser-based operating system, it’s naturally compatible with cloud-based services frequently used in modern work and personal life. All of this is no doubt accurate if you’re already using Google’s ecosystem ranging from any Google app such as Google Docs, Google Drive, Gmail, Google Play, Pixel phones, or even one of the tech giant’s smart-home devices.
Nowadays, the best Chromebooks will influence your decision of buying a personal laptop, especially if you’re equally considering the price and the performance. Whether you spend most of your time checking emails, streaming live sports, or browsing the internet, or you need a reliable device. That said, the best Chromebooks can help you work efficiently and boost your productivity.
In this article, we list down the best Chromebooks in today’s market with starting prices for you to reference in choosing the ideal Chromebook for your personality and needs.
What Is a Chromebook?
A Chromebook is a reliable alternative to the majority of laptops available on the market. If you’re looking for a laptop with a simple and straightforward operating system, a Chromebook might be ideal for you. It’s an innovative substitute to Windows and Mac laptops that is easy to use and even easier on your budget.
These devices don’t run on Mac or Windows operating systems but on Chrome OS. You can picture out a Chromebook as a primarily internet-dependent laptop that runs up ultra-fast and works well thanks to the low-overhead of its OS. In case you’re curious, the Chrome OS is a similar desktop Chrome browser that you normally use in your Mac and Windows computers. Anything that you normally do in Chrome using Windows or Mac, you can do in Chrome OS without disruptions. In simple terms, the Chrome OS is simply a browser that also happens to run the entire Chromebook’s system.
All applications or programs on a Chromebook are focused on Google’s services and applications such as YouTube, Maps, and Chrome. This means you can’t enjoy using the traditional apps and programs you generally use in Windows, Linux, or Mac OS. They simply aren’t compatible with Chrome OS unless it has a web version or Android app counterpart. However, there is already an increasing number of third-party applications that are compatible with the Chrome OS as well as other apps that are compatible with it through the Google Play Store. Some applications run offline but most of them are web applications or apps that run while you’re connected to the internet. The Chromebook’s local storage is limited, but it has 100 GB worth of space online and the opportunity to increase it significantly if you prefer. It’s more than enough for general usage.
Adore
- – Offers incredible battery life
– Professional sleek design
– Lightweight
– Ultra-quiet Hush Keyboard feature
Against
- – Price is slightly steep for a mid-entry product
– Doesn’t allow with microSD storage upgrade
CPU: Intel Core m3 – Intel Core i7
RAM: 8 GB to 16 GB
Storage: 128 GB to 256 GB eMMC
Display: 13.3” Full HD (1920 x 1080)
Google continues its heritage of making the best Chromebooks in the world. While the older Pixelbook used to be the popular version, it has been replaced by Google’s latest version of Chromebook — the Pixelbook Go i5. This is one of the best Chromebooks that proves that they can be just as stylish and efficient as traditional laptops. Pixelbook Go delivers numerous original Pixelbook’s premium features to a cheaper model. It has a brilliant keyboard and a fantastic battery life.
Adore
- – Outstanding performance
– Offers Full-HD 1080 webcam
– Full size number pad
– Long battery life up to 10 hours
Against
- – Steep price for the specs
– Average audio playback quality
CPU: Intel Core i5-8350U
RAM: 8 GB
Storage: 64 GB eMMC
Display: 15.6” 1920 x 1080 px
The Acer Chromebook 715 is a premium Chromebook that is integrated with a durable aluminum chassis built with great performance and more than 10 hours of battery life. Acer Chromebook 715’s Intel Core i5-8350U processor integrated with 8 GB RAM reached 14,088 on the Geekbench 4 overall performance assessment. It has a Numpad that is a treat for students. Despite having a little dull 15.6” display, it is still a sharp variant at 1920 x 1080 pixels. If you are a fan of Acer, this is one of the best Chromebooks under its lineage.
Adore
- – Incredible battery life
– Large 15.6-inch HD screen display
– Solid and clean design
– Compact with outstanding performance
Against
- – Average audio quality
– Does not offer full number keypad
CPU: Intel Pentium N4200
RAM: 4 GB
Storage: 32 GB eMMC
Display: 15.6” FHD (1920 x 1080)
With a robust build quality that competes with a MacBook, it’s easy to justify the Acer Chromebook 15’s repulsion to 2-in-1 form factors. However, given that the best Chromebooks around this year are 100% convertible, made possible by the wide adoption of Android app support, the Acer Chromebook 15 had to attest itself with above-average great style. Beyond its capacity for laying flat utilizing a 180-degree hinge, this beautiful Chromebook from Acer also makes an excellent impression with its battery lifespan that lasted almost 17 hours in a battery test.
Adore
- – Large display with 1080 HD quality
– Sleek design with 360-degree tablet mode
– Vivid displays
Against
- – Only offer single USB port
CPU: Intel Core m3-8100Y
RAM: 4 GB
Storage: 64 GB eMMC
Display: 14” 1080p Touch Screen
One of the best Chromebooks available on the market, Asus Chromebook Flip C434 is a great successor of the Flip C302CA. Not only do its super-small bezels enable Asus to fit its large 14” screen into a smaller chassis than you’d see, but the Flip C434 also has a bright and colorful screen display. Aside from that, its aluminum design offers a more premium aesthetic than most Chromebooks. This Asus Chromebook lasts up to ten hours on a single charge.
Adore
- – Superb battery lifespan
– Awesome price to performance product
– Support touchscreen
Against
- – Not the most stylish design
– Touchpad not as responsive
CPU: Intel Core i5 – i7
RAM: 8 GB to 16 GB
Storage: 128 GB to 512 GB
Display: 12.3” QHD (2400 x 1600)
The Acer Chromebook Spin 15 is one of the only Chromebooks that has a 15” display and the sole 2-in-1 in this form factor – making it one of the rare forms of Chromebook. With a form factor and size nearing a 15” premium laptop rather than a budget-centered netbook, the Chromebook Spin 15 provides the same screen properties as its more expensive contenders. Its display also flips around and while you won’t be using it as a tablet in the crook of your arm, you will enjoy the media mode for streaming Netflix.
Adore
- – Support 360 degrees turning into tablet mode
– Sleek and elegant design
– Offers optional 4K display
Against
- – Audio quality slightly distorted
– No backlit keyboards
– Heavier than it looks
CPU: Intel Core i5 – 8250U
RAM: 8 GB
Storage: 128 GB SSD
Display: 15.6” 3840 x 2160 px
If you want a larger-screen Chromebook, you will want to have a huge high-resolution display. While the Lenovo Yoga Chromebook C630 is initially at $599 with a 1080-pixel screen and an Intel Core i3, it can be upgraded to a 4K display with an Intel Core i5 processor and 8 GB RAM. That said, it should be more than enough to speed up all the Android apps and other programs. The Yoga Chromebook C630 sports a sleek aluminum lid so its chassis looks as sharp as the pictures on its screen.
Adore
- – User-friendly and easy to use
– Vivid and bright screen display
– Long battery life
Against
- – No breakthrough with just the standard design
– Average audio quality
CPU: Intel Celeron N4000
RAM: 4 GB
Storage: 32 GB eMMC
Display: 14” LED (1366 x 768)
The Acer Chromebook 314 is the best Chromebook that provides excellent value for your money. It’s reliable, easy to use, and has a beautiful screen and battery life combination. It also has a 14” crisp and bright display that provides you with more screen properties for your productivity needs. The Chromebook 314 has a keyboard that is satisfying and enjoyable to type on as well as a touchpad that works well with all your finger’s commands and movements. It is one of the best Chromebooks that strikes a harmonious balance between performance, battery life, features, usability, and design.
Adore
- – Solid performance
– Bright screen display
– Good price to quality product
Against
- – Thick lining on screen the display
– Small screen display
– Heat up easily
RAM: 4 GB
Storage: 32 GB eMMC
Display: 11.6” (1366 x 768)
Samsung Chromebook 3 is an 11.6” and 2.5 lb laptop that is light enough to carry around. It is built with an Intel Celeron N3060 and 4 GB RAM, which makes it handle multitasking activities with ease. Samsung’s Chromebook 3 has a classy aesthetic with a metallic black casing and is one of the most affordable variants of the best Chromebook available on the market. It has a battery life of nine hours, which is more than enough for leisure and business for an entire day.
Adore
- – Sleek design with silver-chrome lining
– Comes with B&O audio sound system
– Responsive touchscreen
– Detachable screen
– Outstanding battery life
Against
- – Screen detachable feature wear out easily
– Slightly heavier than competitors
CPU: Intel Core m3-7Y30
RAM: 4 GB
Storage: 32 GB
Display: 12.3” (2400 x 1600)
With a comfortable and detachable design and all-day battery life, the HP Chromebook x2 has the whole package when it comes to the best Chromebook for business users. It’s similar to a Microsoft Surface that runs on Chrome Operating System. The Chromebook x2 provides a sharp, bright display, a comfortable keyboard for typing, and high-quality audio. It already includes the keyboard and pen at the official price.
Adore
- – Compact but conventional design
– Small and dim screen display
– Durable casing to withstand bumps
Against
- – The keyboard is not the best
– Battery won’t last a day
CPU: Intel Celeron N3350 – N4000
RAM: 4 GB
Storage: 64 GB Flash Memory
Display: 11.6” HD (1366 x 768)
Acer Chromebook Spin 311 is an all-around Chromebook with great battery life, solid usability, and solid build. This is one of the best Chromebooks that takes versatility even further, made possible with the abundance of its ports considering its form factor, portable size, and great touchscreen display. It also highlights a touchpad and a keyboard that aren’t only steadfast but also satisfying to use.
Adore
- – Loud and clear audio quality
– Good battery lifespan
– Offer multiple USB ports
– Comfortable to type on the keypads
Against
- – Small screen display
– Supports only up to 720p camera
CPU: Intel Celeron N3060
RAM: 4 GB
Storage: 32 GB eMMC
Display: 11.6” (1366 x 768)
Dell Chromebook 3189 lasts over nine hours on a single charge and provides a durable chassis that is suitable for classroom use. It’s a 2-in-1 convertible laptop with a touch screen, which makes it easy to use Android apps. The Celeron processor may not be as powerful compared to other contenders but the Chromebook 3189 is the best Chromebook for completing a single homework activity at a time.
Adore
- – Offers 1080 HD display
– Crispy display though is a little dim
– Loud and clear audio quality
Against
- – Basic performance
– Subpar casing
CPU: Intel Celeron N2840 – N2940
RAM: 2 GB to 4 GB
Storage: 16 GB to 32 GB eMMC
Display: 14” HD (1366 x 768)
HP Chromebook 14 is one of the best Chromebooks that balances a bargain price and powerful use of the Chrome OS. Integrated with a bright blue cover and a screen made to impress, the Chromebook 14 provides the best value for money. Despite having an average performance and battery life, the HP Chromebook 14 is still one of the best Chromebooks nowadays.
Adore
- – Responsive touch screen
– Supports IPS screen displays
– Good battery life
Against
- – The trackpad isn’t the greatest
– No outstanding performance
CPU: Intel Celeron N3060 – N3150
RAM: 4 GB
Storage: 16 GB to 32 GB SSD
Display: 11.6” HD (1366 x 768)
The Acer Chromebook R11 has a built-in 360-degree hinge, which makes it a winner. It’s a convertible Chromebook that still holds up to this day as one of the best Chromebooks on the market providing you with access to Android apps via the Google Play Store. The Chromebook R11 has a touchscreen display that can be rotated around into a tablet form. It is designed with an all-metal finish to have that classy aesthetic.
Adore
- – Nice and durable quality
– Crisp screen display
– Inexpensive
Against
- – Bulky
– Basic design
CPU: Intel Celeron N3060
RAM: 4 GB
Storage: 32 GB to 64 GB
Display: 11.6” HD (1366 x 768)
The Dell Inspiron Chromebook 11 2-in-1 is one of the most affordable Chromebooks available. This model is everything that the best Chromebook should be — durable, easy to use, and affordable. It is perfect for all your web browsing, paper writing, and movie streaming needs.
Adore
- – Supports customization
– Solid performance
– Responsive touchpad
– Nice silver chrome casing
Against
- – The screen display is dim and not vivid enough
– Does not offer a strong battery life
CPU: 1.1GHz Intel Celeron N3350
RAM: 4 GB LPDDR4
Storage: 32 GB eMMC SSD
Display: 11.6” HD (1366 x 768)
Acer Chromebook Spin 11 makes it one of the most compelling student laptops to date. It is an inexpensive, durable, and capable laptop that enables you to complete homework while traveling or commuting. It may not be ideal for hardcore gaming, but if you’re going to use it for streaming your favorite movies and TV shows or writing some papers in your free time, the Acer Chromebook Spin 11 should be your top choice.
Chromebook Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
What Is the Purpose of a Chromebook?
Chromebooks have come a long way since 2011. They can be a 2-in-1 companion that runs Google and Android apps such as Google Assistant, Google Sheets, Google Docs, WhatsApp, and Skype. Play Chrome OS games and just about any app on the planet with Chrome Remote Desktop. They are no longer a low-quality alternative for those who can’t afford to buy a real laptop/computer.
In fact, if you’re wondering what you can do with a Chromebook, which has become a popular question among laptop buyers, here are some of the top answers.
Use It Like a Tablet
Chromebooks can become a 2-in-1 convertible laptop depending on the brand of Chromebook you’ll purchase. You can fold the screen around to act as a tablet or use it into a tent or stand mode for continuous movie streaming or working on important documents.
Use Android Apps Such as Google Assistant and Skype
Since Chromebooks can run all the Android applications, they have become the little computing device they could be. You can attend meetings or interviews with colleagues, family, friends, and other important appointments via Skype. Whether online or offline, you can run all the Google Suite programs such as Gmail, Google Docs, Calendar, and Google Drive.
Go Where No Laptop Has Ever Reached Before
One of the notable things to do with a Chromebook is to bring it with you where you wouldn’t generally bring a laptop. Because of their low price point and robust durability, you won’t need to worry about it than you would with an inexpensive mobile device. Chromebooks have high ratings when it comes to tests related to temperature, vibration, dust, humidity, and atmosphere. They even have built-in spill-resistant keyboards.
Stream Movies
Some Chromebooks have a surprisingly crisp touch screen and impressive speakers for streaming your favorite movies and TV shows anytime, anywhere.
Work and Play Offline
If you’re wondering whether you need to connect your device to the internet to use a Chromebook, the simple answer is no. If you are accessing cloud-based apps or remote desktop hacks, you will need an internet connection. However, several applications such as Gmail, Google Docs, Kindle, and Google Drive can now let you save working versions of your documents right on your Chromebook for offline use.
Access Your Desktop With Chrome Remote Desktop
Remote desktop access works wonders for your Chromebook. If you download Chrome Remote Desktop to your home PC and leave it running, you can access any app you like directly from your Chromebook including the full Microsoft Office Suite, Blender, Photoshop, or Adobe Premiere. Through the remote desktop access, you can exponentially expand your things to do on a Chromebook.
Play Games
You can play numerous games using your Chromebook. However, you can only play specific games such as Fortnite but can’t download them. You need to have remote desktop access from your home PC and stream it to your Chromebook via the Chrome Remote Desktop. You can also play native Chrome OS games straight from your Chromebook. If you want more variety, the Chromebook can play all the Android games you like to your heart’s content.
Edit Videos
Most people would tell you that you can’t edit videos on a Chromebook, but it isn’t entirely accurate. There are two great methods you can edit videos with the Chromebook. The first and most convenient method is to choose one of the highly-rated Android apps for video editing such as Inshot’s Video Editor & Video Maker. The second method is to access your home PC with Adobe Premiere or other video editing apps using Chrome Remote Desktop.
Should I Buy a Chromebook or a Laptop?
Chromebooks may not be as powerful and capable compared to a lot of Windows and Mac laptops; however, they are more than enough for some individuals. If you are using your laptop mostly for writing emails, browsing the internet, and streaming Netflix, then we recommend Chromebook for you. They’re more affordable than their Windows or Mac counterparts, plus they are fast and responsive. Chromebooks work particularly well with Google’s apps and services; thus, if you use Google Docs, Google Drive, and Gmail regularly, a Chromebook could be ideal for you. If you are considering purchasing a laptop for less than a $500 budget, you’ll even have a worthier purchase with Chromebook. Windows laptops and MacBooks are more expensive, don’t work that well, and have poor battery life.
Chromebooks aren’t suitable for heavy games. Nor are they exceptionally good at running the common applications that you’re used to on Windows or Mac. Android apps have filled several gaps that Chrome OS native programs have, but the Windows and Mac OS are more expansive and diverse. Lack of storage in Chromebooks can be quite a challenge too especially with the most inexpensive models.
However, they are great and efficient at what they are made for. Chromebook’s affordability is making them ideal for specific audiences. Media viewing and note-taking are very student-centric activities, and a limited budget is a trademark of that time of several people’s lives. Chromebooks aren’t entirely suitable for everyone, but if it sounds like it might be perfect for your needs, then give it a try. You’ll be surprised by how much you actually like it.
Chromebook vs. Laptop
The simplicity of a Chromebook is unmatched. If everything you do can be performed in a web browser, a web version, or with an Android equivalent, there’s little to no reason not to opt for a Chromebook. With the integration of VMWare and Linux support, you can accomplish so much more today than when the Chromebooks first arrived on the market in 2011.
On the contrary, the laptops’ wide range of styles, sizes, and designs can be configured with all types of components and available with prices ranging from a hundred dollars to thousands. As a result, the Windows or Mac laptops deliver greater varieties in use and performance especially if you want to easily access programs or play all kinds of games that are only compatible with the Windows or Mac OS.
