Google introduced its first Computer Version to the technology market, the Chromebook, in 2011. From that point forward, Google has introduced a variety of Chromebook editions for various types of clients.
The best Chromebooks aren’t simply laptops that run a few Google applications anymore. Chromebooks can cover multiple computing needs now, and a good Chrome operating system laptop or two-in-one can be more useful than a mediocre Windows or macOS PC. That is the reason our pick for the best Chromebook of 2024 is the Asus Chromebook Flip CX5, which is one of the superb built-in, longest-lasting, and best-performing Chromebooks you can pick up.
Chromebooks from companies like Acer, Lenovo, and Asus are known to deliver great value. The message that many individuals need great Chromebooks — rather than cheap ones — has gotten through to producers. Many are around $500 or $600, though there are great choices in the higher and lower ranges also. The extra cash goes quite far toward getting something you’ll be happy with.
The quality of the Chromebooks in this reach has been consistent. There are resemblances between the offerings from Asus, Lenovo, Google, HP, Dell, and Samsung that a conspiracy-minded individual could propose they’re all sourcing their parts from a similar factory.
If you are trying to find the right Google Chromebook, this guide will assist you with choosing the right Chromebook.
Things to Consider When Buying a Chromebook
Operating system: Chromebooks run on Google’s ChromeOS operating system. It is unlike from MacOS and Windows and natively run software designed for those OSes.
Applications: Chromebooks run web applications, Android applications from the Google Play store, and Linux software. With more software going on the web, it’s simpler than ever to find the applications you need; still, before you purchase, check if any essential applications are available for ChromeOS.
Specs: ChromeOS doesn’t require strong components to run smoothly (which is the reason you can find different great Chromebooks for under $400). In any case, we suggest getting the best equipment you can manage because they can’t be upgraded later.
Graphics and gaming: Most gaming laptops accompany discrete graphics cards so they can run the most recent games well, but a similar card can be similarly vital to designing understudies who will use CAD (computer-assisted design) and 3D analysis programs. These kinds of applications truly benefit from the power of a decent GPU, so if you’re expecting to do any graphics or 3D work it’s smart to invest in a laptop with a discrete Nvidia or AMD graphics card.
AUE: Google gives all Chromebooks an auto-update expiration date. This is when a particular model will never again get ChromeOS security and feature updates. These can be checked on Google’s site before you buy, and current models are supported for 8 to 10 years.
Security: Because it’s nearly impossible for Chromebooks to be ruined with viruses or other malware, you don’t have to worry about extra software to secure a Chromebook.
Google Chromebook: Features and Specifications
Storage
Thanks to our cell phones, we’re all aware of gigabyte (GB) size. An entry-level iPhone has 16GB of storage, so use that as your perspective for deciding how much room you want on your new Chromebook.
For vastly more capacity, with a 320GB hard drive and 100GB of cloud storage, the Acer Chromebook C720 is your smartest option. This isn’t a solid-state drive, so it’s stronger than other Chromebooks but you will find you have ample space for all of your files.
Then again, the entry-level Toshiba Chromebook 2 just gives 2GB of memory and 16GB of storage. With the low memory specs significantly slowing down the interaction, we’d suggest staying away from this one, especially if you run various tabs or web applications at a time.
So, cloud storage presently empowers you to store your information without taking up any hard drive room. In this way, if you don’t need your documents inside your Chromebook, you can continuously buy a device like the Toshiba Chromebook and upgrade your cloud storage capacity as your needs increase.
Screen
Your laptop display is seemingly the main component you’ll explore. Mostly the higher resolution is better.
Normally Chromebooks are known for their relatively compact displays, generally maximizing around 14 inches with HD or full HD resolutions.
If you’re searching for one on the bigger side with a resolution fundamentally over the pack, take a look at Toshiba’s Chromebook 2 with a 13.3-inch full HD 1080p IPS screen. The image is clean and clear with bright, distinctive colors and magnificent viewing angles. Or on the other hand, you can go with our best Chromebook, the ‘Google Chromebook Pixel 2’, which boasts a lovely 12.85-inch 2,560 x 1,700 IPS touchscreen display.
On the other end, new Chromebooks, like Dell Chromebook 11, boast 11.6-inch TN displays, which are admittedly not incredible. The Acer Chromebook 13 is an update that resolution isn’t everything with regard to display quality. While this PC could have a full HD 1080p screen, the bad-quality TN board isn’t very easy on the eyes. You do have a lot of usable room on the 13.3-inch display, greater than most Chromebook options, but the colors and differentiation are missing and dull and the viewing angles are cleaned out too. The worst part of it is that the Chrome operating system doesn’t increase, leaving text on pages hard to read, and requiring heavy zooming to scan.
The beauty of a laptop is its mobility. However, if your battery duration is the pits and you’re fastened to a charger connected to the wall, you rapidly lose this advantage. While performance might be paramount, offsetting it with the longest possible charge period is critical.
Battery duration
Chromebooks mostly have energy-efficient mobile processors, making them better than above-average performers in the battery duration class overall. The Asus Chromebook C300M has a relatively huge screen for a Chromebook (13.3 inches) upheld by brilliant battery duration. When tested, the C300 ran for 10 hours 42 minutes. If you contrast this with comparable models, similar to the Acer Chromebook 13, which ran for 8 hours and 20 minutes, it’s clear the C300M outperforms. If you want an entire day of computing with a bigger display, this is your pick.
Cost
If you’re looking at Chromebook choices, bets are that you’re probably cost-sensitive, searching for a strong machine that gets you value for your money. While the majority of the machines in the Chromebook series are reasonable, especially close to other more complex, full-suite choices, the Dell Chromebook 11 is the best value. You will get a reasonable, but still stylishly satisfying bundle with high-quality performance. With a Haswell-based Intel processor and 4GB of RAM, this notebook has the speediest arrangement at the most minimal price tag of $299 (£250, AU$383). The feature is battery duration with around 10 hours of purpose for every charge, making this one of the nicest, most durable systems you can get for under $300.
The Google Chromebook Pixel 2 is one of the most amazing Chromebooks available, but it will cost you $999 (£670, AU$1,320).
Performance
Processor models and processing speeds are typically a decent sign of how well laptop will perform. You’ll need to search for the latest generation processors, similar to Intel’s 5th-generation units, with higher gigahertz speeds. The following are some examples:
If you need a speedy machine that can deal with your daily multiple tasks and won’t break the bank, think about the Acer C720 Chromebook (fourth-generation Intel Center i3), a quicker and more powerful form of the first C720. The 1.7GHz Intel Center i3-4005U processor helps this machine run smoothly, even with different tasks running.
The Acer Chromebook 15 C910 is a heavier and bigger Chromebook model, but it features great performance supported by a 2.2GHz Intel Core i5-5200 (fifth generation) dual-core processor.
In terms of performance, you need to avoid Acer’s Chromebook 13 as the promotion around Nvidia’s new processor is only that – publicity. The chip doesn’t deliver, meaning this machine lags while completing typical daily responsibilities like word processing, web browsing, and similar activities. As you open more tabs, the system feels noticeably slower than its competitors.
Processor
A low-end computer chip like an Intel Celeron, Pentium, or AMD A-Series will serve if all you do is browse with a tab or two open. Chromebooks based on Intel Center or AMD Ryzen processors will allow for performing various tasks, but they’ll also be more costly. Note that AMD offers a modest bunch of C-series Ryzen mobile processors designed especially for Chromebooks.
For $300, a Windows PC with an Intel Celeron processor and 4GB of memory will be unpleasantly sluggish for ordinary use under Windows, but a Chromebook with similar specs should be fine for main tasks. If you will generally be a multitasker, however, consider a Core or a Ryzen chip and 8GB of memory. Chromebook Plus models, which start at $399 and go up from that point, will have essentially an Intel Core i3 or AMD Ryzen 3 chip by default, and at least 8GB.
Screen Resolution
The usual native display on a Chromebook will be 1,920 by 1,080 pixels, also called full HD or 1080p, but cheaper Chromebooks might have lower resolution while deluxe models might have higher. For most midsize Chromebooks with screens from 13 to 15 inches, 1080p is fine. Entry-level models’ goal of 1,366 by 768 pixels can look coarse and is just appropriate for laptops with screens smaller than 12 inches diagonally. Try to avoid this resolution on any 13-inch or bigger screen, or at least try to eyeball the display in person before you purchase. Note that all Chromebook Plus models will have at least a 1080p screen.
Connectivity
Most Chromebook connections are remote, as you’ll use the machine almost when joined to Wi-Fi. Wired Ethernet ports are rare, but support for 802.11ac Wi-Fi is universal, with 802.11ax Wi-Fi 6 found in upscale and corporate Chromebooks.
If you’ll have to give introductions from your Chromebook, an HDMI screen port is generally more helpful than conveying a USB-C DisplayPort connector. Also search for a USB port or two to join a mouse, a flash drive, or another peripheral.
Pick One with a Strong SSD
Chromebooks with SSDs are the standard nowadays, which is incredible because SSDs are way quicker than HDDs. There is a third kind of memory called eMMC that offers preferable performance over HDDs but is slower when compared with SSDs. We suggest picking an SSD.
64GB capacity is very normal among Chromebooks. In any case, we suggest that you go for somewhere around 128GB to play it safe. In addition, you can use Chromebook’s best coordination with Google Drive to save information in the cloud.
Ensure It Has the Ports You Want
Avoid getting a laptop with just a single USB port. Always check the availability of ports on each device you intend to purchase. Modern Chromebooks come equipped with a few USB ports as standard. In most cases, you’ll find a port for USB 3.0 and one port for USB-C. Different ports that you could need: HDMI, earphones, microphones, and memory card slots.
Best Chromebooks of 2024
Here are the best Google Chromebooks of 2024:
Best Overall Chromebook
Samsung Chromebook 2
Specifications
- Computer chip: Intel Celeron | Center i3 processors
- RAM: 4GB, 8GB
- Storage: 64GB, 128GB
- Display: 13.3-inch QLED (1080p)
- Dimensions: 12 x 8 x 0.6 inches
- Weight: 2.7 pounds
Pros
- Beautiful design
- Best QLED display
- Improved battery duration
Cons
- Key travel could be better.
- Touchscreen input can be inconsistent.
Taking away the Samsung Galaxy Chromebook’s 4K display was most likely the best thing Samsung might have done to make this Chromebook a hit. Presently it’s much more reasonable, but at the same time sports an incredible QLED show and a longer battery duration — 7:50 versus the past gen’s 5:55. It’s also going to sound perfect, plus its Core i3 design gives a lot of speed to Chrome operating system.
We weren’t as happy with the vertical in its keyboard, which is a bit shallow. This makes a slight learning curve and you’ll adjust to the long run. However, to get a Chromebook that looks this great — wow that Fiesta Red variety choice stands out in a sea of silver Chromebooks and computers. Besides, at under $450, the Galaxy Chromebook 2 conveys solid value for the cash.
Best Budget Chromebook
1. Lenovo Chromebook Duet 5 OLED
Specifications
- Central processor: 2.0GHz octa-core MediaTek Helio P60T
- RAM: 4GB
- Storage: 64GB eMMC, 128GB eMMC
- Display: 10.1 inches, 1920 x 1200 pixels
- Dimensions: 9.64 x 6.66 x 0.71 inches (docked)
- Weight: 2 pounds (docked)
Pros
- Lengthy battery duration
- Best screen at its price
- Reasonable, plus keyboard included
Cons
- The Keyboard is best for little hands.
- The Hinge could be stronger.
The Lenovo Chromebook Duet 5 OLED is a great budget Chromebook with a stunning OLED show, long battery duration, and a flexible 2-in-1 design. It’s ideally suited for students, casual clients, and any individual who needs a good-looking and affordable Chromebook.
2. Acer Chromebook Spin 514 (2023)
Specifications
- Laptop Class Chromebook
- Processor MediaTek Kompanio 828
- Processor Speed 2.6 GHz
Pros
• Strong construction
• Best performance than most inexpensive Chromebooks
• Incredible battery duration
• Padded carrying sleeve included
Cons
• Slower than Intel Core-based Chromebooks
The Acer Chromebook 514 (2022, Kompanio 828) stands apart for its balance between style, performance, and affordability, making it the best Chromebook for budget customers. Unlike many reasonable Chromebooks, this model has a strong and elegant construction that can compete with premium PCs. Moreover, the PC’s strong ARM Kompanio processor performs better compared to most budget Chromebooks, and it expands battery duration that can last all day. The package also includes a padded conveying sleeve, making it helpful for driving or commuting. While it may not be the best Chromebook available, the Acer Chromebook 514 is a great decision for individuals who are searching for a laptop that offers a lot of value at its cost.
Best Gaming Chromebook
Acer Chromebook 516 GE
Specifications
- Computer chip: Intel Core i5-1240P
- RAM: 8GB
- Storage: 256GB SSD
- Display: 16-inch WQXGA (2560 x 1600) IPS
- Dimensions: 14 x 9.8 x 0.8 inches
- Weight: 3.9 lbs
Pros
- Amazing performance
- Lightweight design
- Amazing battery duration
Cons
- Underwhelming display
- Poor sound quality
- Limited by Chrome OS
The Acer Chromebook 516 GE is the best gaming Chromebook available. It has a strong NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3050 Ti graphics card, a quick 12th-gen Intel Center i5 processor, and a 165Hz display. Ideal for gamers who need to play their number one computer games on a Chromebook.
Best 2-in-1 Chromebook
1. Asus Chromebook Flip CX5
Specifications
• Display: 15.6-inch FHD (1920 x 1080) IPS touchscreen display with 16:9 Aspect Ratio
• Processor: Intel Center i3-1215U, i5-1235U, or i7-1255U
• RAM: 8GB or 16GB
• Capacity: 128GB, 256GB, or 512GB
• Graphics: Intel Iris Xe graphics or NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3050 Ti
• Operating system: Chrome operating system
• Battery duration: Up to 12 hours
• Ports: 2x USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type C, 1x USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type A, 1x microSD card slot, 1x HDMI port
• Dimensions: 14.2 x 9.5 x 0.7 inches
• Weight: 3.75 pounds
Pros
• Huge and bright 15.6-inch FHD touchscreen display with a 16:9 aspect ratio and backing for an optional USI pointer.
• Strong Intel Center i3, i5, or i7 processor choices.
• Up to 16GB of RAM and 512GB of storage.
• Versatile 2-in-1 plan that allows you to use the Chromebook in PC, tablet, tent, and stand modes.
• Long-lasting battery duration.
• Wide variety of ports, including two USB 3.2 Gen 2 Sort C ports, a USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-A port, a microSD card slot, and an HDMI port.
Cons
• Display brightness could be better, particularly for outdoor use.
• Speakers are a bit weak.
• Can be costly, particularly for the better-quality models.
The Asus Chromebook Flip CX5 is the best 2-in-1 Chromebook available. It has a versatile design that allows you to involve it in PC, tablet, tent, and stand modes. It also has a strong 12th-gen Intel Center i5 processor and a dependable battery. It’s ideal for students, business users, and any individual who needs a Chromebook that can do everything.
2. Lenovo Duet 3
Specifications
• Display: 10.95-inch IPS touchscreen show with 2000 x 1200 Resolution
• Processor: Qualcomm Snapdragon 7c Gen 2 octa-core processor
• GPU: Qualcomm Adreno 618
• RAM: 4GB LPDDR4X memory
• Capacity: 64GB or 128GB eMMC stockpiling
• Working System: Chrome operating system
• Battery: 29Wh battery
• Ports: 2x USB-C 3.1 (Gen 1), microSD card slot
Pros
• Reasonable cost
• Compact and lightweight plan
• Separable keyboard and kickstand for versatility
• Bright and sharp 2K display
• Long battery duration
• Great performance for basic tasks
• Support for USI 2.0 stylus
Cons
• Small display can be restricting for performing multiple tasks
• Keyboard is a bit cramped for long typing meetings
• Speakers are on the weak side
• Limited storage space
The Lenovo Duet 3 (or Lenovo IdeaPad Duet 3, depending on where you get it) is a great Chrome tablet that can be yours for as low as $359. This is successfully a bigger, more expensive follow-up to the Chromebook Duet Lenovo released in 2020, a surprisingly capable and reasonable Chrome tablet that is still on this list.
We loved the first Duet for its great battery duration, strong performance and decent packed-in keyboard cover, which could all be had for generally $250. Lenovo’s new Duet 3 costs a bit more, but it also conveys a greater, more brilliant performance more ports, and the added power of a beefier Qualcomm Snapdragon 7c Gen 2 chip. It’s one of the most outstanding Chrome tablets you can purchase, and the way that Lenovo incorporates the keyboard cover at no extra charge assists it with serving as a surprisingly compelling 2-in-1 Chromebook.
3. Acer Chromebook Spin 714
Specifications
- Central processor: Intel Center i5-1235U, Center i7-1260P
- GPU: Intel Iris Xe
- RAM: 8GB
- Storage: 256GB
- Display: 114-inch IPS, 2560 x 1600, 60Hz, contact choice
- Dimensions: 12.31 x 8.82 x 0.71 inches
- Weight: 3.09 pounds
Pros
• Strong Intel Center i3, i5, or i7 processor options
• Up to 16GB of RAM and 512GB of storage
• Versatile 2-in-1 plan that allows you to involve the Chromebook in PC, tablet, tent, and stand modes
• Long-lasting battery duration of as long as 12 hours
• Extensive variety of ports, including two USB 3.2 Gen 2 Sort C ports, a USB 3.2 Gen 2 Sort A port, a microSD card space, and a HDMI port
• Backlit console and fingerprint sensor for security
Cons
• Display brightness could be better, particularly for outdoor use
• Speakers are a piece feeble
• Can be costly, particularly for the better-quality models
The Acer Chromebook Spin 714 offers quick Intel processors and Thunderbolt 4 support. While it’s not so great similar to predecessors, especially when it comes to battery duration, it’s a strong PC with pleasant advantages like an HDMI port and garaged stylus.
With a strong Intel processor and Thunderclap 4 help, Acer’s Chromebook Spin 714 is one of the most impressive Chromebooks you can purchase. It’s lightning fast, creating little noise and heat even under genuine professional workloads. The keyboard is excellent with a comfortable, calm feel, and nice backlighting. There’s even a HDMI port, which you don’t see on a thin Chromebook consistently. It’s a well-built device too, with a professional finish reasonable for an office setting. The main drawbacks to consider are that the Spin’s speakers aren’t perfect, and the battery duration is a bit lower than last year’s models.
Other Great Chromebooks:
- HP Chromebook x360 14
- Lenovo Chromebook Flex 5
- Acer Chromebook Vero 514
- Google Pixelbook Go
Which is better, a Chromebook or a laptop?
Knowing which is better, a Chromebook or a laptop with a more traditional operating system like Windows or macOS comes down to your requirements and how you expect to use your PC.
If you do almost all of your work and play online using web applications like Google Docs, SalesForce, GeForce Now, or other similar items, then, at that point, a Chromebook, is the same at dealing with that kind of work as a more traditional PC. Since all of the genuine application handling happens in the cloud, which then, at that point, displays the items in a browser.
If you have a quicker web association, you won’t differentiate between a Chromebook and a fully-featured Windows PC or a MacBook.
If you plan on using locally introduced applications like Microsoft Office, Adobe Photoshop, or Steam, then you will find Chromebooks can’t do that. The Android applications available through the Google Play marketplace are perfect, but they aren’t quite so completely highlighted as comparable work area programming. In most cases, the Chrome operating system basically can’t run most of the installable programming you’d find on a Windows laptop or a MacBook, so a Chromebook would be a bad decision for anybody expecting to use significant flagship software offline.
Conclusion
The best Google Chromebook for you depends on your needs and budget. If you’re searching for the best overall Chromebook, the Acer Chromebook Twist 714 (2023) is a great choice. It has a premium design, strong performance, and a durable battery. If you’re on a tight budget, the Lenovo Chromebook Duet 5 OLED is a great decision. It has a stunning OLED show, long battery duration, and a versatile 2-in-1 plan. If you need a high-end Chromebook, the HP Dragonfly Pro Chromebook is the best option. It has a smooth and strong plan, a strong 12th-gen Intel Center i5 processor, and a dependable battery. If you’re a gamer, the Acer Chromebook 516 GE is the best Chromebook for you. It has a strong NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3050 Ti graphics card, a quick 12th-gen Intel Center i5 processor, and a 165Hz display. If you want a versatile 2-in-1 Chromebook, the Asus Chromebook Flip CX5 is the most ideal choice. It has a strong 12th- gen Intel Center i5 processor and a long-lasting battery.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I do everything I need on a Chromebook?
Indeed, Chromebooks accompany the applications you want for work and play. You can get useful with applications like Microsoft® Office, get inventive with applications like Adobe Lightroom, and kick back with applications like Netflix — or your favorite PC, console, and mobile games.
2. Are Chromebooks are secure?
Each Chromebook accompanies built-in security protection, so you’re protected from the moment you open your new Chromebook. ChromeOS also accompanies different layers of safety and updates without interruption*.
3. Can I use Microsoft® Office on a Chromebook?
Chromebooks work with Microsoft® Office. Whether it’s Word, Excel® or PowerPoint®, you can easily find the applications on the web. With Google Docs, Sheets and Slides also included, Chromebooks are exceptional in assisting you in being productive and getting your work done.
4. Are Chromebooks good for gaming?
Yes, because Chromebooks give you access to your #1 PC, console, and mobile games. You can play excellent games like Cyberpunk 2077, Assassin’s Creed Valhalla, and more on GeForce NOW. You can also find portable games like Clash of Clans, Star Wars: KOTOR, and more on the Play Store.
5. Can Chromebooks handle heavy workloads?
All Chromebooks are fast and secure devices built to meet your regular computing needs. If you are searching for a device with more power, there are also Chromebooks that have been explicitly built for performing multiple tasks and heavy workloads.
6. What Chromebook choices do I have?
Chromebooks come in different shapes, sizes, and specs to assist you in finding one that suits your requirements. You can get thin, light, and strong PCs, convertibles that flex 360°, and even detachable devices that can switch between a laptop and a tablet.
7. Do Chromebooks come with more storage?
Indeed, on your local drive on the cloud, you can get the storage you want on a Chromebook. You can get a device with large local storage, and you also get 100 GB of cloud storage on us for a year when you purchase another Chromebook.
8. Do Android phones work with Chromebook?
Your Chromebook and Android phone are designed to function well together. With Phone Hub, you can manage phone settings and answer messages right from your Chromebook. You can also open your PC with simply a tap, easily connect to hotspots and, more.
9. Do Chromebooks work offline?
Chromebooks will keep you engaged and useful, even offline. If your connection drops, you can use your Chromebook to:
• Browse your messages with Gmail offline mode
• Balance financial plans or plan parties with Google Sheets and Docs offline mode
• Look into your timetable in the Google schedule application
• Arrange your pan for the day in Google Keep
• Watch a film with the Netflix app*
• Stand by listening to your most loved podcast on the Pocket Projects application.
• Save web pages when browsing on Chrome for future offline reading.
