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The Best Chromebooks We’ve Tested for 2025
Budget laptops abound, but few can get you into a slick, capable machine for minimal cash better than a Chromebook can. PCMag’s expert analysts have been testing and reviewing laptops for decades, including Chromebooks since their very inception. Using PC Labs’ detailed methodology, we test all Chromebooks for key aspects that include performance, battery life, and usability. Because Chromebooks aren’t compatible with most benchmark programs we use for Windows and macOS laptops (they run Google’s ChromeOS), we’ve adopted a unique slate of tests to put these distinct laptops to the test. Our current recommendation for the best Chromebook overall is the Asus Chromebook Plus CX34 (2025), for its class-leading performance and features at an excellent price. Of course, we stand behind all of our best Chromebook picks, selected for specific usage scenarios and budgets. Explore them all below, plus a detailed buying guide and a selectable breakout of specs.
Deeper Dive: Our Top Tested Picks
EDITORS’ NOTE
November 20, 2025: With this update, we’ve added new guidance explaining different potential customers for each product. Our current product selections remain unchanged and have been vetted for currency and availability. Since our last update, we reviewed and evaluated 18 new laptops for potential inclusion in this roundup and our other laptop roundups. We’re currently testing more than a dozen laptops in PC Labs, including models from Dell, HP, and Lenovo.
- Impressive CPU performance
- Pleasant keyboard and touchpad
- Lots of connectivity
- Attractive, friendly design
- A bit of flex to the chassis
- Basic 1080p display easily outclassed for not much more
- Enough battery for a workday—no more
Asus’ updated Chromebook Plus CX34 (2025) sticks to its roots as an incredible value. This Chromebook pushes impressive CPU performance with an upgraded Intel Core i5 processor and offers features comparable to midrange Windows laptops—all for under $500. It also nets you a comfortable design with ample connectivity. Top it all off with AI-enhanced software tools, and you have an attractive Chromebook that has become our new favorite, ranked as the best for most people.
Value-conscious home users: This Chromebook is the leading choice for budget-minded mainstream buyers. It’s ideal for shoppers looking to spend $500 or less to gain a quality-feeling and potent laptop. It’s the best Chromebook you can find for the price.
Students of all ages: This is the Chromebook to beat for students at any level of study. The combination of a comfortable keyboard, reliable inputs, punchy performance, and ample ports makes the Chromebook Plus CX34 an excellent choice for general schoolwork, from elementary to college levels.
Class
Chromebook
Processor
Intel Core i5-1335U
RAM (as Tested)
8 GB
Boot Drive Type
UFS (Universal Flash Storage)
Boot Drive Capacity (as Tested)
128 GB
Screen Size
14 inches
Native Display Resolution
1920 by 1080
Panel Technology
IPS
Variable Refresh Support
None
Screen Refresh Rate
60 Hz
Graphics Processor
Intel Iris Xe Graphics
Wireless Networking
Bluetooth 5.3, Wi-Fi 6E
Dimensions (HWD)
0.74 by 12.9 by 8.4 inches
Weight
3.17 lbs
Operating System
Chrome OS
Tested Battery Life (Hours:Minutes)
10:51
Learn More
Asus Chromebook Plus CX34 (2025) Review
- Super slim and light
- Stunning AMOLED screen
- Snappy performance and class-leading battery life
- Useful port selection
- Productive keyboard with Quick Insert, Function keys
- Expensive
- No webcam privacy shutter
- No touch screen
- Lackluster speakers and webcam
Compact Chromebooks might be the norm, but a 15-inch model is certainly hard to beat for comfort during long work sessions. Of the 15-inch Chromebooks we’ve tested, we like the Samsung Galaxy Chromebook Plus the most. With beefed-up specs and AI features as part of Google’s Chromebook Plus program, Samsung’s model has a capable Intel Core i3 processor and 8GB of memory that perks up the not-so-demanding ChromeOS interface. Of course, the large AMOLED screen is a stunning touch that helps the laptop live up to its premium price.
Mobile professionals and commuters: This Chromebook is well-suited for independent contractors or entrepreneurs who frequently commute. Its combination of a large 15.6-inch screen, exceptional battery life, and an ultra-lightweight build makes it ideal for productivity on the go. This Chromebook is designed for getting work done, but not necessarily in a traditional office.
Discerning media lovers: This Chromebook is ideal for shoppers who want a top-notch video-playback experience. The Samsung Galaxy Chromebook Plus is a machine that looks as high-quality as it performs, prioritizing a stunning 15-inch AMOLED display and a dazzling metal design.
Class
Chromebook
Processor
Intel Core 3 100U
RAM (as Tested)
8 GB
Boot Drive Type
UFS (Universal Flash Storage)
Boot Drive Capacity (as Tested)
256 GB
Screen Size
15.6 inches
Native Display Resolution
1920 by 1080
Panel Technology
OLED
Variable Refresh Support
None
Screen Refresh Rate
60 Hz
Graphics Processor
Intel Graphics
Wireless Networking
802.11ax, Bluetooth 5.2
Dimensions (HWD)
0.46 by 13.99 by 8.89 inches
Weight
2.58 lbs
Operating System
Chrome OS
Tested Battery Life (Hours:Minutes)
16:20
Learn More
Samsung Galaxy Chromebook Plus Review
- Ultra-affordable
- Excellent battery life
- Chromebook Plus features enhanced with AI
- Sturdy design with plenty of ports
- Capable touch display
- Small storage capacity in most models
- Underwhelming performance
- Keyboard isn’t backlit
Our top budget Chromebook is the Acer Chromebook Plus 514. This 14-inch laptop is compact and lightweight, featuring excellent battery life that supports its portable design and an above-average port selection. It features a 1080p touch screen and a processor that’s just enough for the internet-based ChromeOS. This model has the advantage of being part of Google’s Chromebook Plus line, which means access to useful AI-centric features that enhance your workflow, all while coming in at a bargain price.
Budget-strapped home users: This is the best Chromebook for shoppers on a strict budget. The Acer Chromebook Plus 514 prioritizes a low price over performance, making it a smart buy for anyone seeking the most affordable option while still enjoying the full suite of Chromebook Plus features. It’s a simple, inexpensive device for light tasks like web browsing and email with a touch display.
Elementary school students: This Chromebook is a fine fit for students in grades 1 to 8. The laptop combines a sturdy design, excellent battery life, and ample ports to excel at basic schoolwork, especially when a low cost is essential for home buyers and education-system IT departments.
Class
Chromebook
Processor
Intel Core i3-N305
RAM (as Tested)
8 GB
Boot Drive Type
SSD
Boot Drive Capacity (as Tested)
512 GB
Screen Size
14 inches
Native Display Resolution
1920 by 1080
Panel Technology
IPS
Variable Refresh Support
None
Screen Refresh Rate
60 Hz
Graphics Processor
Intel UHD Graphics
Wireless Networking
Wi-Fi 6E, Bluetooth 5.1
Dimensions (HWD)
0.81 by 12.87 by 8.86 inches
Weight
3.15 lbs
Operating System
Chrome OS
Tested Battery Life (Hours:Minutes)
14:18
Learn More
Acer Chromebook Plus 514 Review
- New AI features supercharge ChromeOS
- 12 months free Google One with Gemini Advanced
- Versatile, durable 2-in-1 design
- Intel Core Ultra processing and on-device AI
- Excellent battery life
- Clear, colorful touch screen
- Pen not included
- ChromeOS still has quirks
The Acer Chromebook Spin Plus 714 is essentially the perfect high-end Chromebook, making good on its steeper-than-most price. This Chromebook’s 2-in-1 design matches any like-priced Windows machine on style, with an attractive all-metal chassis and a sharp 14-inch touch screen that looks excellent in both laptop and tablet modes. The laptop is powered by an Intel Core Ultra 5 processor, paired with 8GB of memory and a 256GB solid-state drive. Connectivity features include Thunderbolt 4, HDMI output, and Wi-Fi 6E. All of this helps make the Spin Plus 714 our first five-star Chromebook.
Students and other digital note-takers: This Chromebook is ideal for older students and professionals who prefer to take digital notes using a stylus. The convertible Acer Chromebook Plus Spin 714 allows you to type out documents in traditional laptop mode and take notes in tablet mode, while its excellent battery life ensures it lasts through a full day of classes or meetings.
Cutting-edge tech and media enthusiasts: This Chromebook should please shoppers who love staying ahead of tech trends as much as watching movies. Those who want the most advanced ChromeOS experience will appreciate the cutting-edge Core Ultra processor, along with new Gemini-powered on-device AI capabilities and a clear, colorful touch screen.
Class
Chromebook, Convertible 2-in-1
Processor
Intel Core Ultra 5 115U
RAM (as Tested)
8 GB
Boot Drive Type
SSD
Boot Drive Capacity (as Tested)
256 GB
Screen Size
14 inches
Native Display Resolution
1920 by 1200
Panel Technology
IPS
Variable Refresh Support
None
Screen Refresh Rate
60 Hz
Graphics Processor
Intel Graphics
Wireless Networking
Wi-Fi 6E, Bluetooth 5.2
Dimensions (HWD)
0.71 by 12.4 by 8.8 inches
Weight
3.21 lbs
Operating System
Chrome OS
Tested Battery Life (Hours:Minutes)
14:46
Learn More
Acer Chromebook Plus Spin 714 Review
- Sturdy 2-in-1 design mixes durability, flexibility
- Above-average ChromeOS performance
- Crisp display with touch and pen support
- Backlit keyboard
- Decent variety of ports
- Budget-feeling plastic construction
- Merely average battery life
- Stylus pen not included
The Chromebook Plus line has consistently delivered on affordable Chromebooks that don’t skimp on capability, and the Lenovo Flex 5i Chromebook Plus stands out as our favorite lower-cost 2-in-1 in Google’s Chromebook Plus program. With flexibility for laptop and tablet use, along with excellent keyboard and pen support, it’s one of the best-value 2-in-1s around. For less than $500, you receive a reliable Chromebook experience, a crisp 1080p display, a healthy selection of ports, and even access to a bevy of apps and games in tablet mode.
Budget-conscious shoppers who need a convertible: The Flex 5i Chromebook Plus is ideal for shoppers who want the versatility of a 2-in-1 convertible for both laptop and tablet use while spending as little as possible. It’s a flexible and reliable device for everyday browsing, media streaming, and productivity.
Grade school and high school students: This is a great 2-in-1 Chromebook choice for students below the college level. The durable design, touch and pen support for note-taking, and potent-enough performance for demanding apps make it an excellent, affordable choice for the classroom.
Class
Chromebook, Convertible 2-in-1, Budget
Processor
Intel Core i3-1315U
RAM (as Tested)
8 GB
Boot Drive Type
SSD
Boot Drive Capacity (as Tested)
128 GB
Screen Size
14 inches
Native Display Resolution
1920 by 1200
Panel Technology
IPS
Variable Refresh Support
None
Screen Refresh Rate
60 Hz
Graphics Processor
Intel UHD Graphics
Wireless Networking
Wi-Fi 6E, Bluetooth
Dimensions (HWD)
0.72 by 12.4 by 9 inches
Weight
3.52 lbs
Operating System
Chrome OS
Tested Battery Life (Hours:Minutes)
11:43
Learn More
Lenovo Flex 5i Chromebook Plus Review
- Superb OLED display in an under-$500 detachable
- High-quality front and rear cameras
- Comes with keyboard cover and kickstand
- Ho-hum compute performance
- No audio jack, or 4G or 5G LTE option
- Stylus supported, but costs extra
Like with 2-in-1 Windows machines, most 2-in-1 Chromebooks are convertibles whose keyboards flip and fold under their displays. Lenovo’s IdeaPad Duet 5 Chromebook, in contrast, is a detachable model with a removable keyboard that allows it to function as a genuine tablet, featuring an ultra-colorful, super-high-contrast touch screen, a 13.3-inch OLED. Considering that the Duet 5 costs less than $500, its display puts even some of Microsoft’s ritzier Surface tablets to shame. Just note: Its Qualcomm Snapdragon CPU isn’t the fastest, and Lenovo charges an additional $33 for a stylus. (That said, unlike Microsoft, Lenovo includes the keyboard cover in the box with the tablet.)
Movie buffs on the go: This 2-in-1 Chromebook is well-suited for watching movies and other videos, whether traveling or just on the couch. The IdeaPad Duet 5’s 13.3-inch OLED screen makes it a perfect choice for people who prioritize having a high-quality, high-contrast display for watching videos and movies.
Google-loyal tablet fans: This is a detachable 2-in-1 that will delight tablet enthusiasts deeply invested in Google’s ecosystem. It’s a fine device for people already comfortable with ChromeOS or Google services who want a tablet form factor for notes, browsing, and light productivity. Additionally, the keyboard cover is included in the price; this accessory is essential for this type of device.
Class
Chromebook, Detachable 2-in-1
Processor
Qualcomm Snapdragon 7c Gen 2
RAM (as Tested)
8 GB
Boot Drive Type
eMMC Flash Memory
Boot Drive Capacity (as Tested)
128 GB
Screen Size
13.3 inches
Native Display Resolution
1920 by 1080
Panel Technology
OLED
Variable Refresh Support
None
Screen Refresh Rate
60 Hz
Graphics Processor
Qualcomm Adreno GPU
Wireless Networking
802.11ax (Wi-Fi 6), Bluetooth
Dimensions (HWD)
0.28 by 12 by 7.4 inches
Weight
2.24 lbs
Operating System
Chrome OS
Tested Battery Life (Hours:Minutes)
21:10
Learn More
Lenovo IdeaPad Duet 5 Chromebook Review
- Among the least expensive convertible laptops on the market
- Sharp touch screen
- Tablet portion has a high-quality build for its price
- Headphone jack is back
- Test model includes stylus pen
- All models include bundled keyboard
- Middling performance and battery life
- Keyboard has squishy keys, is designed for smaller hands
If you’re looking for a low-cost ChromeOS tablet/laptop combo, the Lenovo Chromebook Duet Gen 9 is a compelling budget buy, offering both Chromebook laptop functionality and Android app support in a tablet form factor. It’s priced under $400, but you might not guess it from the sturdy metal chassis and high-quality build. Lenovo’s versatile design pairs an 11-inch tablet with a keyboard cover and kickstand, and the company even includes a stylus, making it ideal for note-taking and drawing. Put it all together, and it’s an easy choice as our favorite budget 2-in-1 detachable Chromebook.
Students and younger users: The Lenovo Chromebook Duet’s low cost, sturdy design, and compact 2-in-1 form factor are made for education use and basic online workflows. The 11-inch size is suitable for small hands, but may be frustrating for adults with larger paws.
Strict budget buyers: This device is for users who prioritize the “low-cost” and 2-in-1 flexibility, and are willing to accept solid basic performance for essential apps.
Casual users: Those needing a secondary, compact device for light web browsing and media consumption will find this Duet model capable enough. (It is not suited for heavy multitasking.)
Class
Chromebook, Detachable 2-in-1
Processor
MediaTek Kompanio 838
RAM (as Tested)
8 GB
Boot Drive Type
eMMC Flash Memory
Boot Drive Capacity (as Tested)
128 GB
Screen Size
10.95 inches
Native Display Resolution
1920 by 1200
Panel Technology
IPS
Variable Refresh Support
None
Screen Refresh Rate
60 Hz
Graphics Processor
ARM Mali-G57 MC3
Wireless Networking
802.11ax (Wi-Fi 6), Bluetooth
Dimensions (HWD)
0.30 by 10.1 by 6.6 inches
Weight
1.12 lbs
Operating System
Chrome OS
Tested Battery Life (Hours:Minutes)
6:01
Learn More
Lenovo Chromebook Duet Gen 9 Review
- Boosted productivity and gaming performance
- High-res IPS screen with 120Hz refresh rate
- Four-zone RGB keyboard with anti-ghosting
- Wi-Fi 6E and Ethernet
- Below-average battery life
- Non-touch display limits Android app use
If gaming online through services like Nvidia’s GeForce Now is what you’re after, stop searching with the Acer Chromebook Plus 516 GE (2025), the latest version of Acer’s superb gaming edition Chromebook. Thanks to an updated CPU, this Chromebook drives leading performance compared with most others. A swift-refresh 120Hz IPS display and a customizable four-zone RGB keyboard (with anti-ghosting technology to prevent key jamming) enhance this Chromebook’s gaming experience. Its connectivity, powered by Wi-Fi 6E and Ethernet, is excellent for both work and play. As a Chromebook Plus model, it features AI enhancements that surpass those of older Chromebooks.
Budget-strapped PC gamers: This is the best Chromebook to buy for PC gamers on a strict budget for their next laptop. This Acer model is designed for avid gamers who rely on online game-streaming services like Nvidia GeForce Now, as its 120Hz display, specialized keyboard, and Ethernet jack are all optimized to enhance the cloud gaming experience.
Shoppers seeking good general Chromebook performance: Looking for maximum performance from a Chromebook? Look here. The 516 GE is a fit for buyers who want an exceptional Chromebook with high-end components, like a powerful CPU and a high-refresh-rate screen, without the steep cost of a traditional Windows laptop with similar features.
Class
Chromebook, Gaming
Processor
Intel Core i5-120U
RAM (as Tested)
8 GB
Boot Drive Type
SSD
Boot Drive Capacity (as Tested)
256 GB
Screen Size
16 inches
Native Display Resolution
2560 by 1600
Panel Technology
IPS
Variable Refresh Support
Yes
Screen Refresh Rate
120 Hz
Graphics Processor
Intel Graphics
Wireless Networking
Wi-Fi 6E, Bluetooth 5.2
Dimensions (HWD)
0.84 by 14.0 by 9.8 inches
Weight
3.75 lbs
Operating System
Chrome OS
Tested Battery Life (Hours:Minutes)
9:16
Learn More
Acer Chromebook Plus 516 GE (2025) Review
- Sturdy build quality
- 16GB of RAM helps multitasking
- Comfortable backlit keyboard
- Smart port selection
- Touch support
- Relatively heavy
- Average display and webcam
- No G (Google logo) or Quick Insert keys
CTL’s Chromebook Plus PX141GXT is a capable Chromebook that makes the case for ChromeOS in the workplace. The CTL’s peppy performance and faster internals make it a reliable workhorse, with a durable build that can survive the rigors of the office or a business trip. Features include a comfortable, backlit keyboard, a clever port selection, and a touch screen, all of which enhance its practicality. If you want a fleet-ready Chromebook Plus laptop, the PX141GXT delivers value where it counts.
Enterprise fleet buyers: This Chromebook is best suited for enterprise settings that rely heavily on Google services. The CTL Chromebook Plus PX141GXT is purpose-built for organizations and fleet deployments that need a practical, durable, and work-ready machine with helpful support services and the most essential features.
Education and students: This is a suitable Chromebook choice for education-system IT managers and students. Kids in class might unknowingly appreciate the 16GB of memory for heavy multitasking, but they’ll also appreciate the comfortable keyboard and enjoy the touch screen for interactive education apps and games.
Class
Business, Chromebook
Processor
Intel Core i3-N305
RAM (as Tested)
16 GB
Boot Drive Type
UFS (Universal Flash Storage)
Boot Drive Capacity (as Tested)
256 GB
Screen Size
14 inches
Native Display Resolution
1920 by 1080
Panel Technology
IPS
Variable Refresh Support
None
Graphics Processor
Intel UHD Graphics
Wireless Networking
Bluetooth 5.3, Wi-Fi 6E
Dimensions (HWD)
0.84 by 12.9 by 9.9 inches
Weight
3.64 lbs
Operating System
Chrome OS
Tested Battery Life (Hours:Minutes)
12:30
Learn More
CTL Chromebook Plus PX141GXT Review
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The Best Chromebooks for 2025
Compare Specs
Buying Guide: The Best Chromebooks for 2025
Most Chromebooks lack the powerful hardware of gaming laptops or mobile workstations, but most don’t need it. Because you’ll be visiting websites and running apps within ChromeOS, which is a souped-up version of the Chrome browser, the technical barrier to entry is low. This also frees you from downloading and installing traditional software; if you can’t do something from a standard webpage, chances are you’ll be able to from one of the thousands of apps and extensions available to ChromeOS users.
With just a few clicks, your Chromebook can have almost as much functionality as a budget Windows laptop, and most recent Chromebooks also let you install any app designed for the Android mobile OS. (Older or deeply discounted Chromebooks may lack Android support; you can check this list for the model you’re considering.) This means both the browser-based and Android versions of Microsoft Office are available if you want an alternative to Google Docs, Sheets, and Slides.
(Credit: Joseph Maldonado)
One primary benefit of running web-based software is security. Chromebooks are immune to most of the viruses and other malware that often plague Windows systems.
ChromeOS updates also take just minutes to complete, rather than the several minutes or an hour you may have to wait for macOS and Windows to do their update thing. Although easy access to an always-on internet connection is a must for Chromebooks, you can perform most standard tasks offline and sync up later, so you needn’t stop working if there’s a Wi-Fi connectivity glitch.
(Credit: Joseph Maldonado)
IT management is also easier on ChromeOS. Schools have long taken advantage of Chromebooks’ easy-to-use fleet management tools, but business users got a huge boost when Intel launched vPro Enterprise for Chrome. Intel-powered Chromebooks can now enjoy the same security and management tools featured on other business laptops without the hassle of Windows. If ChromeOS has been looking like a good fit for your business, it just got even better.
With the best Chromebooks, you also don’t need to worry about long-term lasting power. Google has just increased the supported life of all Chromebooks from eight years to 10 years, meaning that you have a full decade of use knowing that you’ll continue getting automatic updates.
What Are Good Specs for a Chromebook?
When shopping for the best Chromebook for your needs, you’ll note less hardware variety than with Windows machines. These are the most important specs and factors to be aware of. Also note that a new class of Chromebooks, the Chromebook Plus family, is here. These machines mandate certain minimum Chromebook specs to guarantee a reliable user experience, including high-resolution cameras, IPS screens, and an 8GB floor for memory.
The Chromebook Plus program has also been an introductory platform for Google’s Gemini AI in various ways. With its respective AI engine, almost everything a Windows laptop or MacBook can do, so can the latest Chromebook Plus laptops. Many of these features are handled via cloud servers, but some are executed on-device using the latest neural processors, particularly from Intel, in the highest-end Chromebook Plus laptops.
(Credit: Joseph Maldonado)
Screen Resolution
The usual native display resolution on a Chromebook will be 1,920 by 1,080 pixels, otherwise known as full HD or 1080p, but cheaper Chromebooks may still have lower resolution while deluxe models will go sharper. For most midsize Chromebooks with screens from 13 to 15 inches, 1080p is just fine. Entry-level models’ resolution of 1,366 by 768 pixels can look coarse and is only really suited for laptops with screens smaller than 12 inches diagonally. Try to avoid this resolution on any 13-inch or larger screen, or at least try to eyeball the display in person before you buy. Note that all Chromebook Plus models will have at least a 1080p screen.
Processor
If you browse with only a tab or two open, a low-end CPU like an Intel Core (no Ultra), Intel N-series, or MediaTek chip will suffice. Chromebooks based on Intel Core i-series or Core Ultra processors will allow for more multitasking, though they’ll also be more expensive. Note that AMD has C-series Ryzen mobile processors designed especially for Chromebooks, but they’re less common.
For $300, a Windows laptop with an Intel Core or N-series processor and 4GB of memory would be unpleasantly sluggish for everyday use, but a Chromebook with the same specs should be fine for basic tasks. If you tend to be a multitasker, though, consider a Core i-series or Core Ultra chip and 8GB of memory. Chromebook Plus models, which start at $399 and go up from there, will have at least an Intel Core i3 chip by default and at least 8GB. You may also see AI-centric Intel Core Ultra chips on the latest higher-end models.
Storage
Most of your files on a Chromebook will be stored in the cloud, so many Chromebooks include only a small serving (32GB or 64GB) of eMMC flash-memory storage on which to save your local creations. Look for an SD or microSD card slot if you think you’ll want to save more documents and files on the device. A growing number of the best Chromebooks, spec-wise, have 128GB or larger solid-state drives (SSDs), which are much faster as well as roomier than eMMC flash. Some very new models alternately employ UFS drives, something of a speed and price midpoint between eMMC and SSD. Chromebook Plus models will include at least 128GB of storage by definition.
Connectivity
Most Chromebook connections are wireless, as you’ll use the machine almost exclusively when attached to Wi-Fi. Wired Ethernet ports are rare, but support for 802.11ac Wi-Fi is ubiquitous, with 802.11ax Wi-Fi 6 found in most of today’s Chromebooks.
(Credit: Joseph Maldonado)
If you’ll need to give presentations from your Chromebook, an HDMI monitor port is usually more convenient than carrying a USB-C DisplayPort adapter. Also, look for a USB port or two if you want to attach a mouse, a flash drive, or another peripheral.
Gaming
Entertainment isn’t a big concern for classroom users, but gaming on Chromebooks is finally a reality. Not only do you have several ways to play on Chromebooks of all kinds, but the latest game-ready models are built to take advantage of cloud services like Nvidia GeForce Now and Microsoft’s Xbox cloud gaming.
(Credit: Joseph Maldonado)
The purpose-built gaming Chromebook is still very much a niche concept, but the combination of features and processing power makes these few models some of the best Chromebooks around. And even if you don’t buy a gaming-focused Chromebook, you can still have plenty of fun with a standard Chromebook, so check out the best Chromebooks for gaming for our latest reviews.
Are Touch-Screen and Tablet Chromebooks Worth It?
Today’s Chromebooks have stepped up from basic, bare-bones laptops to elegant computers with surprisingly rich capabilities. A few feature carbon-fiber chassis or lightweight magnesium alloy frames. Others not only swap out flash storage for a speedy SSD but feature a bright 1080p (or even higher-resolution) in-plane switching (IPS) display with sharp text, vivid colors, and wide viewing angles. Top models have premium styling that rivals any high-end Windows notebook.
(Credit: Joseph Maldonado)
That includes touch screens (ChromeOS is optimized for touch input), which are especially handy when you’re tapping away at Android apps designed for touch. And while most Chromebooks are traditional clamshell laptops, a growing number are 2-in-1 convertibles whose screens flip and fold into laptop, tablet, and kiosk or presentation modes, just like Lenovo’s Yoga and HP’s x360 systems. A handful of our best Chromebook picks are detachable, with kickstands and removable keyboards, comparable to Windows tablets. These days, a budget Windows laptop and a similarly priced Chromebook can look far more alike than you might expect.
Ready to Buy the Right Chromebook for You?
Whether you’re a Facebook or Instagram addict or you just need a machine for checking email and working in Google apps, Chromebooks are easy to use, convenient to take on the go, and relatively inexpensive. The loads of information and recommendations within this article should guide you well. If you’re on a tight budget but need Windows, our guides to the best cheap laptops and the best laptops for college students are worth a look, too. For more general buying advice, check out our comprehensive guide to today’s top laptop picks, regardless of price.
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