Computers are part of our daily lives, both professionally and privately. It is now marginal not to have one. But this computer equipment, mainly if it includes specific software or the office pack, has a purchase price that can make you hesitate. Is there a more economical alternative?
What Is A Chromebook?
A Chromebook is a computer that uses the Chrome OS operating system. This means that it will not be possible to use specific applications. But it is possible to download others, which can often replace them, in the Chrome Web Store. However, it is not obligatory to have these functions when you want to use a computer to perform word processing tasks or to surf the Internet. In this case, choosing a Chromebook may be a good idea because the purchase price is lower than a traditional computer… Our selection of the best Chromebooks
ASUS Chromebook Vibe 14 CX340
The ASUS Chromebook Vibe 14 CX340 is a must-have choice for those looking for a perfect balance between performance, style and versatility. This laptop PC is a true technological gem that combines realistic visuals and exceptional performance. Indeed, its 14-inch Full HD WUXGA immersive 16:10 touchscreen allows for an unrivaled gaming experience, with sharp and bright images that make it perfect for web browsing and content streaming.
Equipped with an Intel Core i5-1235U processor and 8GB of RAM, it delivers fast, smooth performance for uninterrupted productivity. It guarantees you flawless responsiveness, even when carrying out demanding tasks. In terms of storage capacity, it offers 512 GB M.2 NVMe PCIe 3.0 SSD, a relatively large space for storing your files and applications.
The ASUS Vibe 14 CX340 is a versatile Chromebook that appeals to many users with its sleek design and distinctive look with a durable chassis. With a battery life of up to 10 hours, you can use it peacefully throughout the day without worrying about constant charging.
Acer Chromebook Spin 513
If you’re looking for versatility, then the Acer Chromebook Spin 513 is a great choice. This is a convertible Chromebook with a 13.3-inch Full HD IPS touchscreen, thin bezels, and Corning Gorilla Glass protection. Indeed, it has been designed for use in very bright environments and allows you to enjoy vivid images and vibrant colors.
Offering exceptional flexibility, you can use it as a traditional laptop or switch it to tablet mode for the optimal touchscreen experience. The Acer Chromebook Spin 513 offers efficient processing power as a Qualcomm Snapdragon SC7180 processor powers it. In addition to being more energy efficient, it offers an impressive battery life of 13 hours, which allows you to enjoy a full day of work.
With 8GB of RAM and 64GB of eMMC storage, it’s perfect for everyday tasks, streaming, and web browsing. However, you will only be able to save essential documents there. The best thing about this Chromebook is that it has 4G LTE technology, so you can easily connect even when WiFi is out of range.
Lenovo Chromebook IdeaPad 3
This Lenovo Chromebook has several advantages, including speed, security and ease of use. It has all the features required to ensure your productivity. The rim is ultra-thin, and the hinge rotates 180°. Lenovo Chromebook IdeaPad 3 has a Chrome OS operating system. This is one reason that guarantees its lightning speed.
Moreover, this machine boots up in just a few seconds, triggering the update automatically. It is automatically protected from viruses and malware with built-in security. On Lenovo Chromebook IdeaPad 3, it is entirely possible to use all applications simultaneously. This is thanks to its powerful Intel processor. Then, the battery life can go up to 10 hours, even with intensive use.
This Chromebook has a large storage capacity to store your personal and professional documents. Moreover, the ideaPad 3 is perfect for watching films and series. Thanks to USB Type C, the data transfer speed is breakneck. At the same time, it allows you to enjoy streaming multimedia content while recharging the battery. So you only need one port. This Chromebook offers a strong Internet connection thanks to WiFi 802.1 1ac connectivity and integrated Bluetooth 4.2.
ASUS Chromebook CX1400
The ASUS Chromebook CX1400 is an excellent choice for students and professionals looking for an affordable yet capable Chromebook. It is equipped with a 14-inch HD screen with an ultra-thin bezel and anti-glare function, which offers excellent image quality. A perfect compromise between a PC and a tablet, it has a 180° hinge, which allows you to place it flat on a desk.
This setup makes it easier for you to share ideas, content, designs, etc. when you work with colleagues, clients or even friends. Performance-wise, the ASUS Chromebook CX1400 is solid. Its Intel Celeron N3350 processor and 8 GB of RAM allow you to perform most everyday tasks, from note-taking to web browsing. Even though its storage space is limited, with 64 GB eMMC, you will have enough space to keep your essential files. In terms of autonomy, this PC offers up to 10 hours for a single charge, enough to last you a day and use it with complete peace of mind.
Lenovo Chromebook S330
While the Lenovo Chromebook S330 isn’t the most powerful Chromebook on this list, it doesn’t skimp on performance. It’s affordable and offers excellent value. Moreover, it is perfect for basic tasks, especially for browsing the web or playing streaming videos. This laptop is powered by a powerful Mediatek MT8173C processor and 4 GB LPDDR3 eMMC SSD RAM, which ensures high performance.
A slight downside arises in terms of its storage capacity, only 32 GB of memory for your files, which requires stricter management of them. However, you can work hassle-free with your colleagues via Google Drive and have access to all the best Google products on your Chromebook.
Thin and light, with 10 hours of battery life, it is perfect for users who are often on the move, as it is easy to carry. Equipped with the latest high-definition multimedia, the Lenovo Chromebook S330 features a 14-inch HD display that is nearly bezel-less for crisp Hi-Def images. His plus? Virus protection and automatic updates keep your software secure and efficient.
HP Chromebook 14a-na0005sf
Among the best Chromebooks of 2023, the HP Chromebook 14a-na0005sf stands out with its sleek design and superior build quality, allowing you to experience an excellent user experience. Indeed, it is equipped with a 14-inch Full HD screen which offers vivid colors and impressive sharpness. Powered by an ultra-responsive Intel Celeron N4120 processor, supported by 8 GB of RAM, it guarantees smooth performance for most tasks, including productivity and entertainment.
With a hefty 128GB of eMMC storage, you’ll have plenty of space for your files, apps, and media. Its extended battery life of up to 14 hours allows you to work in complete peace of mind for a whole day or to watch episodes of your favorite series. The HP Chromebook 14 a-na0005sf is the ideal laptop for professionals who need to stay connected at all times due to its fast connectivity.
Acer Chromebook 315
The Acer Chromebook 315 is a budget model that doesn’t sacrifice performance. Moreover, it offers a smooth browsing experience. Featuring a large 15.6-inch Full HD screen, it’s perfect for productivity and entertainment. Powered by a fast Intel Celeron N4020 processor and 4GB of RAM, it can handle multitasking effortlessly and delivers reliable performance for web browsing document writing, especially streaming content.
Its superior performance makes it easier for you to run graphics projects. However, with the Acer Chromebook 315, you only get 32GB of eMMC storage, which may require more careful space management. In terms of connectivity, it is equipped with a large number of ports for all your needs, including 2 USB Type C ports for ultra-fast data transfer, video streaming or battery charging.
HP Chromebook x360 14a-ca0000sf
The HP Chromebook x360 14 a-ca0000 sf is suitable for entertainment as well as professional activities. It is a powerful machine that allows gamers to play all day long. This model also gives a breathtaking view of the entertainment, especially since the battery life is impeccable, as it can last for around twelve hours. This model is remarkably flexible, allowing you to look at it however you want.
The ultra-thin design facilitates portability, so your machine can follow you wherever you go, especially since this machine is compact. The 14-inch HD screen provides a better immersive experience. Then, know that its HD screen is touchscreen. This makes ordering considerably easier. It only takes a few pinches, taps, and swipes to control your Chromebook.
This is the kind of machine that guarantees interaction with the computer to enjoy a highly intuitive experience. This Chromebook has an OS operating system. This guarantees a quick startup, allowing you to access content in just a few seconds. The system incorporates antivirus to protect the machine from malware and viruses. Then, updates are launched automatically to maintain smooth operation.
Acer Chromebook CB314-2H-K6WL
The Acer Chromebook CB314-2H-K6WL is easy to use in bright environments, especially outdoors or in a brightly lit room. It has a large 14-inch screen. Its narrow 7.3mm frame gives it a unique charm and facilitates portability. Battery life can extend into several hours, so this Chromebook lets you work all day long. Then, its power is undeniable, thanks to its Intel processor. The 802.11 ac WiFi connection makes getting connected a snap.
This Chromebook is equipped with the Chrome OS operating system. The latter allows you to work more quickly, significantly reducing startup time. Updates trigger automatically, and users can use the latest software advancements. However, an Internet connection is required to launch these automatic updates.
Lenovo Chromebook IdeaPad Duet
ChromeBook IdeaPad Duet can boot up in just 8 seconds. Don’t worry because this startup is verified to keep your machine safe from threats like viruses. Updates start automatically as soon as you are connected to the Internet. They run in the background and are not likely to bother you. This Chromebook is both portable and detachable. Indeed, the keyboard can be detached from the screen to get a 25.65 cm tablet.
Whether in laptop mode or tablet mode, this Chromebook remains light and ultra-thin. You can take it wherever you go, thanks to its significant autonomy. Its most significant advantage is its two-tone design (ice blue and steel gray). It’s the kind of machine that doesn’t go unnoticed. Apart from the design, the Full HD resolution of the screen is also very satisfactory. Added to this is the brightness of 400 nits, which brings out precise details and sharper colors.
What Are The Differences Between A Chromebook And A Laptop?
Operating System
A typical laptop uses an operating system that is divided into two groups. PCs use the Windows operating system, while Macs run macOS. These two systems have their fervent defenders but also fierce detractors. A new system, Chrome OS, differentiates Chromebooks. Certain applications that we now consider to be common, namely iTunes, Microsoft Office of Windows ( with Word, Excel and Powerpoint ) or even simultaneous calls and discussions of Skype, cannot be found on this type of device, but there is their counterpart, in the Chrome store.
A Chromebook Less Suited To Demanding Tasks
The Chromebook should be reserved for office tasks. You can then save your files in Google Drive so as not to lose anything without impacting the performance of your Chromebook. For example, it will have weaknesses for gaming, for which it is not well suited. It is possible to play relatively relaxed games. Editing photos will also confront him with his limits. Anything that involves large storage capacity is not suitable for it. But it is possible to surf the Internet and chat with friends via a webcam, often integrated.
Applications Or Programs?
Chromebook apps are drastically different from programs on a PC or Mac. But it is possible to find their equivalent in the Chrome web store or even on the Google Play Store ( depending on the model ) and download applications that will be useful to you, depending on what you plan to do with your new computer. Interestingly, a Chromebook is more resistant to computer viruses. This is explained in particular by the fact that it includes protection. This can be a plus for the user who does not have to buy an antivirus or do regular updates.
How To Choose Your Chromebook?
Processor Type And Ram
The processor indicates the power of the device. A Chromebook, not having “heavy” programs, will always retain its power and speed of response. The processors put into these devices allow them to start up ultra-rapidly and run smoothly. RAM allows data to be processed in the short term; that is to say, while you execute your tasks at the moment T. The more RAM you have, the faster the work, the pages open quickly, and you can switch from one task to another with an acceptable latency time.
Dimensions And Screen
Dimensions are essential depending on what you are going to do with your Chromebook. For business trips or taking it to class, if you are a student, you need a computer that can fit easily in a bag without the risk of damaging it. The screen is often prominent on this type of product to allow good readability of data and to be able to watch films. The resolution is worth looking at for very sharp images. Some Chromebooks have skinny bezels to maximize immersion in the task or viewing.
Speed And Connectivity
Chromebooks often offer Bluetooth and WiFi. It is imperative to look at the connectivity present, which differs depending on the model. While there are generally different USB ports, the Chromebook does not have an HDMI port, which can be a weak point, nor a slot for an SD card. Check these points before purchasing. This type of laptop does not have heavy programs; the speed is often excellent in both the startup and execution of different tasks.
Budget And Brand
The Chromebook should be considered a laptop, but less expensive because it does not include the classic programs which impact the purchase price. We can therefore find devices for 250 euros. Of course, some Chromebooks can exceed 700 euros, depending on the number of GB of RAM, the type of integrated processor, etc.
To have quality computer equipment, we recommend you trust brands that have proven themselves in IT. The performance will be more likely to be there. You will also often have a warranty on these products, lasting up to two years. A way to reassure the buyer faced with this new type of computer.
