Finding the ideal Chromebook depends on both your school-aged child’s needs and budget. Chromebooks are lightweight, slim computers capable of performing almost all functions necessary from writing essays to streaming YouTube.
Some models feature two-in-one functionality, wherein the screen flips back for use as a tablet computer, while others support stylus support.
1. Lenovo IdeaPad Flex 5i
For an attractive laptop capable of everything from office work to cloud gaming, look no further than Lenovo IdeaPad Flex 5i. As part of Chromebook Plus generation, this device boasts powerful specs without breaking the bank; QHD display that supports various modes and Core i3 CPU deliver plenty of power to ensure optimal experience.
This model may not feature touchscreen capability, but that shouldn’t deter most students. Furthermore, as it’s not a top-of-the-line device it makes this ideal for students who mostly rely on Google’s productivity suite such as Docs, Sheets and Slides as well as being capable of running HD video files.
It may be more expensive than other models, but this laptop still delivers excellent value for your investment. Furthermore, its elegant yet sturdy construction means it can easily fit in a bag and taken anywhere without fear of being damaged; plus it comes packed with security features including mic muting capabilities, camera shutters and data encryption to give students peace of mind when using this machine.
2. HP Chromebook 11a
Are you searching for an economical laptop to take notes, study or play online games on? Look no further! This budget-friendly model boasts enough processing power to run everyday applications like web browsing, word processing and video streaming without lagging behind.
Its compact size makes it easy to carry with you in your backpack or messenger bag, while the battery will provide up to one full day of light use. Both keyboard and touchpad provide comfortable typing experiences; and the display provides a satisfying viewing experience.
The 11.6-inch screen features a modest 1,366x-768 resolution, but its smaller size helps prevent pixelation and other unwanted effects from becoming an issue. You’ll also get an anti-reflective display designed to work well in brightly lit rooms or outdoors; its brightness level has been rated at 220-nit brightness to help minimize eye strain in most conditions. Running Google’s Gemini AI tools and powered by ChromeOS, this Chromebook also qualifies for one year of the Google One AI Premium plan; giving access to 2TB storage space as well as useful tools that make using ChromeOS easier.
3. Acer Chromebook Spin 714
The Acer Chromebook Spin 714 is an excellent choice for anyone who lives and works within Google’s ecosystem, from web browsing and editing documents in Google Docs, through to streaming videos. In particular, its performance increases dramatically if you opt for more resource-intensive programs that require more powerful PCs.
Notable improvements over its predecessor model include switching to 12th-gen Intel processors; our review unit featured a Core i5-1335U that far outshone that of HP Elite Dragonfly in CrXPRT 2 benchmark tests, while providing performance comparable with midrange Windows laptops in Geekbench 5.
But Acer’s new design lacks some features that made its predecessor standout. Most noticeably, its screen brightness has decreased – it still reaches 400 nits but this falls far short of expectations set by other laptops in this price range. Also missing from its predecessor version are microSD card slots and some ports included with previous iterations but Acer did add two USB-C with Thunderbolt 4 ports and a headphone jack.
4. ASUS Chromebook Plus
This Chromebook Plus may not excite on paper, but it is certainly capable. At under $400 it offers a fantastic ChromeOS experience thanks to its Qualcomm Snapdragon 7c Gen 2 processor, 4GB of system memory and 64GB eMMC flash storage – plenty of power for everyday use and MIL-STD-810H certification ensuring extra resilience than average laptops.
Display of this Chromebook Plus model is impressive as well, boasting 100% sRGB coverage with high brightness and contrast for maximum photo/video editing in Google or Adobe apps. Plus, as one of the first Chromebook Plus models available to the public, premium features like GeForce Now and Google AI will be accessible.
5. Samsung Chromebook Plus
If the kid in your life enjoys streaming videos and using GSuite for schoolwork, consider this machine. It has enough technical capacity to run all GSuite applications smoothly while having an ideal display for viewing videos and has decent battery life – two key considerations when choosing an ideal machine.
Samsung’s Chromebook Plus is an exceptional 2-in-1 machine, distinguished by its built-in stylus and high-resolution screen. The lightweight metal chassis offers sturdy support, while its rotating display hinges ensure reliable use. Although expensive, its premium feel and ability to convert from laptop to tablet make this worth its cost.
Chromebooks may not be for everyone; their simplicity may put off those who need advanced desktop software. But Google and its app partners have been getting better at supporting more advanced features on Chromebooks such as video editing tools in Google Photos or Adobe Photoshop on the web if those are important features to you. Check out our buying guide for MacBooks or Windows laptops instead if this type of feature matters to you!
