Laptops are an integral part of modern-day computing, practically replacing laptops because of their increasing capabilities and versatility. For years, it almost seemed as if innovation in this space has mostly plateaued, simply getting more of the same things, such as more processing power, more heat, more weight, and more costs. That’s no longer the case, thankfully, as major PC brands start taking risks and pushing the boundaries of what laptops are capable of, like the world’s first 14-inch dual-screen laptop that ASUS is showing off at CES 2024. In its search for incredible, however, ASUS has also learned of the weight of its responsibility to help heal the planet and keep it alive far longer, and it is showing exactly how much it has progressed in its commitment to improving not only the quality of its products but also their sustainability.
There will come a time when the foldable craze in the smartphone industry will also grip PCs, but that time hasn’t come yet. Instead, there is a precursor to this fad, one that is both more usable but also admittedly a bit more novel. Taking a cue from the canceled Microsoft Surface Neo, ASUS revealed the first commercial dual-screen laptop back in 2019 and is now showing off the refinement it has accomplished that makes the new ZenBook DUO (2024) more than just a novelty.
The ZenBook DUO’s spiel is simple enough. Why settle for a single screen when you can have two wherever you go? And you don’t have to carry around a portable monitor along with your laptop just to accomplish that, because that second screen is your laptop. With a detachable full-sized Bluetooth keyboard that can instantly snap into place, you can have a traditional laptop experience when you want to and a portable two-monitor setup when you need to. This year’s model takes that design up a notch with the largest screens in this niche category, two 14-inch 3K 120Hz OLED screens, to be exact. When unfolded, you’re practically getting a 19.8-inch monitor, albeit one that has a rather wide split down the middle.
Of course, the ZenBook DUO (2024) also steps up the game with upgraded specs, starting with an all-new Intel Core Ultra 9 series processor and up to 32GB of LPDDR5x RAM. That means that the dual-screen laptop is well-equipped to handle AI-related tasks, like optimization, content creation, and more. Both of the screens support high-precision stylus input, making it a superb tool for digital design and collaboration. Thanks to its flexible and versatile design, the ZenBook DUO can offer value to any user, whether they’re a knowledge worker, a programmer, a creator, or anything in between. The ASUS ZenBook DUO (2024) UX8406 goes live in Q1 2024, with availability details to be announced closer to the launch date.
Computing for all
Of course, ASUS has more than a handful of new computers to show off at CES 2024, and, unsurprisingly, quite a number of them are carrying the AI flag. The business-minded ASUS ExpertBook B5, for example, has three AI engines courtesy of an Intel Core Ultra 7 processor. With NVIDIA GeForce RTX 2050 laptop graphics, it can handle plenty of workloads, including creating graphics or maybe even a bit of gaming on the side. A magnesium-aluminum alloy chassis gives it a professional aesthetic, while the US MIL-STD certification guarantees its survival against accidents.
The ASUS ExpertBook CX54 Chromebook Plus brings that same business sense to Google’s fleet of Chrome OS notebooks. Equipped with Intel Core Ultra processors and enterprise-level management tools, this eco-conscious Chromebook is an ideal candidate for workplace deployment, whether it’ll be used in the office or out in the field.
The ASUS Vivobook S laptops, on the other hand, offer thin and lightweight options for more budget-conscious consumers. Bearing a choice of Intel Core Ultra or AMD Ryzen processors, these ultra-portable computers are more than capable of supporting AI-enabled applications and services, as proven by the dedicated Windows Copilot key that is trending on this season’s laptops. Designed with collaboration and entertainment in mind, the Vivobook S14 and S16 laptops can lay flat at 180 degrees, have an IR camera with a physical shutter button, and immersive Dolby Atmos audio firing off Harman Kardon-certified speakers for an unbeatable user experience.
In addition to its Republic of Gamers brand, ASUS is also growing its own TUF line of gaming laptops. Putting durability and military-grade toughness as a top priority, these powerful machines make no apologies for their rugged looks. Thankfully, those rugged looks have their own charm, and ASUS didn’t go overboard with RGB styling other than on the keyboard. The latest Intel Core Ultra and AMD Ryzen 9 processors not only give it the silicon muscles every gamer needs but also enable AI-assisted capabilities for better performance, whether for play or for work.
Sustainability for a Greener Tomorrow
With this many laptops every year, it’s only natural for a giant like ASUS to ask itself how much its products and their production are affecting the environment. The answer, of course, isn’t that encouraging, but thankfully ASUS is committed to changing that for the better. It has been pushing forward multiple initiatives across its businesses to reduce its negative impact or at least offset them by doing good work to heal the environment.
Focusing on the products themselves, ASUS is ensuring that many of its laptops meet the MIL-STD 810H durability standard so they don’t end up in landfills sooner than they should. It has also been increasing the use of post-consumer recycled (PCR) plastics and other recycled materials in these devices. The ASUS ZenBook DUO (2024), for example, is made from 90% post-industrial-recycled (PIR) magnesium-aluminum alloy. Similarly, the ASUS Expertbook CX54 Chromebook Plus uses 30% PIR eco-friendly material and is crafted using renewable energy. And, of course, it has been using recycled materials in its packaging to further reduce the impact of even the smallest accessory.
Whether it’s in the products themselves, the way they are produced, or its day-to-day operations, ASUS is loudly displaying its unwavering commitment to sustainable practices as it continues to search for the incredible. After all, innovation (and profits) will definitely take a backseat when humanity struggles to survive in a damaged world.
Although many businesses have gone back to working in the same office space, some a bit more controversial than others, a new kind of work arrangement has also arisen that gives people a bit more flexibility in where they can sit down to do work. Of course, that also needs a different set of tools, particularly mobile computers that are able to perform as well as desktops. Then again, not every hybrid worker needs a powerful behemoth of a laptop, and some have different requirements, like portability or even price. Catering to these varied needs is a Herculean task, one that Lenovo is facing head-on with an equally varied mix of PC solutions designed to empower users in this fast-changing world.
Right at the top of the list are Lenovo’s powerhouses, bringing the best of the best when it comes to mobile computing. AMD Ryzen 7000 processors paired with the latest AMD Radeon 700M graphics cover all your bases, especially with a maximum capacity of 64GB of RAM. Even with a larger haptic touchpad, Lenovo’s iconic TrackPoint nub still takes center stage, especially with a customizable TrackPoint Quick Menu for easy access to most-used features, functions, and configuration options. Available in 13.3-inch (Z13 Gen 2) and 16.0-inch (Z16 Gen 2) sizes, these top-of-the-line Windows 11 laptops offer all the power that both office workers as well creatives need to do their best work.
Most notable is the ThinkPad Z13 Gen 2 which comes with an optional new natural fiber material bonded to the 75% recycled aluminum top cover. Made from 100% agricultural product from flax plant fibers, the woven Flax material gives the laptop a unique visual as well as texture that is certain to grab the eye and envy of every passerby. Even without this distinctive cover, though, the new ThinkPad Z Gen 2 laptops convey a sleek and professional character that alludes to the powerful hardware running inside. The ThinkPad Z13 Gen 2 arrives in July for $1,249, while the ThinkPad Z16 Gen 2 follows in August for $1,749.
ThinkPad X13 and X13 Yoga (Gen 4)
Some people prefer a laptop that is easier to slip into bags, and the sleeker, more portable ThinkPad X13 Gen 4 siblings definitely fit the bill. With narrower bezels, there is more room for the 13.3-inch 2.8K displays on both models, increasing the screen-to-body ratio and reducing the overall size. Powered by the latest Intel 13th-gen Core processors, with an AMD Ryzen 7000 option for the ThinkPad X13 Gen 4, these travel companions are no slouches when it comes to performance. Now equipped with front-facing speakers, they are also great for more immersive audio, whether it’s for a video meeting or for chilling with a film after work.
While the ThinkPad X13 Gen 4 comes in a traditional laptop form, the X13 Yoga Gen 4 flips that convention on its head, literally. With Lenovo’s signature 360-degree hinge, it takes almost no effort to transform the work laptop into an entertainment machine, presentation display, or creative canvas, all without having to switch computers. Available in Black and Storm Gray colors, the ThinkPad X13 Gen 4 and ThinkPad X13 Yoga Gen 4 will launch sometime in May 2023 with starting prices of $1,099 and $1,379, respectively.
ThinkPad T Series
Lenovo churns out new laptops year after year like clockwork. While some models are relatively new, others can trace their origins back decades, at a time when the “ThinkPad” brand was best known for high-end laptops catering to business needs. The ThinkPad T Series has long been fulfilling that role back when it was still under IBM’s watch in 2000, and this year’s newest additions to the family bring a plethora of options to meet the different needs of businesses, whether it’s for video conferencing or for comfortable use.
As business workhorses, it’s not surprising to see the ThinkPad T14 Gen 4, T16 Gen 2, and T14s Gen 4 equipped with the latest high-end processors from Intel and AMD. These 14-inch and 16-inch laptops offer a variety of options when it comes to screen resolution, including a new 2.8K OLED panel for the T14 and T14s. Although video conferencing has become more common, it’s still not something universally required, so Lenovo leaves the door open to have a 5MP webcam configured for these laptops. Additionally, these cameras can be equipped with an IR sensor for better depth detection as well as face recognition. ThinkPad T14s, T14, and T16 will be available in May with start prices of $1,479, $1,239, and $1,269, respectively.
ThinkPad L Series
While everyone will probably want a powerful laptop, the sad truth is that these machines aren’t always within reach, especially when considering the price tag. Some will be willing to compromise on a few aspects for a more accessible figure, but that doesn’t mean they have to give up on the essentials. The 2023 ThinkPad L family was made especially for this situation, with a variety of sizes, forms, and hardware that customers can change to hit that sweet spot of performance and price.
The ThinkPad L13 Gen 4 and L13 Yoga Gen 4, for example, now offer a TUV Low Blue Light screen option that will help protect their users’ eyes while working or, in the case of the Yoga variant, enjoying a good video binge. The ThinkPad L14 Gen 4 and L15 Gen 4, on the other hand, now offer twice the maximum storage capacity, now up to 2TB PCIe Gen 4 SSD. Whichever of these four models you pick, you’ll still have access to either a 13th-gen Intel processor or an AMD Ryzen 7000, paired with your choice of Intel, AMD Radeon, or even NVIDIA graphics. They will all land on April 2023, starting at $869 for the ThinkPad L13 Gen 4, L14 Gen 4, and L15 Gen 4, and $1,099 for the ThinkPad L13 Yoga Gen 4.
ThinkPad E Series
You might think that “E” stands for “Economy,” and you won’t be completely wrong. Aimed at “value-conscious” customers, the ThinkPad E gives small and medium businesses the power they need without going broke. For 2023, that means access to 13th-gen Intel or AMD Ryzen 7000 processors with up to 40GB of RAM, which is definitely an odd number. You can also squeeze in two 1TB SSDs for all your storage needs, while the new 16:10 screen ratio leaves more room for content.
The 14-inch ThinkPad E14 Gen 5 is joined this year by the newest member of the family, the 16-inch ThinkPad E16 Gen 1. With an increased screen-to-body ratio and a matching larger 115mm touchpad, users won’t have to compromise on productivity just because they’re setting their sights a little bit lower. The ThinkPad E14 Gen 5 will start at around $739, while the ThinkPad E16 Gen 1 will go for $759, both arriving in May.
IdeaPad Duet 3i and Slim 3 Chromebook (Gen 8)
Lenovo has long expanded its portfolio to include other form factors and even operating systems, all in the name of providing people with the portable computers they want and need. The new IdeaPad Duet 3i, for example, is an 11-inch detachable 2-in-1 Windows 11 device that can be a laptop or a tablet, depending on what you need at the time. Slim and stylish, it makes for a perfect companion for students, allowing them to be productive and creative wherever they go. Power by the latest Intel N200 processor, this multifunctional computer won’t launch in North America but will be available in the EMEA region by June for 449€, roughly $479.
The IdeaPad Slim 3 Chromebook Gen 8, on the other hand, looks like a typical laptop but runs something other than Windows. With Google’s Chrome OS and a MediaTek Kompanio 500 processor, this thin and lightweight laptop is made especially for users often on the go, allowing them to immediately pick up where they left off. This highly portable and Web-centric laptop will go for around $340 and will arrive in May 2023.
ThinkCentre TIO (Gen 5)
Even with large laptop screens going as big as 16 inches, there are still some tasks that are better done on an even bigger display. When you do need to settle down on your desk at home or in the office, Lenovo’s fresh and new ThinkCentre TIO (Tiny-in-One) Gen 5 computers will help you get that work done. Combining a 21.5-inch or a 23.8-inch monitor with a Tiny desktop unit, this product line trades portability with modularity, letting you upgrade one or the other part only as needed.
This year’s models put special focus on everyone’s favorite video conferencing, upgrading the webcam to a 1080p shooter and equipping the monitors with a mic and two front-facing speakers. The sRGB FHD displays now also use natural blue light filtering to protect users’ eyes and can even be configured with ten-point touch capabilities. The Lenovo ThinkCentre Tiny-in-One (TIO) Gen 5 starts sales in August with starting prices of $274 and $294 for the 22-inch and 24-inch models, respectively.
Changing for a Greener Tomorrow
With more and more new computers being made each year, the dangers these products pose to the planet’s health also grows. From the materials used to the manufacturing process to even shipping, consumer electronics like laptops and smartphones make human lives more convenient at the expense of the environment. Fortunately, companies have started to take notice, and Lenovo continuing investment in a more resilient and more sustainable business tries to make up for bad habits to help heal the planet slowly but surely.
In addition to reducing carbon emissions through more efficient manufacturing and the use of renewable energy, Lenovo has also started to switch to sustainable aviation fuel and biofuels to similarly reduce the negative impact of shipping. These early 2023 laptops have also increased their use of recycled materials and Post Consumer Content plastic, both in the chassis as well as some components. It might take a long while before sustainable laptops become the norm, but every little step forward counts, especially when from a reputable giant such as Lenovo.
Google’s Web-centric Chrome OS had humble beginnings, catering primarily to educational and business sectors using low-power and affordable laptops. Chromebooks today, however, are a far cry from their ancestors from nearly a decade ago, and Chrome OS itself has undergone a rather radical transformation worthy of rivaling the big operating systems. Aside from supporting multiple platforms like Android and Linux, Chrome OS devices now also come in different forms, like the modest Chromebox. It’s pretty much a mini PC running Chrome OS, but there’s no rule that says it has to be just a box that sits on top of your desk or hidden behind it. At CES 2023, Acer is doing more than just show off its new and shiny Chromebox, it’s also introducing a new “Add-in-One” solution that helps make the Chromebox more practical and more space efficient in the places where it’s needed the most.
Designer: Acer
At the heart of Acer’s new Chrome OS lineup is the Chromebox CX15 and its business-minded sibling, the Chromebox Enterprise CX15. On its own, it’s already a fine device that you won’t feel embarrassed to be seen on your desk, whether lying flat or standing up. Powered by 12th-gen Intel Core processors with up to 16GB of DDR4 memory, the Chromebox has all the processing muscle you need for your business workflows as well as educational programs. The Chromebox Enterprise CX15 also comes with business-minded solutions, including Chrome Enterprise Upgrade, Intel vPro, hardware-based security, and integrated malware protection.
Acer Chromebox CX15:
Despite its simple looks, the Chromebox CX15 checks all the boxes for integrating the mini PC into your office or school system. In addition to Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth 5 wireless connectivity, the box has a variety of ports and expansion slots to extend its capabilities. It can even support up to four external displays thanks to a tandem of USB-C ports and dual HDMI 2.1 ports. As a compact box, the Chromebox CX15 can be placed almost anywhere, including behind a monitor, courtesy of its VESA mount kit.
Where it really shines is in the Acer Add-in-One 24, and no, that isn’t a type. This is a tag-team productivity package composed of a Chromebox CX15 or Chromebox Enterprise CX15 and a 24-inch 1080p FHD monitor. The Chromebox CX15 slides inside a specially-designed dock on the back of that monitor, making it trivial to replace it with a backup unit in a worst-case scenario. There are also specialized screws that prevent the unauthorized separation of these two devices.
Acer Add-in-One 24:
The monitor itself is a perfect complement to the Chromebox CX15, providing a built-in 115-degree wide-angle 5MP webcam that has become necessary for both work and school these days. That camera comes with a physical shutter to protect users’ privacy when it isn’t in use. There are also dual mics and dual 4-watt speakers for video conferences and communication. Thin bezels maximize the viewable area of the screen, and the ability to tilt the screen gives lets users adjust the monitor to their comfort. With this space-saving two-in-one solution, the Acer Add-in-One 24 delivers a complete all-in-one package that still leaves plenty of room for changes and customization down the road.
The Acer Chromebox CX15 will launch in North America sometime in the first quarter, starting at $289.99
The Acer Add-in-One 24 will also arrive in Q1 with a starting price of $609.99
The advent of laptops solved one of the biggest problems in personal computing by allowing people to bring their computers around with them. At the same time, however, that portability came at a cost beyond just the literal monetary price. Compared to their larger and more stationary desktop cousins, laptops were practically walled gardens, beautiful and powerful yet also restricted and inflexible. Things have improved by now, of course, with many laptops offering upgradeable memory and storage, but that’s pretty much it. Everything else is soldered down or at least artificially locked down, making repairs difficult for anyone other than experts and authorized technicians. There are attempts to change this industry culture little by little through making modular and repairable laptops more mainstream, like this latest addition that brings those desirable qualities to Google’s Chrome OS for a price.
Framework is one of the extremely few companies selling laptops that were designed from the ground up to be sustainable and long-lasting in multiple aspects. In fact, it might be the only one of its that is trying to turn this vision into a profitable business. Many manufacturers have started incorporating some recycled materials into their products or are paying closer attention to how easy it will be to repair their newer laptops. For Framework, however, these are the heart and soul of its business.
The Framework Laptop attacks the problem of sustainability from multiple fronts. At its most basic, it uses plenty of sustainable materials for its products, about 50% post-consumer recycled (PCR) aluminum and 30% PCR plastics. Going beyond the laptop itself, even the packaging and shipping are designed with sustainability in mind, using recycled paper and carbon-offset shipping methods to get the laptop from the factory to your desk.
Framework is probably the only laptop manufacturer that is heavily betting on modularity to keep its laptops going. Calling to mind the PCIe laptop cards of old, each Framework Laptop offers the flexibility to swap out parts for more ports, more data storage, or more connectivity options. You can even choose different bezel colors to personalize your laptop, thanks to a simple yet powerful magnetic attachment system.
What’s new here is the option to buy a Framework Laptop running Google’s Chrome OS rather than Microsoft Windows, a.k.a. a Chromebook. Although some stigma still remains, Chromebooks have long outgrown their modest roots and can give Windows a run for its money in many cases. In fact, the Framework Chromebook will be capable of running SteamOS games via the Chrome OS Alpha channel, in addition to supporting Android and Linux apps.
One potential showstopper is that the Framework Laptop Chromebook Edition starts at $999 for its most basic memory configuration. While it’s $50 cheaper than Framework’s equivalent Windows laptop, it’s still steeper than most of the high-end Chromebooks on the market. Granted, it does have powerful hardware inside, but savings from the Chrome OS operating system should be more than just the price difference. You are getting a highly modular and repairable laptop in the end, but the price tag could give people a wrong impression about the cost of sustainability.
Consumer electronics are hardly the most sustainable products on the planet. In addition to the tremendous use of plastics and the electricity they consume, the industry is hell-bent on encouraging people to just buy newer stuff even if their current devices are still serviceable. Worse, there are systems in place that make it almost too inconvenient to continue using aging products through repairs and upgrades. Fortunately, the past few years have seen a rise in awareness of how the destruction of the planet would be bad for business in the long run, pushing manufacturers to lay out their plans to help reduce their negative impact on the environment. Building on the Earthion initiative it announced last year, Acer has come out with a new Chromebook brandishing its eco-friendly Vero brand as its most sustainable laptop yet.
Acer made big waves last year when it debuted two sustainability efforts. Earthion is the company’s overarching program to integrate eco-friendly strategies across its many product lines, covering the entire production pipeline from sourcing materials to packaging design to logistics. From Earthion came Acer’s Vero line of eco-conscious devices that now include not just laptops but also monitors, accessories, and even projectors. The new Acer Chromebook Vero 514 is the latest to be added to that family, showcasing advances that the company has made toward its green goals.
It is nearly impossible for computers and smartphones to completely remove the use of plastics, so manufacturers can only mitigate the situation by using post-consumer recycled or PCR plastics. In that light, the Chromebook Vero 514 boasts that the plastic in its chassis and bezels around the screen are made from 30% PCR plastic, while keycaps have it at 50%. In addition, the material used for its internal fan housing and “OceanGlass” touchpad use recycled ocean-bound plastics to help reduce pollution in our waters.
More than just its composition, Acer made this new laptop also more recyclable and repair-friendly to prolong its life. The use of standard screws will make repairs and upgrades easier, and the paint-free chassis is 99% recyclable. Even the packaging, which people tend to take for granted, takes part in the sustainability game. The box is made from 90% recycled paper, and the notebook bag and keyboard sheet are made from 100% recycled plastic. The inner packaging can also be transformed into a triangular laptop stand so that nothing needs to be thrown away.
All of these eco-friendly measures would probably be pointless if the Chromebook Vero 514 wasn’t attractive enough to be bought. In addition to its durable and no-nonsense design, the Chrome OS laptop packs quite a wallop in terms of hardware, utilizing 12th-gen Intel Core processors or an option of a more power-efficient (read: slower) Intel Pentium processor. And since it uses Chrome OS, it will actually be less resource-intensive, helping prolong the laptop’s overall life.
Acer has been making big strides towards its sustainability goals, including running on 100% renewable energy by 2035. That’s still a long way to go, but every step in that direction matters. We’re still from having the perfect sustainable laptop, but the Acer Chromebook Vero 514 definitely offers one of the best combinations of performance and eco-friendly solutions that won’t make you feel short-changed for investing in a green laptop that will serve you well for years to come.
The Chromebook market has grown so much over the past few years that choosing the best Chromebook for you can be hard. The combination of years worth of software updates and manufacturers making laptops with more power, better build quality and long battery life means there are a ton of good Chrome OS machines that work well as everyday drivers. While Google did make things simpler last fall by introducing the Chromebook Plus initiative (more on that below), there are still multiple things to keep in mind when shopping for a new Chromebook. I’ve been testing and reviewing Chromebooks for years and know what you should be looking for, and what you can expect out of these laptops in 2024.
Editor’s note (3/22/24): We’re constantly testing and evaluating new Chromebooks for this guide, and there are two models on our radar for inclusion that we’re eager to test. Both Acer and ASUS offer 15-inch Chromebook Plus models for $399, and we think one (or both) could be good options for someone who wants a bigger screen for less cash.
What is Chrome OS, and why would I use it over Windows?
This is probably the number one question about Chromebooks. There are plenty of inexpensive Windows laptops on the market, so why bother with Chrome's operating system? Glad you asked. For me, the simple and clean nature of Chrome OS is a big selling point. Chrome OS is based on Google’s Chrome browser, which means most of the programs you can run are web based. There’s no bloatware or unwanted apps to uninstall like you often get on Windows laptops, it boots up in seconds, and you can completely reset to factory settings almost as quickly.
Of course, simplicity will also be a major drawback for some users. Not being able to install native software can be a dealbreaker if you’re a video editor or software developer. But there are also plenty of people who do the majority of their work in a web browser.
Google and its software partners are getting better every year at supporting more advanced features. For example, Google added video editing tools to the Google Photos app on Chromebooks – it won’t replace Adobe Premiere, but it should be handy for a lot of people. Similarly, Google and Adobe announced Photoshop on the web last year, something that should bring much of the power of Adobe’s desktop apps to Chromebooks.
Google has also added support for Android apps on Chromebooks, which greatly expands the amount of software available. The quality varies widely, but it means you can do more with a Chromebook beyond just web-based apps. For example, you can install the Netflix app and save videos for offline watching. Other Android apps like Microsoft Office and Adobe Lightroom are surprisingly capable as well. Between Android apps and a general improvement in web apps, Chromebooks are more than just portals to a browser.
What do Chromebooks do well?
Photo by Nathan Ingraham / Engadget
Put simply, web browsing and really anything web based. Online shopping, streaming music and video and using various social media sites are among the most common daily tasks people do on Chromebooks. As you might expect, they also work well with Google services like Photos, Docs, Gmail, Drive, Keep and so on. Yes, any computer that can run Chrome can do that too, but the lightweight nature of Google Chrome OS makes it a responsive and stable platform.
As I mentioned before, Chrome OS can run Android apps, so if you’re an Android user you’ll find some nice ties between the platforms. You can get most of the same apps that are on your phone on a Chromebook and keep info in sync between them. You can also use some Android phones as a security key for your Chromebook or instantly tether your laptop to use mobile data.
Google continues to tout security as a major differentiator for Chromebooks, and it’s definitely a factor worth considering. Auto-updates are the first lines of defense. Chrome OS updates download quickly in the background and a fast reboot is all it takes to install the latest version. Google says that each webpage and app on a Chromebook runs in its own sandbox as well, so any security threats are contained to that individual app. Finally, Chrome OS has a self-check called Verified Boot that runs every time a device starts up. Beyond all this, the simple fact that you generally can’t install traditional apps on a Chromebook means there are fewer ways for bad actors to access the system.
As for when to avoid Chromebooks, the answer is simple: If you rely heavily on a specific native application for Windows or a Mac, chances are you won’t find the exact same option on a ChromeOS device. That’s most true in fields like photo and video editing, but it can also be the case in law or finance. Plenty of businesses run on Google’s G suite software, but more still have specific requirements that a Chromebook might not match. If you’re an iPhone user, you’ll also miss out on the way the iPhone easily integrates with an iPad or Mac. For me, the big downside is not being able to access iMessage on a Chromebook.
Finally, gaming Chromebooks are not ubiquitous, although they’re becoming a slightly more reasonable option with the rise of cloud gaming. In late 2022, Google and some hardware partners announced a push to make Chromebooks with cloud gaming in mind. From a hardware perspective, that means laptops with bigger screens that have higher refresh rates as well as optimizing those laptops to work with services like NVIDIA GeForce Now, Xbox Game Pass and Amazon Luna. You’ll obviously need an internet connection to use these services, but the good news is that playing modern games on a Chromebook isn’t impossible. You can install Android games from the Google Play Store, but that’s not what most people are thinking of when they want to game on a laptop.
There’s another potential change on the horizon, as Valve and Google are working to bring the massive Steam catalog to Chromebooks. Right now, Steam is only available as an early alpha on a handful of devices with higher specs, but it works a lot better than I expected. You’re still not going to run the most demanding games on basic laptops, but the Steam catalog is so vast that there are plenty of titles that worked on the Chromebook I tested it with. If you’re interested in giving it a shot, you can find the full list of supported Chromebooks and details on how to try Steam here.
What are the most important specs for a Chromebook?
Photo by Nathan Ingraham / Engadget
Chrome OS is lightweight and usually runs well on fairly modest hardware, so the most important thing to look for might not be processor power or storage space. But Google made it easier to get consistent specs and performance late last year when it introduced the Chromebook Plus initiative. Any device with a Chromebook Plus designation meets some minimum requirements, which happen to be very similar to what I’d recommend most people get if they’re looking for a laptop they can use every day.
Chromebook Plus models have at least a 12th-gen Intel Core i3 processor, or an AMD Ryzen 3 7000 series processor, both of which should be more than enough for most people. These laptops also have a minimum of 8GB of RAM and 128GB of storage, which should do the trick unless you’re really pushing your Chromebook. All Chromebook Plus models have to have a 1080p webcam, which is nice in these days of constant video calling, and they also all have to have at least a 1080p IPS screen.
Of course, you can get higher specs or better screens if you desire, but I’ve found that basically everything included in the Chromebook Plus target specs makes for a very good experience.
Google has an Auto Update policy for Chromebooks, and while that’s not exactly a spec, it’s worth checking before you buy. Last year, Google announced that Chromebooks would get software updates and support for an impressive 10 years after their release date. This support page lists the Auto Update expiration date for virtually every Chromebook ever, but a good rule of thumb is to buy the newest machine you can to maximize your support.
How much should I spend?
Chromebooks started out notoriously cheap, with list prices often coming in under $300. But as they’ve gone more mainstream, they’ve transitioned from being essentially modern netbooks to the kind of laptop you’ll want to use all day. As such, prices have increased: At this point, you should expect to spend at least $400 if you want a solid daily driver. There are still many budget options out there that may be suitable as secondary devices, but Chromebooks that can be all-day, every-day laptops will cost more. But, notably, even the best Chromebooks usually cost less than the best Windows or “regular” laptops out there.
There are plenty of premium Chromebooks that approach or even exceed $1,000, but I don’t recommend spending that much. Generally, that’ll get you a better design with more premium materials, as well as more powerful internals and extra storage space. Of course, you also sometimes pay for the brand name. But, the specs I outlined earlier are usually enough.
Choosing the best Chromebook for you, given your needs and your budget, can be hard to do given the plethora of models on the market today. The combination of years worth of software updates and laptop manufacturers making more powerful and better-built laptops means there are a ton of good Chrome OS machines that work well as everyday drivers. But there are some special factors to Chromebooks that you should keep in mind before choosing one. We'll help you figure out what is the best Chromebook for you, from the Lenovo IdeaPad Flex 5i to the Acer Chromebook Spin 714 and in between.
What is Chrome OS, and why would I use it over Windows?
That’s probably the number one question about Chromebooks. There are plenty of inexpensive Windows laptops on the market, so why bother with Chrome OS? Glad you asked. For me, the simple and clean nature of Chrome OS is a big selling point. Chrome OS is based on Google’s Chrome browser, which means most of the programs you can run are web based. There’s no bloatware or unwanted apps to uninstall like you often get on Windows laptops, it boots up in seconds, and you can completely reset to factory settings almost as quickly.
Of course, the simplicity is also a major drawback for some users. Not being able to install native software can be a dealbreaker if you’re a video editor or software developer. But there are also plenty of people who do the majority of their work in a browser. Unless I need to edit photos for a review, I can do my entire job on a Chromebook.
Google has also added support for Android apps on Chromebooks, which greatly expands the amount of software available. The quality varies widely, but it means you can do more with a Chromebook beyond just web-based apps. For example, you can install the Netflix app and save videos for offline watching. Other Android apps like Microsoft Office and Adobe Lightroom are surprisingly capable, as well. Between Android apps and a general improvement in web apps, Chromebooks are more than just a browser.
What do Chromebooks do well?
Nathan Ingraham / Engadget
Put simply, anything web based. Browsing, streaming music and video and using various social media sites are among the most common daily tasks people do on Chromebooks. As you might expect, they also work well with Google services like Photos, Docs, Gmail, Drive, Keep and so on. Yes, any computer that can run Chrome can do that too, but the lightweight nature of Google Chrome OS makes it a responsive and stable platform.
As I mentioned before, Chrome OS can run Android apps, so if you’re an Android user you’ll find some nice ties between the platforms. You can get most of the same apps that are on your phone on a Chromebook and keep info in sync between them. You can also use some Android phones as a security key for your Chromebook or instantly tether your laptop to use mobile data.
Google continues to tout security as a major differentiator for Chromebooks, and I think it’s definitely a factor worth considering. The first line of defense is auto-updates. Chrome OS updates download quickly in the background and a fast reboot is all it takes to install the latest version. Google says that each webpage and app on a Chromebook runs in its own sandbox, as well, so any security threats are contained to that individual app. Finally, Chrome OS has a self-check called Verified Boot that runs every time a device starts up. Beyond all this, the simple fact that you generally can’t install traditional apps on a Chromebook means there are a lot fewer ways for bad actors to access the system.
As for when to avoid them, the answer is simple: If you rely heavily on a specific native application for Windows or a Mac, chances are you won’t find the exact same option on a Chromebook. That’s most true in fields like photo and video editing, but it can also be the case in law or finance. Plenty of businesses run on Google’s G suite software, but more still have specific requirements that a Chromebook might not match. If you’re an iPhone user, you’ll also miss out on the way the iPhone easily integrates with an iPad or Mac. For me, the big downside is not being able to access iMessage on a Chromebook.
Finally, gaming is mostly a non-starter, as there are no native Chrome OS games of note. You can install Android games from the Google Play Store, but that’s not what most people are thinking of when they want to game on a laptop. That said, Google’s game-streaming service Stadia has changed that long-standing problem. The service isn’t perfect, but it remains the only way to play recent, high-profile games on a Chromebook. It’s not as good as running local games on a Windows computer, but the lag issues that can crop up reflect mostly on Stadia itself and not Chrome OS.
There’s also a potential change on the horizon in that regard, as Valve and Google are working to bring the massive Steam catalog to Chromebooks. Right now, Steam is only available as an early alpha on a handful of devices with higher specs, but it works a lot better than I expected. Of course, you’re still not going to run the most demanding games on basic laptops, but the Steam catalog is so vast that there are plenty of titles that worked on the Chromebook I tested it with. Maybe by next year, Steam will be supported on more devices.
What are the most important specs for a Chromebook?
Nathan Ingraham / Engadget
Chrome OS is lightweight and usually runs well on fairly modest hardware, so the most important thing to look for might not be processor power or storage space. That said, I’d still recommend you get a Chromebook with a relatively recent Intel processor, ideally an eighth-generation or newer M3 or i3. Most non-Intel Chromebooks I’ve tried haven’t had terribly strong performance, but that’s starting to change. Lenovo’s Chromebook Duet 2-in-1 from 2021 runs surprisingly well on its MediaTek processor.
As for RAM, 8GB should be the target, unless you’re looking for a budget model and know that your needs are fairly modest. Storage space is another place where you don’t need to spend too much; 64GB should be fine for almost anyone. If you plan on storing a lot of files locally or loading up your Chromebook with Linux or Android apps, get 128GB. But for what it’s worth, I’ve never felt like I might run out of storage when using Chrome OS.
Things like the keyboard and display quality are arguably more important than sheer specs. The good news is that you can find less expensive Chromebooks that still have pretty good screens and keyboards that you won’t mind typing on all day. Many cheap Chromebooks still come with tiny, low-resolution displays, but at this point there’s no reason to settle for anything less than 1080p. (If you’re looking for an extremely portable, 11-inch Chromebook, though, you’ll probably end up with a lesser screen.) Obviously, keyboard quality is a bit more subjective, but there are plenty of affordable options that offer strong typing experiences.
Google has an Auto Update policy for Chromebooks, and while that’s not a spec, per se, it’s worth checking before you buy. Basically, Chromebooks get regular software updates automatically for about six years from their release date (though that can vary from device to device). This support page lists the Auto Update expiration date for virtually every Chromebook ever, but a good rule of thumb is to buy the newest machine you can to maximize your support.
How much should I spend?
Chromebooks started out notoriously cheap, with list prices often coming in under $300. But as they’ve gone more mainstream, they’ve transitioned from being essentially modern netbooks to the kind of laptop you’ll want to use all day. As such, prices have increased a bit over the last few years. At this point, you should expect to spend at least $400 if you want a solid daily driver. There are still many budget options out there that may be suitable as couch machines or secondary devices, but Chromebooks that can be an all-day, every-day laptop will cost a bit more.
There are also plenty of premium Chromebooks that approach or even exceed $1,000, but I don’t recommend spending that much. Generally, that’ll get you a better design with more premium materials, as well as more powerful internals and extra storage space. Of course, you also sometimes pay for the brand name. But, the specs I outlined earlier are usually enough.
Right now, there actually aren’t too many Chromebooks that cost that much. The Google Pixelbook Go comes in $999 and $1,399 configurations, but the more affordable $650 and $850 options will be just as good for nearly everyone. Samsung released the $1,000 Galaxy Chromebook in 2020; this luxury device does almost everything right but has terrible battery life. Samsung quickly learned from that mistake and is now offering the Galaxy Chromebook 2 with more modest specs, but vastly better battery life at a more affordable price . For the most part, you don’t need to spend more than $850 to get a premium Chromebook that’ll last you years.
Lenovo has been making some of the best Chromebooks you can buy for several years now and, more recently, it has once again made the best option for most people. The IdeaPad Flex 5i Chromebook is essentially an upgraded version of the model we recommended last year, and there are a few notable improvements. The 13.3-inch, 1080p touchscreen is extremely bright and fairly sharp; I wish it had a taller aspect ratio than 16:9, but this type of screen is very commonplace in Chromebooks. This Lenovo Chromebook runs on a 11th-generation Intel Core i3 processor and includes 8GB of RAM and 128GB of storage; both of those are double what last year’s model offered. Eight hours of battery life is pretty good for a laptop in this price range, and the backlit keyboard is excellent for such an affordable device. The key caps feel a little small under my fingers, but that’s the only real complaint I have.
The Lenovo Flex 5i is no longer available directly from Lenovo, but you can commonly find it on Amazon for about $400 (as of this writing, it is selling for $409; when I bought it, it was priced at $390). That’s an outstanding value.
Other things in the Flex 5i’s favor include that it has both USB-C and USB-A ports, a microSD card slot and a security lock. At three pounds and 0.66 inches thick, it’s not the lightest or slimmest option out there, but it’s totally reasonable considering the price. Finally, the Flex 5i will receive software and security updates until June of 2029, so you can buy this computer and have it covered for years to come.
Ultimately, the Ideapad Flex 5i hits the sweet spot for a large majority of Chromebook buyers out there, providing a level of quality and performance that’s pretty rare to find at this price point. That said, given this laptop has been out for over a year now, we’re keeping an eye out for a replacement from Lenovo, as well as comparable options other manufacturers release.
One to look out for is Lenovo’s Chromebook 5i, which the company recently released. Right now, it’s only available with an Intel Pentium Gold processor and 4GB of RAM; in my testing, that wasn’t enough power by modern standards. The device froze up far too often, and the IdeaPad Flex 5i with its i3 processor was clearly faster at everything I tried. But Lenovo says it’ll offer the Chromebook 5i with up to an Intel i5 processor, which should make the laptop worth checking out.
Upgrade option: Samsung Galaxy Chromebook 2
Last year, Samsung’s Galaxy Chromebook 2 was one of my recommendations for people looking for a more premium Chromebook. Now that Samsung often sells the device for $550, it’s an excellent all-purpose recommendation if you want something more svelte and stylish than Lenovo’s IdeaPad Flex 5i.
The Galaxy Chromebook 2 is infinitely more stylish than most other Chromebooks, with a bright metallic red finish and sleek design. This Samsung Chromebook 2 fixes some of the serious flaws we identified in the original Galaxy Chromebook. Specifically, the 2020 Galaxy Chromebook had terrible battery life and cost $999; this year’s model can be found for $550 and can last seven hours off the charger. That’s not great, but it’s far better than the lousy four hours the original offered.
Samsung cut a few corners to lower the Galaxy Chromebook 2’s price. Most noticeable is the 1080p 13.3-inch touchscreen, down from the 4K panel on the older model. The good news is that the display is among the best 1080p laptop screens I’ve seen in a long time, and the lower resolution helps the battery life, too. Along with that excellent screen, the device also has a very comfortable keyboard, though I wish the trackpad was a little bigger. The Galaxy Chromebook 2 is also a bit thicker and heavier than its predecessor, but it’s still reasonably compact. At 13.9mm thick and 2.7 pounds, it’s noticeably smaller than the Lenovo.
The Galaxy Chromebook 2 has a 10th-generation Intel Core i3 processor paired with 8GB of RAM and 128GB of storage, which is plenty. This all adds up to a laptop that isn’t as ambitious as the first Galaxy Chromebook, but one that is much easier to recommend. Instead of pushing to have the best screen in the thinnest and lightest body with a faster processor, Samsung pulled everything back a bit to make a better-priced but still premium Chromebook laptop. Given that the Galaxy Chromebook 2 is well over a year old now, I wouldn’t recommend spending $700 on it – but if you can catch it on sale for $550 (as it is right now), it’s a solid option.
Acer’s Chromebook Spin 714 is an evolution of the Spin 713 that I recommended last year. Acer made a few tweaks to the formula, but you’re still getting a well-built, powerful laptop that won’t turn any heads with its design but gets the job done well.
I loved the display on the Acer Chromebook Spin 713, and unfortunately the one on the Spin 714 isn’t quite as exciting. It’s a 14-inch, 1900x1200 touchscreen; that works out to a taller 16:10 aspect ratio than you’ll get from the 1080p panels on most other premium Chromebooks. I’m a big fan of taller laptop screens – but the Spin 713 had a 13.5-inch screen that had an even taller 3:2 aspect ratio and a higher resolution. I can’t help but wonder if Acer found that people still prefer a widescreen display. If that’s the case, the Spin 714’s display is a nice middle ground.
Putting aside these comparisons to last year’s model, the Acer Spin 714’s screen is still very nice – it can get uncomfortably bright if that’s your thing, and the bezels are thin. It’s not nearly as pixel-dense as the Spin 713, but it’s still plenty sharp. Between the extra vertical height and the slightly larger screen size, the Spin 714’s display is a pleasure to use.
As for the rest of the hardware, the 12th-generation Intel Core i5 processor is more than enough power for most everyday tasks, and the keyboard and trackpad are solid, if not the best I’ve used before. The same can be said for battery life: I got about seven hours using the Spin 714 in my normal daily routine – not exceptional, but in line with what I’ve seen on other Chromebooks with an i5 processor. Rounding out the hardware is 8GB of RAM and a generous 256GB of storage space. From a support perspective, Google will offer software and security updates until June of 2030.
Another bonus is that its hardware meets Google’s recommended specs to run Steam, though the alpha build is still limited to seven devices. So while it’s not officially supported yet, Steam will hopefully work on this laptop once Google and Valve start rolling it out more widely.
Just as the name suggests, the Spin 714 has a 360-degree hinge which lets you use the laptop in tablet mode. I’m not particularly a fan of this convertible design – I don’t know who wants to use a 3-plus pound tablet, but Acer did include a built-in stylus for handwriting notes or drawing in apps like the built-in Chrome Canvas.
The Spin 714 configuration I tested costs $730 – that’s a lot of money for even a high-end Chromebook. But it’s not an unreasonable price for a computer with these specs and built quality. For most people, the Lenovo will be enough. But, if you’re a serious multitasker, want a better display and keyboard, or just want a computer that’ll last as long as possible, the Acer Spin 714 is easy to recommend.
This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/best-chromebooks-160054646.html?src=rss
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