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Best Chromebook 2021

Best Chromebook 2021

Budget-minded buyers should take a look at the best Chromebooks if they’re in the market for a new laptop. Typically more affordable than traditional laptops, these devices are incredibly versatile multi-taskers while keeping things lightweight on the operating system front so they don’t need the pricier components to begin with.

Unlike Windows 10 or macOS, the ChromeOS utilizes the Google Chrome web browser as its primary user interface. This means that it doesn’t need that much power to deliver the performance you need for productivity, keeping the cost down and extending those savings to its users. Plus, you’re no longer entirely reliant on the Chrome browser, as the best Chromebook supports apps, even Android ones, for things like photo editing and casual gaming without Internet connectivity. 

Taking its versatility to a new level, some of the best Chromebooks also offer the 2-in-1 form with touchscreen connectivity as well as that ultra long battery life, rivaling some of the best laptops and the best 2-in-1 laptops out there. 

Should you switch from Windows laptops or the best MacBooks? Much like with other devices, that depends on your daily computing needs. Our article on whether or not you should buy a Chromebook can help you decide. If, on the other hand, you’re ready to jump on the bandwagon, scroll down to see our top picks below.

Still not sure if the best Chromebooks are right for you? Take a look at our Chromebooks vs laptops article. For all the students going back to school, take a look at our best student Chromebooks guide. And for anyone who likes to hunt for the best deals, start with cheap Chromebook deals to find the right one for you.

Best Chromebooks

Google Pixelbook Go is the best Chromebook of 2021

(Image credit: Google)

1. Google Pixelbook Go

The best Chromebook ever made

Specifications

CPU: Intel Core m3 – Intel Core i7

Graphics: Intel UHD Graphics 615

RAM: 8GB – 16GB

Screen: 13.3-inch Full HD (1,920 x 1,080) or 4K LCD touchscreen

Storage: 128GB – 256GB eMMC

Reasons to buy

+Incredible battery life+Amazing ‘Hush’ keyboard

Reasons to avoid

Iffy pricing at mid- to- high-endNo biometric login

Google continues its tradition of making the best Chromebooks in the world. While it’s older Pixelbook used to occupy the top spot, it’s been replaced by Google’s latest Chromebook: the Pixelbook Go. This is a Chromebook that proves that these devices can be just as stylish and powerful as traditional laptops, and the Pixelbook Go brings a lot of the original Pixelbook’s premium features to a more affordable device. 

One of it’s most impressive features is the fantastic battery life, which can outlast many traditional laptops with ease, and means you can go a full work or school day without needing to charge it. We also love the fact that you can close the lid, leave it for a few days, and when you pick it up again, it’s still got plenty of battery life left – something Windows 10 laptops never achieve.

Its brilliant keyboard is also worth pointing out. It feels fantastic to type on, and makes working on it incredibly comfortable. In fact, this has meant we’ve stopped using much more powerful (and expensive laptops) in favor of the Pixelbook Go – it really is that good.

Read the full review: Google Pixelbook Go

Lenovo IdeaPad Duet Chromebook

(Image credit: Lenovo)

2. Lenovo IdeaPad Duet Chromebook

Everything that netbooks should have been

Specifications

CPU: MediaTek Helio P60T Processor

Graphics: ARM G72 MP3 800GHz

RAM: 4 GB LPDDR4X

Screen: 10.1″ FHD (1920 x 1200) IPS, glossy, touchscreen, 400 nits

Storage: 64 GB eMMC

Reasons to buy

+Lightweight and portable+Long battery life+Very affordable

Reasons to avoid

Tiny keyboard and finicky trackpadCharger and headphones share a single port

Is it a Chromebook or is it a tablet? Well, luckily, you won’t have to decide with the brilliant Lenovo IdeaPad Duet Chromebook. True to its name, this Chromebook delivers two form factors in one, while utilizing the versatility of the Chrome OS and setting you back much less than many of the top Windows tablets out there. 

Of course, like all the best Chromebooks, its battery packs an incredibly long life of almost 22 hours – so you could pull an all-nighter, work through the day and mid-afternoon, and you’ll still pass out before it runs out of juice. 

For this price, sacrifices have to be made, naturally – the keyboard is tiny, the trackpad isn’t as reliable, and the charger and headphones share one port. However, if budget is your top priority, those are definitely not deal-breakers.

Read the full review: Lenovo IdeaPad Duet Chromebook 

Best Chromebooks: HP Chromebook 14

(Image credit: HP)

3. HP Chromebook 14

Striking optimal balance between value and design

Specifications

CPU: Intel Celeron N2840 – N2940

Graphics: Intel HD Graphics

RAM: 2GB – 4GB

Screen: 14-inch, HD (1,366 x 768) BrightView

Storage: 16GB – 32GB eMMC

Reasons to buy

+Excellent keyboard, trackpad+Crisp, vivid screen

Reasons to avoid

Slower than some rivalsAverage battery life

The best Chromebooks balance a bargain price and efficient use of Chrome OS – and the HP Chromebook 14 is the perfect example of that. 

While it’s similar to the Acer Chromebook 15 in a lot of ways, this 14-inch Chromebook is a tad more compact and looks slightly better. Complemented by a bright blue finish and a screen made to astound, the HP Chromebook 14 offers the best value of any Chromebook out there. Even if the battery life and performance are average – the HP Chromebook 14 is easily one of the best Chromebooks to date.

We were particularly impressed with how slim and light this Chromebook is, and it means the HP Chromebook 14 is a great device for anyone who wants a long-lasting laptop that they can comfortably carry around with them. If you want a laptop to work on while lounging on a sofa, this is a great choice as well.

Also, unlike some other Chromebooks, the HP Chromebook 14 comes with plenty of ports, including HDMI-out, USB 3.0 and a microSD card slot, making this a brilliantly versatile Chromebook for the price.

Read the full review: HP Chromebook 14

Best Chromebooks: Asus Chromebook Flip

(Image credit: Asus)

4. Asus Chromebook Flip

Premium Chromebook specs, economic Chromebook pricing

Specifications

CPU: Intel Pentium 4405Y – Intel Core m3-6Y30

Graphics: Intel HD Graphics 515

RAM: 4GB

Screen: 12.5-inch, FHD (1,920 x 1,080) LED backlit anti-glare

Storage: 32GB – 64GB eMMC

Reasons to buy

+Elegant tablet mode+Tactile keyboard

Reasons to avoid

Middling speakers

The Asus Chromebook Flip is a brilliant Chromebook that proves that these devices can be sleek, stylish and premium – and not just budget. 

With an Intel Core processor and a full-HD display, the Asus Chromebook Flip is a powerful performer that will keep up with any day-to-day task you require it to perform, and offers plenty of value without compromising on performance – a tricky balancing act that many other Chromebook makers fail to achieve. 

This is a Chromebook that’s been out for a while now, but it still impresses with brilliant performance and an excellent build quality that’s thin and light, and puts many more expensive laptops to shame. If you’re on a budget, this is one of the best Asus laptops to consider.

Read the full review: Asus Chromebook Flip 

Acer Chromebook 314

(Image credit: Acer)

5. Acer Chromebook 314

A tremendous Chromebook

Specifications

CPU: Intel Celeron N4000

Graphics: Intel UHD Graphics 600

RAM: 4GB

Screen: 14-inch LED (1366 x 768) high definition

Storage: 32GB eMMC

Reasons to buy

+Excellent battery life and performance+Bright, crisp screen

Reasons to avoid

No touchscreenNo fingerprint reader

If you’re looking for a Chromebook that really gives you excellent value for money, then the Acer Chromebook 314 is the best Chromebook for you. It’s easy to use, reliable, and has a wonderful screen and battery life (up to 12 hours) combo – not to mention, a 14-inch crisp and  bright display that gives you more screen real estate for your productivity needs.

It also has a keyboard that is satisfying and a joy to use, as well as a touchpad that interacts well with all your fingers’ movements and commands. More importantly, it strikes a great balance between design, usability, features, battery life and performance, while being comfortable with its own limitations. 

Read the full review: Acer Chromebook 314

Best Chromebook: Acer Chromebook Spin 311

(Image credit: Acer)

6. Acer Chromebook Spin 311

Versatile and fun little Chromebook for work and play

Specifications

CPU: Intel Celeron N4000

Graphics: Intel UHD Graphics 600

RAM: 4GB

Screen: 11.6″ HD (1366 x 768) 16:9 IPS touchscreen

Storage: 64GB Flash Memory

Reasons to buy

+Great design and build+Lovely size+Excellent touch screen and flip mechanism

Reasons to avoid

Dim screenMassive bezels drastically reduce actual screen size

If versatility is a top priority, then look no further than the Acer Chromebook Spin 311. This all-rounder has all the makings of a great Chromebook, from its good battery life to its robust build and solid usability.

However, the Acer Chromebook Spin 311 takes it further with its impressive levels of versatility, thanks to its abundance of ports considering its size, 2-in-1 design, portable size and excellent touchscreen display. It also boasts a keyboard and a touchpad that are not only reliable, but also satisfying to use. That’s a rare thing in a machine at this price point. 

The small size of this Chromebook means it’s really easy to carry around with you, so if you’re looking for the best Chromebook for travelling with, this is it. However, that small size may mean some people find it uncomfortable to use for long periods of time, especially if you’re more used to larger laptops.

Read the full review: Acer Chromebook Spin 311 

Best Chromebook: Asus Chromebook Flip C436F

(Image credit: Asus)

7. Asus Chromebook Flip C436F

A whole lotta hits

Specifications

CPU: 10th-generation Intel Core i3 – i5

Graphics: Intel UHD Graphics

RAM: 8GB – 16GB 2133MHz LPDDR3

Screen: 14” LED-backlit Full HD (1920 x 1080) 16:9 display

Storage: 512GB / 256GB / 128GB PCIe® NVMe 3.0x 2 M.2 SSD

Reasons to buy

+Superb performance+Premium build and features+Impressive keyboard

Reasons to avoid

Subpar speakersErratic touchpadTouch display not accurate enough

Premium Chromebooks occupy their own space in the laptop market, bridging that gap between powerful traditional laptops and super lightweight Chromebooks.

And, the Asus Chromebook Flip C436F is perhaps one of the very few examples of these out there, with its combination of superb power, terrific feature set, premium build and a price tag that’s cheaper than its rivals. 

During our time with the Asus Chromebook Flip C436F, we were really impressed with its gorgeous design, with a magnesium alloy body, stunning 1080p screen, and wonderful keyboard. This could easily rival premium laptops like the Dell XPS 13 or MacBook, and it even comes with features like Wi-Fi 6 support and a fingerprint sensor.

If you’re looking for a lightweight OS machine that touts more power than the rest of the clan, this is one of the best Chromebooks on offer.

Read the full review: Asus Chromebook Flip C436F

Acer Chromebook Spin 11

(Image credit: Acer)

8. Acer Chromebook Spin 11

A fresh spin on one of the best Chromebooks

Specifications

CPU: 1.1GHz Intel Celeron N3350

Graphics: Intel HD Graphics 500

RAM: 4GB LPDDR4

Screen: 11.6-inch HD (1,366 x 768) IPS touch

Storage: 32GB eMMC SSD

Reasons to buy

+Affordable price +Durable frame 

Reasons to avoid

Dim screen 

The best Chromebooks make the most compelling student laptops, and that’s exactly where the Acer Chromebook Spin 11 excels. Whether you’re a student or a parent of one, this is a cheap, capable and durable laptop that will let you get some schoolwork done while commuting or traveling. 

You might not get any hardcore gaming or proper video editing done on it. However, if you only need to write up some papers and stream videos or shows in your downtime, then the Acer Chromebook Spin 11 should be at the top of your list.

When we reviewed the Acer Chromebook Spin 11, we were impressed with how sturdy it was, despite its plastic body. It means that it’s light and affordable, but it’s going to withstand knocks and bumps as well. Add in a brilliant keyboard that’s comfortable to work on and a decent collection of ports, with two USB-C ports, two USB 3.0 ports and a microSD slot, and you’ve got a winner.

Read the full review: Acer Chromebook Spin 11 

Acer Chromebook 15

(Image credit: Acer)

9. Acer Chromebook 15

Favoring longevity over beefy specs

Specifications

CPU: Intel Pentium N4200

Graphics: Intel HD Graphics 505

RAM: 4GB

Screen: 15.6-inch, FHD (1,920 x 1,080)

Storage: 32GB eMMC

Reasons to buy

+Unbelievable battery life+Attractive, fanless design

Reasons to avoid

Trackpad feels clunkyEasy to weigh down with tabs

With a solid build quality that rivals a MacBook, it’s easy to excuse the Acer Chromebook 15’s aversion to 2-in-1 form factors. 

Still, given that the best Chromebooks rolling out this year are fully convertible, thanks to the wide adoption of Android app support, the Acer Chromebook 15 had to prove itself with more than great style. 

Beyond its aptitude for laying flat using a 180-degree hinge, this beautiful 15-inch Chromebook also makes a great impression with its battery life, lasting nearly 17 hours in our battery test.

Read the full review: Acer Chromebook 15

Acer Chromebook 714

(Image credit: Acer)

10. Acer Chromebook 714

Seriously solid, if not especially stylish

Specifications

CPU: Intel Pentium 4417U – Intel Core i5-8350U

Graphics: Intel HD Graphics 610 – UHD Graphics 620

RAM: 8GB

Screen: 14″ Full HD (1920 x 1080) 16:9 – 14″ Full HD (1920 x 1080) 16:9 Touchscreen

Storage: 32GB – 64GB flash memory

Reasons to buy

+Seriously solid metal chassis+Strong battery life

Reasons to avoid

Slightly dated stylingKeyboard a little mushy

The best Chromebook for professionals currently available might just be the Acer Chromebook 714 whose premium and seriously solid chassis is just the ticket for the business-oriented bunch. It’s not especially stylish, sadly, but that decent performance and strong battery life makes up for its lack of fashion sense. And, aren’t those all the more important if you’re meeting with clients, tackling paperwork and balancing the books all day? In fact, the quad-core processor is good enough for light content creation tasks, making it a boon for those starting out in the content creation industry as well.

Read the full review: Acer Chromebook 714

This article is auto-generated by Algorithm Source: www.techradar.com

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