If you find yourself constantly on the Chrome browser, Chromebooks might be an ideal choice for you. What makes them great is that they are lightweight, inexpensive, versatile hence they attract a lot of uses due to their speed, simplicity, and for the most part, affordable prices.
Chromebooks run using Chrome OS; hence you don’t need to install additional software. You can also run Android applications. Though we did say that they are affordable, as with any product, there are ranges. We know that it can be a little confusing with so many options trying to narrow down on the best Chromebook, let alone one within your budget.
We curated a list of 5 of the best cheap Chromebooks in the market and also what you should consider when looking for a Chromebook. When it comes to finding the best Chromebook deals, it’s all about finding the right balance between cost and features that suit your needs.
The Best Cheap Chromebooks
1. Acer Chromebook 514
- Chromebook runs on Chrome OS - an operating System from Google that is built for the way we live today. It comes with built-in virus protection, updates automatically, boots up in seconds and continues to stay fast over time. (Internet connection is required)
- All the Google apps you know and love come standard on every Chromebook, which means you can edit, download, and convert Microsoft Office files in Google Docs, Sheets and slides
- Get access to more than 2 million Android apps from Google play to learn and do more
- Chromebooks come with built-in storage for offline access to your most important files and an additional 100GB of Google Drive space to ensure that all of your files are backed up automatically
- CB514-1H-C0FF comes with Intel Celeron N3350 Dual-Core Processor (Up to 2.4GHz), 14" Full HD (1920 x 1080) widescreen IPS LED-backlit Display, 4GB LPDDR4 Memory, 32GB eMMC, Backlit Keyboard, Google Chrome and up to 12-hour battery life
The Acer Chromebook 514 tops our list as the best cheap Chromebook. The Acer Chromebook 514 manages to deliver a strong all-round hardware package at an affordable price. Design-wise, this Chromebook is stunning. The aluminum chassis gives it a mature and professional look.
The screen is 14 inches with a Full HD 1920 x 1080 resolution. Intel Celeron N3350 Dual-Core Processor powers the Acer Chromebook’s CPU. Memory-wise, the Acer Chromebook features 4GB of RAM and has a storage capacity of 64GB. The Chromebook runs on Chrome os and features Intel HD Graphics 500.
The Acer Chromebook comes with a backlit keyboard, and the battery life is pretty good as it can run for 12 hours on a single charge. The Acer Chromebook comes with 2 - USB Type-C ports, USB 3.1 Gen 1 (up to 5 Gbps) , DisplayPort over USB Type-C, USB Charging and DC-in Port & 2 - USB 3.0 Ports.
2. Asus Chromebook Flip c434
- 14 inch Touchscreen FHD 1920x1080 4-way NanoEdge display featuring ultra-narrow bezels (5mm thin) around each side of the display that allows for a 14 inch screen to fit in the body of a 13inch laptop footprint.
- The FHD display has a durable 360 degree hinge that can be used to flip the touchscreen display to tent, stand, and tablet mode.
- Powered by the Intel Core m3-8100Y Processor (up to 3.4 GHz) for super-fast and snappy performance. If you use a ton of tabs or run lots of apps, this has the power to get it all done with ease.
- 4GB DDR3 RAM; 64GB eMMC storage and 2x USB Type-C (Gen 1) and 1s Type-A (Gen 1) ports plus a super bright backlit keyboard.
- The lightweight (3lbs) all-aluminum metal body makes the C434 both durable and beautiful for a timeless look that will never go out of style.
Asus is known for making some of the best Chromebooks, so it's no wonder that the Asus Chromebook flip c434 comes second with its sophisticated looks. The Asus Chromebook flip c434 can be considered unique among the rest as it offers a 14-inch display touchscreen in a laptop body that is much closer in size to that of a 13-inch model. The screen can be flipped 360o to either “stand up or lie flat against the keyboard.” The Chromebook runs on Chrome OS and features Intel HD Graphics 615. The Asus Chromebook flip c434 delivers a 1920 X 1980 Full HD resolution. The internal specs can be configured as per your requirement with an m3, i3 or i5 processor available along with up to 8GB of RAM and up to 512GB of internal storage. The Asus Chromebook flip c434 has a screen-to-body ratio of 87% which makes it very compact. With its four-sided NanoEdge display, the bezels are barely noticeable. The Asus Chromebook Flip C424 is slim and lightweight.
3. Lenovo Chromebook Flex 5
- Work from home, school, or anywhere with the outstanding combination of performance, connectivity, and entertainment enabled by 10th generation InteI Core processors. The Lenovo Flex 5 offers intelligent performance features that adapt to you for a personalized, intuitive, and responsive experience
- This 2-in-1 laptop combines a keyboard and touchscreen to make it easy to interact with everything on your display. You can also use the Lenovo digital pen (sold separately) to quickly write, click or drag files right on the screen
- The 13.3-inch FHD display in this slim, light 360° convertible Chromebook offers beautiful visuals, while narrow bezels minimize distractions. Two user-facing stereo speakers keep you immersed in the experience
- Use your Google account to easily access files, videos, music, and documents stored on the cloud from anywhere. With up to 10 hours of battery life, you'll stay productive
- Connect with the built-in webcam, 2 USB Type-C ports, a USB Type-A port, and an audio jack. It also has the latest Intel Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth 5.0 a fast, reliable connection
The Lenovo Chromebook Flex 5 is a sleek and elegant 2 in 1 that can be used as either a tablet or laptop. It features a 13-inch Full HD 1080p display touch screen that is slim, light, and 360° convertible. It offers stunning visuals, while the narrow bezels help minimize distraction. Intel powers the Lenovo Chromebook CPU, and to get its work done, it relies on a 10th generation Core i3 processor. The Chromebook runs on Chrome OS and features Intel Integrated Graphics. The keyboard features a backlit, making it comfortable to type on. Memory and storage wise, the Lenovo Chromebook comes equipped with 4GB of RAM DDR4 and 64GB eMMC SSD. The Lenovo Chromebook comes equipped with two-facing stereo speakers, a built-in stylus, a built-in webcam, 2 USB C ports, a USB Type-A port, and an audio jack. The Lenovo Chromebook also has the latest Intel Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth 5.0 for a fast and reliable connection.
4. Lenovo Ideapad Chromebook Duet
- This ultraportable 2-in-1 Chromebook includes a fast and stable plug-and-play detachable keyboard enabled with 5-point pogo pin and magnet design
- Take it with you everywhere. Thin and lightweight the Chromebook Duet offers up to 10 hours of battery life (2)
- The unique dual-tone design with aluminum alloy on the tablet is a standout design with sophisticated fabric texture on the stand cover you'll be stylish productive and practical
- Fast secure and easy to use: This touchscreen Chromebook boots up quickly with just your Google login to give you access to all of your cloud-based documents email and more
- With the 10 1" FHD (1920 x 1200) IPS display and stunning colorful details you won't sacrifice for great visuals; The 10-point multi-touch touchscreen is also USI pen compatible (pen sold separately)
The Lenovo Ideapad Chromebook Duet offers the best of both worlds as a 2 in 1. The Lenovo Chromebook Duet features a 10.1 inch, 1920 x 1080 pixel IPS display and MediaTek P60T processor powers it with 4GB of RAM and 64GB of internal storage. The battery life of the Chromebook is great as it runs for up to 10 hours on a single charge. The keyboard is detachable which is great for portability and convenience. The Chromebook does not include a stylus pen.
5. Google Pixelbook Go
![Google Pixelbook Go - Lightweight Chromebook Laptop - Up to 12 Hours Battery Life[1] - Touch Screen Chromebook - Just Black](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/31DJln+KBhL._SL160_.jpg)
- Pixelbook Go lets you stay unplugged for up to 12 hours [1] so you don't need to carry a charger; when you do need a charge, get up to 2 hours of battery use in just 20 minutes so you can keep going [2]
- Lightweight Chromebook laptop that's barely 2 pounds and 13 millimeter thin with a grippable design making it easier to carry[3]
- Protects your data passwords, and information with the Titan C security chip and built-in antivirus software; Chrome OS updates automatically to give you the latest features and security [4]
- Starts up in seconds so it's always ready when you are; the 8th Gen Intel Core Processor is quick and responsive powering everything you do[5]
- Pixelbook Go is a quiet and comfortable laptop with a backlit keyboard ultra quiet keys, and and a spacious touchpad that only needs a light touch
The Google Pixelbook Go is the most expensive Chromebook on our list. However, if your value long battery life, this might be the best Chromebook for you. The Google Pixelbook Go Chromebook features a stunning Full HD display 13.3 inch screen and is lightweight at only 2.3 pounds. It has a robust magnesium chassis and a ridged grip on the bottom that ensures it doesn’t slip when placed on slanted surfaces.
The Go Chromebook is powered by the Intel Core m3 chip and comes with 8GB of RAM and 64GB storage. There is the option to go up till Core i7. This, however, is dependent on your needs and budget. However, if you’re not planning to use the laptop a lot, then the core m3 is ideal. With this Chromebook, you can keep more than 30 Chrome tabs running smoothly. The Go comes with two USB-C ports, a headphone jack, a trackpad, and a tactile keyboard. The battery life is one of its best features as it can last a full workday- 12 hours. Plus, when connected to an outlet, the Pixelbook Go Chromebook can get up two hours of battery charge from just 20 minutes. This is great for people who spend a lot of time on their laptops or a constantly on the move.
Features To Consider When Looking For The Best Chromebook
a) Processors
Chromebooks tend to come with a wide variety of different processors. However, the common ones tend to be core m3, i3, or i5. A low-end processor like the Intel Celeron Processor or Pentium will serve you well if all you want is to browse with one or two tabs open at a time. The best Chromebooks tend to be equipped with processors like Core i3, i5, or i7 that are ideal for multitasking. They tend to be a little bit more expensive, but they allow you do a lot more.
b) RAM
RAM is key as it helps the laptop run faster when you have a lot of tabs open. Most Chromebooks come with 4GB of RAM, which can be sufficient for those who want to use their Chromebooks just for Web browsing.
If you can afford it, get a Chromebook with 8GB of RAM or even 16GB. This will ensure that your system never slows down and that you can also multitask. If you plan on having more than 20 tabs open, having android apps running in the background while streaming YouTube or Netflix, then a Chromebook with at least 8GB would be ideal. This will ensure that the laptop isn’t sluggish.
Some people might prefer to go up to 16GB or higher. This works if you’re a developer and want to run systems like Ubuntu, Linux, or Windows. These Chromebooks will also need to have processor upgrades such as Core i3, i5, or i7. Most Chromebooks tend to come with a base model of Intel Celeron.
Most people tend to store their files on the cloud when using Chromebooks. Instead, Chromebook offers eMMC-based storage in the form of 32 GB or 64GB. It's important to note that eMMC storage can be more sluggish than what you may be used to if you’re transitioning from an SSD-equipped PC. Instead, you can look for an SD card reader that can expand the storage, for example, up to 128 GB.
c) Screen Resolution
If you enjoy using apps like Whatsapp or playing games, then the best Chromebooks would be those with a touchscreen. Chromebooks differ in screen displays, with lower-end models featuring a lower quality aspect ratio display than premium models. Most Chromebook screen display resolutions tend to be 1920 by 1080 pixels. Pixel resolution depends on the size. This resolution is often found in Chromebooks whose screen range from 13 to 15 inches. Another common resolution is 1366 by 768 pixels. It is commonly found in cheap Chromebooks. It is best suited for laptops whose screens are smaller than 12 inches.
d) Ports
For the most part, almost everything you do on your Chromebook will be cloud-based. However, this doesn’t mean you shouldn’t still care about ports. USB-C ports are often found in higher-priced models while though it helps to have a MicroSD slot for storage, and it’s not easy to find one on a Chromebook.
It's also not common to find Ethernet ports on Chromebooks; however, most laptops do support 802.11acWiFi and the latest Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax)
Before buying your Chromebook, ensure that it has the basic tech features such as a backlit keyboard, HD or FHD screen, a non-touch or touch panel, and stylus.
These standards are considered the basis; however, they may not be included in all products depending on the price and model. When it comes to ports, most Chromebooks tend to come with at least one USB A-port. However, the new models have been foregoing the USB A port and going with USB C ports instead. Some Chromebooks come with additional connectivity options, such as HDMI port and Display ports. Hence, when considering the best Chromebook for you, it is also important to decide which ports you might need.
e) Design
Chromebooks often come as either laptops or two –in ones hence making them quite versatile.
This is something you’ll want to decide on, as others also offer 360-degree hinge as well. If your main aim is to use many Android apps, then getting a two-in-one touch would be ideal since you can switch it to tablet mode. If you plan to use your Chromebook as a multimedia or entertainment device, e.g., for streaming videos on Netflix and Youtube, then the best Chromebook would be a two in one.
Design-wise, Chromebook manufacturers tend to cut costs by using cheaper materials. Some affordable Chromebooks are made out of plastic. They may not necessarily have the look and feel but they are lightweight and portable.
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