Buying Guide for the Best chromebook
Choosing the right Chromebook involves understanding your personal use case and knowing which features will best match your needs. Chromebooks are popular for their simplicity, quick startup times, and integration with Google services. When shopping, it's important to consider what you'll use your Chromebook for—like schoolwork, browsing the web, watching videos, or working with Android apps—so you can find the model that suits you best.Screen SizeScreen size refers to the diagonal measurement of the display and influences both the portability and usability of your Chromebook. Smaller screens, generally around 11 to 12 inches, are very lightweight and great for portability, making them suitable for travel or for kids. Medium sizes, 13 to 14 inches, offer a comfortable balance between productivity and portability, which is typically a great fit for most students and professionals. Larger screens, 15 inches or more, are less portable but offer more screen space for multitasking and watching videos, which is helpful if you often work on several documents at a time or stream a lot of content.
ProcessorThe processor (or CPU) is the brain of the Chromebook and affects how fast it runs tasks. Entry-level processors usually make the device more affordable and are suited for light use like browsing and note-taking, but might struggle with multiple open tabs or running Android apps. Mid-range processors provide smoother performance for multitasking and common educational tasks. High-end processors handle heavy multitasking, advanced Android apps, or even Linux apps, making them ideal for users who plan to push their Chromebooks a bit harder. Consider what kinds of programs and how many tabs you typically use at once when deciding what level of processor suits you.
RAMRAM (Random Access Memory) determines how many things your Chromebook can do at once without slowing down. Chromebooks commonly come with 4GB or 8GB of RAM. 4GB is suitable for basic usage like simple browsing, using Google Docs, and light streaming. If you often have many tabs open at once or run Android or Linux apps, 8GB will provide a noticeably smoother experience. Select higher RAM if you multitask a lot or plan to use more demanding apps.
StorageStorage on a Chromebook is where your files, apps, and downloads are saved. Many Chromebooks come with 32GB, 64GB, or 128GB of storage. Because most files and projects can be stored in the cloud, a smaller capacity can be sufficient for everyday use such as browsing and using web-based apps. However, if you plan to download lots of files, store offline media, or install many Android apps, consider a model with more storage. Match your choice to your file habits—if you often save large media files or need to work offline, lean toward higher storage.
Battery LifeBattery life refers to how long the Chromebook can run between charges. Laptops with 8 hours or less are suitable if you're often near power outlets, while Chromebooks that last about 10-12 hours or longer are great for users on the go who need to use their device throughout a work or school day without worrying about plugging in. Think about your typical day and how long you’ll need to use the Chromebook away from a charger when making this choice.
Build and PortsBuild quality affects durability, while available ports determine what accessories you can connect. Some Chromebooks are lightweight and slim but may include fewer ports such as only USB-C. Others may offer a mix of USB-A, microSD slots, or HDMI, helpful if you routinely transfer files or connect external monitors. Ruggedized builds are also available for children or frequent travelers. Consider if you need a durable chassis or specific ports (like for external drives, displays, or SD cards) for your regular tasks.
Touchscreen and Convertible OptionsSome Chromebooks come with touchscreens and can be folded or rotated into tablet mode. These convertible models are useful if you want to use Android apps, sketch or handwrite notes, or prefer a tablet experience for reading and entertainment. Non-touchscreen traditional laptops are good for straightforward typing and basic tasks. Decide whether you value versatility for entertainment or drawing, or if you only need a standard laptop format for typing and browsing.
Update SupportEvery Chromebook receives automatic system updates for a set time, known as the Auto Update Expiration (AUE) date. Newer models will get updates longer, which keeps them secure and running the latest features. If you want your Chromebook to stay protected and up-to-date for several years, choose one with a recent release date so its update support period is as long as possible.