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10 Best Chromebooks For Students

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Buying Guide for the Best Chromebooks For Students

Choosing a Chromebook for students means focusing on features that make learning, researching, and completing assignments easy and reliable. Think about how the Chromebook will be used—whether it's for online classes, note-taking, creating presentations, or browsing educational resources. Chromebooks are known for being simple, secure, and easy to manage, which makes them especially good for students.
Display SizeDisplay size refers to the diagonal measurement of the screen. This spec is important because it affects both portability and usability. Smaller displays, around 11 to 12 inches, make Chromebooks lighter and easier to carry—ideal if you commute or move between classes often. Larger displays, like 13 to 15 inches, give you more workspace and are better for multitasking or watching videos, but they can be heavier to carry. Consider how often you’ll be carrying your Chromebook and whether you prefer a compact device or a larger screen for comfort.
Battery LifeBattery life describes how long the Chromebook can be used on a single charge. This is important because students need their devices to last throughout the school day without needing to recharge often. Chromebooks generally provide good battery life, but it can range from about 8 hours to over 12 hours. If you spend most of your day in classes or on campus away from outlets, look for a model promising longer battery life. If you mostly study at home, battery life may be less of a concern.
Performance (Processor and RAM)Performance is mainly determined by the Chromebook’s processor (CPU) and RAM (memory). The processor affects how quickly programs run, while RAM allows you to have multiple tabs and apps open smoothly. Basic tasks like browsing and typing can be handled by entry-level processors and 4GB of RAM. If you often multitask, use web apps, or want your Chromebook to stay responsive for years, aim for a mid-level processor and 8GB RAM. Heavy-duty work like advanced video editing is not typical for Chromebooks, but if you expect to push your device harder, consider higher specs.
Storage CapacityStorage capacity dictates how much data, like files, photos, and apps, your Chromebook can hold. Chromebooks usually come with less storage than traditional laptops because they are designed to work with cloud-based services. For most students, 32GB to 64GB is enough when using cloud storage for documents. If you plan to store lots of offline files or download many apps, look for higher storage options, but remember that external drives and cloud storage can supplement built-in capacity.
Build Quality and KeyboardBuild quality relates to how sturdy and durable the Chromebook is, and the keyboard quality affects your typing experience. Both are particularly important for students since the device will be carried around and used frequently for typing essays and assignments. Ruggedized or reinforced designs provide extra protection against drops and spills, while a comfortable keyboard makes long typing sessions less tiring. If possible, try out the keyboard before buying, or look for reviews mentioning durability and typing comfort.
Operating System Updates and SupportChromebooks receive automatic updates for their operating system for a set number of years. This is important because updates keep your device secure and working smoothly. Check the Automatic Update Expiration (AUE) date for any Chromebook you consider to make sure it will receive support for as long as you plan to use it. Choosing a model with several years of updates remaining means your investment will stay safe and up-to-date.
Port SelectionPort selection refers to the types and number of connections available on the Chromebook, such as USB, HDMI, or headphone jacks. This is important if you plan to connect external devices like USB drives, printers, or displays. More ports offer greater flexibility, but for many students, a couple of USB ports and a headphone jack are enough for everyday needs. Think about what devices you might want to connect and make sure the Chromebook covers those basics.
Touchscreen and 2-in-1 FeaturesSome Chromebooks come with touchscreens or can be converted into tablets (2-in-1). These features can make note-taking and drawing easier, and are handy for browsing or watching videos. If you like using apps built for tablets or think you’ll benefit from handwriting or sketching, a touchscreen or convertible design is worth considering. If you prefer traditional laptop use or want to keep things simple, you can skip this feature.