Chromebook pros and cons + 3 models we recommend

November 25, 2020

By Kim Komando

Thanks to the cloud, most of the apps we use for work, school and fun are actually running in tabs in our web browsers. When you think about it, isn’t a traditional PC kind of overkill? That’s where Chromebooks come in. Designed by Google and manufactured by premium brands like Samsung, Chromebooks offer a simpler take on portable computing.

Booting in seconds, the Chrome operating system lets you access hundreds of apps like Gmail or Netflix in Google’s Play Store. And with Android compatibility, many of the apps you already use on your Android phone are ready to go on your Chromebook. 

With high-definition displays, built-in physical keyboards, and ports for connecting external devices, entry-level Chromebooks are great for everyday productivity, schoolwork or just watching YouTube. You can also get full-featured, higher-performing Chromebooks that convert into touchscreen tablets.

What Chromebooks do best

Since Google could take a fresh start on mobile computing, Chromebooks do many things better than the notebook PCs you’re used to. Here are some great examples:

• Price: Chromebooks built their reputations on being low-price replacements for Windows-based laptops. But low price doesn’t mean you’re making sacrifices.
• Battery life: Whether you work from home or travel, you won’t be scrambling to find somewhere to plug in. Chromebooks deliver anywhere from 9 to 12 hours of battery life.
• Speed: Full-sized operating systems like Windows 10 usually struggle on cheap laptops. Google optimized Chrome OS to run well on just this kind of device.
• Weight: All Chromebooks are designed for portability and typically weigh between three to four pounds.
• Updates and security: Google designed Chrome OS to be secure by default. Built-in virus protection and other security features automatically protect you from malware and other online threats. Background updates ensure that you always have the latest software.

Where Chromebooks aren’t the best choice

Of course, there are always tradeoffs. Chromebooks can’t do everything. If you’re a power user or if you rely on Windows-specific apps, then a traditional laptop may be the way to go. Here are the downsides most Chromebooks share:

• Limited storage: The storage used on many Chromebooks is limited to 32GB or 64GB. That’s not too bad if you do everything online. But it means you don’t have a lot of room to keep photos, music, or other files.
• Hard to use offline: Some apps, like Google Docs, have offline modes that work with files saved on your Chromebook. But Google designed Chromebooks to “live in the cloud” which means many apps won’t work well without an internet connection. 
• No optical drive: Although it’s also true for many laptops, no Chromebooks have built-in optical drives. The only way to load apps is through Google’s Play Store. Likewise, you’ll need an online connection to download music or movies.
• Doesn’t work with Microsoft Office or Adobe: The versions of Microsoft Office or Adobe Photoshop that run on Chromebooks don’t include all of the features you’re used to on a Windows PC. You may not be able to run work-related apps at all.
• Lower-end graphics: Chromebooks rely on integrated graphics which struggle with more demanding apps. If you want to play premium games or need a portable content-creation device, then you’ll be better off with a traditional laptop.

Now that you’ve weighed the advantages and disadvantages, does it sound like a Chromebook could do the jobs you need? Here are three models of Chromebook that we recommend.

Samsung Chromebook 4

Affordable, durable, and secure, Samsung’s Chromebook 4 can survive the toughest challenge of them all: your kids. For only $249, this device has all the performance kids need for their Zoom classes as well as a nice, high-definition 11.6-inch display.

You can use Chrome OS’s parental control features to manage your kids’ online time. And don’t worry about handing this to your kids. Weighing less than 3 pounds, it’s easy for small hands to carry. Plus, the Chromebook 4’s military-grade durability can handle the occasional drop.

Lenovo Chromebook Flex 5

If you’re looking for a balance of productivity and entertainment, Lenovo’s Chromebook Flex 5 is the right pick. The powerful Intel Core i3 processor will run your Chrome apps for up to 10 hours on a single charge. What really sets the Flex 5 apart is its 13.3-inch touchscreen display.

The 360-degree convertible design lets you flip between laptop mode, tablet mode, and anything in between. With stereo speakers built into the Full HD display, the Flex 5 is great for streaming movies. Who says productivity can’t be fun?

Acer Chromebook Spin 13

Take a look at the no-compromise approach Acer took with its Chromebook Spin 13. With lots of memory, a 128GB solid-state drive, and an Intel Core i5 processor, this Chromebook delivers as much performance as a traditional laptop. At the same time, you get a 10-hour battery and 13.5-inch convertible touchscreen.

But Acer takes versatility to the next level by including a Wacom stylus. Whether you’re marking up a PDF or unleashing your inner artist, Acer’s Chromebook Spin 13 is a true digital notebook.

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