Chromebooks are the perfect tool for students and work-from-home professionals. The best Chromebooks are inexpensive, yet quite powerful, and they feature all of the necessities you need to get your work done. They’re great for video conferences, word processing, and browsing the Internet. Convertible Chromebook laptops can even be turned into a tablet for when you want to kick back and relax.
We looked at dozens of Chromebooks and have identified the best on the market for your computing needs. While reviewing these Chromebooks we considered factors such as overall functionality, screen size, and battery life in choosing our top picks, and then we put together a detailed list of many more great Chromebooks for you browse.
Once our research was said and done, we chose the HP Chromebook Laptop as our overall top pick. It’s priced right and features everything you need for school, work, and play, all in one device.
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The 5 Top-Rated Chromebooks
| Editor's Picks | Brand | Rating |
|---|---|---|
| Best Chromebook Overall | HP Chromebook Laptop | 4.6 |
| Best Convertible Chromebook | HP Chromebook X360 | 4.6 |
| Best Budget Chromebook | Samsung Chromebook 4 | 4.4 |
| Best Travel Chromebook | Google Pixelbook Go | 4.6 |
| Best Chromebook for Students | Lenovo 100E Chromebook | 4.5 |
*Ratings are from Amazon at the time of publication and can change
Best Chromebook Overall: HP Chromebook Laptop
Packed with ample power and plenty of handy features, the HP Chromebook Laptop is the most practical Chromebook on the market today. This Chromebook features a brilliant high-definition 14-inch display that’ll provide crisp clarity for all of your Zoom meetings and YouTube videos. It has the power to run all of that demanding data smoothly, too. Inside you’ll find a robust dual-core Intel Celeron processor and four gigabytes of SDRAM powering the machine.
Though this Chromebook does have a large screen, it maintains a slim profile and weighs just a hair over three pounds. This means that it will work well at the home office, but that it is also quite portable. Also of note is the impressive 13.5-hour battery life. The laptop can run all day long without issue, and, since it performs as well for work as it does for play, you’re likely to make good use of that battery life throughout the day.
Built-in high-quality B&O speakers provide great audio that makes both your web conferences and Netflix videos easy to hear and understand. Other bells and whistles included with this Chromebook are a built-in webcam, a multi-touch touchpad that responds to an array of gestures, and a backlit keyboard for enhanced clarity and key accuracy during the evening hours. There is a micro SD card reader, a headphone/microphone port, two USB type C ports, and one USB type A port for connecting all of your peripheral devices. This model can also be configured in multiple colors and with an optional touchscreen.
HP Chromebook Laptop Key Features:
- 14-inch HD screen
- 32gb storage
- 13.5-hour battery life
- One-year warranty
Best Convertible Chromebook: HP Chromebook X360
Many of the aspects that make our top overall pick such a great buy also apply to the HP Chromebook X360, except that this model has a 360-degree rotating screen hinge and is packed with even more features. As for power, this Chromebook uses a tried-and-true Intel Core i3 processor and is stuffed with an impressive 8gb of RAM. It’s got the speed you need, and there’s so much more to it.
The 360-degree flip and fold design enables this Chromebook to function as a laptop, a tablet, or a tent display device. This functionality makes it much more useful than a traditional laptop, especially when it comes to relaxation and children’s entertainment. The tablet and tent display modes allow you to use the Chromebook X360 for tablet gaming, relaxed video viewing, and touchscreen learning programs.
This Chromebook also features an excellent B&O sound system, a fingerprint security scanner, a backlit keyboard, and a webcam privacy switch. There are three USB ports, a headphone/microphone port, and an SD card reader. It has modern WiFi 6 and Bluetooth 4.0 connectivity for a seamless connection to the Internet and all of your wireless devices. The most remarkable fact is that all of this fits into a Chromebook that measures only 0.7-inches thick.
HP Chromebook X360 Key Features:
- 14-inch HD screen
- 64gb storage
- 10-hour battery life
- 360-degree flip and fold design
Best Budget Chromebook: Samsung Chromebook 4
The Samsung Chromebook 4 is the latest edition in Samsung’s Chromebook lineup, and they’ve made it both an incredibly efficient machine and a great value alternative. For such an inexpensive Chromebook, you’re getting a fantastic workhorse of a machine that is powered by an Intel Celeron processor and a more-than-adequate 4gb of RAM. Users will notice the speed where it matters the most with this Chromebook’s ultra-fast gigabit WiFi connection.
Whether you use it at home or on the go, this Chromebook will excel as a day-to-day computer. Its compact design lends it a top-notch 12.5-hour battery life. This Chromebook measures 11.3-inches by 8-inches, meaning that it is no larger than a sheet of notebook paper. It is also remarkably thin, measuring 0.66-inches in thickness. You’ll be able to pack this computer in any backpack or shoulder bag without issue, and it is lightweight enough to simply carry around in your hand for short durations.
This Chromebook is fully protected inside and out. The exterior has been certified to meet eight different military-grade standards for durability including resistance against drops, vibrations, extreme temperatures, dust, and humidity. Inside, Google has secured the Chrome OS with multiple layers of virus protection. This is among the best Chromebook laptops for students and working professionals who travel frequently and want a lightweight and inexpensive computer.
Samsung Chromebook 4 Key Features:
- 11.6-inch HD screen
- 64gb storage
- 12.5-hour battery life
- Meets eight military standards for durability
Best Travel Chromebook: Google Pixelbook Go
There’s truly no more powerful Chromebook on the market than the Google Pixelbook Go. It’s sleek, efficient, lightweight, and incredibly powerful. The price tag is what kept it from being our top overall buy, but if you’ve got the dough, this is the Chromebook to get.
It is configurable in a number of different ways. The least expensive model features an Intel M3 processor, 8gb of RAM, and 64gb of storage, which is all more than enough for most users, but if you want the best of the best you can configure this Chromebook with Intel’s blazing-fast i7 processor, 16gb of RAM, and 256gb of storage. The Google Pixelbook Go is also available in “black” and “not pink” color options.
No matter which way you build it, it is still extremely capable and wonderfully compact. This is the creme de la creme of Chromebooks. The relatively large screen size has extremely small bevels to keep the overall dimensions tight, and, as it weighs a mere 2.3-pounds, it is exceptionally lightweight considering its power and screen size. Plus, it is wafer-thin, measuring only 13mm thick.
The Google Pixelbook Go was made to be on the move. Google thought of everything, even fitting the underside of the laptop with a textured grip so that you can easily carry it wherever you go. The ultra-quiet keys and backlit keyboard make it easy and convenient to use at night as well, no matter how late you have to work or study. If you want the absolute best Chromebook, this is it.
Google Pixelbook Go Key Features:
- 13.3-inch HD screen
- 64gb SSD storage
- 12-hour battery life
- Weighs 2.3 pounds
Best Chromebook for Students: Lenovo 100E Chromebook
The Lenovo 100E Chromebook was built to withstand the rigors of the classroom and the at-home learning environment. The durable design features rubber bumpers that act as shock absorbers for if and when the Chromebook is dropped onto a hard surface. All ports and hinges have been reinforced to hold up against brutal cord-tugging and twisting. Additionally, the touchpad and keyboard have been sealed to resist spills, and the keys have been mechanically anchored so that they cannot be plucked out of place.
Rugged durability may be at the center of this Chromebook’s design, but it was made specifically for students. As such, it features everything a student needs such as an integrated 720p webcam, an anti-glare HD screen, dual USB type C ports, Dual USB 3.0 ports, an HDMI port, a headphone/microphone port, and an SD card reader. Additionally, this Chromebook uses Bluetooth 4.2 and 802.11 AC WiFi.
It is light, portable, and has a great battery life. Though the 16gb storage is relatively small, contemporary classrooms use web-based programs and cloud storage for most learning activities, meaning that your student will not need much local storage at all. There is, however, an option to upgrade this Chromebook’s storage up to 32gb for a few dollars more. This is certainly the Chromebook to get if you want to ensure it will last through the punishment your children are likely to put it through.
Lenovo 100E Chromebook Key Features:
- 11.6-inch HD screen
- 16gb SSD storage
- 10-hour battery life
- Drop and water-resistant
Who Should Buy A Chromebook
Chromebooks are the ultimate device for students, work-from-home professionals, and those who frequently travel. That’s because Chromebooks are relatively inexpensive, compact laptop computers that can perform all of your web-based duties and basic computing needs.
Most Chromebooks feature everything you need for most common school and business activities including a web camera, microphone, and ports for all of your peripheral devices. They operate essentially like a traditional laptop, but with Google’s blazing-fast Chrome OS.
While there are a number of Chromebooks on our list here that work well for students, parents may also want to explore the best Chromebooks for kids and the best laptops for teens and students.
Important Features to Consider
There are a few important considerations to think through before purchasing a Chromebook.
- Conventional or convertible laptop. The question you should be asking yourself is: will you be using your Chromebook like a traditional laptop 100% of the time, or would you prefer to use it as a tablet or tent display as well? Conventional laptops work well for students and people who do traditional computing involving emails, word processing, and spreadsheets. Convertible laptops are better suited for art students, young children, and adults that prefer tablet functionality for certain tasks.
- Storage. Chromebooks typically store most of the user’s data on the cloud. They do not usually have much in the way of physical local storage, but some do. If you prefer to keep your images, videos, and other documents on a local storage device, look for a Chromebook with larger storage numbers. Additionally, premium Chromebooks tend to feature solid-state drive (SSD) storage, which is much faster than old school hard drives.
- Power. Simply put, its how much processing power the Chromebook outputs. Check to see how powerful the processor is and how much RAM it has if you desire smooth performance.
- Screen size. Another simple, yet important consideration. How big of a screen do you want to use? Make sure it has a good resolution, no matter what size screen you choose.
- Battery life. Bigger screens and excess power can zap a battery dry. The bigger your Chromebook is, the bigger the battery will have to be. Most Chromebooks run about 8 to 12 hours when new.
- Weight and size. Again, more power, bigger screens, and bigger batteries will all increase the weight and size of your laptop. Will you primarily be using the laptop at home? Then, the weight and size may not matter so much. If you will be traveling with the Chromebook or carting it around a college campus, then you will likely want a more compact device.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between a Chromebook and a laptop?
Rather than using Windows of Mac operating systems, a Chromebook runs on Google’s Chrome OS. This means that not all programs that run on Windows and Mac programs will work on Chromebooks. There are Google alternatives to nearly every common Windows or Mac program, however. Chromebooks tend to be less expensive, lighter in weight, and less powerful than most traditional laptops. Traditional laptops usually cost more money and run Windows, Mac OS, or another operating system.
What are Chromebooks good for?
Chromebooks are fast and budget-friendly alternatives to traditional laptops. They will save you money, and they are extremely portable. Chromebooks are best used for accessing websites, working on school projects, and managing small businesses. They are great tools for students and those working from home who need to access programs and features such as email, word processors, spreadsheets, video calls, and much more.
What are the disadvantages of a Chromebook?
Chromebooks can only be used with programs that are accessed through the Google Play Store. There is a suite of Google programs that can perform the same functions as most other popular programs, though. Chromebooks also rely mostly on cloud-based storage and require a connection to the Internet. Because they are less powerful, Chromebooks are not ideal for gaming or for resource-heavy programs such as video-editing software.
Can I use Microsoft Word on a Chromebook?
Yes! Until recently, you were not able to use Microsoft Word or the rest of Microsoft Office on Chromebooks, but now you can! Microsoft explains how you can install and run Microsoft Office on a Chromebook.
Other Chromebooks We Reviewed
We looked at 20 other Chromebooks. Even though they didn’t make our five best Chromebook list, they’re the best of the rest and each is still a great option for your basic computing needs. The information you’ll need to compare each one is included with the listing.
Convertible Chromebooks
Featuring a 360-degree hinge, the ACER Chromebook Spin is a versatile laptop that can also be used as a tablet, a tent-stand display, and any other configuration you can imagine. It also has a touchscreen made from antimicrobial Corning Gorilla Glass.
Key Features:
- 11.6-inch touchscreen
- 32gb storage
- 10-hour battery life
Cost: $350
The ASUS Chromebook Flip is sleek and lightweight. It has an aluminum outer shell and a large 14-inch touchscreen with fine bevels. The keyboard is backlit and the screen sits on a 360-degree hinge.
Key Features:
- 14-inch touchscreen
- 65gb storage
- 10-hour battery life
Cost: $600
The Google Pixel Go i7 is the amped-up version of our top convertible Chromebook pick. It is better in every way, but it also comes at a much higher price tag. You’ll get awesome features like an ultra-fast Intel Core i7 processor and 16gb of RAM.
Key Features:
- 13.3-inch touchscreen
- 256gb SSD storage
- 12-hour battery life
Cost: $1,350
Designed with artists in mind, the HP Convertible Chromebook comes with a 3-in-1 stylus that works flawlessly with the touch screen. The stylus also transitions into a functional ballpoint pen and a USB flash drive. The Chromebook is great, too.
Key Features:
- 14-inch touchscreen
- 64gb storage
- 12.5-hour battery life
Cost: $630
At less than an inch thick and weighing in at 2.6 pounds, the Lenovo Chromebook C330 is an extremely portable Chromebook. Its lightweight and relatively small makes it a great option for on-the-go students.
Key Features:
- 11-inch touchscreen
- 64gb storage
- 10-hour battery life
Cost: $415
Consider the Lenovo Chromebook C340 to be a near clone to the C330, but with a bit of a power boost and a higher resolution screen. You get what you pay for, and though this model remains small and lightweight, its processor packs a punch.
Key Features:
- 11.6-inch touchscreen
- 64gb SSD storage
- 10-hour battery life
Cost: $590
In an interesting twist, the Lenovo Chromebook Duet is a tablet first, and a laptop second. Usually, it’s the other way around. This is meant for those who will use the tablet functionality often and will require the removable keyboard as a secondary peripheral.
Key Features:
- 10.1-inch touchscreen
- 128gb storage plus a 32gb SD card
- 8-hour battery life
Cost: $380
The Lenovo Chromebook Flex 5 is packed with the latest computing technology. It has Bluetooth 5.0, WiFi 6, a lightning-quick solid-state storage drive, and a myriad of useful ports.
Key Features:
- 13-inch touchscreen
- 64gb SSD storage
- 10-hour battery life
Cost: $490
The Samsung Chromebook Plus has all of the basics covered. It’s plenty powerful, comes with a built-in stylus, and has dual cameras, one front-facing for selfies and one 13 MP camera for photographs of the outside world.
Key Features:
- 12.2-inch screen
- 64gb storage
- 10-hour battery life
Chromebook Laptops
Featuring an impressively large screen with an equally impressive battery life, the ACER Chromebook 15 is a fantastic Chromebook for simple tasks. Its storage is somewhat lacking, but most people do not need much anyway. Plus, you could always store your files on Google Drive.
Key Features:
- 15.6-inch WLED screen
- 16gb storage
- 12-hour battery life
Cost: $370
The ACER Chromebook 315 is a slightly more powerful version of the 15. It has more storage and processing power, making it the better choice of the two for those who work on resource-heavy projects.
Key Features:
- 15.6-inch touchscreen
- 32gb storage
- 12.5-hour battery life
Cost: $400
Built more like a traditional laptop than most other Chromebooks, the Dell Chromebook 11 is ruggedly built, has powerful built-in speakers, and has easy-to-configure parental controls.
Key Features:
- 11.6-inch screen
- 16gb storage
- 10-hour battery life
Cost: $500
The HP Chromebook 11 is a lot like the aforementioned Dell product, but with a little less power. It does come with a one-year warranty, though, giving you peace of mind with your purchase.
Key Features:
- 11.6-inch screen
- 16gb flash storage
- 10-hour battery life
Cost: $330
In the same vein as the HP and Dell products we just discussed, the Samsung Chromebook 11.6 is an efficient and inexpensive option for students. Its stats are similar to the other two products as well.
Key Features:
- 11.6-inch screen
- 16gb flash storage
- 12-hour battery life
Cost: $315
This is the previous version of our top choice for a budget Chromebook. The Samsung Chromebook 3 is plenty capable with its fast Intel Atom processor and 4gb of RAM. It’ll be great for students and for those who travel.
Key Features:
- 11.6-inch screen
- 16gb flash storage
- 11-hour battery life
Budget Chromebooks
For a convertible Chromebook, the ACER Chromebook Spin 311 is about the best value you can get. It’s not as powerful as the standard Chromebook Spin, but it is still plenty capable for students and casual users.
Key Features:
- 11.6-inch touchscreen
- 32gb storage
- 10-hour battery life
Cost: $270
The ACER Flagship Chromebook is a mega-powerful laptop with super-fast SSD storage and a quad-core Intel Atom processor. This is a renewed product, which is why it is inexpensive. Grab this deal while you can!
Key Features:
- 14-inch screen
- 32gb SSD storage
- 12-hour battery
Cost: $285
Durable and rugged, the ASUS Chromebook C202XA is a great solution for young children, or for those of us who aren’t as gentle with our electronics as we should be. It is spill and scratch-resistant and has a military-grade tough exterior.
Key Features:
- 11.6-inch screen
- 32gb storage
- 10-hour battery life
Cost: $290
This is the same Dell Chromebook 11 that we reviewed earlier, but it has been used and renewed by Amazon. You can get the same laptop for less than half the price. It has been professionally inspected, tested, and cleaned, and comes backed by the Amazon Renewed Guarantee.
Key Features:
- 11.6-inch screen
- 16gb storage
- 10-hour battery life
Cost: $200
The Lenovo Ideapad Chromebook is a great little netbook with fast solid-state storage and a powered Intel Celeron dual-processor. It also features a 720p web camera and microphone. It’s a great choice for students.
Key Features:
- 11.6-inch screen
- 32gb SSD storage
- 10-hour battery life
Cost: $265
