chromebook review

The best Chromebook in 2024: our top picks

We're looking for the best Chromebook you can buy in 2024

• Best overall
• Best budget
• Best premium
• Best gaming
• Best for students
• Best 2-in-1
• How to choose
• How we test

1. Quick list 2. Best overall 3. Best budget 4. Best premium 5. Best for gaming 6. Best for students 6. Best 2-in-1 7. FAQs 8. How to choose 9. How we test

The best Chromebook is more than a match for a Windows laptop or MacBook in terms of performance, while still remaining an affordable and secure device for getting things done.

Take the Acer Chromebook Spin 314 , for example. Despite being a couple of years old at this point, its Intel Pentium N6000 processor is powerful enough for the everyday tasks that Chromebooks excel at, while also offering a Full HD touch display and a 2-in-1 form factor that makes it usable as a laptop or tablet.

Price is a key factor when it comes to Chromebooks - after all, they're positioned as budget machines. Most Chromebooks will offer better value for money than the best Windows laptops with similar performance, since ChromeOS is a lightweight operating system that doesn't demand high-end internal components to run smoothly.

We've reviewed dozens of Chromebooks over the years, and we're here to use our many years of experience to help you find the best Chromebook for your needs and budget.

The quick list

Want to cut to the chase and find out what the best Chromebooks are? Below, you’ll find a roundup of our choices, and you can jump to a more detailed review of every pick, along with our price comparison tool to help you find the best deals.

The best Chromebook overall

If you’re on a budget but still want decent performance and a Full HD resolution display, not to mention that versatile 2-in-1 form factor, then consider the Spin 314 (2023).

Read more below

The best budget

The Lenovo IdeaPad Flex 3 Chromebook teams rugged build quality with a whopping 16-hour battery to make a laptop that's well-suited for younger users.

The best high-end Chromebook

The HP Elite Dragonfly is one of the most powerful Chromebooks we've ever tested. If you want a machine that can cut it for work and play, it's this one.

Load the next 3 products...

The best for gaming

Can you game on a Chromebook? This Acer suggests you can, thanks to a QHD 16:10 display, gamer-friendly features and great battery life.

The best for students

Balancing performance with budget, not to mention some eco-friendly materials, the Acer Chromebook Plus 515 is more than enough computer for most people’s day-to-day needs.

The best 2-in-1

If you want plenty of power, a nice touch display, and a high-resolution webcam, then the Spin 714 might be for you.

The best Chromebooks in 2024

Why you can trust TechRadar We spend hours testing every product or service we review, so you can be sure you’re buying the best. Find out more about how we test.

Below you'll find full write-ups for each of the best Chromebooks in our list. We've tested each one extensively, so you can be sure that our recommendations can be trusted.

1. Acer Chromebook Spin 314 (2023)

Our expert review:

Specifications

Reasons to buy, reasons to avoid.

✅ You’re on a budget Acer keeps it simple but sweet here: this is a plain laptop that is designed to get you through the day, and for the price you're getting a good, reliable product.

✅ You’re often on the move There are lighter machines and smaller machines, but for a 14” laptop this is tough (and cheap) enough to happily withstand the hustle and bustle of commuting.

❌ You need more computing power If you need a machine to run statistical programs or withstand some heavy-duty workloads, this isn't for you. 

❌ You need to use specific programs If you need to use rendering software, want to dive into animation, or play the latest games, you're not going to be doing that on this.

The Acer Chromebook Spin 314 (2023) is ideal for those who just want a straightforward and cheap solution to getting that full laptop experience. Unlike other budget-level ChromeOS models, it comes with a 14-inch 1080p display and enough power to do everyday tasks.

In fact, it handled day-to-day performance well when tested. Of course, we were not so impressed by its 128GB of storage. But, that’s one of the compromises here. Along with the fact that it can get a little warm if you push it beyond its limits as it’s powered by an Intel Pentium chip and 4GB of RAM. 

Keeping in mind its price, we like how portable it is. At just under three and a half pounds, chucking it in a backpack or messenger bag is no work at all. Add in a solid typing experience and battery life, and you could take this anywhere to get some work done. If you do want to get a little spicy, the Acer Chromebook Spin 314 (2023) does have that 2-in-1 form factor so it can easily double as a tablet if you so choose.

Read our full Acer Chromebook Spin 314 (2023) review

The best budget Chromebook

2. Lenovo IdeaPad Flex 3 Chromebook

✅ You’re looking for true all-day battery life: The Flex 3 is good for working mains-free or surviving a long day of college and commuting with over 16 hours of video playback.

✅ You’re after a fantastic value 2-in-1 Chromebook: The Lenovo IdeaPad Flex 3 really is an awful lot of machine for the money and performs much better than the on-paper specifications imply, the perfect college companion.

❌ You value sleek, contemporary design: With fat bezels and dowdy styling, the Flex 3 looks like something from last decade.

❌ You need a device with decent CPU and storage performance: It would be a poor choice for anything more demanding.

We're always learning, but some of us are learning more than others. Younger students are sure to benefit from the Lenovo IdeaPad Flex 3, which packs a rather rugged build quality that is well-suited for users who want to quickly stuff everything in their backpack or are likely to drop things on the floor. The keyboard base is solid and the hinge is very robust, enabling it to survive any amount of careless handling.

This isn't the most powerful Chromebook, but students need reliability more than power - especially if they're only really using it for homework, note-taking, and perhaps the occasional bit of Netflix. Fortunately, the IdeaPad Flex 3 has a seriously impressive battery life – our testing yielded a whopping 16-hour-and-20-minute result – which will allow them to make it through a whole day of school without needing to plug in. It's also very affordable, which should provide a nice bit of financial relief for parents who need to buy their kids a school laptop.

Read our full Lenovo IdeaPad Flex 3 Chromebook review

The best premium Chromebook

3. HP Elite Dragonfly Chromebook

✅ You want the best enterprise Chromebook: Between the security features, performance, and connectivity options, you'll be hard-pressed to find a better Chromebook for your business.

✅ You want a great-looking Chromebook: The Elite Dragonfly Chromebook is gorgeous inside and out and will stand out in any meeting room.

❌ You're on a tight budget: This Chromebook starts at more than a grand, so its easily the most expensive Chromebook out there. 

❌ You need exceptional battery life: If battery life is important to you, you can find better longevity for much cheaper. 

The HP Elite Dragonfly Chromebook is still the best Chrome-powered laptop on the market - even if its pricing means that it won't be the best pick for everyone, at least not in its higher-end configurations. While it's probably the most premium Chromebook ever to hit retail, there are a few more affordable entry-level models that will make a strong case for any students looking for a slick, powerful laptop with Chrome OS.

It's one of the most powerful Chromebook we've ever tested. In fact, it's the best scoring Chromebook in our Kraken and Jetstream 2 tests, beating out the Acer Chromebook Spin 713 by nearly 200 points. Even the entry-level 12th-gen Core i3 configuration still packs some seriously solid specs that would make a lot of other Windows and macOS laptops blush.

Featuring some of the best security features we've ever seen on a Chromebook, including the first Chromebook to ever come powered by Intel vPro, this is the perfect lightweight and portable productivity Chromebook. Just be prepared to spend a whole lot of money for the privilege.

Read our full HP Elite Dragonfly Chromebook review

The best Chromebook for gaming

4. Acer Chromebook 516 GE

✅ You need excellent game streaming performance: If you already have or were thinking about getting a game streaming service like Nvidia GeForce NOW, this is the perfect machine to utilize it.

✅ You want a great battery life: The battery life beats out the vast majority of gaming laptops on the market, lasting seven hours during a normal session.

❌ You want to use Steam directly: There's no way to currently install Steam on this Chromebook, so using a game streaming service is the only way to game on it.

❌ You need good sound quality: The sound quality is pretty bad, especially at louder volumes, which means you need a gaming headset.

'Gaming Chromebooks' are still a topic of some debate. Many will argue that they're not truly gaming devices, since they rely on cloud-based game-streaming services - such as Nvidia GeForce Now - to actually run the latest games without the need for powerful local hardware. By this metric, any Chromebook can be a gaming Chromebook.

With the 516 GE, though, Acer is making a surprisingly strong case for this new breed of Chromebooks. GE naturally stands for 'Gaming Edition', and this is just that: a solid Intel-powered Chromebook, with some slick new features added in to appeal to the gaming audience.

Chief among these is this display, a crisp and colorful QHD panel with a 16:10 aspect ratio to provide more screen real estate. With 100 sRGB color reproduction and good maximum brightness, it's one of the best screens we've ever seen on a Chromebook. The 120Hz refresh rate is also vital for ensuring a smooth framerate during intense gameplay.

The speakers have seen an upgrade, we've got Wi-Fi 6E and a physical Ethernet port to ensure a speedy connection, and the keyboard has been given a gamer-inspired RGB makeover. The only real downside here is that you'll need to pay for a subscription service like GeForce Now or Amazon Luna, but there's some good news - Google is handing out three-month subscriptions for free with gaming Chromebook purchases!

Read our full Acer Chromebook 516 GE review

The best Chromebook for students

5. Acer Chromebook Plus 515

✅ If you need a productivity machine This is definitely meant as a productivity machine, not only thanks to its extremely fast startup and ability to juggle multiple tasks without breaking a sweat.

✅ You're eco-conscious Google has put plenty of effort into making the Chromebook as eco-friendly as possible, with the recycled glass trackpad and the use of recycled plastics in the chassis and keycaps. 

❌ You want a very powerful device While the specs on this one are higher than many previous models, if you need processing power for creative works and hardcore editing then this isn't the laptop for you.

❌ You need specific software or programs Chromebook OS is limited to what is available on the Play Store in terms of software, so if you need to use very specific numeric, scientific, or creative programs, look elsewhere.

Just because the bar is a bit lower performance-wise with Chromebooks doesn’t mean you should live with a sluggish laptop. The Acer Chromebook Plus 515 may just about hit that budget-level price range, but with its 12th-gen Intel Core i3 and 8GB of RAM, it’s more than enough power to get most users through their day-to-day needs.

When we tested it, we found it to not only do wonderfully with those everyday tasks. But, it was powerful enough to run Adobe Photoshop , newly available on ChromeOS, as well as the Nvidia GeForce Experience, meaning you can use this for some forms of gaming. 

The battery life is a bit underwhelming for a Chromebook. When tested, it lasted only five of the ten advertised hours in our battery test. But, at least, it takes less than an hour to charge back up. The rest of the package here is strictly on the positive side as the keyboard and touchpad are satisfying to use and the 15.6-inch 1080p touch display offers quite a bit of screen real estate. 

Oh, and if you’re environmentally conscious, you'll be happy to know that quite a few materials are made of recycled materials.

Read our full Acer Chromebook Plus 515 review

The best 2-in-1 Chromebook

6. Acer Chromebook Spin 714 (2023)

✅ You want a Chromebook that can perform This portable is powerful and can get you through just about any task you could run on a ChromeOS-powered machine.

✅ You want a more premium feeling Chromebook While this is a mid-range laptop, it has some premium appointments from its sturdy hinges and reasonably powerful specs to the WUXGA 16:10 touch screen.

❌ You want to run demanding tasks There are certain things that these types of laptops just can’t do such as high-level gaming or video and photo editing.

❌ You’re on an extreme budget $699.99 is a very good price for this laptop, but there are cheaper, more stripped down options that still work well.

The Acer Chromebook Spin 714 (2023) may be a little pricier than many Chromebooks, but that’s because it comes with just a bit more power. And, if you’re using one of these notebooks for work, it’s better to have too much than not enough. 

In fact, when we tested it, its 13th-Gen Intel Core i5 and 8GB or RAM easily handled running 20 Chrome tabs, including three streaming ones, at once without any noticeable slowdown. Of course, that slightly more powerful hardware is also there to power the 1920 x 1200p touch display as well as its stunningly clear 1440p webcam. 

While we found the speakers to be a bit of a weak point due to their hollow audio quality and we wish the keyboard was a little more pleasing to type on, At least, its battery life is very good. While not the 15 hours advertised, this Chromebook lasted a good 12 hours during our battery life benchmark. Since its hinge is rock solid, anyone wanting to use this in the various modes that you get with a 2-in-1 will find it to be very sturdy whether it’s in tent or display mode.

In essence, the Acer Chromebook Spin 714 (2023) is worth the extra cash. It’s a more premium looking, feeling, and performing device than many of the alternatives.

Read our full Acer Chromebook Spin 714 (2023) review

The best Chromebook: FAQs

What is a chromebook.

But, what is a Chromebook exactly, and how is it different from other notebooks? A Chromebook is a device that runs the more lightweight Chrome OS. This Linux-based operating system relies heavily on Google’s Chrome browser and connectivity to the Internet for most of its tasks, which means that it requires less power and storage space when performing those tasks. 

It isn’t as robust or comprehensive as Windows 10/11 or macOS. However, it’s just as capable of seeing its users through their daily multi-tasking needs, no matter if it’s to do productivity work all day while streaming shows and movies, getting through a bunch of school assignments, or even some photo editing and gaming. 

More recently, it’s even expanded to run Android and Linux apps without internet connectivity, which means that its users are no longer limited to the Chrome browser. Finally, the lightweight nature of the operating system also lets the best Chromebooks beat out traditional laptops in some key areas, like portability and battery life. 

Which is better, a Chromebook or a laptop?

Knowing which is better, a Chromebook or a laptop with a more traditional OS like Windows or macOS, really comes down to your needs and how you intend to use your laptop.

If you do almost all of your work and play online using web apps like Google Docs, SalesForce, GeForce Now, or other similar products, then a Chromebook is just as good at handling that kind of work as a more traditional laptop, since all of the actual application processing takes place in the cloud, which then displays the contents in a browser. 

If you have a fast enough internet connection, you're not going to tell the difference between a Chromebook and a fully-featured Windows laptop or a MacBook.

If you plan on using locally installed apps like Microsoft Office, Adobe Photoshop, or Steam, then you're going to find Chromebooks simply can't do that. The Android apps available through the Google Play marketplace are great, but they aren't as fully featured as similar desktop software. In most cases, Chrome OS simply can't run most of the installable software you'd find on a Windows laptop or a MacBook, so a Chromebook would be a bad choice for anyone hoping to use major flagship software offline.

How is a Chromebook different from a laptop?

A Chromebook is different from a laptop in a few key ways, but it’s important to note that Chromebooks are laptops, they just function differently. What you’re using a laptop for will ultimately determine whether or not you should invest in a Chromebook or something more powerful with better processors and graphics cards .

Chromebooks run on Chrome OS, which is a web-based operating system very similar to Google Chrome, so if you’re familiar with Google Chrome, a Chromebook might be a good option for you. Traditional laptops typically run the Windows operating system, and Macbooks run macOS, and will usually be full of RAM to make sure the laptop runs without lag or performance issues - something Chromebooks don’t have to worry about.

If you’re going to university, you may want to consider getting the best Chromebook as a student laptop because it’s lightweight - plus the cloud storage means you won’t have files clogging up your computer. However, if you’re planning on studying something like graphic design you’ll want to invest in something more powerful than a Chromebook that can handle design software.

A slight drawback to Chromebooks is that they don’t have the same programs available as other laptops, so for example you can’t get the full Microsoft Office suite, but you can open, edit, and convert files to and from Microsoft Office with Google Drive apps, or use Microsoft’s own Office web apps. Skype will work on a Chromebook because it’s available as an app on the Google Play Store, but iTunes will not work.

If you tend to want to play PC games on your laptop or do more energy-consuming tasks like photo and video editing, you may want to look into other laptop options like gaming laptops. But, if you’re in the market for the best Chromebook to help you accomplish daily tasks or business-related tasks, check out our list on this page.

How to choose the best Chromebook for you

When it comes to choosing the best Chromebook, price is most people’s first consideration. That’s because a lot of these laptop alternatives end up in the hands of more casual users who don’t need a whole lot from their PC. In such a case, a cheaper yet still capable option is the better value – one of the best cheap Chromebooks , perhaps.

Of course, if you have more demanding needs, there are pricier options as well, and they will come with higher-end specs like more RAM, better processors like Intel Core CPUs, and perhaps more storage space. So, if you want to save more files, do some light photo editing, or play some games, you’ll want to splurge a little for better specs. 

It’s not just the reasonable price tag that most Chromebooks have that make them top contenders, especially as laptops for kids and as student notebooks . You have to consider its design. Most boast impressively long battery lives while some are built to withstand abuse better than others – any gear you put into a kid’s hands needs to be able to absorb some bumps, after all. Others come with that 2-in-1 form factor and touchscreen capability that makes them so versatile.

Just like with the laptops, size is a crucial factor as well. You might want a larger display for more screen real estate or you might want something smaller for easier portability. Since most of these portables fall somewhere between 10 to 15 inches in terms of screen size, they’re all going to be easier to lug around than the competition.

How we tested our best Chromebook picks

Testing Chromebooks isn’t too different from testing laptops and gaming laptops , though perhaps the paces are a little less intensive or game-heavy. 

Since Chromebooks rely heavily on the Chrome browser, we push that browsing prowess to its limits, opening 20 or more browser tabs on different types of websites, from productivity ones like Google docs to streaming sites like Netflix and Hulu. For good measure, we try to play media on those streaming services simultaneously. Because Chromebooks are now much more capable of running apps, we also open and use several apps at the same time.

Of course, we also run synthetic benchmarks like Kraken JavaScript, Octane 2.0 JavaScript, and Jetstream 2 as well as the TechRadar movie test to measure its battery life. 

Because a Chromebook is only as good as its peripherals, we take a look at its display, keyboard, availability of ports, and how good its overall design is. We also test its webcam and touchscreen capabilities, if they’re on hand.

We then take everything we’ve learned about the Chromebook and compare it to its price – whether or not it’s performance and features are worth that price tag, and whether or not it offers the best value to customers.

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Christian is TechRadar’s UK-based Computing Editor. He came to us from Maximum PC magazine, where he fell in love with computer hardware and building PCs. He was a regular fixture amongst our freelance review team before making the jump to TechRadar, and can usually be found drooling over the latest high-end graphics card or gaming laptop before looking at his bank account balance and crying.

Christian is a keen campaigner for LGBTQ+ rights and the owner of a charming rescue dog named Lucy, having adopted her after he beat cancer in 2021. She keeps him fit and healthy through a combination of face-licking and long walks, and only occasionally barks at him to demand treats when he’s trying to work from home.

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Best Chromebook of 2024

There are a lot of Chromebooks out there to choose from but these are the best reviewed by CNET editors for work, home or school.

Our Experts

• More than two decades experience writing about PCs and accessories, and 15 years writing about cameras of all kinds.

CNET’s expert staff reviews and rates dozens of new products and services each month, building on more than a quarter century of expertise.

What is the best Chromebook overall?

The HP Dragonfly Pro Chromebook  is the best Chromebook for 2024 that we've tested. While it might look like a pricey investment, the HP Chromebook remains a value-for-money device. It's full-featured with a fast 12th-gen Intel Core i5 processor, a great display and a beautiful design that's built to last. This is a great choice if you're looking for a Chromebook as your only computing device. Google also just introduced a new category of devices called Chromebook Plus . These models ensure you get a certain level of hardware to take advantage of the latest ChromeOS features. We are just starting to test the first of these, but we expect to update this list soon with a Chromebook Plus pick. 

Read more:   How to Take a Screenshot on a Chromebook

CNET's editors tested all of the Chromebooks on this list. Each member of our team has decades of experience testing and reviewing laptops. ( I've been reviewing Chromebooks since their start more than a decade ago.) We conduct performance testing under controlled conditions in the CNET Labs and extensive hands-on use. All of the models on this list offer excellent performance and features for their price. Considering an older or used model? Check the auto-update expiration date for the model  before you buy. The AUE is when ChromeOS stops receiving system updates, now up to 10 years, but the date differs for every model, old and new.

If you're still unsure if this type of laptop is right for you, here's a breakdown of all that a Chromebook can and can't do compared with a traditional laptop . This list of the best Chromebook models is updated periodically.

Best Chromebooks for 2024

• Gorgeous design
• Roomy, high-res and bright display
• Solid performance
• Pricey among Chromebooks
• Previous-gen Intel silicon
• Pen not included

Best Chromebook overall

Hp dragonfly pro chromebook.

Most Chromebooks fall below $500, and for general use, they're all most people will need. Google's ChromeOS is capable of doing much more than it could more than a decade ago when it first appeared. Consider this HP the MacBook Pro of Chromebooks: beautiful design, excellent display, keyboard and touchpad and enough processing power to take advantage of today's ChromeOS features. If you're an Android phone user, it's the perfect companion. It does cost $1,000, and for many, its features might be overkill. 

HP Dragonfly Pro Chromebook review

• Excellent port assortment
• Durable build
• 1440p-resolution webcam
• Tiny touchpad
• No microSD card slot
• Pen no longer included

Best Chromebook for a little less

Acer chromebook spin 714.

The Acer Chromebook Spin 714 is essentially a runner-up to the Dragonfly Pro. This premium two-in-one doesn't stray far from its predecessor in terms of what it offers: sturdy design, nice-looking display, strong performance and long battery life. The main changes are an updated 13th-gen Intel Core i5 processor but Acer removed the garaged pen for use on the touchscreen display. It still works with USI pens. Less expensive options are available, but if you want a Chromebook that'll last for years, this is it. Keep an eye out for a sale on this one, too: It normally lists for around $700, but can often be found on sale for less than $600. 

• Compelling, premium features for its price
• Large display for work and entertainment
• Excellent battery life
• Slower Pentium processor and eMMC storage
• 64GB storage might fill up fast

Best Chromebook for the family

Acer chromebook 317.

The 317 is essentially a portable all-in-one ChromeOS desktop, otherwise known as a Chromebase. The big display makes multitasking a breeze. You can stream a YouTube video in the corner while you work on a presentation and keep an eye on email or chat -- all without overlapping windows. It is big and heavy compared with all the smaller Chromebooks here, so it's not a great option if mobility is a priority. It's certainly small enough to move around the house, and with more than 10 hours of battery life according to my tests, you can work all day and still have time left for a video chat with family, gaming or streaming a movie. The configuration we tested sells for around $500 but one version meets our basic requirements for a Chromebook that's less than $350.

Acer Chromebook 317 review

• Includes a keyboard cover
• Works as a laptop or tablet
• Excellent overall value
• Touchpad isn't great
• Slower performance
• No headphone jack

Best Chromebook tablet 2-in-1

Lenovo duet chromebook.

The Lenovo Duet Chromebook (aka Chromebook Duet 3) is an awesome little 11-inch ChromeOS tablet with a detachable keyboard and touchpad. Its small size and performance aren't ideal for full-time use. The Chromebook Duet 3 is a good pick if you're looking for an affordable ultraportable device to get some work done on the go, sketch or jot down notes in class, or do simple stuff like email, web browsing, gaming, reading and streaming video.

The original 10-inch version of the Duet Chromebook is also still available for  when it is in stock. 

Lenovo Duet Chromebook review

Things to consider when buying a Chromebook

Operating system: Chromebooks run on Google's ChromeOS operating system. It is different than MacOS and Windows and can't natively run software designed for those OSes. 

Apps:  Chromebooks run web apps, Android apps from the Google Play store and Linux software. With more software going online, it's easier than ever to find the applications you need; still, before you buy, check if any necessary apps are available for ChromeOS. 

Specs: ChromeOS doesn't require powerful components to run smoothly (which is why you can find many good Chromebooks for less than $400). Still, we recommend getting the best hardware you can afford because they can't be upgraded later. 

AUE: Google gives all Chromebooks an auto-update expiration date. This is when a specific model will no longer receive ChromeOS security and feature updates. These can be checked on Google's site before you buy, and newer models are supported for 8 to 10 years.

Security: Because it's nearly impossible for Chromebooks to be corrupted with viruses or other malware, you don't need to worry about extra software to secure a Chromebook.

How we test laptops

The review process for laptops consists of two parts: performance testing under controlled conditions in the CNET Labs and extensive hands-on use by our reviewers. This includes evaluating a device's aesthetics, ergonomics and features in relation to price. A final review verdict is a combination of both objective and subjective judgments. 

We test all laptops with a core set of benchmarks, including  Primate Labs Geekbench 5 and 6 ,  Cinebench R23 ,  PCMark 10 , a variety of  3DMark  benchmarks (whichever can run on the laptop), UL Procyon Photo and Video (where supported), and our own battery life test. If a laptop is intended for gaming, we'll also run benchmarks from  Guardians of the Galaxy ,  The Rift Breaker  (CPU and GPU) and  Shadow of the Tomb Raider . We have a different set of tests specifically for Chromebooks since they can't run Windows or MacOS software. 

For the hands-on, the reviewer uses it for their work during the review period, evaluating how well the design, features (such as the screen, camera and speakers) and manufacturer-supplied software operate as a cohesive whole. We also place importance on how well they work given their cost and where the manufacturer has potentially made upgrades or tradeoffs for its price.

The list of benchmarking software and comparison criteria we use changes over time as the devices we test evolve. You can find a more detailed description of our test methodology on our  How We Test Computers  page. 

Chromebook FAQs

What is the difference between a laptop and a chromebook.

A Chromebook is a laptop running on Google's ChromeOS instead of Microsoft Windows or Apple's MacOS. This means Windows or Mac software cannot be directly installed and run on a Chromebook. Instead, Chromebooks are designed to use web apps ( like those for Microsoft Office 365 ), Android apps and Linux software. Because ChromeOS is built for efficiency and to take advantage of web or cloud services , the operating system runs well with less expensive hardware. While Chromebooks come in various sizes and designs, options are more plentiful with Windows laptops or Apple MacBooks, especially if you need to run demanding software. Again, ChromeOS is what really makes a laptop a Chromebook but there are some other differences to consider before you buy. 

What OS does a Chromebook use?

Chromebooks run on Google's minimalist  Chrome  operating system or ChromeOS. When ChromeOS launched more than a decade ago, it was essentially  Google's Chrome web browser . It has grown vastly in capabilities over the years but remains a simple, lightweight and secure operating system that can run briskly on even low-end components. Although ChromeOS can do much more today, quite a lot can be done entirely on the web these days. Take stock of everything you do on a daily basis and you may find there's nothing you can't accomplish with ChromeOS. 

What are the pros and cons of a Chromebook?

There are several pros to a Chromebook but one big con will instantly rule out buying one. Chromebooks are not natively compatible with Windows or Mac software. If you need to run a specific Windows or MacOS program, you cannot do so directly from a Chromebook. That said,  there are ways around it , including finding a substitute web or Android app, or a Linux equivalent. 

Also, if you need advanced photo- and video-editing capabilities, you'll want a Windows, Mac or Linux laptop. Basic photo and video editing are fine, but Chromebooks typically don't offer the graphics performance you need for demanding tasks or, again, the option to install Windows or Mac software and games. At least not directly on a Chromebook. Services like Adobe Photoshop on the web and Adobe Express make it possible to do more graphically demanding tasks. 

One other potential negative is the Auto Update Expiration date, or AUE. Currently, non-Google hardware is only supported for so long before it stops receiving ChromeOS and browser updates, including those for security. For models released now, the date is roughly eight to 10 years from the initial release of the device, but that's not always the case.  Google maintains a list of AUE dates for all models , and you should check it before you buy a Chromebook, new or used. 

There are many pros to a Chromebook, but the biggest is the price. While premium models start at around $500, you can find excellent options for everyday use for around $350. The Lenovo Duet Chromebook, for example, is a two-in-one Chromebook with a detachable keyboard cover so it can be used as a tablet or a laptop and starts under $400. Like other laptops, a higher-end Chromebook generally means a better experience. 

Also, some of the same reasons Chromebooks are popular for schools and businesses make them excellent family computers. Everyone in the family can have separate Google accounts, and signing in gives them access to only their stuff and not yours. Accounts for kids can be managed with  Google Family Link . It's nearly impossible for Chromebooks to be corrupted with viruses or other malware. If it isn't running quite right, you can reset it with  Chrome's Powerwash feature  and in a couple of minutes, the system is clean and fresh. Just sign into your Google account and the Chromebook is completely restored. 

Read more:   How to Reset a Chromebook in Under a Minute

Can I use any USB-C charger for my Chromebook? 

Yes and no. Since 2017, new Chromebooks all charge via their USB-C ports. Chromebooks typically need either a 45- or 65-watt power adapter. You'll need to check the specs for your specific model to find its power needs, typically found on the bottom of the Chromebook or on the manufacturer's site. (If it's given in volts and amps, you can get watts by multiplying the two together e.g. 15 volts x 3 amps equals 45 watts.) Using a charger that doesn't meet the power demands of the Chromebook may still charge it but at a slower rate. Also, if you're using the Chromebook while using a low-power charger, it will take even longer to charge fully. On the upside, Chromebooks will display a notification if the USB-C cable you're using won't support the necessary performance. 

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The Best Chromebooks for Every Budget

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Best Overall Asus Chromebook Flip CX5 Read more

Best For School Lenovo Chromebook Duet 3 Read more

Best Luxury Chromebook HP Elite Dragonfly Chromebook Read more

Best For Power Acer Chromebook Spin 714 Read more

If you spend all day in a web browser, use Google apps, and don't need all the rest of the stuff that comes with Apple’s macOS or Microsoft’s Windows, Google’s ChromeOS operating system offers an all-you-need, nothing-you-don't computing experience. Throw in the ability to run both Android and Linux apps and you just might be able to replace your old laptop with a Chromebook.

Chromebooks have a reputation as cheap, low-end devices. While they can be that—offering exceptional bargains in many cases—that's not the end of the story. Just because you strip away the software fluff doesn't mean you have to strip away the hardware power. There are high-end Chromebooks that are mighty capable machines. In many ways, they offer the best of all worlds: good hardware, lightweight software, and everything you need for web-based work. WIRED's Gear team has been testing Chromebooks for almost a decade now. These are our current top picks.

Be sure to also read through our Best Cheap Laptops , Best Laptops , and Best MacBooks guides for more options.

Updated February 2023: We've added new Chromebooks from Asus, HP, and Lenovo.

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Best Overall

Asus has been churning out some stellar ChromeOS devices for several years now, often coming at the top of our recommendations. The trend continues with this excellent device. It has a gloriously reasonable price alongside flagship laptop looks and capabilities.

The Chromebook Flip CX5 laptop’s combination of value-for-money, pleasing design, strong performance, and daylong battery life are what make it stand out from the rest. From the ability to load up more than 30 tabs with no trouble to a keyboard that’s a breeze to use, productivity is this device’s specialty. The display isn’t top notch but, at 1080p, it's solid. There’s a good selection of ports as well, with what now seems a few luxuries present and correct here—that being a headphone jack, microSD card readers, and an HDMI. Two USB-Cs and a USB-A complete the team.

Specs to look for: Intel Core i5, 16-GB RAM, 128-GB SSD

Best For School

The Chromebook Duet range from Lenovo is great for those who want a small, no-frills device that doesn’t cost the earth—whether it’s as a first machine for a youngster or older generations looking for simplicity. It’s essentially a step up, in terms of productivity, from a straightforward cut-price tablet. The case turns this into a pint-sized laptop-like device, and offers added durability on top too. The keyboard offers comfortable typing—unless you have large hands, then you’ll find it a tad cumbersome.

You’ll find a combination of a Snapdragon 7c Gen 2 chip and 4-GB RAM onboard. This isn’t a particularly potent team-up, but it does a perfectly passable job for those looking to stick to one or two tasks at a time and up to seven or eight tabs. When used in this way, you’ll manage a full school day’s length of work, with the battery life typically hitting around seven hours.

A surprising high point, for such a low-cost device, is the bright and detailed 2K display—great for watching video. The low point is the speakers: Bring your headphones, as they are tinny and, ultimately, unpleasant.

Specs to look for: Snapdragon 7c Gen 2, 4-GB RAM, 128-GB eMMC

Best Luxury Chromebook

This is the only laptop on this list that might be  better than our top all-around pick, the Asus Chromebook Flip CX5; however, a high price makes it a luxe option. You’ll find one of the best thin-and-light keyboards around—I happily typed on this for hours on end. The build is light while its metal composition makes for a robust and sleek-looking design. The Intel Core i5 and 8-GB RAM combo offer plenty of performance for Chrome users, letting you speedily breeze through upward of 20 tabs.

The Elite Dragonfly Chromebook is framed as a business laptop but ChromeOS holds it back a bit. The 2K display on our review model is a tad underwhelming, especially at this price, though. Further, battery life could also be better—just reaching a full day’s work when used intensely. However, hardware additions like a physical webcam shutter, HP Sure View privacy display, and SIM slot are neat inclusions for on-the-go workers.

Specs to look for: Intel Core i5, 8-GB RAM, 256-GB SSD

Best For Power

Acer’s latest and greatest Chromebook may not reach the luxe heights of some of our favorites on this list but, when it comes to getting the practicalities of productivity right, there are few better.

With a 12th Gen Intel chip onboard, this Chromebook eats up productivity tasking—opt for 8-GB RAM or more and you’ll be bouncing between 20+ tabs with ease. It’s a wonderfully compact machine too, yet the 14-inch 16:10 display is a great size. Despite this, ports are packed in, with two Thunderbolt 4, an HDMI, a USB-A, and a headphone jack. And, there’s even a super-slim stylus stowed away in the front of the laptop.

All sounds good thus far, right? But, what holds this device back is quality. The build feels cheap and the display is just  okay . The keys are small, offer little feedback, and middling travel. Battery life is good enough—on average, you should be able to stretch to a full day’s work without needing a charge. The Spin 714 will get the job done, and the full package is strong value for money, but it isn’t a joy to use. It’s functional.

Eric Ravenscraft

Julian Chokkattu

Best Budget 2-in-1 Chromebook

If you want a two-in-one-style Chromebook but don't want to spring for our top picks, this HP option offers most of the same features for much less. The screen isn't as nice, and battery life is about eight hours—enough for a day's work—but you still get a great Chromebook experience. Laptop, stand, and tablet modes all work together to give you more versatility than a traditional clamshell design. But pay careful attention to which X360 version you buy. We like this 12-inch model with the 3:2 screen ratio for some extra vertical real estate when working on documents and browsing the web.

Specs to look for: Intel Celeron, 4-GB RAM, 32-GB storage

Best Google-Made Chromebook

It’s natural to want hardware made by the company that created and manages Chrome OS. If so, get the Pixelbook Go. It’s lightweight at 2 pounds, has a wonderful matte texture, and is incredibly thin. The Go is a standard clamshell laptop, but you get a 13-inch touchscreen for some added versatility. There are two USB-C ports, a headphone jack, a roomy trackpad, and a wonderfully tactile keyboard. Plus, the battery easily lasts a full workday.

If you’re not planning to use this laptop a ton, the model powered by the Intel Core m3 chip might be sufficient. But, those with anything more intense than a light workload, should snag the Core i5 with 8 gigabytes of RAM. It’s on the pricier end, but this is a Chromebook that oozes style with plenty of power to keep more than 30 Chrome tabs running smoothly.

Specs to look for: Intel Core i3, 4-GB RAM, 64-GB eMMC

Best Budget Powerhouse

This Chromebook is the more powerful cousin to the Flex 5 we've previously recommended. That's still a fine Chromebook if you're on a budget, but the base model of the Flex 5i starts with an 11th-gen Core i3 processor instead of a Celeron chip. It's been plenty speedy for browsing the web and watching videos. The 13-inch IPS display has a nice antiglare finish, which is good because the main weakness of this machine is the fact that its 250-nit brightness is just barely bright enough to use outdoors. The latest version of Chrome OS is well-optimized to work in all three two-in-one modes, and the Flex 5i is compatible with Lenovo's USI stylus ( sold separately, $40 ).

Specs to look out for: Intel Core i3, 8-GB RAM, 128-GB SSD

How to Pick the Best Chromebook

Chromebooks come in a bewildering array of configurations. Sometimes even trying to decide which options to get on a single model can be overwhelming. As a product tester, I use a spreadsheet to keep it all straight. But you shouldn't have to do that, so here are some broad specs to keep in mind.

Processor: Chromebooks use half a dozen different processors, most of which you've probably never heard of. There's a reason for that: These processors are slow, and they don't show up in Windows laptops. After trying out plenty of Intel Celeron–based machines, my recommendation is to go with something more powerful if you can afford it. The next step up from the Celeron is the Core m3, which is the best choice for most people. If you want a more powerful, future-proof machine, get an i3 or i5 chip.

We're starting to see more ARM-based Chromebooks, like the Lenovo Duet above. I haven't had any issues using ARM Chromebooks, but they aren't quite as speedy as the Intel Core chips. There are some newer Chromebooks using AMD's latest Ryzen chips, and I've had good experiences with them.

RAM: Get 8-GB of memory if you can afford it, especially if you plan to run any Android applications. When I've experienced severe slowdowns and glitches, it's almost always on a Chromebook with only 4-GB of RAM.

Screen: Get an IPS LCD display. There are still a few low-end models out there with crappier TN LCD displays, and you should avoid those. Your pixel resolution depends on the size of the screen. I have used (and recommend) some 11-inch Chromebooks that have 720p displays. Because those screens are squeezed into a small form factor, I find them acceptably sharp, but a 1080p screen will be much nicer.

Ports: Most things you do on a Chromebook are cloud-based, so you don't really need to worry too much about ports. You might want a computer that charges through a USB-C port if you'd like to be able to run your Chromebook off a portable battery/charger, but USB-C charging is available mostly in mid- and higher-priced models. It also helps to have a MicroSD slot for expanded storage if you need to download a lot of files during a typical day, but that option is also not widely available.

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The best Chromebook to buy this year

Chromebooks are getting better, and good ones are getting cheaper..

By Monica Chin and Nathan Edwards

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Chromebooks are no longer just laptops that run a browser and a few Google apps. They can cover a wide variety of computing needs now, and a good Chrome OS laptop or two-in-one can be more useful than a mediocre Windows laptop — especially now that many can run Android and Linux apps.

That’s assuming you get one with enough power to actually function, though — cheap Chromebooks are notorious for creaky processors, inadequate RAM, and slow, skimpy storage, while decent Chromebooks often cost just as much as Windows machines. Fortunately, the message that many people actually want good Chromebooks rather than just cheap ones has gotten through to manufacturers and to Google. The latter has recently launched the Chromebook Plus certification , which guarantees a baseline level of hardware as well as ten years of software support.

• What’s the best student laptop? We asked students
• The best laptops you can get
• Chromebook Plus is Google’s new certification for premium Chromebooks

You can get a decent Chromebook for about $400. Many are around $500 or $600, though there are good options in the higher and lower ranges as well. The extra money goes a long way toward getting something you’ll be happy with.

For the first time, the quality of the Chromebooks in this range has been consistent. There are so many similarities between the offerings from Asus, Lenovo, Google, HP, Dell, and Samsung that a conspiracy-minded person might suggest they’re all sourcing their components from the same factory. That’s great news if you’re comparison shopping; the majority of this list would be good buys if you can find them at a discount. In some cases, we’ve left older models on the list precisely because they’re regularly discounted. A laptop that was great at $500 two years ago can still be a good deal at $300 today.

What we’re looking for

Price is a very important factor. We’re seeking Chromebooks that offer great value for their asking price and that are the best of the best compared to other laptops in their price category. The more expensive a device, the more exceptional it has to be.

Not every Chromebook needs high-end specs, but they do need enough power to be functional. The Chromebook Plus baseline — a Core i3 or Ryzen 7000 CPU, 8GB RAM, and 128GB of storage, plus 1080p IPS screen and webcam — is the bare minimum for any Chromebook that costs more than $400, and any Chromebook that doesn’t meet those specs has to justify its existence.

Displays should be at least 1920 x 1080. Since Chromebooks can run Android apps, which aren’t usually optimized for trackpad and keyboard, touchscreens are useful here.

Design and build quality

Chromebooks are popular among schools and students. We’re looking for laptops with a solid, durable build that can handle bumps, jostles, and backpack wear.

Battery life

Students may go several hours without having an opportunity to plug their devices in. We like Chromebooks that can guarantee at least several hours of continuous use.

Port selection

The more ports, the better. USB-C and headphone jacks are mandatory; USB-A, HDMI, and SD card slots are good to have.

The best Chromebook

Acer Chromebook Spin 714 (8GB RAM / 256GB SSD / Intel Evo Core i5)

The Acer Chromebook Spin 714 offers a powerful package with fast Intel processors and Thunderbolt 4 support, while boasting perks like an HDMI port and a garaged stylus.

CPU: Intel Core i5-1335U / GPU: Intel Iris Xe / RAM: 8GB / Storage: 256GB NVMe SSD / Display: 14-inch IPS, 1920 x 1200, multitouch / Dimensions: 12.31 x 8.82 x 0.71 inches / Weight: 3.1 pounds

With a hefty Intel processor and Thunderbolt 4 support, Acer’s Chromebook Spin 714 is one of the most powerful Chromebook Plus-certified laptops you can buy. It’s lightning fast, generating little noise and heat even under fairly intense professional workloads.

It was a pretty good deal at $700-ish when it launched, but these days you can regularly find it for under $500 with a 13th-gen i5 processor, 8GB of RAM, and a 256GB NVMe SSD. That’s a screaming deal while it lasts. It’s also been updated with Chromebook Plus certification, which means it’ll get 10 years of software updates.

The keyboard is excellent with a comfortable, quiet feel, and nice backlighting. There’s even an HDMI port, which you don’t see on a thin Chromebook every day. It’s a well-built device as well, with a professional finish suitable for an office setting. The main drawbacks to consider are that the Spin’s speakers aren’t great, and the battery life is a bit lower than last year’s model’s was.

Read our Acer Chromebook Spin 714 review.

The best chromebook plus laptop under $400.

Asus Chromebook Plus CX34

The Asus Chromebook Plus CX34 is the most affordable Chromebook with the new Plus label. It has a 12th-gen Intel Core i3 processor, 8GB of RAM, and 128GB of storage, plus a 1080p screen, for just under $400.

CPU: Intel Core i3-1215U / GPU: Intel UHD / RAM: 8GB / Storage: 128GB, 256GB UFS / Display: 14-inch IPS, 1920 x 1080, 60Hz, non-touch / Dimensions: 12.9 x 8.4 x 0.74 inches / Weight: 3.17 pounds

The Asus Chromebook Plus CX34 is the least expensive laptop with Google’s new Plus certification . At around $400 for a Core i3 processor, 8GB of RAM, and 128GB of storage, it’s the baseline Chromebook you should consider if you can’t spend any more.

It’s so easy to get a bad Chromebook at this price, so it’s a relief that the Chromebook Plus CX34 is so good. Not only does it have respectable internals, but the 1080p screen and 1080p webcam are good for the price, the keyboard is great, and the trackpad is fine, if a bit stiff. Battery life is decent, too, and like all Plus Chromebooks, it comes with 10 years of software updates. You can spend more on a laptop, and you probably should, but don’t buy a Chromebook less powerful than this one.

Read our review of the Asus Chromebook Plus CX34 .

Last year’s best chromebook.

Asus Chromebook Flip CX5 (Intel Core i3, 8GB RAM, 128GB SSD)

The Asus Chromebook Flip CX5 is a powerful device with impressive features for a Chromebook, including a 57Wh battery, a stunning 15-inch screen, and a range of ports (including an HDMI port and a microSD slot). Read our review .

CPU: Intel Core i3-1215U / GPU: Intel Iris Xe / RAM: 8GB, 16GB / Storage: 128GB / Display: 15.6-inch IPS, 1920 x 1080, 60Hz, touch option / Dimensions: 14.08 x 9.48 x 0.73 inches / Weight: 4.3 pounds

The Chromebook Flip CX5 was a hard sell for most people at $800 in 2021, even with a Core i5 processor and 15GB of RAM, but it really was that good. It’s sturdy enough to withstand all kinds of jolts and jostles in a backpack or briefcase, and has a unique velvety texture that’s very pleasant to hold. Add a wide port selection, a smooth and comfortable keyboard, and a vivid display, and you’ve got a chassis that can hold its own against plenty of midrange Windows laptops. 

It’s no longer the best Chromebook you can get, but if you can find a good configuration at a good price, it’s still worth considering. Battery life is quite satisfactory and easily lasted us all day. And the CX5 delivered some of the loudest audio we’ve ever heard from a Chromebook.

The model linked above, with a 12th-gen Intel i3, 8GB of RAM, and 128GB of storage, is almost as powerful as the Chromebook CX34 above — though the webcam isn’t as good — and unlike that model, it’s convertible.

Read our Asus Chromebook Flip CX5 review.

Best oled chromebook.

Lenovo Chromebook Duet 5 (8GB/128GB)

The Lenovo Chromebook Duet 5 comes with a lovely 13.3-inch Full HD OLED touchscreen and long battery life but lacks biometric authentication.

CPU: Qualcomm Snapdragon 7c Gen 2 / GPU: Qualcomm Adreno / RAM: 8GB / Storage: 128GB / Display: 13.3-inch OLED, 1920 x 1080, 60Hz, touch option / Dimensions: 12.05 x 7.32 x 0.27 inches / Weight: 2.22 pounds

The Chromebook Duet 5 is a compact convertible device with an OLED screen. It’s thinner and lighter than most Chromebooks out there, and its back cover doubles as a kickstand. And it’s often available for under $400, making it one of the cheapest OLED devices you can buy.

The OLED display makes for quite enjoyable viewing, and the detachable keyboard is great as well with excellent spacing and satisfying feedback. Performance (our unit was powered by the Snapdragon 7c Gen 2) was surprisingly snappy, and the device could handle our standard office workload with no issue. But the standout feature was battery life: We saw between 10 and 12 hours to a charge, even when doing fairly demanding tasks like Zoom calls and high-resolution YouTube videos.

There are a few unfortunate omissions: there’s no fingerprint sensor, and there’s no included stylus (though one is supported). But Chrome OS fans who want a great screen for multimedia viewing can’t do better than this Chromebook at this price. 

Read our Lenovo Chromebook Duet 5 review.

Best business chromebook with rgb for some reason.

HP Dragonfly Pro Chromebook

The HP Dragonfly Pro Chromebook is a premium Chromebook with an RGB keyboard targeting freelance professionals.

CPU: Core i5-1235U / GPU: Iris Xe / RAM: 16GB / Storage: 256GB / Display: 14-inch IPS, 2560x1600, 60Hz, touch option / Dimensions: 12.4 x 8.7 x 0.7 inches / Weight: 3.33 pounds

If you want a Chromebook with RGB lighting that isn’t specifically a gaming Chromebook — and who doesn’t? — your only option is the Dragonfly Pro Chromebook. This device doesn’t have quite as premium a build as the old school Elite Dragonfly, but it’s still quite nice. It’s also got a solid 8MP webcam, excellent speakers, and one of the brightest screens I’ve ever seen on a Chromebook. But the real differentiating factor is the colorful keyboard, which you won’t find on any of the other products listed here.

The one thing I will warn potential buyers of is that the colorful keyboard and bright screen take their toll on battery life. I only saw around six hours to a charge here. That’s not terrible, but we’d hope to see more from a device this expensive. Still, the Dragonfly Pro offers a premium build and unique combination of features, and that makes it worth a look from deep-pocketed business customers.

Read our HP Dragonfly Pro Chromebook review.

Updated November 22nd, 2023: Changed top pick, added a new Chromebook Plus model, removed some older models, and repositioned others to account for lower prices.

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Best Chromebooks of 2024

The best Chromebooks based on our test results

• Best overall

Best aesthetics

Best battery life

• Best for students

Best portability

Best Chromebook for business

Best Premium Chromebook

• How to find the right laptop
• How we test
• Why trust Laptop Mag

1. The list in brief 2. Best overall 3. Best aesthetics 4. Best battery life 5. Best for students 6. Best Acer Chromebook 7. Best portability 8. Best Chromebook for business 9. Best lightweight Chromebook 10. Best premium Chromebook 11. How to find the right laptop 12. How we test 13. Why trust Laptop Mag

The best Chromebooks offer a simplistic, clean, and minimalistic operating system with killer performance and satisfactory battery life. 

While Chromebooks' original appeal was a low price point and a very basic feature set, Google has added quite a bit more functionality over the years while still keeping it far simpler and more secure than its macOS and Windows counterparts. Now we have also seen prices come up along with that functionality boost, but there are still plenty of affordable Chromebooks, and prices remain low relative to a comparable Windows or macOS laptop.

The best Chromebooks are seamless to use with the Google ecosystem. You'll also be happy that they typically have a long battery life. Be sure to check out our Chromebooks with the longest battery life list (along with how to check your Chromebook's battery health ).

In late 2023 Google teamed up with a number of different laptop OEMs to produce the Chromebook Plus series. We reviewed two of the first in the series with the Lenovo IdeaPad Flex 5i Chromebook Plus and the Acer Chromebook Plus 515 . Both are excellent options with surprising performance and are content creator capable, which is new for Chromebooks.

So whether you want one of the new Plus Series, a cheap Chromebook, or a high-end Chromebook for business, just read on and we'll identify the best Chromebook for you.

The Quick List

Best Chromebook overall

The Lenovo IdeaPad Flex 5i Chromebook Plus with Google's AI-enhanced ChromeOS packs great performance into a sub-$ $500 device. During my short time with the IdeaPad Flex 5i, I pushed documents, edited mixed media, and gamed till I needed a nap. 

Read more below

The Asus Chromebook Detachable CM3 meets U.S.  MIL-STD810H standards . This means that in can handle bumps, shocks and temperature changes. Bolstered by the case and keyboard, it has quite a bit of protection, and if you are worried about that fabric covering, it's stain-resistant.

Laptop Mag has been testing Chromebooks for nearly a decade, and the Acer Chromebook 514 has the longest lasting battery life of any Chromebook we’ve ever reviewed, which is no easy feat.

Best Chromebook for students

This 15.6-inch notebook boasts powerful AI-infused performance, an entire school day of battery life, and a sturdy build. With improved ChromeOS performance and a webcam with all the capabilities of your favorite Android phone, like Magic Eraser, this Acer Chromebook Plus 515 covers all your kid's needs and then some. If they like to create content for their friends, this lightweight laptop can help them do that after they've done their homework. 

The Lenovo Chromebook Duet is a low-priced 2-in-1 that can transform into a laptop with an accompanying twill-like kickstand cover and detachable keyboard. 

The HP Elite Dragonfly Chromebook goes above and beyond with excellent military-grade durability and outstanding durability. We called it the "corner office Chromebook" for good reason in our review

Load the next Chromebooks

Best premium Chromebook

Sleek styling and good performance make the HP Dragonfly Pro Chromebook a compelling alternative to Windows or macOS laptops.

Best Overall

1. Lenovo IdeaPad Flex 5i Chromebook Plus

Our expert review:

Specifications

Reasons to buy, reasons to avoid.

The Lenovo IdeaPad Flex 5i Chromebook Plus is the best Chromebook of 2023. It's a prodigious, potent, productive 2-in-1 Chromebook with a funky meets business casual vibe. 

This Flex 5i relies on a 13th Gen Intel Core i3 1315U CPU,   Intel UHD integrated graphics, 8GB of RAM, and 128GB of storage — although those specs seem minuscule, the performance will shock you. During our review, we discovered the Plus moniker seriously delivered gaming and video editing performance. 

If you're a young content creator on a budget or a small business owner, you could achieve a lot with a Lenovo IdeaPad Flex 5i Chromebook Plus and save money to purchase other things you need to further yourselves. 

Read our full review of the Lenovo IdeaPad Flex 5i Chromebook Plus

Best Aesthetics

2. Asus Chromebook Detachable CM3

The Asus Chromebook Detachable CM3 will fool others into thinking you're carrying a tweed-bound journal, but in reality, you've got a spectacular 2-in-1 laptop in your hands. As a cherry on top, the Detachable CM3 actually comes with a built-in stylus, so you could definitely get some journaling in with some high-tech handwriting.

We also can't talk about the Detachable CM3 without raving about its battery life. You might never need to bring your charger along with you because this Asus Chromebook can last for nearly 12 hours, according to our in-house battery life test.  You also don't need to worry about hauling the Detachable CM3 everywhere in your bag as it meets U.S.  MIL-STD810H standards . This means that in can handle bumps, shocks and temperature changes. Bolstered by the case and keyboard, it has quite a bit of protection, and if you are worried about that fabric covering, it's stain-resistant.

See our full Asus Chromebook Detachable CM3 review .

Best Battery Life

3. Acer Chromebook 514

The Acer Chromebook 514 makes its presence known with a tantalizing 14 hours and 8 minutes of battery life. Laptop Mag has been testing Chromebooks for nearly a decade, and it has the longest-lasting battery life of any we’ve ever reviewed. 

The Acer Chromebook 514 is sub-$500, making it an excellent choice for writers with a limited budget who frequently find themselves on the go.

If you need a shockingly good speaker system and decent performance, especially compared to the Chromebook's cost, this is a solid pick. However, be prepared for a sluggish touchpad and a display that is not the brightest.

See our Acer Chromebook 514 review .

Best for Students

4. Acer Chromebook Plus 515

The Acer Chromebook Plus 515 adheres to Google’s new mantra of double power and double the performance. I could push documents, edit photos and videos while pushing out documents, and watch hours of content on my favorite streaming site. It never struggled with any of the tasks I put before it, and although the battery life is under 10 hours, which is what I was hoping for, I can’t hold that against it at all. 

For a laptop that costs under $400, you can basically do whatever your heart desires, from document pushing, video, and photo editing to even some gaming. You can get all that for just $399. Google and its OEM partners just put Apple and Microsoft on notice. Your students will love what they can accomplish with this Acer Chromebook Plus 515.

See our full Acer Chromebook Plus 515 review .

Best Portability

5. Lenovo Chromebook Duet

The Lenovo Chromebook Duet is one of the best because it is a low-priced 2-in-1 that is a tablet, but can also transform into a laptop with an accompanying twill-like kickstand cover and detachable keyboard. 

The most spectacular feature of the Duet is its battery life -- you can get almost 13 hours of battery life. Its display is colorful, so watching Netflix , Disney Plus + and Amazon Prime Video on this little convertible will be pleasant on the eyes.

It also has an ultraportable design. You can close it shut into a book-like form, and no one will ever know you're carrying a laptop -- they'll assume you're holding a notebook or a journal. 

Read our full review of the Lenovo Chromebook Duet .

Best Chromebook for Business

6. HP Elite Dragonfly Chromebook

Yes, this Chromebook means business. The HP Elite Dragonfly Chromebook offers all the simplicity of ChromeOS coupled with the features business customers care about. That includes excellent Intel vPro security, a Titan C chip, and a fingerprint sensor, not features you'll find on your average Chromebook. A free year of Parallels for Chromebooks gives you full access to any Windows apps if you are worried about the oft-overstated limitations of ChromeOS.

If the security and ease of management aren't enough to win you over, then consider the rest of these specs. A 13.5-inch 2K display with up to 400 nits of brightness. An easily portable 2-in-1 form factor, light 2.8-pound chassis, and optional 5G support for frequent travelers. 

At just over 9 hours in our Laptop Mag battery test, the battery life is one area that could be improved upon and as with most Intel vPro laptops you'll hope that work is covering the cost, but given what you'll save on support, it is worth the investment.

See our full HP Elite Dragonfly Chromebook review .

7. HP Dragonfly Pro Chromebook

If you're looking for a premium Chromebook, you won't find anything better than the HP Dragonfly Pro Chromebook. It's stylish, sleek, and full of metal (spiritually hard, physically light).

The $999 Dragonfly Pro Chromebook pops off with a 12th Gen Intel Core i5-1235U CPU with integrated Intel Iris Xe graphics, 16GB of RAM, and 256GB SSD for storage. It glows with a 14-inch, 2.5K (2560 x 1600), LCD touchscreen with a 16:10 aspect ratio and a whopping 1,276 nits of brightness.

Not to mention that the Bang and Olufsen quad speakers on this Dragonfly Pro are loud and pretty darn thumpy, hitting the full range of audio tones whether you’re listening to music or watching a movie.

See our full HP Dragonfly Pro Chromebook review .

How to choose the best Chromebook for you

Choosing the best Chromebook for you depends on who you are and what needs you're hoping it will fulfill. Are you a student who is mostly reliant on Google productivity apps? Are you a business seeking to provide Chromebooks for your employees? Are you a school hoping to snag the perfect Chrome OS systems for your students? Here's my easy-to-understand buying guide on how to buy the perfect one for you.

How much does a Chromebook cost?

Luckily for you, Chromebooks are known for being budget-friendly. There are some premium models out there such as the Google Pixelbook Go that command higher prices due to their long battery life and thin-bezel display. But for the most part, you can find a high-quality for under $500, such as the Dell Chromebook 3189.  

You can also snag a 2-in-1 Chromebook, which is a laptop with Chrome OS that can shape-shift into different modes, including tablet mode, such as the HP Chromebook x360 12b for under $400. A Windows 2-in-1 laptop could be double or triple that price.

Are Chromebooks portable?

When it comes to portability, we need to take a look at screen size and weight. Most fall between 11 and 13 inches, so hauling them around school or the office will be a breeze. 

How well does a Chromebook perform?

Most of the time, these are lightweight devices; Chrome OS sticks to the basics of providing your favorite Google productivity apps with a few extras (unlike Windows operating systems that can be bloatware hell). If you need additional apps, you can download them from the Google Play store. Because many applications on Chrome OS operate using the cloud, this means more free space for your laptop and speedier performance. 

Do Chromebooks have good battery life?

Chromebooks have very good battery life. On our own in-house Laptop Mag Battery test,  on average, they last 10 hours. They will usually endure the eight hours that are necessary for a productive day at work or school. 

Are Chromebooks secure?

If you're a business looking for a secure laptop for your employees or an institution seeking student-friendly devices that are nearly immune to malware, Chromebooks are the way to go.  Some even go as far as adding biometric authentication, like fingerprint scanners.

How we test the best Chromebooks

One of the unique ways we test Chromebooks is by dropping the devices to test its durability. No, we're not kidding. Laptop Mag has its own in-house Chromebook drop test to measure how well they handle shocks. As Chromebooks are often used by on-the-go students and worker bees, it can be easy to have the device slip through one's fingers while shuffling from office to office or classroom to classroom.

We also test for the Chromebooks' performance, battery life, screen brightness, multitasking muscle and more.

As our Editor-in-Chief Sherri L. Smith describes it, when we bring a laptop into our laboratory, it's our goal is to see how it would work if you brought it into your home or office. While we use a number of industry standard benchmarks such as Geekbench, we focus more on real-world testing.

To measure battery runtime, the Laptop Mag Battery test surfs the web at 150 nits of brightness until the Chromebook runs out of juice. To test their processing power, we use the Geekbench synthetic test. 

We use a colorimeter to measure screen brightness and color gamut while other instruments help us determine a laptop's key travel and ambient heat. See this page on  How We Test Laptops  for more details on our benchmarking procedures.

Why Trust Laptop Mag

Laptop Mag reviews over one hundred different laptops every year, from paperweight ultralights to everyday workhorses to lumbering gaming notebooks that scorch the frame rates of even the hottest AAA games. We're not just experts in the laptop field, as we go one step further by meticulously testing smartphones, tablets, headphones, PC accessories, software, and even the latest in gaming. 

We are 100% independent and have decades of experience to help you buy with confidence. In fact, Laptop Mag has been testing and reviewing products for three decades, and we continue to deliver trustworthy reviews you can rely on. 

Our experienced team of writers and editors scour the available information about the laptop and put it through its paces to determine which is best for you. But before they start, the testing team subjects each system to a rigorous regimen of synthetic and real-world tests to see how a system handles the type of work and games you’re most likely to throw at it. 

Our editorial trustworthiness is enforced by one of the world's largest technology publishers,  Future Publishing . As a company, we have unrivaled experience across every tech sector — and we're the group's specialist for all things mobile tech. 

See our Chromebook Buying Guide and our Windows 10 vs Chromebook or iPad vs. Chromebook face-off to learn more about them. And check out our best laptops deals page to make sure you get the best price before you buy.

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Mark has spent 20 years headlining comedy shows around the country and made appearances on ABC, MTV, Comedy Central, Howard Stern, Food Network, and Sirius XM Radio. He has written about every topic imaginable, from dating, family, politics, social issues, and tech. He wrote his first tech articles for the now-defunct Dads On Tech 10 years ago, and his passion for combining humor and tech has grown under the tutelage of the Laptop Mag team. His penchant for tearing things down and rebuilding them did not make Mark popular at home, however, when he got his hands on the legendary Commodore 64, his passion for all things tech deepened. These days, when he is not filming, editing footage, tinkering with cameras and laptops, or on stage, he can be found at his desk snacking, writing about everything tech, new jokes, or scripts he dreams of filming. 

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