Written by 
Budget laptops abound, but few can get you into a slick, capable machine for minimal cash better than a Chromebook. PCMag’s expert analysts have been testing and reviewing laptops for decades, and that includes Chromebooks since their very inception. Using PC Labs’ detailed methodology, we test all Chromebooks for key aspects that include performance, battery life, and usability. Because Chromebooks aren’t compatible with most of the benchmark programs we use for Windows and macOS laptops (they run Google’s ChromeOS), we’ve adopted a unique slate to put these distinct laptops to the test. Our current recommendation for the best Chromebook overall is the Asus Chromebook Plus CX34, for its class-leading performance and features for an excellent price. That said, we stand behind all of our best Chromebook picks, selected for specific usage scenarios and budgets. Read on to see them all, plus a detailed buying guide and a blow-by-blow spec breakout.
Deeper Dive: Our Top Tested Picks
Best Chromebook for Most People
Asus Chromebook Plus CX34
The Acer Chromebook Plus CX34 delivers incredible value, with speedy performance and excellent features all for under $500. Prices like that have traditionally been limited to the least capable Chrome laptops, but Google’s Chromebook Plus initiative pushes the value by ramping up the processing power and boosting the feature set with plenty of ports—all without bringing up the price. Equipped with a crisp 1080p display, a sturdy MIL-SPEC-certified frame, and a generous 13-hour battery, the Acer Chromebook Plus CX34 is our favorite Chromebook overall, and an easy recommendation for pretty much everyone interested in Chrome laptops.
If you want an affordable Chromebook without any compromises, then consider the Acer Chromebook Plus CX34 as your first stop in your search. The budget pricing belies its capable performance and excellent feature set, making it a smart choice for anyone who wants a reliable and powerful Chrome laptop.
Class
Chromebook, Budget
Processor
Intel Core i3-1215U
RAM (as Tested)
8 GB
Boot Drive Type
UFS (Universal Flash Storage)
Boot Drive Capacity (as Tested)
128 GB
Screen Size
14 inches
Native Display Resolution
1920 by 1080
Panel Technology
IPS
Variable Refresh Support
None
Screen Refresh Rate
60 Hz
Graphics Processor
Intel UHD Graphics
Wireless Networking
802.11ax (Wi-Fi 6), Bluetooth 5.2
Dimensions (HWD)
0.73 by 12.9 by 8.4 inches
Weight
3.17 lbs
Operating System
Chrome OS
Tested Battery Life (Hours:Minutes)
12:46
Learn More
Best Chromebook for Budget Shoppers
Acer Chromebook Plus 514
Our top budget Chromebook is the Acer Chromebook Plus 514. This 14-inch laptop is compact and lightweight, with excellent battery life to support its portable design and an above-average port selection. It features a 1080p touch screen and a processor that’s just enough for the internet-based ChromeOS. This model has the advantage of being part of Google’s Chromebook Plus line, which means access to useful AI-centric features to enhance your workflow while still coming in at a bargain price.
For a slick, portable Chromebook that’s easy on the wallet, the Chromebook Plus 514 is the number one choice. Whether you’re using it to take notes in class or meetings, stream media on the couch, or just enjoy the online tools and apps ChromeOS includes, the 514 is a fine value.
Class
Chromebook
Processor
Intel Core i3-N305
RAM (as Tested)
8 GB
Boot Drive Type
SSD
Boot Drive Capacity (as Tested)
512 GB
Screen Size
14 inches
Native Display Resolution
1,920 by 1,080
Panel Technology
IPS
Variable Refresh Support
None
Screen Refresh Rate
60 Hz
Graphics Processor
Intel UHD Graphics
Wireless Networking
Wi-Fi 6E, Bluetooth 5.1
Dimensions (HWD)
0.81 by 12.87 by 8.86 inches
Weight
3.15 lbs
Operating System
Google ChromeOS
Tested Battery Life (Hours:Minutes)
14:18
Learn More
Best 2-in-1 Convertible Chromebook
Acer Chromebook Plus Spin 714
The Acer Chromebook Spin Plus 714 is essentially the perfect high-end Chromebook, making good on its higher-than-most price. This Chromebook’s 2-in-1 design meets any like-priced Windows machine for style, with an attractive all-metal chassis and a sharp 14-inch touch screen that looks excellent in both laptop and tablet modes. Now, the computer is driven by an Intel Core Ultra processor, paired with 8GB of memory and a 256GB solid-state drive. Connectivity includes Thunderbolt 4, HDMI-out, and Wi-Fi 6E. All of this helps make the Spin Plus 714 our first five-star Chromebook.
If you want to experience ChromeOS in its most performant and flexible form, look to the Chromebook Spin Plus 714 as your first choice. It combines dual-mode versatility and high-end build quality. With punchy performance, lengthy battery life, and lots of connectivity, this Chromebook provides a helpful balance of value and features in a high-style, sturdy package.
Class
Chromebook, Convertible 2-in-1
Processor
Intel Core Ultra 5 115U
RAM (as Tested)
8 GB
Boot Drive Type
SSD
Boot Drive Capacity (as Tested)
256 GB
Screen Size
14 inches
Native Display Resolution
1920 by 1200
Panel Technology
IPS
Variable Refresh Support
None
Screen Refresh Rate
60 Hz
Graphics Processor
Intel Graphics
Wireless Networking
Wi-Fi 6E, Bluetooth 5.2
Dimensions (HWD)
0.71 by 12.4 by 8.8 inches
Weight
3.21 lbs
Operating System
Chrome OS
Tested Battery Life (Hours:Minutes)
14:46
Learn More
Best 2-in-1 Convertible Chromebook for Budget Shoppers
Lenovo Flex 5i Chromebook Plus
The Chromebook Plus line has delivered when it comes to affordable Chromebooks that don’t skimp on capability, and the Lenovo Flex 5i Chromebook Plus stands out as our favorite 2-in-1 in Google’s Chromebook Plus program. With flexibility for laptop and tablet use, along with excellent keyboard and pen support, it’s one of the best 2-in-1s around. For under $500, you get a reliable Chromebook experience, a crisp 1080p display, a healthy selection of ports, and even access to a bevy of apps and games in tablet mode.
Whether you’re a student, a professional, or a home user, the Lenovo Flex 5i Chromebook Plus is a capable Chromebook with a versatile 2-in-1 design, all in a budget-friendly package. That all makes the Lenovo Flex 5i Chromebook Plus our favorite budget 2-in-1 Chromebook.
Class
Chromebook, Convertible 2-in-1, Budget
Processor
Intel Core i3-1315U
RAM (as Tested)
8 GB
Boot Drive Type
SSD
Boot Drive Capacity (as Tested)
128 GB
Screen Size
14 inches
Native Display Resolution
1920 by 1200
Panel Technology
IPS
Variable Refresh Support
None
Screen Refresh Rate
60 Hz
Graphics Processor
Intel UHD Graphics
Wireless Networking
Wi-Fi 6E, Bluetooth
Dimensions (HWD)
0.72 by 9 by 12.4 inches
Weight
3.52 lbs
Operating System
Chrome OS
Tested Battery Life (Hours:Minutes)
11:43
Learn More
Best 2-in-1 Detachable Chromebook
Lenovo IdeaPad Duet 5 Chromebook
As with Windows, most 2-in-1 Chromebooks are convertibles whose keyboards flip and fold under their displays. Lenovo’s IdeaPad Duet 5 Chromebook is a detachable that jettisons its keyboard to become a genuine tablet—a stunning one with an ultra-colorful, ultra-high-contrast 13.3-inch OLED touch screen. Considering that the Duet 5 costs less than $500, its display puts even some of Microsoft’s ritzy Surface tablets to shame. This at least helps with the fact that its Qualcomm Snapdragon CPU isn’t the fastest and that Lenovo charges an extra $33 for a stylus. (But, unlike Microsoft, Lenovo includes the keyboard cover.)
With impressively sharp 5-megapixel front and 8-megapixel rear cameras, the IdeaPad Duet 5 is a nifty 1.5-pound tablet that turns into a handy 2.2-pound laptop when you attach its keyboard cover and kickstand. (The keyboard cover isn’t a match for a real laptop keyboard, but they never are, and its typing feel is comfortable enough, for what it is.) This is a fine bargain alternative to a Surface Go 3 or an Apple iPad Air for students and families.
Class
Chromebook, Detachable 2-in-1
Processor
Qualcomm Snapdragon 7c Gen 2
RAM (as Tested)
8 GB
Boot Drive Type
eMMC Flash Memory
Boot Drive Capacity (as Tested)
128 GB
Screen Size
13.3 inches
Native Display Resolution
1920 by 1080
Panel Technology
OLED
Variable Refresh Support
None
Screen Refresh Rate
60 Hz
Graphics Processor
Qualcomm Adreno GPU
Wireless Networking
802.11ax (Wi-Fi 6), Bluetooth
Dimensions (HWD)
0.28 by 12 by 7.4 inches
Weight
2.24 lbs
Operating System
Chrome OS
Tested Battery Life (Hours:Minutes)
21:10
Learn More
Best 2-in-1 Detachable Chromebook for Budget Shoppers
Lenovo IdeaPad Duet 3 Chromebook
Small-screen Chromebooks aren’t as popular as they once were, but the Lenovo IdeaPad Duet 3 may revitalize the compact and affordable niche. The Lenovo IdeaPad Duet 3 is one of the most versatile and portable Chromebooks we’ve seen, combining a Qualcomm-powered ChromeOS tablet with a slick, magnetically attached kickstand and keyboard cover for laptop use. A touch screen and optional pen also make it exceptional for taking notes in class or meetings or enjoying Google’s huge library of Android games during downtime. Despite being an 11-inch model, the Duet 3 puts up speedy performance while including some of our favorite features from other Chromebooks. We just wish it had a longer battery life.
The Lenovo IdeaPad Duet 3 Chromebook is ideal if you’re in the market for a 2-in-1 detachable Chromebook. Its compact design is excellent if you’re on the go or prefer a smaller device while still having both laptop and tablet functions. The peppy performance and versatility of the Duet 3 Chromebook make it ideal for students, professionals, and anyone who needs a reliable and affordable device for basic computing tasks.
Class
Chromebook, Detachable 2-in-1, Budget
Processor
Qualcomm Snapdragon 7c Gen 2
Processor Speed
2.55 GHz
RAM (as Tested)
4 GB
Boot Drive Type
eMMC Flash Memory
Boot Drive Capacity (as Tested)
64 GB
Screen Size
10.95 inches
Native Display Resolution
2000 by 1200
Panel Technology
IPS
Variable Refresh Support
None
Screen Refresh Rate
60 Hz
Graphics Processor
Qualcomm Adreno GPU
Wireless Networking
802.11ac, Bluetooth
Dimensions (HWD)
0.31 by 10.2 by 6.5 inches
Weight
2.09 lbs
Operating System
Chrome OS
Tested Battery Life (Hours:Minutes)
6:01
Learn More
Best Big-Screen Chromebook
Acer Chromebook Plus 515
With compact Chromebooks dominating this category of laptop, a 15-incher is certainly a welcome alternative. Among the 15-inch ChromeOS laptops we’ve reviewed, the Acer Chromebook Plus 515 is an easy favorite. Released in the first wave of Google’s Chromebook Plus initiative, the 515 works with a capable Intel Core i3 processor, but in the less-demanding environment of the browser-focused ChromeOS, it gives you speeds equivalent to a Core i5 chip running Windows. The large screen is matched by a generous port selection and a 1080p webcam—all for right around $400.
The Acer Chromebook Plus 515 is ideal for ChromeOS fans who want more screen real estate. But the real kicker is the affordable price, which makes it a smart choice for budget shoppers who still want a whole lot of Chromebook.
Class
Chromebook, Desktop Replacement
Processor
Intel Core i3-1215U
RAM (as Tested)
8 GB
Boot Drive Type
UFS (Universal Flash Storage)
Boot Drive Capacity (as Tested)
128 GB
Screen Size
15.6 inches
Native Display Resolution
1920 by 1080
Panel Technology
IPS
Variable Refresh Support
None
Screen Refresh Rate
60 Hz
Graphics Processor
Intel UHD Graphics
Wireless Networking
Wi-Fi 6E, Bluetooth 5.1
Dimensions (HWD)
0.79 by 14.2 by 9.4 inches
Weight
3.7 lbs
Operating System
Chrome OS
Tested Battery Life (Hours:Minutes)
10:50
Learn More
Best Chromebook for Online Gaming
Acer Chromebook 516 GE
You’ll see a lot of Acer products on this list, but only the Acer Chromebook 516 GE can claim to be among the first of a new type of ChromeOS laptop. The GE stands for “Gaming Edition,” and it’s one of the first gaming Chromebooks to hit the market. Made with cloud gaming in mind, the Acer provides premium hardware and a sturdy design with gamer-friendly touches, and it doesn’t cost thousands of dollars. On top of that, the online games available for play with the Chromebook are actually quality, including popular AAA and indie games (via subscription game streaming services like GeForce Now), without all the chunky hardware or short battery life typical of gaming machines.
If you want to really see what today’s Chromebooks can do, or just want to game without the huge upfront investment of a gaming laptop, the Acer Chromebook 516 GE is an easy answer. It has the processing chops to support all of your gaming needs, and it’s naturally a fast and capable Chromebook in every other respect. And even with its higher gaming price, it’s still less expensive than many midrange Windows machines.
Class
Chromebook
Processor
Intel Core i5-1240P
RAM (as Tested)
8 GB
Boot Drive Type
SSD
Boot Drive Capacity (as Tested)
256 GB
Screen Size
16 inches
Native Display Resolution
2560 by 1600
Panel Technology
IPS
Variable Refresh Support
None
Screen Refresh Rate
120 Hz
Graphics Processor
Intel Iris Xe Graphics
Wireless Networking
Wi-Fi 6E, Bluetooth 5.2
Dimensions (HWD)
0.84 by 14 by 9.8 inches
Weight
3.75 lbs
Operating System
Chrome OS
Tested Battery Life (Hours:Minutes)
9:41
Learn More
Best Upgradable Chromebook
Framework Laptop Chromebook Edition
The Framework Laptop Chromebook Edition is an excellent ChromeOS laptop with impressive performance and lots of features, making it one of the best Chromebooks available. However, its primary selling point is its repairable, upgradable, and customizable design, which puts the power in the hands of the user. The ability to upgrade memory, storage, ports, and even the display—as well as the option to replace the motherboard for CPU upgrades—makes it unique in the Chromebook world. But aside from the innovative design, it’s also an excellent Chromebook, thanks to an Intel Core i5-1240P processor, 8GB of RAM, 256GB of SSD storage, and battery life that gets you through a day of work or school.
This Chromebook is ideal for anyone who prioritizes sustainability or customization. It is perfect for those who want to upgrade and repair their laptop rather than buying a new one every few years. The price may be a little steep for a Chromebook, but it is worth the investment for those who value reparability and longevity in their tech products.
Class
Chromebook
Processor
Intel Core i5-1240P
RAM (as Tested)
8 GB
Boot Drive Type
SSD
Boot Drive Capacity (as Tested)
256 GB
Screen Size
13.5 inches
Native Display Resolution
2256 by 1504
Panel Technology
IPS
Variable Refresh Support
None
Screen Refresh Rate
60 Hz
Graphics Processor
Intel Iris Xe Graphics
Wireless Networking
802.11ax (Wi-Fi 6), Bluetooth 5.2
Dimensions (HWD)
0.62 by 11.7 by 9 inches
Weight
2.9 lbs
Operating System
Chrome OS
Tested Battery Life (Hours:Minutes)
8:44
Learn More
Buying Guide: The Best Chromebooks for 2024
Most Chromebooks lack the powerful hardware of gaming laptops or mobile workstations, but most don’t need it. Because you’ll be visiting websites and running apps within ChromeOS, which is a souped-up version of the Chrome browser, the technical barrier to entry is low. This also frees you from downloading and installing traditional software; if you can’t do something from a standard webpage, chances are you’ll be able to from one of the thousands of apps and extensions available to ChromeOS users.
With just a few clicks, your Chromebook can have almost as much functionality as a budget Windows laptop, and most recent Chromebooks also let you install any app designed for the Android mobile OS. (Older or deeply discounted Chromebooks may lack Android support; you can check this list for the model you’re considering.) This means both the browser-based and Android versions of Microsoft Office are available if you want an alternative to Google Docs, Sheets, and Slides.
(Credit: Joseph Maldonado)
One primary benefit of running web-based software is security. Chromebooks are immune to most of the viruses and other malware that often plague Windows systems.
ChromeOS updates also take just minutes to complete, rather than the several minutes or an hour you may have to wait for macOS and Windows to do their update thing. Although easy access to an always-on internet connection is a must for Chromebooks, you can perform most standard tasks offline and sync up later, so you needn’t stop working if there’s a Wi-Fi connectivity glitch.
(Credit: Joseph Maldonado)
IT management is also easier on ChromeOS. Schools have long taken advantage of Chromebooks’ easy-to-use fleet management tools, but business users got a huge boost when Intel launched vPro Enterprise for Chrome. Intel-powered Chromebooks can now enjoy the same security and management tools featured on other business laptops without the hassle of Windows. If ChromeOS has been looking like a good fit for your business, it just got even better.
With the best Chromebooks, you also don’t need to worry about long-term lasting power. Google has just increased the supported life of all Chromebooks from eight years to 10 years, meaning that you have a full decade of use knowing that you’ll continue getting automatic updates.
What Are Good Specs for a Chromebook?
When shopping for the best Chromebook for your needs, you’ll note less hardware variety than with Windows machines. These are the most important specs and factors to be aware of. Also note that a new class of Chromebooks, the Chromebook Plus family, is here. These machines mandate certain minimum Chromebook specs to guarantee a reliable user experience, including high-resolution cameras, IPS screens, and an 8GB floor for memory.
The Chromebook Plus program has also been an introductory platform for Google’s Gemini AI in various ways. Almost everything a Windows laptop or MacBook can do with its respective AI engine, so can the latest Chromebook Plus laptops. Many of these features are handled via cloud servers, but some are executed on-device using the latest neural processors, particularly from Intel, in the highest-end Chromebook Plus laptops.
(Credit: Kyle Cobian)
Screen Resolution
The usual native display resolution on a Chromebook will be 1,920 by 1,080 pixels, otherwise known as full HD or 1080p, but cheaper Chromebooks may have lower resolution while deluxe models may have higher. For most midsize Chromebooks with screens from 13 to 15 inches, 1080p is just fine. Entry-level models’ resolution of 1,366 by 768 pixels can look coarse and is only really suited for laptops with screens smaller than 12 inches diagonally. Try to avoid this resolution on any 13-inch or larger screen, or at least try to eyeball the display in person before you buy. Note that all Chromebook Plus models will have at least a 1080p screen.
Processor
If you browse with only a tab or two open, a low-end CPU like an Intel Core (no Ultra), Intel N-series, or MediaTek chip will suffice. Chromebooks based on Intel Core i-series or Core Ultra processors will allow for more multitasking, though they’ll also be more expensive. Note that AMD has C-series Ryzen mobile processors designed especially for Chromebooks, but they’re less common.
For $300, a Windows laptop with an Intel Core or N-series processor and 4GB of memory would be unpleasantly sluggish for everyday use, but a Chromebook with the same specs should be fine for basic tasks. If you tend to be a multitasker, though, consider a Core i-series or Core Ultra chip and 8GB of memory. Chromebook Plus models, which start at $399 and go up from there, will have at least an Intel Core i3 chip by default and at least 8GB. You may also see AI-centric Intel Core Ultra chips on the latest higher-end models.
Storage
Most of your files on a Chromebook will be stored in the cloud, so many Chromebooks include only a small serving (32GB or 64GB) of eMMC flash-memory storage on which to save your local creations. Look for an SD or microSD card slot if you think you’ll want to save more documents and files on the device. A growing number of the best Chromebooks, spec-wise, have 128GB or larger solid-state drives (SSDs), which are much faster as well as roomier than eMMC flash. Some very new models alternately employ UFS drives, something of a speed and price midpoint between eMMC and SSD. Chromebook Plus models will include at least 128GB of storage by definition.
Connectivity
Most Chromebook connections are wireless, as you’ll use the machine almost exclusively when attached to Wi-Fi. Wired Ethernet ports are rare, but support for 802.11ac Wi-Fi is ubiquitous, with 802.11ax Wi-Fi 6 found in most of today’s Chromebooks.
(Credit: Joseph Maldonado)
If you’ll need to give presentations from your Chromebook, an HDMI monitor port is usually more convenient than carrying a USB-C DisplayPort adapter. Also, look for a USB port or two if you want to attach a mouse, a flash drive, or another peripheral.
Gaming
Entertainment isn’t a big concern for classroom users, but gaming on Chromebooks is finally a reality. Not only do you have several ways to play on Chromebooks of all kinds, but the latest game-ready models are built to take advantage of cloud services like Nvidia GeForce Now and Microsoft’s Xbox cloud gaming. The first batch of purpose-built gaming Chromebooks is still fresh, so keep an eye on the best Chromebooks for gaming for our latest reviews.
Are Touch-Screen and Tablet Chromebooks Worth It?
Today’s Chromebooks have stepped up from basic, bare-bones laptops to elegant computers with surprisingly rich capabilities. A few sport carbon-fiber chassis or lightweight magnesium alloy frames. Others not only swap out flash storage for a speedy SSD but boast a bright, 1080p, or higher-resolution in-plane switching (IPS) display with sharp text, vivid colors, and wide viewing angles. Top models have premium styling that rivals any high-end Windows notebook.
(Credit: Molly Flores)
That includes touch screens (ChromeOS is optimized for touch input), which are especially handy when you’re tapping away at Android apps designed for touch. And while most Chromebooks are traditional clamshell laptops, a growing number are 2-in-1 convertibles whose screens flip and fold into laptop, tablet, and kiosk or presentation modes, just like Lenovo’s Yoga and HP’s x360 systems. A handful of our best Chromebook picks are detachable, with kickstands and removable keyboards, comparable to Windows tablets. These days, a budget Windows laptop and a similarly priced Chromebook can look far more alike than you might expect.
Ready to Buy the Right Chromebook for You?
Whether you’re a Facebook or Instagram addict or you just need a machine for checking email and working in Google apps, Chromebooks are easy to use, convenient to take on the go, and relatively inexpensive. If you think a Chromebook could be right for you, check out our detailed spec chart and our pick list for the best Chromebooks we’ve tested. If you’re on a tight budget but need Windows, our guides to the best cheap laptops and the best laptops for college students are worth a look, too. For more general buying advice, check out our comprehensive guide to today’s top laptop picks, regardless of price.