Choosing The Right Chromebook For Your Kid
Some Chromebooks are lightweight and some are bricks. Younger kids will probably do better with compact laptops with military-grade durability that can handle a drop from the table without any risk of damage to the screen.
Storage isn’t a huge deal when most everything is stored in the cloud. However, if your kid will be downloading something like textbooks, you might consider a Chromebook with more storage or with an SD card slot to expand storage. Most have 32GB, basic models have 16GB, and nicer models stretch to 64GB.
If your kid uses Microsoft Office for school, you’ll need a Chromebook that can run Android apps from the Google Play Store. Most are Android-compatible, but some fumble with non-Chrome apps.
Is A Chromebook And Laptop The Same Thing
In almost all respects, yes they are. They deliver a portable computing experience that allows people to work and be creative wherever they might be, and often for significantly less money.
Where Chromebooks differ to laptops is in their operating system, apps, and internal components. The operating system, for example, is Google’s Chrome OS not Windows, Linux or macOS, while the apps that Chromebooks use are from Google’s G-Suite of software.
And, as Google’s software pretty much all runs off the cloud, that means that Chromebook apps are designed to be online at all times. This is an important point to consider when buying a Chromebook. You really need to have an internet connection available to make using a Chromebook worth while.
Lastly, the internal hardware on Chromebook’s tends to be lighter than on a laptop. This is because Chromebooks use web apps and remote hardware to do their work for them. They still have CPUs and hard drives, but they just tend to be more basic as they don’t need to do as much local processing and storing.
It is this lack of need in terms of internal hardware components that often leads to Chromebooks to ring in cheaper than a budget laptop, for example.
Youre Dealing With A Robust Platform
Whether were talking about email clients like Gmail, CRM tools like Salesforce, accounting solutions such as Xero, e-newsletter apps such as Mailchimp or helpdesks such as Zendesk, these all have two things in common:
So, if your team accesses all its key tools in a web browser, then why not provide it with system that is designed explicitly for doing that? Even modestly-specced Chromebooks provide a fast and stable environment for working with browser-based applications.
The same goes for using a Chromebook for personal entertainment. If the main reason youre getting a laptop is to watch Netflix or Amazon Prime shows on the move, there is little point in forking out for an expensive Apple product or a high-end Windows device when you can access video content perfectly well via Chrome.
Read Also: Msi Change Keyboard Lights
Samsung Chromebook 3 Review: My Final Thoughts
The Samsung Chromebook 3 combines a low price and a lightweight design with enough performance and efficiency for daily use.
If youre looking for an excellent budget laptop, the Samsung Chromebook 3 is a great choice. Its extremely reasonably priced for a laptop, and itll be difficult not to be impressed when you consider the price.
However, I will not recommend Samsung Chromebook 3 as your main laptop. It will be excellent as a second laptop, especially if you need a laptop travel companion.
One downside may be its Chrome OS. For most users coming from Windows, using a Chrome OS may require some learning.
If youre willing to give Chrome OS a shot, this Samsung laptop is an excellent option.
Samsung Chromebook 3 Price And Configurations
GPU: Intel HD Graphics 400RAM: 4GBStorage: 32GB eMMc flash storageDisplay: 11-inch, 1366 x 768 LEDBattery: 9:44Size: 11.4 x 8 x 0.7 inchesWeight: 2.5 pounds
There are three variations of the updated Samsung Chromebook 3. Our $179 review unit comes with a 1.6-GHz Intel Celeron N3060 processor, Intel HD Graphics 400, 4GB of RAM and 32GB eMMc flash storage, and it’s available at BestBuy.com and Samsung.com.
The two other configurations use the same Celeron processor and Intel graphics, but differ on RAM and storage capacity. There is a 16GB version of the Chromebook 3 for $170, and a $160 version with only 2GB RAM and 16GB of storage.
If you’re interested in a higher end alternative of the Samsung Chromebook 3, consider getting the Samsung Chromebook Plus LTE. For $599, you’ll get a stylish 2-in-1 laptop with an Intel Celeron 3965Y processor, 4GB of RAM, 32GB eMMC, a 12.2-inch, 1920 x 1200 panel and 4G LTE. It also includes a built-in stylus capable of capturing 4,096 levels of pressure sensitivity with tilt recognition. On top of that, it features a 13MP world-facing camera with autofocus built into the keyboard.
Recommended Reading: How To Connect Airpods To My Laptop
What Are The Advantages Of A Chromebook
Those who have made the switch to using a Chromebook stay there for a few good reasons. First is that you can often find a Chromebook laptop that is quite affordable. So, if youâre on a budget, they can be a good place to start.
Of course, as Chromebooks have gained a larger following and as they increasingly get more bells and whistles, some Chromebooks fall into the premium category. What this means, though, is that the range of laptops offers a lot of variety. A Chromebook can be just as good of an option for kids as it can be for someone running their own business.
Various laptop manufacturers have hopped on the Chromebook laptop bandwagon as is shown in this list. So, if you have a love for a specific brand of laptop, chances are it has a Chromebook option.
The other major selling point for Chromebooks is its user-friendly nature. Because theyâre based around Google Chrome, these laptops use apps, so they feel similar to using an android. This can make switching from your phone to computer extra easy and makes a Chromebook more seamless.
Best Chromebook Black Friday Deals
The rush to find the best Black Friday deals always includes a hunt for the best deals on Chromebooks. These low-maintenance laptops are getting more popular as Chromebook makers roll out models with larger screens and more capabilities.
The best deals go in and out of stock, and won’t always last long, so keep an eye on our Chromebook Black Friday deals page for the most up-to-date discounts.
Don’t Miss: How To Hard Reset Hp Laptop Without Password
Samsung Chromebook 3 Review: An Affordable Portable Laptop
Chromebooks are designed to use less CPU, memory, and local storage by default. The Samsung Chromebook 3 is no exception. The laptop is a small computer that can perform common functions such as browsing, streaming movies, and working with data. The main disadvantage of the Samsung Chromebook 3 is its slow processor.
- 2.Reasonable performance for its specs
- 3. Impressive battery life
- 2. Not capable of graphics-intensive games
- 3. Awkward button layout
Are you on the lookout for a budget-friendly portable laptop? Then this Samsung Chromebook 3 Review will assist you in determining whether the laptop is right for you.
The Samsung Chromebook 3s features and performance will be examined in-depth in this review. The CPU, RAM, storage, and GPU of the laptop will be reviewed to see how well it performs.
In addition, I will conduct different benchmark tests to assess the laptops positive and negative aspects. Ill also compare the laptop to other laptops in the same category.
At the end of this review, you will have all necessary information to make a purchasing decision.
Browse Post Topics
Why Go With Samsung
Samsung is a key player in the Android and Chrome OS markets, and it has long been a top Google partner. The two have been working hard together for years, and it shows. Samsungs Chrome OS offerings come in many flavors. From super high-end laptops to affordable value devices, Samsung products are known for their quality.
Don’t Miss: Are Razer Laptops Worth It
What Can And Can’t I Do With A Chromebook
When Chrome OS launched it was essentially . For those used to an operating system like Windows and Mac, it made the average Chromebook seem like little more than a laptop that runs a web browser and that’s all.
Even if the Chrome OS never matured beyond that, the fact is 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 Chrome at its most basic level.
That said, a Windows laptop or MacBook can run the Chrome browser as well as other software supported by those operating systems. Even if you don’t immediately need a particular piece of software, it’s nice to have the option. Plus, if you’re shopping for a Chromebook for remote learning with Google Classroom, a Mac or Windows PC will work as well.
Samsung’s Galaxy Chromebook 2 is a premium model with better performance than most.
Read more: Best laptops, desktops and tablets for designers and creatives in 2021
One of the big hurdles here for many people is access to Microsoft Office. You can’t install the full Office software on a Chromebook, but Microsoft makes both web-based and Android versions available in the Chrome and , respectively. But generally speaking, if you need or want a specific Windows or Mac application — and there’s no suitable web or Android app substitute and you don’t want to use VMware — don’t get a Chromebook.
Which Chromebook Or Laptop Should I Buy
Of the Chromebooks weve reviewed, wed highly recommend these four: The HP Chromebook x360 12b is inexpensive but very well designedfinally, a budget pick for discerning users. The Lenovo Chromebook Duet has a detachable keyboard, so it can be used as a tablet. Googles own, luxurious Pixelbook and Pixelbook Go embody sleek luxury and workhorse practicality, respectively. And we like the Lenovo Flex 5, though the display isnt quite up to snuff.
Mentioned in this article
Because Chromebooks have a decent support cycle, dont be afraid to buy a slightly older Chromebook at a discount, but make sure you check its end-of-life date.
As far as notebooks are concerned, we have a number of preferred laptops from which to choose. If you have the budget for a Chromebook but prefer Windows instead, the Acer Aspire 5 is Amazons choice, and ours as well. Our best budget convertible, the Lenovo Yoga C740, is a fantastic two-in-one for under $700decidedly more expensive than a Chromebook, but not dramatically so. And theres a reason that we gave the HP Spectre x13t a full five stars.
Theres one other factor which may influence your decision: a list of free Chromebook perks that Google makes available to Chromebook owners. Theyll change from time to time, but at press time , 100GB of Dropbox space, a Google One subscription, and a three-month subscription to Disney+.
Don’t Miss: Best Places To Sell Your Laptop
The Best Chromebooks You Can Buy Today
Reasons to avoid
Taking away the Samsung Galaxy Chromebook’s 4K display was probably the best thing Samsung could have done to make this Chromebook a hit. Now it’s way more affordable, but still sports a great QLED display and longer battery life 7:50 vs the previous gen’s 5:55. It’s also going to sound great, plus its Core i3 configuration provides a ton of speed for Chrome OS.
We weren’t as happy with the vertical travel in its keyboard, which is a bit shallow. This creates a slight learning curve you’ll adapt to over time. But to get a Chromebook that looks this good wow that Fiesta Red color option stands out in a sea of silver Chromebooks and PCs. Plus, at $549 or $699 , the Galaxy Chromebook 2 is a pretty good value.
Reasons to avoid
The best Chromebook for those on a budget, the Samsung Chromebook 4 really impresses with its battery life. This laptop lasted for more than 10.5 hours of web browsing on a single charge. The Chromebook 4s aluminum top makes it look like a much more expensive computer though it has a plastic base. This Chromebooks performance is another highlight, enabling much faster multitasking than I expect at this price.
Camera: Unimpressive But Functional
Most laptop shoppers arent looking for a top-notch built-in camera, but the Chromebook 3s camera is lackluster at best. It functioned adequately for video chat usage and did not lag when capturing video, but picture and video quality was blurry. Bright light, especially natural light, improved the ability to capture a clearer picture or video, but generally, everything was a bit hazy, fuzzy, and washed out.
Read Also: How To Reset Hp Mini Laptop
Samsung Chromebook 4 + Chrome Os Laptop
It is the laptop of the Samsung model with its all latest and newest features and functions. It is suitable for all types of processing work and has an excellent capacity to store much more data for all kinds of work. This is good for its storage power and has the right RAM size to add much more work speed. Moreover, this is the system that has a perfect display to watch all things smoothly. Furthermore, the system is also good with its full easy connectivity with its all wifi and wireless Bluetooth system. The laptop is also lightweight, made with all its support functions.
Features
Good Design
The simple design of this system is also perfect with its full, smooth shape. Moreover, it is also good with its thin LCD setting. So, this systems color is also best enough to make it full support for easy use. Overall, the system is good enough with its top attractive and colorful shape and design.
Excellent Processing
The processing power of this system is also good enough to make this laptop best for use. The processor is new and perfect to add full fast speed and browsing also becomes high enough to give much more working. Moreover, this is an extra rugged and durable processor of Intel Celeron N4000. Therefore, the speed of the laptop becomes efficient for all types of work.
Slim Shape
Good Storage
Easy Connectivity
Pros
Samsung Galaxy Chromebook Review: Performance
Strong PC speed in a Chromebook shell is the kind of proposition I love, and the Galaxy Chromebooks Intel Core i5-10210U CPU and 8GB of RAM proved enough for speedy multitasking. It shredded through my standard test of using split-screen mode with a 1080p YouTube video and a dozen Chrome tabs open. I got so cocky that I layered two more 1080p YouTube videos on top, and I could hear each individual video play on top of the other without any stutters.
However, when it comes to playing with the big boys, the Galaxy Chromebook’s comparative benchmark scores don’t do much to convince anyone to switch to Chrome OS. It netted a 2,232 on the Geekbench 5 general performance test, which is much lower than the 4,847 from the Dell XPS 13 , and even the Y-Series Intel chip-powered MacBook Air netted a higher number, scoring 2,738. At least the Galaxy Chromebook beat the 1,356 from the Pixelbook Go .
The Galaxy Chromebook beat the Pixelbook Go on the Jetstream 2.0 test , with a score of 91.9 that tops the Go’s 85.9.
Read Also: How To Turn On Wifi On Dell Laptop
Samsung Galaxy Chromebook Review: Chrome Os And Android
Android app emulation still provides welcome bonuses for Chromebooks, as I saw Spotify and the racing game Asphalt 9 run smoothly on the Galaxy Chromebook. When I played Asphalt 9, I saw smooth rendering as a Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution raced around San Francisco.
That being said, most apps still need to be optimized out for the widescreen Chrome experience. That includes Slack, which requires adjustment when you try and use it as a floating window, and only shows you your current active message. Similarly, Spotify has a ton of wasted space. Further, re-adjusting Android apps shows the seams in the emulation, as they take more time to re-render.
Samsung Chromebook 3 Graphic Card Performance Review
The Samsung Chromebook 3 Intel HD Graphics 400 comes with graphics card. As expected, this isnt a high-end graphics card.
Unfortunately, the graphics cards lack a dedicated VRAM. This means that the graphics card and the CPU share the same internal memory.
The Intel HD Graphics 400 also features a 320 MHz base frequency and has a boost frequency of 600 MHz.
This laptop may not be the ideal choice if you require a laptop for graphic design or high-end gaming. This isnt a big deal, though, because its a budget device, so you cant have everything.
When it comes to Android apps, youll be able to use the vast majority of them. However, more demanding apps, such as games with advanced graphic may not work well.
To give you an idea, the laptop can play simple games like Pac-Man and Pocket World 3D without lags or interruptions.
In a test, the laptop handled several casual web-based games, such as Cut the Rope, thanks to its integrated Intel HD Graphics 400. However, in the middle of a game, the 3D first-person shooter Web Quake, the laptop begins to slow down.
To further determine the Graphics performance, I conducted the WebGL Aquarium graphics test. Based on this test, the laptop rendered 2,000 fish in the tank at 23fps. All of its similar competitors performed far worse.
For example, the Lenovo Ideapad 100S-14, only managed 7 fps.
As a result, in this review, Ill rate the laptop a seven because it outperformed similar laptops.
Read Also: How Do I Transfer Data From One Laptop To Another