The Ultimate Guide to Chromebooks: Unveiling the Top Pick for 2023

If you haven't kept up with the advancements in Chromebooks in recent years, you've overlooked some impressive innovations. Gone are the days when Chromebooks were seen as basic laptops for young students; nowadays, they are highly capable lightweight devices suitable for personal, professional, and even gaming purposes.

Among the top players in the Chromebook market are Lenovo, Asus, and now Google. Interestingly, unlike in the past when only a select few manufacturers produced exceptional Chromebooks, today almost every manufacturer consistently offers excellent options.

Best Budget Gaming Laptops

When you are looking for a Chromebook, there are a couple of factors you will want to keep in mind to pick out the perfect Chromebook for you.

Specs: What CPU, RAM, and storage will give you the best performance for your needs?

Battery Life: How long are you typically going without a charger?

Design: Are you inclined towards a Chromebook with a conventional laptop appearance or one with a versatile 2-in-1 design?

Value: What financial range are you considering for a Chromebook, and does the product's performance justify its price point?

Google Pixel Go

Best Overall Chromebook $649 at Google

Framework Laptop Chromebook

Most Customizable Chromebook $999 at Framework

Lenovo Chromebook Flex 5i

Best Budget-Friendly Chromebook $374 at Amazon

Acer Chromebook 516 GE

Best Cloud Gaming Chromebook $619 at Best Buy

Asus Chromebook Flip CX5

Best 2-in-1 Chromebook $619 at Best Buy

See More

ASUS - Chromebook Detachable CM3

Best Lightweight Chromebook $316 at Amazon

Google Pixel Go

The Pixelbook Go by Google is the ultimate Chromebook for those on the move. Weighing only 2 pounds and measuring a mere 13 mm thin, this laptop is designed for a life on the go. With an impressive battery life of up to 12 hours, you can confidently work on your Google Docs in a coffee shop, catch up on emails during a flight, or even enjoy movies while on vacation.

Featuring the signature Just Black color, the Pixelbook Go offers storage options of either 64 GB or 128 GB. Powered by an 8th Gen Intel® Core m3 CPU, it ensures smooth performance. Plus, with a memory capacity of either 8 GB or 16 GB, you can easily multitask without any lag.

Running on the efficient ChromeOS operating system, this laptop provides a seamless user experience. Its battery life of up to 12 hours allows you to stay productive all day long. Additionally, the Pixelbook Go is equipped with 1x USB-C port and a 3.5mm Audio Jack for convenient connectivity. The 1080p 60FPS Duo Camera ensures sharp and clear video calls, while the 13.3" LCD touchscreen display with a resolution of 1920x1080 guarantees a vibrant visual experience.

Despite its incredible capabilities, the Pixelbook Go weighs just 2.3 lbs and has dimensions of 12.2 in x 8.1 in x 0.5 in, making it incredibly easy to carry around. It supports WiFi connectivity, so you can stay connected wherever you go. The dual front firing speakers deliver high-quality sound for an immersive audio experience.

In conclusion, the Pixelbook Go is a top-notch Chromebook that combines portability, performance, and style, making it the ideal choice for those always on the move.

12-Hour Battery Life

Cons Only Has USB-C ports

Must Be Online To Perform Most Tasks

See at Amazon $649 at Google

With a price slightly higher than most Chromebooks, the Google Pixelbook Go offers unbeatable build quality and impressive performance. It boasts a 1080p webcam, remarkable battery life, and a delightful keyboard that ensures a pleasant typing experience throughout the entire workday.

Equipped with 8 GB of RAM, this Chromebook effortlessly meets Chrome's memory requirements, outshining other options limited to 4 GB of RAM. When it comes to general office work, the Pixelbook Go excels, thanks to its impressive 12-hour battery life. While it may not be suitable for playing Triple AAA games, this Chromebook easily handles most Android games with ease.

Office workers or frequent coffee shop typists will be delighted to learn that the new Chromebook, the Framework Laptop Chromebook, features Google's "Hush" keyboard. Despite its unconventional name, this keyboard is exceptionally silent, ensuring that you do not disturb those around you while typing. However, the keys still offer a satisfying tactile feedback that confirms each key press.

Framework Laptop Chromebook

Introducing the Most Customizable Chromebook

Experience exceptional performance with the power of the 12th Gen Intel® Core™ i5-1240P processor. Boasting 4+8 CPU cores and 30W sustained performance, this Chromebook delivers impressive power efficiency, PCIe 4.0, and Intel's new Xe Graphics, bringing a significant improvement over previous generations.

In a sleek silver color, this Chromebook comes with ample storage of 256GB. The CPU, an i5-1240P, offers speeds of up to 4.4 GHz with its 4+8 cores. The memory capacity is 8GB (1 x 8GB) DDR4-3200, ensuring smooth multitasking.

Operating on ChromeOS, this Chromebook is equipped with a 55Wh battery for long-lasting usage. It features 4 customizable I/O ports for versatile connectivity options. The camera offers a resolution of 1080p and captures videos at 60fps.

Featuring a 13.5-inch display with a resolution of 2256x1504, this Chromebook provides a crisp and vibrant viewing experience. Weighing just 1.3 kg and measuring 296.3mmx228.98mm, it is incredibly portable and lightweight.

Stay connected with the latest WiFi 6E technology for fast and reliable internet connectivity. The stereo 2W speakers offer improved 80dB loudness for immersive audio quality.

One of the standout features of this Chromebook is its easy customizability and upgradability. Make it truly your own by personalizing and enhancing its functionality.

Discover a Chromebook that gives you the power, convenience, and flexibility you need – the most customizable Chromebook on the market.

Can Handle Some Light Gaming

Cons Expensive For a Chromebook

Framework offers laptops that are designed for user reparability and component upgrades, making them a popular choice among individuals involved in the right-to-repair movement or DIY enthusiasts. With a price tag of $999, Framework laptops provide users with the flexibility to repair and upgrade their devices, rather than resorting to purchasing a new laptop.

The price may deter some individuals, but it's important to consider that Framework is a smaller company. If their Chromebook is anything like their other laptops, you'll only need to purchase a new main board at a much lower cost when you decide to upgrade.

One of the standout features of Framework laptops is the ability to swap out I/O ports. Unlike traditional Chromebooks, the Framework Chromebook allows you to replace all four I/O ports with any ports of your choice. They offer modules that connect to internal USB-C ports, allowing you to transform the I/O into anything from a USB-A to a full-sized HDMI port.

Looking for a Chromebook that delivers impressive performance? Look no further than the Lenovo Chromebook Flex 5i. Whether you're a gamer or need a reliable device for studying or work, this Chromebook is a great option for you.

While it's important to mention that the battery life of this Chromebook is relatively low compared to other models, offering up to 8 hours of usage, we believe that the exceptional performance it provides more than makes up for it. So, even though the battery life may not be the longest, you can still expect a top-notch experience with the Lenovo Chromebook Flex 5i.

The IdeaPad™ Flex 5i Chromebook 13" by Lenovo is a top choice for anyone seeking a budget-friendly and versatile Chromebook. Powered by an 11th Generation Intel i3 CPU, this Chromebook can handle any task with ease. The slim and lightweight design, coupled with a impressive battery life of up to 10 hours, makes it suitable for use in any setting. Available in Abyss Blue and Iron Grey, this Chromebook offers ample storage with 128 GB and comes with 8 GB of memory. Running on Chrome OS, it also features a range of ports including two USB 3.1 Gen 2 (Type-C), one USB 3.1 Gen 2 (Type-A), a microSD Card Reader, and an Audio Combo Jack. The 720p camera and 13.3" FHD display provide clear and vibrant visuals. Weighing only 2.98 lbs and measuring 12.2 x 8.43 x 0.67 inches, the IdeaPad™ Flex 5i Chromebook 13" is an excellent choice for those looking for an affordable and reliable Chromebook.

10 hour battery life

Cons Only 720P Webcam

Older CPU

$374 at Amazon

The Lenovo Flex 5i offers a cost-effective solution for those seeking comparable performance to other Chromebooks. With an Intel Core i3-1115G4 CPU, 8GB of LPDDR4x RAM, and a 128GB M.2 PCIe SSD, this Chromebook excels in office work and school tasks. However, its gaming capabilities may be limited.

While the 16:9 aspect ratio may not be the most optimal for productivity, the screen impresses with its brightness and color accuracy, especially considering the affordable price. Additionally, the flexible design allows for easy rotation, enhancing the snappy and responsive touchscreen functionality.

Introducing the Acer Chromebook 516 GE: A Great Chromebook Option

When it comes to the Lenovo Flex 5i, there are a couple of drawbacks worth mentioning - the 720p webcam and the 11th-generation Intel CPU. However, it's important to note that these downsides may not be deal-breakers for most users.

While the 720p webcam may not satisfy the needs of professionals conducting webinars or presentations, it is perfectly suitable for everyday use. In terms of performance, the impact of the 11th gen Intel CPU is not drastic, meaning it still provides a satisfactory computing experience.

Taking everything into consideration, the Lenovo Flex 5i is an excellent choice for those who wish to avoid spending a large sum of money on a Chromebook.

Now, let's turn our attention to the {img_placeholder_9} Acer Chromebook 516 GE.

Introducing the Best Cloud Gaming Chromebook, now available at a discounted price of $619, saving you $21. This Chromebook is specifically designed for gaming and comes equipped with everything you need to fully enjoy high-FPS gameplay. With a lightning-fast refresh rate of up to 120Hz and high bandwidth, thanks to its built-in RJ-45 2.5G Gigabit Ethernet (2.5GbE) LAN port and Wi-Fi 6E support, you can take full advantage of crisp and clear frame rates.

The brand of this gaming Chromebook is Acer, and it comes in a stylish Titanium Gray color. It offers a generous storage capacity of 256GB and runs on an Intel Core i5-1240P CPU. With 8GB of memory and the ChromeOS operating system, you can expect excellent performance.

In terms of battery life, this Chromebook provides approximately 9 hours of usage. It also offers a variety of ports, including 2 x USB-C (3.2), 1 x USB-A (3.2), 1 x 3.5mm audio in/out, and 1 x HDMI. The 1080p camera allows for high-quality video calls, and the 16-inch display boasts a resolution of 2560x1600. Despite its impressive features, this gaming Chromebook is lightweight, weighing just 3.75lbs, and has dimensions of 14x9.8x.84 inches.

When it comes to connectivity, the Chromebook supports Wi-Fi 6E and Gigabit Ethernet, ensuring a reliable and fast internet connection. Additionally, the built-in quad speakers deliver immersive sound quality.

Overall, the Best Cloud Gaming Chromebook from Acer ticks all the boxes when it comes to performance, design, and connectivity, making it an excellent choice for avid gamers.

Fast 120Hz display

Good Selection of I/O ports.

Cons No Touch Screen

USB-C ports aren't Thunderbolt 4

Priced at $679 on Amazon and $619 at Best Buy, this gaming-focused Chromebook offers a unique gaming experience. Its standout features include an RGB keyboard and a rapid 120Hz display. Unlike traditional gaming laptops, the Acer Chromebook 516 GE (GE for Gaming Edition) is specifically designed for cloud gaming rather than relying on an internal GPU. This means you can enjoy a wide range of games, including more than just Android mobile games.

Using GeForce Now on ChromeOS allows you to access your Steam library and play games remotely, regardless of your location, as long as you have an internet connection. Although the free version of GeForce Now may not seem valuable, as it usually offers games at resolutions below 1080p and limits sessions to one hour, this Chromebook offers a 3-month free trial of the premium version, which provides a significantly improved gaming experience.

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Besides its outstanding performance, the Asus Chromebook Flip CX5, represented by

, boasts a remarkable build quality. Its I/O features evoke a sense of nostalgia, reminiscent of older laptops that didn't compromise on variety. However, one minor drawback is that the USB-C ports lack Thunderbolt 4 support, limiting the full potential of these ports in terms of performance.

The 16-inch ASUS Chromebook Flip CX5 is a premium 2-in-1 Chromebook that offers powerful performance and connectivity. Featuring the latest 12th Generation Intel® Core™ i3 processor and Wi-Fi 6E, this Chromebook delivers fast and seamless multitasking.

With its three-sided NanoEdge display and 16∶10 aspect ratio, the ASUS Chromebook Flip CX5 provides an immersive viewing experience. The display fits more screen into the chassis, allowing you to see more content at once.

Not only does the ASUS Chromebook Flip CX5 have a stunning display, but it also offers a top-notch audio experience. Equipped with a Harmon Kardon-certified quad-speaker design, the audio system delivers impeccable sound quality. Whether you're watching movies or listening to music, you can expect clear and immersive audio.

In terms of specifications, this Chromebook comes in a stylish Mineral Grey color. It has a generous storage capacity of 128GB and 8GB of memory, ensuring smooth performance and ample space for files and applications. The operating system is Chrome OS, which offers a fast, secure, and user-friendly computing experience.

The ASUS Chromebook Flip CX5 features a long-lasting 57Wh lithium-ion battery, providing excellent battery life for all-day use. It is equipped with a 720p camera for video conferencing and a reliable Intel UHD Graphics 630 GPU for smooth graphics performance.

Overall, the ASUS Chromebook Flip CX5 stands out for its powerful performance, stunning display, and exceptional audio quality. It is a reliable and versatile 2-in-1 Chromebook that offers excellent battery life, making it a great choice for both work and entertainment.

Pretty Good Specs

Cons Only 720P Webcam

The Asus Flip CX5 stands out as an exceptional choice for individuals seeking an exceptional 2-in-1 experience. With its sleek and durable design, this Chromebook surpasses expectations and ensures effortless portability. At Best Buy, it is priced at $619, while Amazon offers it for $650.

The CX5 offers a diverse range of I/O options, a comfortable keyboard ideal for extended typing sessions, and a remarkably vibrant screen that even rivals the quality of high-end Windows laptops. In terms of performance, this Chromebook excels at productivity tasks and can even handle light gaming thanks to its Intel UHD Graphics. Additionally, the battery boasts impressive longevity, easily lasting throughout the day without requiring a recharge.

The only setback worth mentioning is the 720p webcam. While the rest of the CX5 exudes a premium and high-quality feel, it is somewhat disappointing to see Asus choose a less expensive webcam option.

The ASUS Chromebook Detachable CM3 is the perfect lightweight Chromebook solution. Its sleek Mineral Grey aluminum Unibody chassis, accentuated by sophisticated matte black diamond-cut edges, exudes an air of elegance. With its 7.9 mm ultra-thin design and stain-repellent cover, this Chromebook is not only stylish but also a reliable companion for work, play, or study.

The Asus Chromebook, available in Mineral Gray, offers ample storage with 64 GB eMMC. It is equipped with a MediaTek MTK 8183 CPU and 4 GB of memory, ensuring smooth performance. Powered by Chrome OS and a 27Wh Li-polymer battery, this device is designed for efficiency.

In terms of connectivity, it features a USB 2.0 Type-C port and a 3.5mm combo audio jack. The device also comes with a 2MP front camera and an 8MP rear camera for capturing memorable moments.

With its 10.5-inch display and 1920 x 1200 resolution, the Asus Chromebook provides a vibrant and immersive viewing experience. Additionally, weighing only 1.12 pounds and measuring 10.06 x 6.58 x 0.31 inches, it is incredibly lightweight and thin, making it extremely portable.

Overall, the Asus Chromebook stands out for its exceptional portability and detachable keyboard, making it a convenient option for users on the go.

Over 12 hours of battery life.

Cons 2 Megapixel front-facing camera

Fairly Weak CPU

$316 at Amazon $370 at Best Buy

The Asus Chromebook Detachable M3 defies expectations by positioning itself as a worthy iPad alternative rather than a substitute for a Windows laptop. This Chrome OS-based tablet, coupled with its detachable keyboard, grants users a fantastic option for a lightweight productivity tool.

Included with the CM3 is a remarkable slim detachable keyboard, ranking among the top offerings in its category. The keys possess a satisfying clickiness and responsiveness, akin to that of a full-sized laptop keyboard. Furthermore, boasting an impressive battery life of 13 hours, you can navigate through an entire day of travel or work without the need for recharging.

How To Choose The Perfect Chromebook For You?

Specs

When it comes to performance, Chromebooks defy the norm. Unlike their Windows or Mac counterparts, these impressive laptops don't demand top-of-the-line specifications to excel. Instead, they offer optimal efficiency and productivity with a slight deviation in hardware requirements. Take, for instance, the 8 GB RAM configuration – a level that strikes the perfect balance for most users, enabling seamless multitasking and efficient completion of tasks on a Chromebook.

You also won't need as much storage because almost everything is cloud-based. We recommend looking at Chromebooks that have 128 GB of storage or more.

Battery Life

Battery life is a crucial consideration when selecting a new Chromebook. The convenience of portability is undermined if the device has a short battery life. Therefore, it is important to find a Chromebook that offers a sufficiently long-lasting battery.

While referring to the manufacturer's estimate is a good starting point, it is highly recommended to seek out websites that thoroughly test these Chromebooks in real-life scenarios to determine their actual battery performance.

Design

When it comes to Chromebooks, durability and design are key considerations for professionals and students who require portability. To find the perfect Chromebook, it is crucial to look for sturdy materials such as aluminum or steel that provide enhanced durability.

Besides durability, the overall look of a Chromebook also makes it feel more premium, so make sure to look out for ones that appeal to your design aesthetics.

Value

Last but not least is the value of the device. After taking into account the aforementioned factors, it becomes easier to determine a budget for a Chromebook that will be ideal for your needs without exceeding your financial limits. Undoubtedly, the more expensive the device, the more superior the user experience. However, for the majority of individuals, the aim is to strike the perfect balance between price and performance.

FAQ

Are Chromebooks still good in 2023?

Chromebooks are an excellent option in 2023. They have only gotten better in recent years, in our opinion.

Which Chromebook has the longest lifespan?

When it comes to longevity, the Framework Chromebook stands out as the top contender. Its unique ability to replace or upgrade components as required ensures that you can keep using this Chromebook for an extended period before considering the purchase of a completely new one.

Do Chromebook batteries last longer than laptops?

Chromebooks offer a notable advantage with their longer battery life compared to most laptops. The majority of the Chromebooks we endorse provide over 8 hours of battery life, surpassing even the most energy-efficient Windows laptops.