Top Lenovo Chromebooks: Unveiling the Future of Computing in 2023

When searching for a new Lenovo Chromebook, there are several factors to consider:

Size: What size of Chromebook will work best?

Performance: What tasks does the Chromebook need to be able to accomplish?

Storage and Battery Life: What are the specs of the Chromebook?

Interest in other brand options? Check out Game Rant's list for the best Chromebooks for 2023.

Lenovo Flex 5i

Best Overall Lenovo Chromebook $468 at Amazon

Lenovo IdeaPad Gaming Chromebook (16")

Best Performance Lenovo Chromebook $429 at Walmart

Lenovo IdeaPad Flex 3i (Gen 8, 12.2")

Best Budget Lenovo Chromebook $269 at Best Buy

Lenovo ThinkPad C13 Yoga Chromebook

Best Mid-Range Lenovo Chromebook $310 at Amazon

Lenovo IdeaPad Duet 5 Chromebook

Best 2-in-1 Lenovo Chromebook See at Amazon

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Lenovo 14e Chromebook Laptop

Best Lenovo Chromebook For Kids See at Amazon

Lenovo Flex 5i

Lenovo Flex 5i 13 Chromebook is the top choice for users seeking a versatile and powerful Chromebook. With its seamless convertibility, it can effortlessly transform into a laptop, presentation device, or tablet. Boasting a sleek 13.3-inch display with a resolution of 1920 x 1080 pixels, this Chromebook offers a visually stunning experience. With 8 GB of memory, it ensures smooth multitasking and efficient performance. Weighing just 2.98 lbs, it provides ultimate portability without compromising on durability. Additionally, it is equipped with an integrated card reader for effortless data transfer. The standout feature of this Chromebook is its impressive 10-hour battery life, ensuring uninterrupted productivity and enjoyment throughout the day.

128 GB SSD storage

Cons Only 720P webcam

The Lenovo Flex 5i Chromebook, priced at $468 on Amazon, has remained a popular choice among Chromebook enthusiasts. Despite not boasting the newest and most advanced hardware, it still stands as a reliable option. Moreover, its price has recently decreased, making it an even more attractive choice. While it may not be the most powerful or budget-friendly option available, its price-to-performance ratio remains unbeatable.

The Lenovo IdeaPad Gaming Chromebook (16") packs a punch with its 13.3-inch display, offering an immersive viewing experience. It is equipped with the high-performance 11th Gen Intel Core i3-1115G4 processor and 8 GB of RAM, ensuring seamless multitasking capabilities. With its impressive battery life, you can confidently use it throughout the day without worrying about recharging. The Chromebook has a generous 128 GB SSD, providing ample storage space for most users. Crafted with exceptional build quality, it features a comfortable keyboard that makes typing a breeze, a stunning display, and remarkable speakers that enhance your media streaming experience.

The Lenovo IdeaPad Gaming Chromebook offers exceptional gaming performance with its powerful i5-1235U CPU. It allows users to enjoy FHD gaming while running background processes seamlessly. With its sleek and lightweight design, optimized battery performance, and the ability to play, learn, and work on the go, this Chromebook is perfect for gamers.

Specifications:

- Operating System: Chrome OS

- Display: 16 inches, 2560x1600 pixels

- CPU: Intel Core i5-1235U

- GPU: Intel Iris Xe Graphics

- RAM: 8 GB

- Storage: 256GB PCIe SSD Gen 4

- Battery Life: Up to 11 hours

- Camera: Built-in FHD (1080p) webcam with privacy shutter

- Speakers: 4 x 2W speakers with Waves Audio

- Ports: MicroSD card slot, 2x USB-C 3.2 Gen 2, 2x USB-A 3.2 Gen 1, Headphone/mic combo

- Weight: 4.11 lbs

- Brand: Lenovo

- Card Reader: Integrated

Pros:

- Excellent gaming performance

High refresh rate display

Cons No touch screen

Available at Walmart for $429, the Lenovo IdeaPad Gaming Chromebook is perfect for users seeking enhanced power and performance. With its 16-inch display, boasting a resolution of 2560X1600 at up to 120Hz and a peak brightness of 350 nits, this Chromebook ensures a visually stunning gaming experience. Additionally, it features four speakers, eliminating the need for headsets, and is capable of handling both local and cloud gaming, as well as everyday tasks.

The Lenovo IdeaPad Flex 3i (Gen 8, 12.2") lacks a built-in Ethernet port, but the Wi-Fi 6E adapter ensures relatively stable game streaming, depending on the network. For gamers seeking a more dependable network connection, a USB-C to Ethernet adapter can be acquired to overcome this limitation. Of course, no gaming device would be complete without a touch of RGB. The keyboard of the IdeaPad Flex 3i boasts 4-zone RGB lighting, providing not only an excellent typing experience with a 1.5 mm key travel distance but also a visually appealing appearance.

Best Budget Lenovo Chromebook

Price: $269 (original price $349, save $80)

The Lenovo IdeaPad Flex 3i is a compact and affordable Chromebook that boasts a remarkable battery life. Despite its budget-friendly hardware, it is perfect for web browsing, study, or work. The 360-degree flip-and-fold design provides four different modes of use, and the 12.2-inch 10-point multitouch screen adds to its appeal.

Specifications:

- Operating System: Chrome OS

- CPU: Intel Processor N100

- GPU: Intel UHD Graphics

- RAM: 4 GB

- Storage: 64 GB eMMC

- Battery Life: Up to 12 hours

- Display: 12.2" screen with a resolution of 1920 x 1200

Pros:

- Incredibly affordable

Excellent battery life

Cons Only 4GB RAM

Multitasking isn't always smooth

$269 at Best Buy

Look no further than the Lenovo IdeaPad Flex 3i if you're in search of a budget Lenovo Chromebook. Packed with impressive specs, a fantastic design, and an exceptional all-day battery life, all for under $300. It's hard to believe that any tech at this price point could be as good, but the Flex 3i holds its own against some higher-priced Chromebooks. The 12.2-inch 1080p touch-capacitive display allows for tablet-like usage and easy navigation with the touch screen. Powered by an Intel N100 CPU, 4 GB of RAM, and 64 GB of eMMC storage, the Flex 3i may not break any benchmark records, but it is perfect for light work, especially while on the go. Its compact size makes it ideal for busy individuals or students. Additionally, the efficient hardware ensures a battery life of up to 12 hours on a single charge.

Discover the Lenovo ThinkPad C13 Yoga Chromebook - a versatile and reliable mid-range Lenovo Chromebook offering exceptional value. With a discounted price of $310, save $15 on this powerful device. Equipped with the AMD Ryzen 3 3250C Dual-Core processor and 4 GB of memory, the ThinkPad C13 Yoga Chromebook effortlessly handles multiple programs simultaneously. From classrooms to boardrooms, this Chromebook excels in any setting. Its compact 13.3" design easily fits into a laptop bag and boasts an impressive all-day battery life, making it the ideal choice for busy business travelers, remote workers, and individuals seeking flexible performance.

Operating System: Chrome OS

CPU: AMD Ryzen 3 3250C

GPU: AMD Radeon Graphics

RAM: 4 GB DDR4

Storage: 128 GB SSD

Battery Life: Up to 12 Hours

Display: 13.3 Inches, 1920x1080 Resolution

Pros: Solid design, above-average screen and keyboard.

Onboard stylus

Cons Subpar sound

Somewhat expensive

$310 at Amazon

The Lenovo Yoga lineup is highly regarded for its flexibility, exceptional performance, and affordability, and the Yoga ThinkPad C13 Chromebook is no exception. With its AMD Ryzen 3 3250C CPU, 4GB of RAM, and 128 GB SSD, this Chromebook may not be the most expensive option, but it delivers impressive results. It is the perfect choice for remote workers and commuters, thanks to its seamless multitasking capability and long-lasting battery life. Additionally, its portability makes it effortlessly travel-friendly.

Unlike many Chromebooks that are predominantly made of plastic, the Yoga C13 boasts an aluminum construction. It also features minimal branding, providing a premium and durable feel that can withstand everyday wear and tear. The versatile 360-degree hinge allows users to utilize the C13 as a 2-in-1 device, while the keyboard and trackpad offer a delightful user experience throughout the day.

The Lenovo IdeaPad Duet 5 Chromebook is the ultimate 2-in-1 device, seamlessly transforming between a laptop and a tablet. This exceptional Chromebook defies expectations with its compact size and affordable price tag.

Operating System: Chrome OS

CPU: Qualcomm® Snapdragon SC7180 Processor

RAM: 4 GB

Storage: 256 GB

Battery Life: Up to 15 hours

Display: 13.3 inches, ‎1920 x 1080 pixels

Pros: Exceptional OLED display

Includes keyboard cover and kickstand

Cons No audio jack

Somewhat disappointing compute performance

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The Lenovo IdeaPad Duet 5 offers the best of both worlds with its 2-in-1 functionality. Users no longer have to settle for a small screen size, as this device features a stunning 13.3-inch OLED display with a resolution of 1080p and a peak brightness of 400 nits. It also boasts 100% coverage of the DCI-P3 color gamut, making it perfect for designers. Not to mention, it even comes with a keyboard included!

Introducing the Lenovo 14e Chromebook Laptop. Unlike a traditional Chromebook, this sleek device functions more like a tablet and is equipped with a Qualcomm Snapdragon SC7 180 Processor. While it may not be the most powerful processor out there, it still manages to handle tasks like light multitasking, streaming media, and even photo editing or design work. One notable advantage of its lower-power chip is the impressive 15-hour battery life. Whether you're having a long day at the office or embarking on a flight, the Duet 5 will likely last the entire journey without needing to be recharged.

The Lenovo 14e Chromebook is the best option for kids. It was specifically designed to meet the needs of educators and young learners. Its clamshell chassis is made of a combination of aluminum and plastic, giving it a sleek design that resembles both the IdeaPad and ThinkPad.

Featuring a 14-inch display with a resolution of 1920 x 1080 pixels, this Chromebook runs on the Chrome OS operating system. It is powered by an AMD 3015Ce CPU and AMD Radeon R3 GPU, with 4GB of RAM and 32GB of storage capacity. The battery life is impressive, lasting up to 10 hours on a single charge.

One of the standout features of this Chromebook is its affordability, making it an excellent choice for budget-conscious buyers.

Durable build quality

Cons Uses eMMC storage

The Lenovo 14e Chromebook is a top-notch choice for school-aged children in need of a lightweight and budget-friendly laptop. With its impressive specs, including an AMD 3015Ce CPU, 4GB of RAM, and 32GB of eMMC storage, it can effortlessly handle all necessary tasks. Despite the AMD 3015Ce being a budget CPU, ChromeOS optimization ensures smooth multitasking with multiple tabs and even lets kids enjoy Minecraft after school.

Not to generalize kids, but they often have a tendency to drop things. Luckily, with the incredibly sturdy build of the 14e Lenovo Chromebook, you don't have to worry about occasional falls off the desk or tossing it into a backpack. When it comes to build quality, the 14e feels impressively premium, especially considering its price tag of less than $200. Additionally, the keyboard on this device is one of the best you'll find on a laptop. While it may not be a mechanical keyboard, it offers a satisfying tactile bump at the end of each keystroke, which makes it ideal for learning touch typing.

How To Pick The Perfect Lenovo Chromebook

Size

To narrow down the search, users should consider the ideal size of Lenovo Chromebook. With a wide selection available, ranging from 10" to 16", it is crucial to find the perfect fit. While most users will likely lean towards the 12" to 14" range, individuals seeking a larger display and prioritizing screen real estate over portability can explore the 16" alternatives.

Alongside the screen size are the overall dimensions of the Chromebook. Most of these devices are designed for portability and convenience, making it essential to have one that can easily fit into a bag without being cumbersome. Since everyone's bag size preference varies, a simple solution is to take out a laptop bag and measure it to determine which Chromebooks will fit — there's no need to purchase a Chromebook that won't fit into a bag already owned by the person.

Performance

Although Chromebooks may not be at the forefront of mobile computer performance, they are still capable of accomplishing a surprising range of tasks, especially with the introduction of the latest models. When considering a Chromebook, it is important to focus on the CPU and RAM since most Chromebooks rely on integrated graphics.

In terms of CPUs, the majority of Lenovo Chromebooks feature Intel processors, although there are some models that utilize AMD. As a general guideline, individuals who require multitasking capabilities and the ability to handle any tasks that arise throughout the workday should opt for quad-core CPUs. On the other hand, more budget-friendly Chromebooks may incorporate mobile processors such as the Snapdragon SC7180. While these options are not necessarily subpar, they generally offer slower performance compared to Intel or AMD alternatives.

As for the RAM aspect, ChromeOS is highly optimized. Despite the reputation of the Chrome browser for consuming a lot of memory, most Chromebooks can function smoothly with just 4 GB of RAM. However, if you require faster performance and responsiveness, a Chromebook with 8 GB of RAM would be more suitable. Nonetheless, unless you intend to use it for gaming or demanding tasks, it may be considered excessive.

Storage and Battery Life

Next, let's consider storage and battery life, which are the final factors to consider. When it comes to storage, Chromebooks require less storage compared to Windows or MacOS devices. Therefore, it is unnecessary to opt for 1 TB drives. In most cases, 64 GB is sufficient, but for those who plan to use their Chromebook for work and gaming, it is advisable to choose 128 GB of storage.

Apart from storage capacity, the type of storage is also important to consider. Lenovo Chromebooks no longer feature HDDs as storage systems, but you still have two options to choose from: SSD and eMMC. SSD drives are suitable for almost any use case as they offer faster performance, increased reliability, and higher storage capacity compared to eMMC. On the other hand, eMMC storage stands out for its affordability, making it a more budget-friendly option when compared to SSDs.

FAQ

Battery life is not a major concern when it comes to Lenovo's lineup. With everyday use, most of their devices provide around 10-12 hours of battery life, which is sufficient to get through a day of work or travel without requiring a recharge. Game Rant advises focusing on checking the specifications that are needed and evaluating battery life as a final consideration. In most cases, Lenovo Chromebooks offer an incredibly impressive battery life.

Q: Is Lenovo a good brand for a Chromebook?

Lenovo offers a wide range of Chromebooks, catering to various preferences and budgets. From advanced Chromebooks that deliver top-notch performance to affordable options specially designed for kids or budget-conscious users, Lenovo has got you covered.

Q: What is the difference between a laptop and a Chromebook?

A usual laptop, also known as a mobile computer, operates on operating systems like Windows, macOS, or Linux. These laptops provide access to high-performance desktop software but usually come with a higher price tag. On the contrary, a Chromebook is a cost-effective laptop that doesn't support macOS, Linux, or Windows. Instead, it runs on a special operating system developed by Google called Chrome OS. Chromebooks serve as an excellent choice for students and individuals who don't require access to desktop applications for their work.