Chromebooks – entry-level laptops with their own operating system

It's been ten years since the first Chromebook launched in Germany . Back then, Google's new products failed miserably and failed to gain a foothold in the market. This resulted in a modest market share of 1.5%. Since November 2019, however, Google has been trying again, and the coronavirus pandemic is not entirely innocent of the tech giant's growth spurt, as schools and other educational institutions in particular have relied on Google's entry-level laptops. In the following article, we offer what makes these laptops so special, the advantages they offer users, and an overview of various models.

What is a Chromebook?

Unlike its expensive competitors, Google doesn't rely on well-known operating systems like Windows or Mac OS. With its own system called Chrome OS, the company first conquered schools in the US and Scandinavia and has since continued to optimize its offerings for home users. This shift has led to a dramatic increase in the number of Chromebooks sold to home users, a trend that can also be observed in Germany.

Where Google relied heavily on a constant internet connection, files can now be saved and edited offline, games can be played via its own app store and mostly run smoothly, and the operating system has also become significantly more user-friendly. All of these factors mean that users of a typical Android smartphone should have no problem using a Chromebook.

Chromebook recommendation – Which is right for me?

The advantage of Chromebooks is that a large number of different manufacturers all use the Chromebook operating system, making switching from device to device much easier. Well-known manufacturers include our Lenovo IdeaPad 3, Acer Chromebook 315, and Asus Chromebook C423. These notebooks usually differ in small ways, such as having more memory, a better processor, or a different screen, which can result in small price differences.

To determine which laptop is right for you, you should consider key features that are important for daily use. The Lenovo IdeaPad 3 Flex 3 11 Chromebook, for example, impresses with its ample storage, the ability to expand storage, and its very long battery life, making it particularly suitable for work. Acer, on the other hand, emphasizes a good touchscreen and a stylish casing, which definitely makes the device a real eye-catcher. Therefore, it's impossible to say in general terms which device is the right one; it should be tailored to the user's needs after thorough research.

Chromebook experiences – How do the devices perform?

The devices made a very solid impression during our tests. While their relatively low storage capacity, relatively low performance, and weak screen leave some room for improvement, the price is still solid, providing a useful everyday companion that doesn't have to shy away from the competition. The biggest difference from other laptops is the Chromebook's proprietary operating system, which definitely offers strengths and makes the notebooks so easy to use. After testing, it can definitely be said that Chromebooks are a good alternative to Windows and other common operating systems. Anyone who has previously used devices with Android or other mobile operating systems will have no problems switching to the new system, as there are a large number of similarities.

How do I set up my Chromebook?

Setting up a Chromebook doesn't require much. All you need is a network connection and a Google account with the associated username and password. The first step is turning on the laptop, which only works if the separately packaged battery has been inserted into some models. To boot up the system, simply press the power button.

A guide will now appear on the screen, explaining step-by-step how to configure the various system and operating settings. Here, you must also select the network and accept the terms of use. As mentioned at the beginning, you will now log in with your Google account, which will be used as the owner's account for later use. You can also log in as a guest, but some important features of the notebook will then be disabled.

After selecting a profile picture, the laptop setup is complete, and the Chromebook can be configured and used according to the user's preferences. Some data, such as bookmarks, extensions, and apps from other devices, are automatically transferred and can be used on this device as usual.

Who is a Chromebook suitable for?

The many different advantages make the Chromebook an entry-level model for the masses. Long battery life combined with ease of use ensure that students, in particular, find it easy to enter the digital world. Chromebooks also create an interesting connection between mobile devices and laptops, as almost everything can be carried out seamlessly, thus avoiding annoying downtime. Therefore, Google Notebooks are suitable for anyone who can make small compromises in terms of screen size, storage, and speed while still wanting a new and affordable notebook.

Is a Chromebook recommended?

After extensive testing, we can say that Chromebooks definitely deserve a place in the world of notebooks. Sure, they're not the top performers, but they're way ahead in terms of value for money and can definitely keep up with models in their price range, so they have nothing to fear.

Our Chromebooks in comparison:

Lenovo IdeaPad 3: Less complexity, more productivity

Fast, secure, and easy to use, the IdeaPad 3 (14") Chromebook houses all your favorite Chromebook features in a sleek 180-degree chassis. The lightning-fast Chrome OS boots up in seconds, updates automatically, and features built-in malware and virus protection. The Lenovo IdeaPad 3 with Intel processors lasts up to 10 hours, so you can use all your favorite apps simultaneously without interruption.

Everything you need at a click

The IdeaPad 3 Chromebook (14") offers the latest Chromebook features and operates completely smoothly and effortlessly. In addition to Intel processors and ample eMMC flash storage, it is equipped with a sleek keyboard and a spacious trackpad for an optimal typing experience.

Acer Chromebook 315 15.6-inch

Intel's latest processor enables low power consumption and responsive software. With this extra performance, class projects with heavy graphics run more smoothly and assignments are completed faster.

User-friendly and fast

The Acer Chromebook 315, with its 38.1 cm (15-inch) anti-glare display and 9.5 mm thin bezel, lets you work productively even in bright environments. The integrated numeric keypad offers additional functionality. 10 hours of battery life seems like an eternity. A single charge ensures you'll still have power left at the end of your workday.

Thanks to the long-lasting rechargeable battery, you can even leave your power adapter at home.

Fast Wi-Fi

Intel Gigabit Wi-Fi and the strategically placed Wi-Fi 5 (802.11ac) antenna with 2x2 MU-MIMO ensure a strong, stable Wi-Fi signal. MU-MIMO is a standard that offers faster Wi-Fi speeds and can be used on multiple devices simultaneously.

Asus Chromebook C423

With the ASUS Chromebook C423, you can easily increase your productivity and have more fun on the go—every day, 24/7. The lightweight 14-inch ultraportable is powered by a quad-core Intel processor and offers the worry-free freedom of up to 10 hours of battery life. It's the first ASUS Chromebook with NanoEdge design, giving you a large screen in a compact chassis for easier multitasking and immersive entertainment.

The ASUS Chromebook C423 is equipped with the best of Google and is your gateway to the wide selection of apps for work and play in the Google Play Store. With its fast performance, durability, and convenient features, the Chromebook is not only perfect for students, but also for those on the go! Rugged, elegant, and lightweight: The ASUS Chromebook C423 has a distinctive, premium look and feel.

This is thanks to, among other things, the aluminum lid, the slim profile of just 16.1 mm, and the total weight of just 1.2 kg. Thanks to its easy portability, it's your perfect companion, ready for use anytime, anywhere, no matter where your day takes you!

Acer Chromebook Spin 514 14-inch

The convertible Chromebook Spin 514 is designed specifically for mobile users. The ACER Chromebook Spin 514 's ultra-slim bezel offers a 78% screen-to-body ratio, allowing users to enjoy their favorite shows, movies, or other media on the go. Thanks to the latest AMD processor, you can be confident that performance won't be compromised, even with intensive applications.

Convincing performance

Featuring the latest AMD Ryzen Accelerated Processing Unit (APU), based on the Zen+ CPU and Vega GPU microarchitecture, this Chromebook can wake from sleep in seconds. With a 10-hour battery life, it's always there for you.