Have you ever wished you could slip a whole computer into your bag? A small Chromebook is like that! These tiny laptops are becoming super popular. They are perfect for students, travelers, and anyone who wants a simple computer. But, picking the right one can be tricky. There are many different models. Each one has its own features and price.
Choosing a small Chromebook can be a headache. You might feel confused by all the tech terms. You might worry about the screen size or the battery life. It’s important to find one that fits your needs and your budget. This is especially true if you are on the go. You need something that is easy to carry and use.
In this blog post, we’ll cut through the confusion. We’ll explore the best small Chromebooks out there. You’ll learn about their pros and cons. We’ll also give you simple tips to make your choice easier. Get ready to find the perfect little computer for you! Let’s dive into the world of compact Chromebooks!
Our Top 5 Small Chromebook Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Small Chromebook Detailed Reviews
1. Samsung Chromebook 4 Chrome OS 11.6-inch HD Intel Celeron Processor N4000 4GB RAM 32GB eMMC Gigabit Wi-Fi – XE310XBA-K01US (Renewed)
Rating: 9.1/10
The Samsung Chromebook 4 (Renewed) is a great choice for simple tasks. It has an 11.6-inch HD screen. This Chromebook runs on Chrome OS. It features an Intel Celeron processor. It has 4GB of RAM and 32GB of storage. You can use it to browse the web and watch videos. It is a good option for students and people who need a basic computer.
What We Like:
- The Chromebook turns on quickly. You can start working right away.
- It has a large library of apps. You can get apps from the Google Play Store.
- It is easy to use. The Chrome OS is simple to learn.
- It is lightweight and portable. You can take it anywhere.
- It is a renewed product. This means it is often cheaper.
What Could Be Improved:
- The storage space is limited. You may need to use cloud storage.
- The processor is not the fastest. It may struggle with complex tasks.
- It may not be the best choice for gaming.
This Samsung Chromebook 4 is good for basic computing. It is a budget-friendly option for everyday use. You can use it for browsing the web, checking email, and watching videos.
2. Dell Chromebook 11 3100 11.6″” Touchscreen Chromebook – HD – 1366 x 768 – Celeron – 4GB RAM – 32GB Flash Memory
Rating: 8.6/10
The Dell Chromebook 11 3100 is a small, touchscreen computer. It is a “Renewed” model, which means it has been checked and cleaned. The Chromebook runs on Chrome OS. It has a screen that is 11.6 inches. The screen shows images in HD. It has a Celeron processor, 4GB of RAM, and 32GB of flash memory. It is black and made in China.
What We Like:
- It is a budget-friendly option.
- The touchscreen makes it easy to use.
- The Chromebook is good for simple tasks.
- It is small and easy to carry around.
What Could Be Improved:
- The Celeron processor is not the fastest.
- The storage space is limited.
- It may not be ideal for heavy-duty use.
The Dell Chromebook 11 3100 is a good choice for simple tasks. This Chromebook is a solid option for students or anyone needing a basic computer.
3. acer Gateway Chromebook 311 CBO311-1H-C1MX Laptop
Rating: 9.1/10
The acer Gateway Chromebook 311 is a simple and affordable laptop. It runs on ChromeOS, which is fast and easy to use. It’s great for students or anyone who needs a basic computer for web browsing, email, and some light work. The laptop has a small, portable design and comes in a sleek Star Black color. It also includes built-in Google apps.
What We Like:
- Fast Startup: The Chromebook starts up quickly.
- Long Battery Life: You can use it for up to 10 hours without charging.
- Easy to Use: It works with your Google account.
- Safe and Secure: It has built-in security.
- Access to Apps: You can use apps from the Google Play store.
- Bonus Offer: You get Google One AI Premium Plan for 3 months.
- Compact Design: It’s small and easy to carry.
What Could Be Improved:
- Limited Storage: 64GB of storage might fill up quickly.
- Basic Specs: It’s not built for heavy tasks like video editing.
In conclusion, the acer Gateway Chromebook 311 is a solid choice for everyday tasks. It is a good value for the price and offers a user-friendly experience.
4. Lenovo 11.6″ 300e Chromebook Touchscreen LCD 2 in 1- MediaTek M8173C Quad-core 2.1GHz 4GB LPDDR3 32GB Flash Memory Chrome OS Model 81H00000US (Renewed)
Rating: 9.4/10
The Lenovo 11.6″ 300e Chromebook is a 2-in-1 laptop that is renewed. It has a touchscreen and runs on Chrome OS. The Chromebook has a MediaTek processor and 4GB of RAM. It also has 32GB of flash memory. This laptop is good for students and people who need a simple computer.
What We Like:
- The touchscreen is easy to use.
- The Chromebook is lightweight and easy to carry.
- It is good for basic tasks like browsing the web.
- It is a renewed product, so it can be a good deal.
- It has WiFi and Bluetooth.
What Could Be Improved:
- The storage space is limited to 32GB.
- The processor is not super powerful.
- The Chrome OS might not work for everyone.
This Lenovo Chromebook is a solid choice for simple tasks. It is a great option for people who need a portable and affordable computer.
5. HP Chromebook 14 Laptop
Rating: 8.6/10
The HP Chromebook 14 is a great laptop for school, work, and home. It has a thin and light design. This makes it easy to take anywhere. It has a 14-inch HD display and long battery life. The laptop uses the Chrome OS, which is easy to use. It also has fast charging, so you can quickly get back to work or play. Plus, it has 4K graphics and plenty of storage.
What We Like:
- Great for everyday tasks with its Intel processor.
- The 14-inch HD display is clear and easy on the eyes.
- It’s thin and light, making it easy to carry.
- It has a long battery life, up to 14 hours!
- The Chrome OS is simple and secure.
- You can stream 4K content.
What Could Be Improved:
- The HD display isn’t the highest resolution.
- The storage space is limited to 64GB.
This HP Chromebook is a solid choice for anyone needing a simple and affordable laptop. It is a great option for students and anyone who needs a reliable computer for basic tasks.
Small Chromebooks: Your Pocket-Sized Powerhouse – A Buying Guide
So, you want a Chromebook that’s small? Great! These little laptops are easy to carry. They are perfect for school, travel, or just surfing the web. This guide will help you pick the right one.
1. Key Features to Look For
You should consider these features before you buy a small Chromebook:
- Screen Size: Small Chromebooks usually have screens between 11 and 13 inches. Think about how you will use it. A smaller screen is more portable. But, a bigger screen is easier to see.
- Processor: The processor is the brain of your Chromebook. Look for a processor that’s fast enough for your needs. Most small Chromebooks use Intel Celeron or Pentium processors. These work well for basic tasks.
- RAM (Memory): RAM helps your Chromebook run multiple apps at once. 4GB of RAM is a good starting point. If you plan to do a lot of multitasking, get 8GB.
- Storage: Chromebooks save files online. So, you don’t need a lot of storage on the device. 32GB or 64GB of storage is often enough.
- Battery Life: Check how long the battery lasts. Most small Chromebooks have good battery life. You want one that lasts all day.
- Ports: Make sure it has the ports you need. Most Chromebooks have USB-C ports. These are for charging and connecting devices. Some have USB-A ports too.
2. Important Materials
The materials used affect how the Chromebook feels and how long it lasts:
- Plastic: Many small Chromebooks are made of plastic. They are affordable. Plastic is not as strong as other materials.
- Metal: Some Chromebooks use metal, like aluminum. Metal makes the Chromebook feel more premium. It is also more durable.
- Screen: The screen should be sturdy. Look for a screen with good resolution (like HD or Full HD). This makes the picture clear.
3. Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Several things affect the quality of a small Chromebook:
- Build Quality: A well-built Chromebook feels solid. It has no loose parts. The hinges should be strong.
- Screen Quality: A bright, clear screen makes a big difference. Check the resolution and viewing angles.
- Keyboard and Trackpad: The keyboard should be comfortable to type on. The trackpad should be responsive.
- Brand Reputation: Some brands are known for quality. Do some research before you buy.
- Price: You often get what you pay for. More expensive Chromebooks usually have better features and build quality.
4. User Experience and Use Cases
Small Chromebooks are great for these things:
- Students: They are perfect for taking notes, doing research, and writing papers.
- Travelers: They are lightweight and easy to carry. You can use them to check email, browse the web, and stream videos.
- People on the Go: They are good for basic tasks like checking social media and managing your schedule.
- Anyone who needs a simple device: Chromebooks are easy to use. They are great for people who just need to browse the internet and use a few apps.
FAQ: Small Chromebooks
Here are some common questions about small Chromebooks:
Q: What is a Chromebook?
A: A Chromebook is a laptop that runs on the Chrome operating system. It is made by Google.
Q: What can I do with a Chromebook?
A: You can browse the web, use Google apps, and install apps from the Google Play Store.
Q: Do I need the internet to use a Chromebook?
A: You need the internet for most things. But, you can use some apps offline.
Q: Are Chromebooks good for school?
A: Yes! They are great for students because they are affordable and easy to use.
Q: Can I run Windows programs on a Chromebook?
A: No, you usually can’t run Windows programs directly. Some Chromebooks support running Linux apps.
Q: How long does the battery last?
A: Most small Chromebooks last 8-12 hours on a single charge.
Q: How much do small Chromebooks cost?
A: They usually cost between $200 and $500.
Q: Are Chromebooks good for gaming?
A: You can play some games. But, they are not the best for playing high-end games.
Q: How do I choose the right size?
A: Think about how portable you want it to be. A smaller screen is more portable. A larger screen is easier to see.
Q: Where can I buy a small Chromebook?
A: You can buy them at stores like Best Buy, Amazon, and Walmart. You can also buy them directly from the manufacturers.
In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.
If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.
William has over three years of experience in building gazebos. He started AskGazebo.com to assist his clients.