New
#1
Chromebooks
I am thinking about buying a new laptop. I can get a chromebook for under $100.00 I know that we get what we pay for but I don't need a computer with all the bells and whistles anymore. How are the new chromebooks?
I am thinking about buying a new laptop. I can get a chromebook for under $100.00 I know that we get what we pay for but I don't need a computer with all the bells and whistles anymore. How are the new chromebooks?
Basically they are a large Android phone and can run most apps they are low power and the big plus is often have 10 hours battery life. You can do 99% of things you can do on a PC
If I remember correctly from my brief testing of a Chromebook, everything will be Google orientated, meaning you'll need a Google account and will have to run Google type apps. If your intention is to run Windows PC software you wont be able to and will need to find alternatives from the Google play store or elsewhere.
I reserve the right to be wrong
$100 for a Chromebook?
I bought one for mother-in-law a while back for about $300. Not the cheapest one ... but they didn't go much lower than that.
But $100? Is that a working computer? Or just a picture of one?
There's one I'd recommend but I'm concerned about the news that Chrome will only update a handful of years (1-2-3) and then no more updates. I thought the entire point of Chrome would make that a NO PROB BOB. So... HMMmm.
I'm an Asus fan. And so the Chromebook I'd recommend would be in this league --
Unboxing the ASUS Chromebook Flip C434 - YouTube
My problem is that it appears to be over $400... and in that price range I (personally) would rather buy a lovely monitor and put a basic Mini PC underneath. A sort of frugal person's iMac/TV.
Here's a 2K 25 inch monitor for $323 --
Amazon.com: ASUS PB258Q 25 WQHD 2560x1440 IPS DisplayPort HDMI DVI Eye Care Monitor: Electronics
-- married to a reasonable kinda no name Mini PC for that price again.
This one is so brand new I'd do research first... but the upgrade bays are insanely easy to access.
Amazon.com: PEPPER JOBS GLK-UC2X Unlocked Intel N4100 Mini PC with Windows 10 Pro (64-bit) [Upgradeable/4GB/64GB/Dual-Band Wi-Fi/Gigabit Ethernet/Triple 4K 60Hz outputs/Dual USB-C]. Sold Directly by Pepper Jobs: Gateway
This brand I know a little better --
beelink Gemini J45 8GB 128GB J4205 genuine windows 10 mini pc support HDD SSD DDR windows10 set top box Media Player-in Set-top Boxes from Consumer Electronics on Aliexpress.com | Alibaba Group
An 8GB 128 SSD is like $221. Yes -- it's cheaper than the monitor. lol
Be warned this isn't a 'trust me' situation. Dealing with China Direct Mini PCs has a slight gamble factor. Buying off Amazon may be better for the novice but you'll pay more for the same exact item. Don't even consider one of these before hitting experienced YouTubers with REAL reviews. Lon Seidman really like the Pepper one.
Last edited by The Pool Man; 07 Apr 2019 at 15:16.
You get what you pay for.
Amazon.com: Acer 11.6in chromebook 4GB 16GB | C720-2844 (Renewed): Gateway
We have one in my workplace and if you want to do pretty much anything on it - it requires an internet connection unless you install apps that work offline.
https://support.google.com/chromeboo.../3214688?hl=en
Chrome updating End of Life analysis
Chromebook Lifespan Followup: Chrome OS Updates vs Chrome Browser Updates - YouTube
Chromebooks are fine if all you do is surf the internet, Facebook,Email, and Youtube.
As stated, no Windows Programs can be run and you will need Wifi and Google/Gmail account to unlock it. There is no option to use Ethernet cable for internet, or CD/DVD drive.
I know this is an older thread, but I had to say that my Chromebook 3 is a little lifesaver. I'm using it today, and I've had it since 2019:
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0...?ie=UTF8&psc=1
They are still on Amazon looks like, but while I upgrade my Gaming PC, I'm using my CB to follow directions, talk on here at the forums, watch videos, etc. I don't do any huge jobs on it, but I wouldn't part with it. At first I wanted to put Windows on it because it felt so different, but for the many things I can use it for, it's really neat. I love it's size, small and light-weight. I bought one in the beginning because my "non-tekkie" sister got one and needed help.
I agree with the @Samuria on it doing 99% of tasks a PC will do. But it does depend on what you are planning to use it for The newer ones must have some good improvements as well. I don't know how long this one I have will be supported though.