Acer Chromebook 311
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The Acer Chromebook 311 is an ultraportable laptop designed for everyday activities and classroom use. With an 11.6-inch HD IPS touch display, Intel Celeron N4000 dual-core processor, 4GB RAM, and 32GB eMMC storage, it strikes a balance between basic performance and exceptional portability. The fanless design ensures silent operation, while the battery lasts a genuine 8-10 hours under typical use. For students, writers, and anyone needing a reliable secondary device, the Chromebook 311 delivers surprising value at its budget price point. Weighing just 2.43 pounds and measuring under an inch thick, it slips easily into any bag for work on the go.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Exceptional value at under $200 (Lon.TV) | HD display resolution falls short of 1080p standards |
| Dual USB-C ports support dual 4K external monitors | 4GB RAM limits heavy multitasking |
| 8-10 hour battery life under real-world use | 32GB eMMC storage fills quickly without cloud sync |
| Tactile keyboard with good travel for the price | Tinny speakers not ideal for media (Lon.TV) |
| Fanless, completely silent operation | No backlit keyboard for low-light typing |
| Solid build quality despite budget price | Limited to Chrome OS ecosystem |
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Acer Chromebook 311 Comparison Chart
![]() Acer Chromebook 311 | ![]() Acer Chromebook 311 | |
| Price | List Price: $259.99 Amazon Prices: | List Price: $279.99 Amazon Prices: Loading prices... |
| Model number | CB311-9HT-C4UM / NX.HKGAA.001 | CB311-9H-C12A / NX.HKFAA.001 |
| Perfomance Rating | 3.1 | 3.1 |
| Chromebook Plus | No | No |
| Processor | Dual-core 1.10 Ghz (max 2.60 Ghz) Intel Celeron N4000 Processor | Dual-core 1.10 Ghz (max 2.60 Ghz) Intel Celeron N4000 Processor |
| RAM | 4 GB | 4 GB |
| Internal Storage | 32 GB eMMC | 32 GB eMMC |
| Screen Size | 11.6" | 11.6" |
| Screen Resolution | 1366x768 | 1366x768 |
| Screen Type | IPS | IPS |
| Touch Screen | Yes | Yes |
| Stylus / Pen | No Stylus Support | No Stylus Support |
| Dimensions width x length x thickness | 11.7 x 7.8 x 0.71 inches (297.18 x 198.12 x 18.03 mm) | 11.7 x 7.8 x 0.71 inches (297.18 x 198.12 x 18.03 mm) |
| Weight | 2.43 lbs (1.1 kg) | 2.43 lbs (1.1 kg) |
| Backlit Keyboard | No | No |
| Webcam | 720p HD | 720p HD |
| WiFi | Intel Wireless-AC 802.11ac with 2x2 MU-MIMO | Intel Wireless-AC 802.11ac with 2x2 MU-MIMO |
| Bluetooth | Bluetooth 5.0 | Bluetooth 5.0 |
| Ethernet | No | No |
| Cellular Modem | No | No |
| HDMI | No HDMI | No HDMI |
| USB Ports | 2 USB 3, 2 USB-C (supports DisplayPort) | 2 USB 3, 2 USB-C (supports DisplayPort) |
| Thunderbolt Ports | No | No |
| Card Reader | microSD Card Reader | microSD Card Reader |
| Battery | 3 cell, Lithium-ion | 3 cell, Lithium-ion |
| Battery Life | 10.0 hours | 10.0 hours |
| Fanless | Yes | Yes |
| Auto Update Expiration Date | June, 2029 | June, 2029 |
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Detailed Insights into the Acer Chromebook 311
The Chromebook 311’s build quality exceeded expectations for its price range according to multiple reviewers. Lon.TV noted that the keyboard and trackpad rival devices costing significantly more, describing the typing experience as suitable for writers drafting documents on the go. The chassis uses plastic construction throughout, but feels solid and durable rather than cheap. At just 2.43 pounds and 0.71 inches thick, it ranks among the lightest Chromebooks in its class without sacrificing structural integrity.
Performance from the Intel Celeron N4000 processor handles basic tasks adequately but shows its limits under heavier workloads. Speedometer 2.0 benchmarks came in at 51.3 according to Lon.TV’s testing, which translates to smooth web browsing and document editing but occasional sluggishness with more than 10 Chrome tabs open simultaneously. The 4GB of RAM cannot be upgraded, so heavy multitaskers should look elsewhere. That said, Chrome OS’s efficient resource management helps squeeze reasonable performance from these entry-level specs.
Connectivity options provide unexpected flexibility for a budget device. Both USB-C ports are full-function, supporting power delivery, data transfer, and video output simultaneously. Lon.TV demonstrated driving two separate 4K external displays at 60Hz through these ports, transforming the compact Chromebook into a capable workstation when docked. The two USB-A 3.0 ports, microSD card slot, and 3.5mm headphone jack round out the port selection. WiFi 802.11ac with 2x2 MU-MIMO and Bluetooth 5.0 handle wireless connectivity reliably.
Reviewer Insights on the Acer Chromebook 311
Lon Seidman’s Perspective
Lon Seidman from Lon.TV provided an extensive hands-on review that highlighted the exceptional value proposition of the Chromebook 311. He described it as “basic transportation here, but it actually performs pretty well and I was impressed with the value proposition on this one.” His testing revealed the keyboard and trackpad quality exceeded typical budget laptop standards, making it a solid choice for writers who need a distraction-free drafting machine.
The most surprising discovery from his review was the dual 4K display capability. Despite its entry-level processor, connecting two external 4K monitors at 60Hz works flawlessly through the USB-C ports. He noted this makes the Chromebook 311 a legitimate option for those who work primarily at a desk but want portability. For security-conscious travelers worried about expensive laptops getting lost or stolen, he suggested this affordable device “will take a lot of that concern away.”
Creative Bloq’s Assessment
Ian Dean from Creative Bloq rated the device 6/10, praising its “chunky and robust build quality” and “solid and punchy keyboard” while acknowledging the screen quality limitations typical of budget devices. The review emphasized that the Chromebook 311 delivers on durability, with solid hinges and reliable construction throughout. For classroom environments or heavy travel, this ruggedness provides real value that specifications alone don’t capture.
Customer Reviews of the Acer Chromebook 311
Amazon customers rate the Acer Chromebook 311 at 4.4 out of 5 stars across 245 reviews, with 73% awarding five stars. The overwhelmingly positive reception centers on value for money, with one verified buyer declaring “for less than $200 dollars, I would not buy anything else” and describing the battery as lasting “a month” between charges when used intermittently. Multiple reviewers praised the fast boot times and responsive touchscreen for basic productivity tasks.
Common criticisms focus on the expected limitations of a budget device. Several customers confirmed the tinny speaker audio mentioned in professional reviews, describing it as adequate for video calls but disappointing for entertainment. The 32GB storage fills quickly without aggressive use of cloud storage, though the microSD slot provides affordable expansion. Some users initially struggled with Chrome OS coming from Windows or Mac, but adapted quickly once they embraced the web-centric workflow.
Conclusion
The Acer Chromebook 311 earns its place as a capable entry-level device for students, writers, and budget-conscious buyers who understand its limitations. With software updates guaranteed through June 2029, it remains a viable option for years of basic productivity. The combination of genuine 8-10 hour battery life, silent fanless operation, and surprisingly capable USB-C connectivity delivers more than the specifications suggest. Those who need more power, storage, or a higher-resolution display should look at mid-range options, but for the asking price under $200, the Chromebook 311 represents honest value.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long will the Acer Chromebook 311 receive software updates?
The Acer Chromebook 311 (CB311-9H) will receive automatic software and security updates from Google through June 2029. This Auto Update Expiration (AUE) date means the device remains secure and functional for several more years.
Can I connect external monitors to the Acer Chromebook 311?
Yes, the Chromebook 311’s two USB-C ports support DisplayPort output. Lon.TV demonstrated successfully driving two separate 4K monitors at 60Hz simultaneously, making it a surprisingly capable workstation when docked at a desk. You’ll need USB-C to HDMI or USB-C to DisplayPort adapters.
Is the Acer Chromebook 311 good for students?
The Chromebook 311 works well for students handling basic schoolwork, web browsing, document editing, and video conferencing. The touchscreen supports interactive learning apps, and the durable build withstands daily transport. However, students running demanding applications or needing to multitask heavily may find the 4GB RAM limiting.
Can I upgrade the RAM or storage on the Chromebook 311?
No, the 4GB RAM and 32GB eMMC storage are soldered to the motherboard and cannot be upgraded. However, you can expand storage using a microSD card up to 256GB, and Chrome OS works well with cloud storage services like Google Drive for document access.
How does the battery life compare to Acer’s claims?
Multiple reviewers confirmed 8-10 hours of real-world battery life, closely matching Acer’s 10-hour claim. Lon.TV observed consistent all-day performance, and Amazon customers report the battery holds up well even after extended ownership. Light usage can stretch beyond the rated capacity.
Is the Chromebook 311’s display quality acceptable?
The 11.6-inch IPS touchscreen displays at 1366x768 (HD) resolution, which professional reviewers consistently note falls below modern 1080p standards. Colors appear reasonably accurate for the price, but the lower resolution shows visible pixels up close. For document work and web browsing it’s adequate, but photo or video editing benefits from an external display.
