Acer Chromebook Plus 516 (CB516-1H)
The Acer Chromebook Plus 516 (CB516-1H) brings a spacious 16-inch display to the Chromebook Plus lineup, targeting users who need more screen real estate for productivity tasks. Powered by the Intel Core i3-1315U processor with 8GB of RAM, this laptop handles everyday computing, web browsing, and Google’s AI-powered features with ease. The 16:10 aspect ratio display provides 11% more vertical workspace compared to traditional 16:9 screens, making it well-suited for document editing and spreadsheet work. With its Chromebook Plus certification, users get access to enhanced Google AI tools including Magic Editor in Photos, Help Me Write, and improved video call features. Whether you’re working from home, studying for classes, or managing household tasks, the Chromebook Plus 516 offers a productivity-focused experience at an accessible price point.
Pros and Cons of the Acer Chromebook Plus 516 (CB516-1H)
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Large 16-inch 16:10 display with 300 nits brightness | No keyboard backlighting despite being a “Plus” model |
| Excellent 1080p webcam with physical privacy slider | Poor speaker quality with hollow, mid-heavy sound |
| Lightweight for a 16-inch laptop at 3.75 lbs | All-plastic construction feels less premium |
| OceanGlass touchpad made from recycled materials | Number pad has cramped, non-standard layout |
| Long AUE support until June 2033 | Both USB-C ports located on the same side |
| Chromebook Plus certification with Google AI features | Screen color reproduction is basic (45% NTSC) |
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Acer Chromebook Plus 516 (CB516-1H) Comparison Chart
 Acer Chromebook Plus 516 (CB516-1H) | |
| Price | List Price: $479 Amazon Prices: Best Buy: Loading price... |
| Model number | CB516-1H-31UE |
| Perfomance Rating | 8.9 |
| Chromebook Plus | Yes |
| Processor | Hexa-core 1.20 Ghz (max 4.50 Ghz) Intel Core i3-1315U |
| RAM | 8 GB |
| Internal Storage | 128 GB UFS |
| Screen Size | 16" |
| Screen Resolution | 1920x1200 |
| Screen Type | IPS |
| Touch Screen | No |
| Stylus / Pen | No Stylus Support |
| Dimensions width x length x thickness | 14.13 x 9.96 x 0.76 inches (358.9 x 252.98 x 19.3 mm) |
| Weight | 3.75 lbs (1.7 kg) |
| Backlit Keyboard | No |
| Webcam | 1080p |
| WiFi | Wi-Fi 6E (802.11ax) |
| Bluetooth | Bluetooth 5.3 |
| Ethernet | No |
| Cellular Modem | No |
| HDMI | Full-Size HDMI |
| USB Ports | 2 USB 3, 2 USB-C (USB-C up to 10 Gbps, DisplayPort, Power Delivery) |
| Thunderbolt Ports | No |
| Card Reader | No Card Reader |
| Battery | 53Wh, Li-ion |
| Battery Life | 12 hours |
| Fanless | No |
| Auto Update Expiration Date | June, 2033 |
Detailed Insights into the Acer Chromebook Plus 516 (CB516-1H)
The Acer Chromebook Plus 516 measures 14.13 x 9.96 x 0.76 inches and weighs 3.75 pounds, making it reasonably portable for a 16-inch laptop. The all-plastic construction keeps the weight down but feels less premium than aluminum alternatives like the smaller Acer Chromebook Plus 514. Acer claims the build uses ocean-bound plastic materials for sustainability, and while reviewers found it sturdy enough for daily use, it does flex slightly under pressure. The 180-degree hinge allows the screen to lay completely flat, which can be useful for sharing content or presentations. The port layout places both USB-C ports on the left side along with the HDMI and headphone jack, while the USB-A ports sit on the right side.
At the heart of this system lies the Intel Core i3-1315U processor with 6 cores (2 performance, 4 efficiency) and 8 threads. This 13th-generation Raptor Lake chip scores approximately 11,229 on PassMark’s CPU benchmark, providing capable performance for Chromebook workloads. In real-world use, reviewers found the processor handles web browsing, document editing, and light media consumption without issues. The 8GB of RAM and 128GB UFS storage round out the specifications, offering snappy performance for typical Chromebook tasks. For users needing more demanding performance, higher-tier models in the Chromebook Plus 516 line offer Intel Core 5 or Core 7 processors.
Connectivity options include WiFi 6E (802.11ax) wireless, Bluetooth 5.3, and a comprehensive port selection. The port lineup provides 2x USB Type-C 3.2 Gen 2 with DisplayPort and Power Delivery support, 2x USB 3.2 Gen 1 Type-A ports, and an HDMI 1.4 output for external displays. Note that the HDMI 1.4 specification limits external display output to 4K at 30Hz or 1080p at 60Hz, which may matter for users with high-refresh monitors. The lack of a card reader may be a minor inconvenience for photographers, but the USB-A ports provide easy connectivity for external storage.
Reviewer Insights on the Acer Chromebook Plus 516 (CB516-1H)
Chrome Unboxed’s Perspective
Chrome Unboxed tested the Acer Chromebook Plus 516 focusing on how it compares to the more expensive Gaming Edition model. They found the 16-inch display bright and clear with good anti-glare treatment, noting “the brightness is very good, the anti-glare looks really good, I think it’s a decent screen.” The 1080p webcam impressed them with excellent dynamic range and clarity.
The review highlighted the excellent OceanGlass trackpad as a standout feature, matching the quality found on higher-end Acer models. However, they were disappointed by the speaker quality, describing the sound as “if I were talking kind of into some sort of can… that’s a bummer.” They suggested the device becomes compelling when on sale around $350, noting “if it goes on sale on a regular basis and it’s like 350, something like that… I think this becomes a pretty compelling option.”
The Tech Chap’s Perspective
The Tech Chap evaluated the 2025 Chromebook Plus 516, emphasizing its lightweight design for a 16-inch laptop. They personally weighed the device and confirmed Acer’s 1.7kg (3.75 lbs) claim, finding it “surprisingly lightweight for a 16-inch laptop.” The review praised the build quality despite the plastic construction, noting “it does feel pretty well put together for an all-plastic build.”
The long software support period until June 2033 stood out as a major advantage for business and education buyers. They appreciated the versatile port selection and the physical privacy slider for the FHD webcam. Their overall impression was positive for productivity use cases, though they noted the plastic lid feels like a step down from the aluminum on the 14-inch model.
Robby Payne’s Comparison
Robby Payne compared the Chromebook Plus 514 and 516 models, providing direct head-to-head testing. For the 516, he noted “the larger 16-inch option does feel well put together, but it can’t feel quite as robust as the 514, because that offers an aluminum lid over the plastic found on the 516.” The number pad layout received criticism for its “odd, non-traditional layout” with plus/minus keys at the top.
Battery life testing showed the 516 draining faster than the 514 due to the larger display. The reviewer ultimately recommended the 514 for most users, stating “unless you need the extra real estate of the larger screen on the 516 and that number pad… I’d recommend most people stick with the Acer Chromebook Plus 514.”
How-To Geek
According to How-To Geek, the Acer Chromebook Plus 516 provides a large screen at a budget-friendly price but suffers from significant design compromises. The review highlighted the expanded keyboard layout as a major frustration, noting “the utter frustration this caused overshadowed my entire experience with the Acer Chromebook Plus 516.” The speakers received harsh criticism as “one of the worst sets of laptop speakers I’ve encountered.” They ultimately rated it 6/10.
IT Pro
According to IT Pro, the Acer Chromebook Plus 516 is “a rather solid but unexciting budget Chromebook with a larger-than-average display.” They found the plastic construction robust despite not being premium, and noted it works well as a desktop replacement for office environments. The review recommended it for organizations needing to stay below budget thresholds while still getting a usable large-screen device.
Across multiple reviews, the consensus points to the large 16:10 display and excellent webcam as primary strengths, while speaker quality and the lack of keyboard backlighting appear consistently as areas for improvement. Reviewers are split on value - some find it compelling on sale, while others prefer the more refined 14-inch model.
Customer Reviews of the Acer Chromebook Plus 516 (CB516-1H)
Best Buy customers have rated the Acer Chromebook Plus 516 4.7 out of 5 stars based on 83 reviews. The most praised aspects include the large screen size, fast performance for everyday tasks, and the quality of the display for the price point. Buyers particularly appreciate the included protective sleeve and the lightweight design for a 16-inch laptop.
However, some customers note the keyboard layout takes adjustment, particularly the number pad placement. A few reviews mention the speakers as underwhelming for media consumption, echoing professional reviewer concerns. The plastic build quality receives mixed feedback, with some finding it acceptable for the price while others expected more from a Chromebook Plus device.
Overall, the customer sentiment is positive, with most buyers finding the Acer Chromebook Plus 516 meets or exceeds expectations for a productivity-focused Chromebook. The value proposition improves significantly when purchased during sales.
Conclusion
The Acer Chromebook Plus 516 (CB516-1H) stands out as a practical choice for users who prioritize screen size and productivity over premium build materials or multimedia performance. Its combination of a spacious 16-inch 16:10 display and Chromebook Plus certification makes it well-suited for office work, online learning, and anyone who spends long hours working with documents and spreadsheets. The excellent 1080p webcam and long AUE support until 2033 add substantial value for remote workers and organizations.
That said, users who prioritize build quality, audio performance, or a more refined typing experience might want to consider the smaller Acer Chromebook Plus 514 or look at aluminum-bodied alternatives from other manufacturers. Those who need keyboard backlighting for low-light typing should explore other Chromebook Plus options in this price range.
For those comparing options, see our Chromebook Comparison Chart to find the best match for your needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
What processor does the Acer Chromebook Plus 516 use?
The Acer Chromebook Plus 516 (CB516-1H-31UE) is powered by the Intel Core i3-1315U, featuring 6 cores (2 performance, 4 efficiency) and 8 threads with a base clock of 1.2 GHz and boost up to 4.5 GHz. This processor handles everyday Chromebook tasks efficiently and scores approximately 11,229 on PassMark’s CPU benchmark.
Can I upgrade the RAM in the Acer Chromebook Plus 516?
No, the Acer Chromebook Plus 516 uses soldered memory that cannot be upgraded after purchase. The CB516-1H-31UE model comes with 8GB of RAM. If you need more memory, you’ll need to choose a higher-spec model at purchase time.
What ports does the Acer Chromebook Plus 516 have?
The Acer Chromebook Plus 516 includes 2x USB Type-C 3.2 Gen 2 ports with DisplayPort and Power Delivery support (both on the left side), 2x USB 3.2 Gen 1 Type-A ports (on the right side), HDMI 1.4 output, and a 3.5mm combo audio jack. There is no card reader or Ethernet port.
When does the Acer Chromebook Plus 516 stop receiving updates?
The Acer Chromebook Plus 516 (CB516-1H) has an Auto Update Expiration (AUE) date of June 2033. This means Google will provide Chrome OS updates and security patches until that date, giving buyers approximately 8 years of software support from the 2025 release.
Does the Acer Chromebook Plus 516 have a backlit keyboard?
No, the Acer Chromebook Plus 516 (CB516-1H) does not have keyboard backlighting. This is a notable omission for a Chromebook Plus device and may be a concern for users who frequently work in low-light environments.
Is the Acer Chromebook Plus 516 a Chromebook Plus device?
Yes, the Acer Chromebook Plus 516 carries Google’s Chromebook Plus certification. This means it meets minimum hardware requirements and includes enhanced Google AI features like Magic Editor in Google Photos, Help Me Write, generative AI wallpapers, and improved video calling with better noise cancellation and lighting effects.
Can I run Android apps on the Acer Chromebook Plus 516?
Yes, the Acer Chromebook Plus 516 fully supports Android apps through the Google Play Store. As a Chromebook Plus device, it meets the performance requirements for running Android applications smoothly. It also supports Linux apps (Crostini) for development and power-user workflows.