ASUS Chromebook Flip CR1
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The ASUS Chromebook Flip CR1 (CR1100FKA) is a rugged 11.6-inch convertible Chromebook built for students. A rubber bumper and micro-dimpled finish help it shrug off the knocks, drops, and spills of classroom use, and it adds ASUS Antibacterial Guard surfaces, Wi-Fi 6, a garaged stylus, and dual cameras. It runs an Intel Celeron N5100 and is rated for about 12 hours of battery.
The CR1 meets US military-grade MIL-STD-810H durability standards, withstands drops up to 120cm, and has a spill-resistant keyboard. A modular internal design lets school IT staff service it on-site.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| MIL-STD-810H certified chassis rated for 120cm drops | 720p display limits visual clarity for detailed work |
| Splash-proof keyboard handles up to 330cc liquid spills | Weak Celeron N5100 struggles with demanding apps |
| Fast WiFi 6 connectivity with dual-band 2x2 support | RAM and storage are soldered, no upgrade path |
| Garaged stylus plus a 360-degree convertible hinge | Small, plasticky trackpad feels cramped |
| 12-hour battery life confirmed in real-world testing | Stiff hinges require two-handed opening |
| ASUS Antibacterial Guard protects high-touch surfaces | No HDMI port or backlit keyboard |
ASUS Chromebook Flip CR1 Comparison Chart
![]() ASUS Chromebook Flip CR1 | ![]() ASUS Chromebook Flip CR1 | ![]() ASUS Chromebook Flip CR1 | |
| Price | List Price: $429.99 Amazon Prices: | List Price: $429.99 Amazon Prices: | List Price: $349 Amazon Prices: Loading prices... |
| Model number | CR1100FKA-YZ182T-S | CR1100FKA-YZ182T | CR1100FKA-YZ142T-S |
| Performance Rating | 4.1 | 4.1 | 2.8 |
| Chromebook Plus | No | No | No |
| Processor | Quad-core 1.10 Ghz (max 2.80 Ghz) Intel Celeron N5100 Processor | Quad-core 1.10 Ghz (max 2.80 Ghz) Intel Celeron N5100 Processor | Quad-core 1.10 Ghz (max 2.80 Ghz) Intel Celeron N5100 Processor |
| RAM | 8 GB | 8 GB | 4 GB |
| Internal Storage | 32 GB eMMC | 32 GB eMMC | 32 GB eMMC |
| Screen Size | 11.6" | 11.6" | 11.6" |
| Screen Resolution | 1366x768 | 1366x768 | 1366x768 |
| Screen Type | Glossy display, LED Backlit, 250nits, NTSC: 50% | Glossy display, LED Backlit, 250nits, NTSC: 50% | Glossy display, LED Backlit, 250nits, NTSC: 50% |
| Touch Screen | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Stylus / Pen | Supported | Supported | Supported |
| Dimensions width x length x thickness | 11.6 x 8.07 x 0.81 inches (294.64 x 204.98 x 20.57 mm) | 11.6 x 8.07 x 0.81 inches (294.64 x 204.98 x 20.57 mm) | 11.6 x 8.07 x 0.81 inches (294.64 x 204.98 x 20.57 mm) |
| Weight | 3.13 lbs (1.42 kg) | 3.13 lbs (1.42 kg) | 3.13 lbs (1.42 kg) |
| Backlit Keyboard | No | No | No |
| Webcam | 720p HD | 720p HD | 720p HD |
| WiFi | Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax) | Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax) | Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax) |
| Bluetooth | Bluetooth 5.2 | Bluetooth 5.2 | Bluetooth 5.2 |
| Ethernet | No | No | No |
| Cellular Modem | No | No | No |
| HDMI | No HDMI | No HDMI | No HDMI |
| USB Ports | 2 USB 3, 2 USB-C type-C supports display and power delivery | 2 USB 3, 2 USB-C type-C supports display and power delivery | 2 USB 3, 2 USB-C type-C supports display and power delivery |
| Thunderbolt Ports | No | No | No |
| Card Reader | microSD Card Reader | microSD Card Reader | microSD Card Reader |
| Battery | 2 cell, 47WHrs, Li-ion | 2 cell, 47WHrs, Li-ion | 2 cell, 47WHrs, Li-ion |
| Battery Life | 12.0 hours | 12.0 hours | 12.0 hours |
| Fanless | No | No | No |
| Auto Update Expiration Date | June, 2031 | June, 2031 | June, 2031 |
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Detailed Insights into the ASUS Chromebook Flip CR1
The CR1 is built for the education market, prioritizing durability and classroom flexibility over raw performance. Hitech Century described it as “constructed almost like a Tonka toy.” The MIL-STD-810H rating covers 120cm drops and keyboard spills of up to 330cc of liquid, and the modular internal design lets school IT departments replace keyboards, touchpads, and display panels on-site to cut downtime and repair cost.
The 360-degree convertible hinge transforms the CR1 between laptop, tablet, tent, and display modes, making it adaptable for lectures, group work, and individual study. The integrated garaged stylus pairs with the 11.6-inch touchscreen for note-taking and drawing applications. While the display’s 1366x768 resolution and 250-nit brightness fall short of premium Chromebooks, the low blue-light certification reduces eye strain during extended classroom sessions. The dual camera system (5MP front, 8MP rear) enables video calls and document scanning, though image quality remains serviceable rather than exceptional.
Connectivity is solid for a budget education device. Two USB-C 3.2 Gen 1 ports handle display output and power delivery, and two USB-A ports take legacy peripherals. Wi-Fi 6 with a dual-band 2x2 antenna holds up in crowded classrooms where many devices compete for bandwidth. The 47WHr battery delivered the advertised 12 hours in Hitech Century’s testing, lasting a full school day.
Performance limits show once you push past basic educational tasks. The quad-core Intel Celeron N5100 handles web browsing, Google Workspace, and basic video playback smoothly, but it is an entry-level chip. Simple Canva or CapCut projects work; more complex editing introduces noticeable lag. The soldered 4GB or 8GB RAM and 32GB eMMC storage cannot be upgraded, so the configuration you buy is the one you keep.
Reviewer Insights on the ASUS Chromebook Flip CR1
Hitech Century’s Assessment
Hitech Century awarded the CR1 a 3.3/5 rating (66%) with the verdict “Value Buy: Sturdy Study Buddy” in their February 2022 review. Their testing confirmed the durability claims through hands-on stress testing, noting that “it’s able to survive in extremes of temperature that would junk a normal laptop.” The reviewer particularly appreciated the versatile form factor: “The addition of a touchscreen and 360-degree hinges means that the Chromebook Flip CR1 is exceptionally versatile, allowing use as a traditional laptop, display, or tablet.” However, they flagged the trackpad as small and plasticky and noted the stiff hinges require two-handed opening. Their bottom line: “Factor in its modest price point and the robustness of Chrome OS and you have a choice that’s ideal for young learners all the way to secondary school.”
ChromebookParts.com Technical Analysis
ChromebookParts.com’s teardown guide provides valuable insights into the CR1’s internal construction and repairability. Their technical analysis confirmed the 47Wh battery capacity (6060mAh) and identified the display panel model as N116BCA-EA1. The teardown revealed the modular repair design that allows quick component replacement, though it also confirmed that both RAM and storage are soldered to the motherboard, eliminating any upgrade path. For schools considering long-term deployment, this repairability focus represents a practical advantage over consumer-oriented Chromebooks with more integrated designs.
Customer Reviews of the ASUS Chromebook Flip CR1
The ASUS Chromebook Flip CR1 has just a single Amazon rating, a 5-star review, so there is not enough owner feedback here to call a verdict. Treat what follows as one buyer’s experience, not a consensus. A verified purchaser, RanchLadyTx, has stuck with the brand over several machines and wrote: “I have been buying ASUS small laptops for quite a few years. When the battery won’t charge any longer, I just buy a new one so it will continue to update.” She added, “I love them and have never had any trouble with them.” That points to durability and a low-hassle ownership experience, but it speaks to a habit across several ASUS laptops rather than detailed time with this specific model.
Read more owner reviews on Amazon.
Conclusion
The ASUS Chromebook Flip CR1 succeeds at its intended purpose: a durable, flexible, affordable Chromebook for the classroom. The MIL-STD-810H certification, splash-proof keyboard, and modular repair design directly address the realities of classroom use where devices face drops, spills, and heavy daily use. The 360-degree hinge, integrated stylus, and all-day battery enable flexible learning scenarios from note-taking to group presentations.
Performance and display quality represent the necessary compromises for this price point. Students focused on web browsing, Google Workspace, and basic content creation will find the CR1 capable, while those needing more processing power or visual fidelity should consider Chromebook Plus models. The soldered components eliminate upgrade options, making the 8GB RAM configuration preferable for longer-term deployments. For schools and parents seeking a Chromebook that prioritizes durability over specs, the CR1 delivers on its “Sturdy Study Buddy” promise. Compare specifications with similar models using the Chromebook Comparison Tool.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can the RAM or storage be upgraded on the ASUS Chromebook Flip CR1?
No, both the RAM (4GB or 8GB LPDDR4X) and storage (32GB or 64GB eMMC) are soldered directly to the motherboard. ChromebookParts.com’s teardown confirmed there are no upgrade slots. Choose the 8GB RAM configuration if you plan to keep the device for several years or run multiple browser tabs simultaneously.
How durable is the ASUS Chromebook Flip CR1 for student use?
The CR1 carries MIL-STD-810H military-grade certification, surviving drops up to 120cm and keyboard spills of 330cc liquid. Hitech Century described it as “constructed almost like a Tonka toy.” The rubber bumper, reinforced corners, and scratch-resistant textured finish protect against typical classroom mishaps. The modular design also allows quick on-site repairs of damaged components.
How long does the battery last on the ASUS Chromebook Flip CR1?
ASUS rates the 47WHr battery for up to 12 hours, and Hitech Century confirmed this matches real-world usage for typical educational tasks. The device easily lasts through a full school day without needing the 45W USB-C charger. Battery life varies with screen brightness and workload intensity.
Is the ASUS Chromebook Flip CR1 good for video calls and online learning?
Yes, the CR1 handles video conferencing adequately with its 5MP front camera and built-in microphone. WiFi 6 with dual-band support maintains stable connections during calls. The 720p webcam produces serviceable video quality for Google Meet or Zoom sessions. The 360-degree hinge allows positioning the screen for optimal camera angles in tent or tablet mode.
When does the ASUS Chromebook Flip CR1 stop receiving Chrome OS updates?
The ASUS Chromebook Flip CR1 (model CR1100FKA) has an Auto Update Expiration (AUE) date of June 2031, according to Google’s official database. This means the device will receive Chrome OS updates, including security patches and new features, until mid-2031.
What ports are available on the ASUS Chromebook Flip CR1?
The CR1 offers two USB-C 3.2 Gen 1 ports (supporting display output and charging), two USB-A 3.2 Gen 1 ports, a microSD card reader for storage expansion, a 3.5mm audio combo jack, and a Kensington lock slot. Note that there is no HDMI port, so external monitor connections require a USB-C adapter.
