HP Chromebook 11a (Intel)

Starry Hope Rating
3.0

Updated on

Photo of HP Chromebook 11a (Intel)

Note: Chrome OS support for this device ended in June 2024. It no longer receives security updates from Google. The information below is kept for historical reference.

The HP Chromebook 11a (Intel) arrived in 2020 as an affordable entry point into the Chrome OS ecosystem, targeting students and casual users who needed a lightweight machine for basic productivity tasks. Powered by the Intel Celeron N3350 processor with 4GB of DDR4 memory and 32GB of eMMC storage, this 11.6-inch Chromebook delivered adequate performance for web browsing, document editing, and streaming media. HP positioned the 11a as a reliable companion for Google ecosystem services like Gmail, Drive, and Docs, where the lightweight Chrome OS could leverage cloud storage to compensate for limited local capacity. While overshadowed by its MediaTek-powered sibling that received more professional review attention, the Intel variant offered a familiar x86 architecture that some users preferred for compatibility reasons.

HP Chromebook 11a (Intel) Comparison Chart

HP Chromebook 11a (Intel)

HP Chromebook 11a (Intel)

HP Chromebook 11a (Intel)

HP Chromebook 11a (Intel)

Price

List Price: $219.99

Amazon Prices:

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List Price: $219.99

Amazon Prices:

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Model number11a-nb0013dx / #1N091UA11a-nb0013dx / #1N091UA
Perfomance Rating2.82.8
Chromebook PlusNoNo
ProcessorDual-core 1.10 Ghz (max 2.40 Ghz)
Intel Celeron N3350
Dual-core 1.10 Ghz (max 2.40 Ghz)
Intel Celeron N3350
RAM4 GB4 GB
Internal Storage32 GB eMMC32 GB eMMC
Screen Size11.6"11.6"
Screen Resolution1366x7681366x768
Screen TypeWLED-backlit anti-glareWLED-backlit anti-glare
Touch ScreenNoNo
Stylus / PenNo Stylus SupportNo Stylus Support
Dimensions
width x length x thickness
12.05 x 8.19 x 0.71 inches
(306.07 x 208.03 x 18.03 mm)
12.05 x 8.19 x 0.71 inches
(306.07 x 208.03 x 18.03 mm)
Weight2.99 lbs (1.36 kg)2.99 lbs (1.36 kg)
Backlit KeyboardNoNo
Webcam720p HD720p HD
WiFi802.11 a/b/g/n/ac (2x2)802.11 a/b/g/n/ac (2x2)
BluetoothBluetooth 4.2Bluetooth 4.2
EthernetNoNo
Cellular ModemNoNo
HDMINo HDMINo HDMI
USB Ports2 USB 3, 2 USB-C
(USB-C supports DisplayPort)
2 USB 3, 2 USB-C
(USB-C supports DisplayPort)
Thunderbolt PortsNoNo
Card ReadermicroSD Card ReadermicroSD Card Reader
Battery2 cell, 47 Wh, Li-ion2 cell, 47 Wh, Li-ion
Battery Life15.0 hours15.0 hours
FanlessNoNo
Auto Update
Expiration Date
June, 2024June, 2024

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Detailed Insights into the HP Chromebook 11a (Intel)

The HP Chromebook 11a’s design prioritized portability over premium materials, resulting in a plastic chassis that kept weight to just under 3 pounds (1.36kg). This lightweight construction made the device genuinely portable for students carrying it between classes or users who needed a grab-and-go machine for coffee shop productivity. The Ash Gray color scheme gave it a professional appearance that avoided the cheap look of some budget competitors, though the all-plastic build did include some flex under pressure. HP’s ergonomic keyboard provided a comfortable typing experience for extended sessions, which mattered for a device positioned toward educational and productivity use cases.

Performance expectations should be calibrated to the Celeron N3350’s capabilities. This dual-core processor, running at 1.1GHz base with burst speeds up to 2.4GHz, paired with Intel HD Graphics 500 to handle basic tasks competently. LoBaratoSaleCaro’s testing confirmed the device was “suitable for browsing the internet, messaging, entertainment apps like Netflix” while noting that graphics-intensive 3D applications would struggle. The eMMC storage, while slower than SSD alternatives, provided adequate read/write speeds for Chrome OS’s lightweight footprint. For users whose workflow centered on Google services and browser-based applications, the 11a delivered responsive performance within its intended use case.

Battery life represented one of the HP Chromebook 11a’s genuine strengths, with HP claiming up to 15 hours of mixed usage on a single charge. Real-world testing typically showed 11-13 hours for standard web browsing and productivity tasks, which still exceeded most competitors in this price range. The 47Wh 2-cell lithium-ion battery meant students could realistically leave their charger at home for a full school day without anxiety. This all-day capability, combined with the lightweight design and affordable price point, made the 11a a practical choice for users who valued portability and endurance over raw performance.

Connectivity options served basic needs without frills. Two USB-C ports (supporting DisplayPort for external monitors) and two USB 3.0 Type-A ports provided adequate expansion for peripherals. The lack of HDMI meant users needed a USB-C adapter for most projectors and older displays, a minor inconvenience for classroom presentations. Users who needed wired networking could add it with a USB Ethernet adapter. WiFi 5 (802.11ac) with 2x2 MIMO antennas delivered reliable wireless performance, while Bluetooth 4.2 handled accessories like wireless mice or headphones. A microSD card reader offered storage expansion for those needing to supplement the limited 32GB internal capacity, and the combination headphone/microphone jack covered audio needs.

Reviewer Insights on the HP Chromebook 11a (Intel)

Professional review coverage for the Intel Celeron N3350 variant of the HP Chromebook 11a proved challenging to locate, as most major publications reviewed the MediaTek MT8183 version instead. This created an unusual situation where consumers choosing the Intel variant had limited independent testing to reference before purchase.

LoBaratoSaleCaro Analysis

The Spanish technology publication LoBaratoSaleCaro provided one of the few verified reviews specifically covering the Intel N3350 variant (model 11a-nb0000ns, European equivalent of the US 11a-nb0013dx). Their testing awarded the device a solid 3.8/5 rating, praising the “optimal performance and adjusted pricing” that made it attractive for budget-conscious buyers. The review highlighted the ergonomic keyboard design, extended battery autonomy, and DDR4 memory as notable positives, while acknowledging the eMMC storage limitations and lack of dedicated graphics as acceptable trade-offs at the price point. Their verdict positioned the 11a as well-suited for users who primarily work within Google’s ecosystem and don’t require local processing power beyond basic tasks.

Customer Perspectives

Amazon customer reviews reflected the practical realities of budget Chromebook ownership. Users praised the quick boot times, consistent battery life, and lightweight portability that made the device genuinely useful for everyday tasks. Students particularly appreciated the value proposition for classroom note-taking and research, where Chrome OS’s simplicity and security became advantages rather than limitations. Critical feedback typically centered on the 32GB storage filling up quickly with Android apps, the TN display panel’s mediocre viewing angles, and occasional slowdowns with many browser tabs open simultaneously.

Historical Context and Market Position

The HP Chromebook 11a Intel variant launched into a crowded budget Chromebook market in 2020, competing against models from Acer, Lenovo, and Samsung at similar price points. HP’s decision to offer both Intel and MediaTek processor options gave consumers a choice between familiar x86 architecture and ARM-based efficiency. The Intel variant appealed to users who anticipated needing Linux app compatibility (x86 applications ran more reliably than on ARM chips) or who simply preferred the known quantity of Intel processors. With Chrome OS support ending in June 2024, this device now represents a historical snapshot of the affordable Chromebook segment during the pandemic-era surge in remote learning and working from home.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between the HP Chromebook 11a Intel and MediaTek versions?

The HP Chromebook 11a came in two processor variants: the Intel Celeron N3350 (model numbers starting with 11a-nb) and the MediaTek MT8183 (model numbers starting with 11a-na). The Intel version offered x86 compatibility for better Linux app support, while the MediaTek version used ARM architecture with potentially better power efficiency. Both shared the same 11.6-inch display, 4GB RAM, and 32GB storage configuration.

Is the HP Chromebook 11a still supported by Google?

No, Chrome OS support for the HP Chromebook 11a (Intel) ended in June 2024 (Auto Update Expiration). The device no longer receives security updates from Google. While the hardware still functions, using an unsupported Chromebook carries security risks for sensitive activities like online banking.

Can you upgrade the RAM or storage on the HP Chromebook 11a?

No, both the RAM and storage are soldered to the motherboard and cannot be upgraded. The device is fixed at 4GB of DDR4 memory and 32GB of eMMC storage. Users can expand storage using the built-in microSD card reader for photos, documents, and media files, though Chrome OS apps and Android apps must remain on internal storage.

Does the HP Chromebook 11a have a touchscreen?

No, the HP Chromebook 11a (Intel) model 11a-nb0013dx does not include a touchscreen. It features a standard WLED-backlit anti-glare display with 1366x768 resolution. Some MediaTek variants of the 11a line did include touchscreen options, so buyers should verify the specific model number before purchase.

What ports does the HP Chromebook 11a have?

The HP Chromebook 11a (Intel) includes two USB-C ports (with DisplayPort support for external monitors), two USB 3.0 Type-A ports, a microSD card reader, and a combination headphone/microphone jack. It does not have HDMI, Ethernet, or Thunderbolt ports. USB-C adapters are required for connecting to projectors or older displays with HDMI inputs.

Can you run Linux on the HP Chromebook 11a?

Yes, the HP Chromebook 11a supports Linux apps through Chrome OS’s built-in Linux development environment (Crostini). The Intel Celeron N3350 processor provides x86 architecture, which means better compatibility with Linux applications compared to ARM-based Chromebooks. Note that with Chrome OS support ended, users may want to consider installing a full Linux distribution for continued security updates.