HP Chromebook 14 (AMD)
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The HP Chromebook 14 (AMD) represents HP’s entry-level approach to the Chromebook market, pairing the AMD A4-9120C processor with a 14-inch display in a fanless, lightweight design. Launched in 2019, this laptop targets budget-conscious students and casual users who need a portable machine for web browsing, document editing, and light productivity tasks. With Chrome OS updates guaranteed through June 2029, this Chromebook offers solid long-term software support despite its modest hardware specifications.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Excellent port selection with USB-C and USB-A on both sides | Poor TN display with washed-out colors and bad viewing angles |
| Impressive speakers with punchy, loud audio from B&O Play | Low 1366x768 resolution feels cramped on 14-inch screen |
| Fanless design operates completely silent | AMD A4-9120C struggles with more than a few tabs open |
| Good battery life reaching 8-10 hours | Non-upgradeable 4GB RAM limits multitasking |
| Attractive, grippy plastic exterior at budget price | No keyboard backlight for low-light typing |
| 180-degree hinge allows flexible screen positioning | 32GB eMMC storage fills up quickly with Android apps |
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HP Chromebook 14 (AMD) Comparison Chart
![]() HP Chromebook 14 (AMD) | ![]() HP Chromebook 14 (AMD) | ![]() HP Chromebook 14 (AMD) | ![]() HP Chromebook 14 (AMD) | ![]() HP Chromebook 14 (AMD) | ![]() HP Chromebook 14 (AMD) | ![]() HP Chromebook 14 (AMD) | |
| Price | List Price: $279.99 Amazon Prices: Loading prices... | List Price: $299.99 Amazon Prices: Loading prices... | List Price: $269.99 Amazon Prices: Loading prices... | List Price: $269.99 Amazon Prices: Loading prices... | List Price: $299.99 Amazon Prices: Loading prices... | List Price: $239.99 Amazon Prices: Loading prices... | List Price: $274.00 Amazon Prices: Loading prices... |
| Model number | 14-db0050nr | 14-db0040nr | 14-db0030nr | 14-db0020nr | 14-db0080nr | 14-db0090nr | 14-db0060nr |
| Perfomance Rating | 2.3 | 2.3 | 2.3 | 2.3 | 2.3 | 2.3 | 2.3 |
| Chromebook Plus | No | No | No | No | No | No | No |
| Processor | Dual-core 1.60 Ghz (max 2.40 Ghz) AMD A4-9120C APU with Radeon R4 Graphics | Dual-core 1.60 Ghz (max 2.40 Ghz) AMD A4-9120C APU with Radeon R4 Graphics | Dual-core 1.60 Ghz (max 2.40 Ghz) AMD A4-9120C APU with Radeon R4 Graphics | Dual-core 1.60 Ghz (max 2.40 Ghz) AMD A4-9120C APU with Radeon R4 Graphics | Dual-core 1.60 Ghz (max 2.40 Ghz) AMD A4-9120C APU with Radeon R4 Graphics | Dual-core 1.60 Ghz (max 2.40 Ghz) AMD A4-9120C APU with Radeon R4 Graphics | Dual-core 1.60 Ghz (max 2.40 Ghz) AMD A4-9120C APU with Radeon R4 Graphics |
| RAM | 4 GB | 4 GB | 4 GB | 4 GB | 4 GB | 4 GB | 4 GB |
| Internal Storage | 32 GB eMMC | 32 GB eMMC | 32 GB eMMC | 32 GB eMMC | 32 GB eMMC | 32 GB eMMC | 32 GB eMMC |
| Screen Size | 14" | 14" | 14" | 14" | 14" | 14" | 14" |
| Screen Resolution | 1366x768 | 1366x768 | 1366x768 | 1366x768 | 1366x768 | 1366x768 | 1366x768 |
| Screen Type | WLED-backlit | WLED-backlit | WLED-backlit | WLED-backlit | WLED-backlit | WLED-backlit | WLED-backlit |
| Touch Screen | No | No | No | No | No | No | No |
| Stylus / Pen | No Stylus Support | No Stylus Support | No Stylus Support | No Stylus Support | No Stylus Support | No Stylus Support | No Stylus Support |
| Dimensions width x length x thickness | 13.27 x 8.93 x 0.72 inches (337.06 x 226.82 x 18.29 mm) | 13.27 x 8.93 x 0.72 inches (337.06 x 226.82 x 18.29 mm) | 13.27 x 8.93 x 0.72 inches (337.06 x 226.82 x 18.29 mm) | 13.27 x 8.93 x 0.72 inches (337.06 x 226.82 x 18.29 mm) | 13.27 x 8.93 x 0.72 inches (337.06 x 226.82 x 18.29 mm) | 13.27 x 8.93 x 0.72 inches (337.06 x 226.82 x 18.29 mm) | 13.27 x 8.93 x 0.72 inches (337.06 x 226.82 x 18.29 mm) |
| Weight | 3.4 lbs (1.55 kg) | 3.4 lbs (1.55 kg) | 3.4 lbs (1.55 kg) | 3.4 lbs (1.55 kg) | 3.4 lbs (1.55 kg) | 3.4 lbs (1.55 kg) | 3.4 lbs (1.55 kg) |
| Backlit Keyboard | No | No | No | No | No | No | No |
| Webcam | TrueVision HD | TrueVision HD | TrueVision HD | TrueVision HD | TrueVision HD | TrueVision HD | TrueVision HD |
| WiFi | 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac (2x2) | 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac (2x2) | 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac (2x2) | 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac (2x2) | 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac (2x2) | 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac (2x2) | 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac (2x2) |
| Bluetooth | Bluetooth 4.2 | Bluetooth 4.2 | Bluetooth 4.2 | Bluetooth 4.2 | Bluetooth 4.2 | Bluetooth 4.2 | Bluetooth 4.2 |
| Ethernet | No | No | No | No | No | No | No |
| Cellular Modem | No | No | No | No | No | No | No |
| HDMI | No HDMI | No HDMI | No HDMI | No HDMI | No HDMI | No HDMI | No HDMI |
| USB Ports | 2 USB 3, 2 USB-C (Charging, power delivery, video, data) | 2 USB 3, 2 USB-C (Charging, power delivery, video, data) | 2 USB 3, 2 USB-C (Charging, power delivery, video, data) | 2 USB 3, 2 USB-C (Charging, power delivery, video, data) | 2 USB 3, 2 USB-C (Charging, power delivery, video, data) | 2 USB 3, 2 USB-C (Charging, power delivery, video, data) | 2 USB 3, 2 USB-C (Charging, power delivery, video, data) |
| Thunderbolt Ports | No | No | No | No | No | No | No |
| Card Reader | microSD Card Reader | microSD Card Reader | microSD Card Reader | microSD Card Reader | microSD Card Reader | microSD Card Reader | microSD Card Reader |
| Battery | 2 cell, 47.36 WHr, Lithium-ion | 2 cell, 47.36 WHr, Lithium-ion | 2 cell, 47.36 WHr, Lithium-ion | 2 cell, 47.36 WHr, Lithium-ion | 2 cell, 47.36 WHr, Lithium-ion | 2 cell, 47.36 WHr, Lithium-ion | 2 cell, 47.36 WHr, Lithium-ion |
| Battery Life | 9.0 hours | 9.0 hours | 9.0 hours | 9.0 hours | 9.0 hours | 9.0 hours | 9.0 hours |
| Fanless | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Auto Update Expiration Date | June, 2029 | June, 2029 | June, 2029 | June, 2029 | June, 2029 | June, 2029 | June, 2029 |
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Detailed Insights into the HP Chromebook 14 (AMD)
The HP Chromebook 14’s build quality reflects its budget positioning while still feeling reasonably solid in hand. The plastic chassis features a textured, grippy finish that resists fingerprints effectively and gives the laptop a more premium feel than its price suggests. At 3.4 pounds and 0.72 inches thick, the device strikes a reasonable balance between portability and durability for daily carry between classes or around the house. The 180-degree hinge adds versatility for sharing the screen with others during group work, though the laptop lacks the flexibility of a true 2-in-1 convertible design.
Performance from the AMD A4-9120C processor with Radeon R4 integrated graphics falls into the entry-level category, suitable for basic Chrome OS tasks but noticeably slow under heavier workloads. Chrome Unboxed’s testing revealed Octane benchmark scores around 13,000, which translates to smooth performance with 3-5 browser tabs but noticeable lag when pushing beyond that. The 4GB of soldered RAM cannot be upgraded, creating a hard ceiling on multitasking capability. For users who primarily work with Google Docs, browse the web, and stream video content, the performance proves adequate, but anyone expecting to run multiple Android apps simultaneously or keep dozens of tabs open will encounter frustration.
The port selection represents one of this Chromebook’s genuine strengths, particularly at its price point. HP equipped the device with two USB-C ports supporting charging, power delivery, and video output, plus two USB 3.0 Type-A ports and a microSD card slot for storage expansion. Having USB-A and USB-C ports on both the left and right sides means users can connect peripherals from either direction, a thoughtful design choice that many more expensive laptops overlook. The integrated microSD reader helps offset the limited 32GB internal eMMC storage, allowing users to expand space for offline files and downloaded media without relying entirely on cloud storage.
The display represents the most significant compromise buyers must accept. The 14-inch panel uses TN technology rather than the IPS panels found in mid-range Chromebooks, resulting in severely limited viewing angles and washed-out colors when viewed from any angle other than straight-on. At 1366x768 resolution, the pixel density on a 14-inch screen leaves text and interface elements looking noticeably soft compared to 1080p alternatives. Users who primarily work with text documents may find this acceptable, but anyone consuming media, editing photos, or simply expecting a pleasant visual experience will be disappointed. HP does offer some variants with FHD (1920x1080) displays, which partially addresses the resolution concern while maintaining the TN panel’s inherent viewing angle limitations.
Reviewer Insights on the HP Chromebook 14 (AMD)
Chrome Unboxed’s Assessment
Robby Payne at Chrome Unboxed provided the most comprehensive review of the AMD variant, testing the laptop extensively in July 2019. Payne found the keyboard delivers a satisfying typing experience, noting that “keys travel well, have a decent click” and support fast typing for extended sessions. The trackpad earned similar praise for its oil-resistant surface that maintains smooth operation throughout the day. However, Payne reserved his harshest criticism for the display, describing it as “really bad” with “abysmal viewing angles, extremely washed out colors” that severely impact the user experience. At the base $230 price point, Payne considered these compromises acceptable for budget buyers, but cautioned that upgraded configurations priced between $340-$468 face much stiffer competition from Chromebooks with better screens.
The audio quality surprised reviewers positively, with Chrome Unboxed noting the speakers deliver “punchy and loud sound” thanks to HP’s partnership with B&O Play. For a budget Chromebook, having dual speakers that fill a room adequately sets this model apart from competitors that often treat audio as an afterthought. Battery life also impressed during real-world testing, consistently reaching 8-10 hours of mixed usage despite the 47.36 Wh capacity being average for the class.
TechRadar’s Early Impressions
TechRadar’s hands-on preview from January 2019 highlighted the potential benefits of AMD’s processor over Intel Celeron options common in this price segment. Joe Osborne noted the thin and portable design aligned well with HP’s reputation for producing attractive laptops, though he did flag concerns about the keyboard feeling “squishy” compared to higher-end models. The AMD processor’s integrated Radeon graphics theoretically offered better graphical performance than competing Intel solutions, though real-world Chromebook use rarely taxes integrated graphics significantly.
The consensus across professional reviews positions the HP Chromebook 14 (AMD) as a reasonable choice only at its lowest price points. Reviewers agree the excellent port selection, decent speakers, and all-day battery life provide genuine value, while the poor display quality remains the laptop’s most significant weakness. For buyers specifically seeking an AMD-powered Chromebook, this model represents one of the few options available, though the processor choice matters less on Chrome OS than on Windows where AMD’s graphics advantages see more frequent use.
Customer Reviews of the HP Chromebook 14 (AMD)
Amazon customers have rated the HP Chromebook 14 (AMD) at 4.4 out of 5 stars across thousands of reviews, reflecting generally positive reception despite acknowledged limitations. Buyers consistently praise the value proposition, noting that sub-$200 pricing during sales makes this one of the cheapest ways to get a functional 14-inch Chromebook with full-day battery life. Students particularly appreciate the fanless operation for quiet use in libraries and classrooms, along with the included TrueVision HD webcam for video calls.
Common complaints center on the same issues professional reviewers identified: the display’s poor quality and the limited performance ceiling. Multiple customers report frustration when attempting to use more demanding Android apps or keep many browser tabs open simultaneously. The 32GB storage also draws criticism, with several reviewers recommending immediate microSD card purchase for anyone planning to use the Chromebook offline. Touchscreen variant buyers generally express greater satisfaction, as the touch input helps compensate for the trackpad’s adequate-but-unremarkable performance.
Long-term owners report the HP Chromebook 14 holds up reasonably well with careful use, though several note the plastic construction shows wear after a year or two of heavy daily use. The fanless design means no moving parts to fail, contributing to overall reliability. Parents purchasing these for children’s schoolwork frequently mention appreciation for the durability relative to the low price point, describing the laptop as “disposable enough not to worry about” while still performing essential educational tasks. The TrueVision HD webcam receives mixed marks, adequate for basic video conferencing but producing somewhat grainy images in anything less than optimal lighting conditions.
Conclusion
The HP Chromebook 14 (AMD) occupies a specific niche in the Chromebook market: buyers who prioritize value, battery life, and port selection above display quality and processing power. At its frequently discounted prices under $200, the laptop delivers genuine utility for students, casual browsers, and anyone needing a secondary machine for basic tasks. The extended Chrome OS support through June 2029 means purchasers can expect years of security updates and feature improvements, adding long-term value to the initial investment. However, users requiring a quality display for media consumption or photo editing, or those who multitask heavily, should budget for a more capable Chromebook with an IPS panel and 8GB of RAM. The HP Chromebook 14 with AMD processor does what it sets out to do well, but buyers must accept its clear limitations alongside its clear strengths.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I upgrade the RAM on the HP Chromebook 14 (AMD)?
No, the 4GB of DDR4 RAM is soldered directly to the motherboard and cannot be upgraded. This is a common limitation among budget Chromebooks in this price range. If you anticipate needing more than 4GB for multitasking, consider a different model from the start.
Does the HP Chromebook 14 (AMD) have a touchscreen?
Some variants include touchscreen displays while others do not. Models 14-db0060nr (Chalkboard Gray) and 14-db0090nr (Ink Blue) feature 14-inch HD touchscreen displays, while models like the 14-db0050nr and 14-db0040nr have non-touch screens. Check the specific model number before purchasing if touchscreen capability matters to you.
How long will the HP Chromebook 14 (AMD) receive Chrome OS updates?
Google’s Auto Update Expiration (AUE) date for the HP Chromebook 14-db0 series is June 2029. Until that date, the laptop will receive regular Chrome OS updates including new features, security patches, and bug fixes. After the AUE date, the device will continue functioning but won’t receive updates.
Can I expand the storage on the HP Chromebook 14 (AMD)?
Yes, the HP Chromebook 14 includes a microSD card slot that supports storage expansion. While the internal 32GB eMMC storage cannot be upgraded, you can insert a microSD card up to several hundred gigabytes to store offline files, downloaded media, and Android apps. Many owners recommend purchasing a 128GB or 256GB microSD card immediately to supplement the limited internal storage.
Is the HP Chromebook 14 (AMD) good for students?
The HP Chromebook 14 (AMD) works well for students doing basic schoolwork including Google Docs, Classroom, research, and video streaming. Its fanless design operates silently in libraries, the 9-hour battery lasts through a full school day, and the port selection accommodates various peripherals. However, students in graphics-intensive courses or those who need to run many applications simultaneously may find the 4GB RAM and basic processor limiting.
How does the AMD A4-9120C compare to Intel Celeron processors?
The AMD A4-9120C performs similarly to Intel Celeron N3350 and N4000 processors found in competing budget Chromebooks. The AMD chip includes Radeon R4 integrated graphics which offers marginally better graphical capabilities, though this rarely matters for typical Chromebook tasks. Real-world Chrome OS performance between AMD A4 and entry-level Celeron chips is largely comparable, with both handling basic browsing and productivity adequately but struggling with demanding workloads.
What are the differences between the various HP Chromebook 14 (AMD) models?
HP released the Chromebook 14 (AMD) in multiple color and screen variants, all sharing the same AMD A4-9120C processor, 4GB RAM, and 32GB storage. The main differences are display type (HD 1366x768 vs FHD 1920x1080), touchscreen capability (touch vs non-touch), and color (Snow White, Chalkboard Gray, or Ink Blue). Models ending in specific numbers indicate these variations: for example, the 14-db0050nr features FHD non-touch in Snow White, while the 14-db0090nr has HD touchscreen in Ink Blue. All variants share identical performance characteristics and port layouts.
Can I connect an external monitor to the HP Chromebook 14 (AMD)?
Yes, both USB-C ports on the HP Chromebook 14 support video output, allowing you to connect an external monitor using a USB-C to HDMI, DisplayPort, or VGA adapter. The laptop can mirror its display or extend the desktop to the external monitor. This capability is particularly useful given the Chromebook’s mediocre built-in display, as connecting to a better external monitor significantly improves the visual experience for productivity or media consumption at a desk.


