Best Chromebook Under $200: A Guide to Affordable Computing
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by Jim Mendenhall
Tags:
Chromebooks,
Top Chromebooks
Are you looking for a cheap Chromebook that offers great performance at an affordable price? Look no further! On this page, we’ll cover the best Chromebooks under 200 dollars, focusing on their features, advantages, and drawbacks. We’ll also share some chromebook deals to help you find the perfect device for your needs.
Why Choose a Low-Cost Chromebook?
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Value for Money: Chromebooks are generally more affordable than their Mac and Windows-based counterparts, offering exceptional value for your hard-earned dollar. These budget-friendly Chromebooks deliver many of the same features as pricier models, including good performance, ample storage options, and easy access to popular Google apps, all at a fraction of the cost.
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Portability: With their compact design and lightweight construction, these Chromebooks are perfect for on-the-go use. Their slim profiles make them easy to slip into a backpack or carry bag, and their long battery life ensures that you can use them throughout the day without needing to recharge, making them an excellent choice.
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Ease of Use: Chrome OS is simple, user-friendly, and perfect for casual use, such as web browsing, word processing, and streaming movies. The operating system is designed for a straightforward experience, making it easy for even the least tech-savvy users to navigate and perform everyday tasks. Additionally, Chromebooks come with built-in virus protection and automatic updates, ensuring a secure and up-to-date computing experience.
Top Chromebooks Under $200
Model Number: XE310XBA-KB1US
Processor: Dual-core 1.10 Ghz (max 2.80 Ghz) Intel Celeron Processor N4020
RAM: 4 GB
Storage: 16 GB
Display: 11.6" screen with a resolution of 1366x768 pixels.
Battery Life: 12.5 hours
Pros: Sleek design, good performance, and long battery life.
Cons: Limited storage space, small screen size.
This is one of Samsung's most popular Chromebooks and they have been iterating on this design for years to come up with a good compromise between a very low price and providing enough performance to meet basic needs. These models can often be found for well less than $200. There are quite a few variants, so click the button below to find the current best prices and deals.
Model Number: 82BA0003US
Processor: Dual-core 1.10 Ghz (max 2.80 Ghz) Intel Celeron Processor N4020
RAM: 4 GB
Storage: 64 GB
Display: 11.6" screen with a resolution of 1366x768 pixels.
Battery Life: 10.0 hours
Pros: Solid build quality, good performance, comfortable keyboard, and loud speakers.
Cons: Small display and limited battery life.
Aimed squarely at the same market as the Samsung Chromebook 4, this device can do everything you need for getting basic work done. It's great for kids, as a laptop to throw in your bag, or even for travel. It's rugged enough to stand up to everyday use and won't burn a hole in your pocket like more expensive options.
Model Number: 11a-na0010nr / 1F6F4UA#ABA
Processor: Octa-core 2.00 Ghz (max 2.00 Ghz) MediaTek MT8183
RAM: 4 GB
Storage: 32 GB
Display: 11.6" screen with a resolution of 1366x768 pixels.
Battery Life: 15.0 hours
Pros: 8-core ARM processor that is optimized for Android Apps from the Google Play Store, great battery life.
Cons: Small screen, limited storage space, and no backlit keyboard.
This version of HP's classic Chromebook 11 comes equipped with an eight core ARM processor from MediaTek. This processor offers more performance (especially in apps from the Play Store) while using less power than a budget Intel processor. Since this Chromebook can often be found for significantly less than $200, it's a solid recommendation.
Model Number: 14a-na0050nr
Processor: Dual-core 1.10 Ghz (max 2.60 Ghz) Intel Celeron N4000 Processor
RAM: 4 GB
Storage: 32 GB
Display: 14" screen with a resolution of 1920x1080 pixels.
Battery Life: 13.5 hours
Pros: 14-inch full-HD display, good performance, and long battery life.
Cons: Limited storage space, slow processor.
This is one of the only 14-inch Chromebooks that can consistently be found for less than $200. If you need an inexpensive laptop with a larger, higher resolution screen, but need to stick to a strict budget, this is the option for you!
Model Number: C403NA-WS42-BL
Processor: Dual-core 1.10 Ghz (max 2.40 Ghz) Intel Celeron N3350
RAM: 4 GB
Storage: 32 GB
Display: 14" screen with a resolution of 1366x768 pixels.
Battery Life: 12.0 hours
Pros: Rugged design, spill resistant, large screen, good performance, and comfortable keyboard.
Cons: Low resolution, display quality, no touch screen, limited storage space, and slow processor.
This 14-inch Chromebook from ASUS is designed to stand up to the wear and tear of a classroom. It is water resistant and built with a rugged case to help protect against being damaged in backpacks. While the screen brightness and resolution are not the greatest, if you need a rugged 14-inch laptop, give the C403 a consideration.
What is a Chromebook?
A Chromebook is a laptop or tablet that runs on Google’s Chrome OS operating system, specifically designed for everyday computing tasks. This type of device is perfect for users who primarily need a computer for web browsing, sending emails, streaming videos, and using cloud services like Google Drive. Chrome OS is lightweight and streamlined, making Chromebooks a popular choice for those who need a simple, user-friendly device for casual use.
In addition to their user-friendly design, Chromebooks are well-known for their affordable prices. While high-end laptops can cost well over a thousand dollars, many Chromebooks are available for just a few hundred dollars. This makes them an attractive option for budget-conscious consumers who want a reliable device without breaking the bank.
Chromebooks are an excellent choice for users who need a simple, affordable, and reliable computer. With their ease of use and budget-friendly prices, Chromebooks have quickly become a popular alternative to traditional Windows and Mac laptops. If you don’t like fussing with technology and want a computer that just works, a Chromebook may be the perfect fit for your needs.
Buying Guide: What to Consider When Shopping for a Chromebook
Battery Life
When it comes to buying a Chromebook, battery life is an essential factor to consider. A longer-lasting battery allows you to use your device for extended periods without needing to recharge. Ideally, you should look for a Chromebook with around 10 hours of battery life or more. This will enable you to use your device for a full day of work or school without worrying about finding an outlet. Additionally, Chromebooks with longer battery life often have more energy-efficient components, which can result in better overall performance.
Performance
Performance is another crucial factor when choosing a Chromebook. To ensure a smooth experience for everyday tasks like web browsing, document editing, and video streaming, opt for a model with an Intel, AMD, or ARM-based processor and at least 4GB of RAM. These specifications will provide your laptop with enough power to handle multitasking and run essential applications without any lag.
While budget Chromebooks may not have the same processing power as their high-end counterparts, they are still capable of providing a satisfactory user experience for most basic tasks. However, if you plan to use your Chromebook for more demanding activities like gaming or heavy multitasking, you may want to consider investing in a more powerful device.
Storage Space
Most budget Chromebooks come with limited storage, usually around 32GB to 128GB. While this may seem small, Chromebooks are designed to rely heavily on cloud services like Google Drive for storing files and documents. This means that you may not need as much local storage as you would on a traditional laptop.
If you find that you need more space for offline files, consider purchasing an external hard drive or SD card to expand your storage capacity. Alternatively, you can use a Google Drive to store your files and access them from anywhere with an internet connection.
Screen Size
Chromebooks come in various screen sizes, from compact 11.6-inch models to larger 15.6-inch options. The right screen size for you will depend on your personal preferences and intended use for the device. Smaller models are typically more portable and lightweight, making them ideal for on-the-go use. In contrast, larger models offer more screen real estate, which can be beneficial for productivity tasks, watching videos, and browsing the web.
When considering screen size, also pay attention to the display’s resolution and quality. A higher resolution will result in sharper images and text, while a better-quality display will offer more accurate color reproduction and wider viewing angles.
Touchscreen
Touchscreen Chromebooks provide a more intuitive and interactive experience, making them especially suitable for kids and older students. With a touchscreen, you can easily navigate web pages, play games, and interact with apps using your fingers, much like you would on a smartphone or tablet. This can be particularly useful for educational applications, where students can engage with the material more directly.
However, touchscreen models can be slightly more expensive than non-touchscreen counterparts. If a touchscreen is not a priority for you, you may be able to find the best deal by opting for a non-touchscreen model.
Convertible Laptop
Convertible laptops, also known as 2-in-1 devices, can be used as both a laptop and a tablet. These versatile devices typically feature a touchscreen and a hinge that allows the screen to fold back or detach from the keyboard. This functionality enables you to use your Chromebook in various modes, using such devices as a tablet for browsing the web, a tent for watching videos, or a traditional laptop for typing and productivity tasks.
While convertible laptops may be slightly more expensive than standard models, their versatility makes them an excellent option for those who want the best of both worlds.
Operating System Updates
Chrome OS, the operating system that powers Chromebooks, receives regular updates to ensure your device remains secure and up-to-date. These updates bring new features, bug fixes, and security patches, making it essential to choose a Chromebook that will continue receiving updates for an extended period.
Before purchasing a Chromebook, research the device’s end-of-life (EOL) date, which indicates when it will stop receiving Chrome OS updates. Most Chromebooks have an EOL date of at least five years from their initial release, but it’s always a good idea to verify this information to ensure you get the most out of your device.
Ports
The availability of various ports on your Chromebook can significantly impact its functionality and convenience. Depending on your needs, you’ll want to ensure that the Chromebook you choose has the necessary ports, such as USB, HDMI, and headphone jacks.
- USB ports: USB ports are essential for connecting peripherals like mice, keyboards, and external hard drives. Many Chromebooks come with both USB-A and USB-C ports, offering flexibility for connecting different devices.
- HDMI port: If you plan to connect your Chromebook to an external monitor or TV, an HDMI port is crucial. Some Chromebooks may use a USB-C port for video output, in which case you’ll need an adapter.
- Headphone jack: A headphone jack allows you to use wired headphones or speakers with your Chromebook. While some devices are phasing out the headphone jack in favor of wireless audio options, many users still appreciate this feature for its convenience and versatility.
When selecting a Chromebook, consider your specific needs and preferences to ensure that the device has the necessary ports to support your intended use.
By carefully considering factors like battery life, performance, storage space, screen size, and more, you can find a Chromebook that meets your requirements and offers excellent value for money. Remember to do thorough research and read user reviews to make the most informed decision possible. With the right Chromebook, you can enjoy a seamless computing experience without breaking the bank.
Conclusion
Finding the best Chromebook under $200 may seem like a daunting task, but with the right information and guidance, you can find a device that offers excellent performance, portability, and battery life at an affordable price. Remember to consider factors like screen size, storage space, and processor type when making your decision. With so many great deals available, there’s never been a better time to invest in a budget-friendly Chromebook for everyday computing tasks and casual use.
