The new Google Chromebook Pixel has arrived, and this time around it has earned its place ranking alongside the markets’ Ultrabooks and MacBooks. With this second-generation model, several aspects of the device have been upgraded to the top of the line specifications we expect from laptops today. While the design is kept almost identical to last year’s Chromebook, it is still quite attractive sporting an all-metal body in an ultra thin package.
In this year’s new and improved Google Chromebook Pixel the laptop is powered Intel’s latest 5th generation processor. The base Chromebook Pixel model will ship with the Intel Core i5 quad core processor, while the high end model will feature the Intel Core i7 with hyper-threading technology for improved multitasking. As for the machine’s memory, it will include 8 GB at the baseline with a whopping 16 GB in the upgraded version. These are both massive upgrades from the previous Chromebook Pixel which featured a dual-core Intel Core i5 processor with only 4 GB of RAM. The display in the new Chromebook Pixel also promises to be stunning yet again with a resolution of 2560 x 1700 and a 178 degree viewing angle. The 12.85 inch screen will also be a full multi-touch screen. Perhaps the only aspect of the new Google Chromebook Pixel that may not satisfy some users is the storage. The Chromebook Pixel will still ship with 32 GB of internal flash storage, but at least the upgraded model will bump you up to 64 GB. As for connectivity the Chromebook Pixel will provide you with two USB Type-C ports, two USB 3.0 ports, and an SD card reader slot. Lastly, the device will communicate with 802.11ac wireless functionality while powering through your long days featuring an estimated 12 hour battery life.
The Chromebook Pixel is garnering attention due to the fact that it surpasses the latest MacBook offerings from Apple in several fronts. Mainly, while the Apple Macbook’s retina display offers up a 2304 x 1440 resolution which is great, but simply cannot compete with the Chromebook Pixel’s resolution of 2560 x 1700. As for processing power the latest MacBook is powered by the dual-core Intel Core M processor family. Compared with the 5th generation Intel Core i5 and i7 the Apple Macbook is clearly outclassed. While battery life is subjective based on usage patterns, the Apple MacBook claims a possible 9 hours of battery life which is stifled by the estimated 12 of the Chromebook Pixel. Possibly the most noticeable difference between the two machines in terms of usability is the connectivity ports. The MacBook is expandable through a single USB Type-C port, while the Chromebook Pixel gives you two Type-C USB ports as well as two USB 3.0 Ports. All said and done, both laptops have different strengths and weaknesses. However, with the Chromebook platform gaining increased developer support the Apple MacBook product line is certainly given a run for its money.