Top 10: Best Google Chromebooks – January 2017

Thanks to CES 2017, it has been a busy month for Chromebooks and we have seen a number of new options being announced or released and some of them are seriously good Chromebooks which will likely be held as the benchmark for other Chromebooks which follow throughout the year. Which does mean that in spite of it only being January, the year ahead is already shaping up to be a great year for Chromebooks. If you are in the market for a new Chromebook right now though, then here are our top 10 Chromebook picks for January 2017.

10. ASUS Chromebook Flip

There is a new ASUS Chromebook Flip in town and we will come to that later. But the arrival of the newest model should not take away from the original ASUS Chromebook Flip. This one adopts similar design traits to the newer model as it can be used in a variety of positions, including a tablet and tent mode. However, the difference is that this one is much more affordable compared to the new version and can be currently picked up for about $259. For that cost, you are looking at a Chromebook which comes equipped with a 10.1-inch display and a 1280 x 800 resolution. While inside, you can expect to find 4GB RAM, 16GB internal storage and a Rockchip (RK3288) processor. This is also a Chromebook which comes with support for Android apps. So while it is the older model now, for the money, this is still a great option to consider.

9. Lenovo 100s Chromebook

One of the biggest selling points of Chromebooks is that they are by nature, affordable. However, some Chromebooks are more affordable than others and the Lenovo 100s is one of those Chromebooks. This one can be currently picked up for about $185 and will offer the owner a solid and reliable set of specs, within a durable and hard-working shell. In terms of those specs, the Lenovo 100s Chromebook comes equipped with an 11.6-inch display with a 1366 x 768 resolution. As well as 2GB RAM, 16GB storage and is powered by an Intel Celeron (N2840) processor.

8. Acer Chromebook 11 CB3-131

The Acer Chromebook 11 CB3-131 is almost identical to the Lenovo 100s in every respect. Which does mean that price is normally the biggest difference between these two Chromebooks and even that is not a huge difference. Right now for instance, the Acer Chromebook 11 is the more affordable option but only by a few dollars. Otherwise, you are looking at the same sized 11.6-inch display with the same resolution. As well as the same 2GB RAM, the same 16GB storage and the same Intel Celeron (N2840) processor.

7. Samsung Chromebook 3

The Samsung Chromebook 3 is no longer the newest Chromebook from Samsung. However, it is the most affordable Chromebook from the company. So if you are looking for a Samsung quality build and design, but not looking to pay too much, then the Chromebook 3 is the one to go for. This Chromebook is available in two different spec configurations with one boasting 2GB RAM and one boasting 4GB RAM. Otherwise, both models are largely the same and offer an 11.6-inch display, along with 16GB storage and an Intel Celeron (N3050) processor. This is an Android apps-ready Chromebook and one which can be picked up at very good prices. Right now, the 2GB model is available for around $160 while the 4GB model is available for just under $180. Which makes this a great option for those looking for an affordable Chromebook.

6. Dell Chromebook 13

The Dell Chromebook 13 is not the most affordable Chromebook on this list, but is one which comes boasting a seriously good build quality and is aimed more towards those looking for a premium option. In fact, when it comes to the specs, you do have the option to choose the specs that are best suited to your needs. So if you are looking for the highest possible specs, then there is a model which comes with 8GB RAM and 64GB storage, as well as an Intel Core i5 processor. This is in addition to the 13.3-inch FHD display that is available with all models, regardless of spec configuration chosen.

5. Lenovo ThinkPad 13

Lenovo recently announced they have some new Chromebooks coming through in 2017, although they are not available to buy just yet. However, the Lenovo ThinkPad 13 is, which makes this one of the newer available Chromebooks from Lenovo. This Chromebook comes with a great spec list, a durable build quality and some forward-looking technology including USB Type-C ports. As for the specs, the Lenovo ThinkPad 13 packs in a 13.3-inch display with a 1366 x 768 resolution. As well as 4GB RAM with 16GB storage – although there are other configurations available. However, the 4GB/16GB version is currently on sale and can be picked up for only $179.99 – which in reality makes it the bargain of the month. At this price – this really is a great option to go for right now.

4. Acer Chromebook R 13

If you are in the market for a versatile Chromebook, then the Acer Chromebook R 13 remains an option worth checking out. This one does currently cost about $399 to buy, but for that price you are getting a very good performing Chromebook and one which can be used in a variety of positions due to its rotating hinge. In terms of the specs, the Acer Chromebook R 13 comes packing a 13.3-inch display with a 1920 x 1080 resolution. As well as, 4GB RAM, 32GB storage and a MediaTek (MT8173C) quad-core processor. This is another Android apps-ready Chromebook.

3. Acer Chromebook 14

The Acer Chromebook 14 very quickly became our go-to Chromebook when it was released in 2016. It is one which offers good value for money, a great build quality and an overall sleek design. While it is no longer our number one choice, it is one which is more affordable than the Chromebooks rated higher. So for the money, this is an excellent option to go for. In terms of the specs, the Acer Chromebook 14 comes packing a 14-inch display with a 1920 x 19080 resolution. Inside, this one comes loaded with 4GB RAM, 32GB storage and an Intel Celeron N3160 processor. This is a Chromebook which supports the Google Play Store and Android apps and can currently be picked up for about $285.

2. ASUS Chromebook Flip C302

The ASUS Chromebook Flip C302 is one of the newest Chromebooks to come through as it was only announced at this year’s CES event. However, it immediately caught the attention of the market and with good reason. This looks to be an excellent Chromebook and one which not only will provide a flawless user experience, but also an extremely durable build. This is also a Chromebook which boasts a 360-degree rotating hinge, allowing the Chromebook to be used in multiple positions. In terms of the specs, the ASUS Chromebook Flip C302 comes packing a 12.5-inch display with a 1920 x 1080 resolution. Inside, you can expect to find 4GB RAM, 64GB storage and an Intel Core processor. Battery life is listed as 10 hours and this is a Chromebook that is Google Play Store and Android app-ready.

1. Samsung Chromebook Pro/Plus

A new arrival to the Chromebook scene and straight in at the top spot is the Samsung Chromebook Pro. This is actually a Chromebook that is available in two different versions (a Pro version and a Plus version) with the main notable difference being the processor used. However, the rest of the specs are largely the same including a 12.3-inch display with a 2400 x 1600 resolution. As well as 4GB RAM, 32GB storage, and battery life in the region of 10 hours. However, they are only the base features on offer with the Chromebook Pro/Plus. This is also a Chromebook that comes with a 360-degree rotating hinge so you can make use of it in various positions. Not to mention, this one even comes with its own stylus. Although 2017 has just started, this is already the Chromebook to beat.