I assume Amazon has spoiled any launch plans Asus may have planned for the upcoming IFA show by spilling the beans of the new Asus Chromebook C425. This clamshell Chromebook shares many similarities with the Asus Chromebook Flip C434, yet has some limitations by comparison and is available now for $499.99 as noted by Chrome Unboxed.
If you quickly glanced at the C425, you might think it actually is the Flip C434. That’s how similar these look. However, this isn’t a 2-in-1 since the hinge doesn’t fold 360-degrees nor is the 14-inch 1080p NanoEdge display with 178-degree viewing angle touch-capable.
I find that an odd decision to a point, due to Android app compatibility. Then again, reaching out to touch a laptop display, even for touch-centric apps, isn’t ideal. The C425 can fold flat if that’s your jam.
Inside, there are plenty more similarities between the new C425 and the Flip C434:
- Intel Core m3-8100Y processor with Intel HD 615 graphics
- 8 GB of RAM (double that the of base Flip model)
- 64 GB of eMMC storage and microSD card slot
- Backlit keyboard and 6-inch trackpad
- 2 USB-C ports, one on each side
- 1 USB Type-A port
- 1 audio jack
- Weight of 2.8 pounds
I’m a bit surprised Asus didn’t debut this model alongside the Flip C434 at the beginning of this year as it would have given folks a choice between 2-in-1 and convertible options. Perhaps Asus didn’t want to cannibalize sales of the Flip?
I’m also hoping the device sees some discounts early on as well. You’re giving up a touch display and 2-in-1 mode as compared to the Flip, but you’re only saving $60 over the 8 GB memory configuration of the Flip 434. And at this price or less, you can get a higher-performing option in the HP Chromebook X360 14 or Dell Inspiron Chromebook 14, which are often found on sale for around $400.
Regardless, I’d expect Asus to officially announce the Chromebook C425 within the next week; it’s not yet appearing on the company’s site. And who knows, maybe Asus has another Chromebook surprise waiting in the wings at the IFA show, which runs from September 6 through the 11th.
