The base model Asus Chromebook Flip C434 has already been available for sale and we knew an upgraded model would be following. Now Amazon shows both the base configuration with 4 GB of memory and the upgraded version that doubles the RAM.
When the 4 GB unit went on sale for $569, I suggested that interested buyers consider waiting since the 8 GB configuration was expected to cost just $30 more. That extra memory would be a huge benefit for allowing more open tabs and/or using Linux apps. And the 8 GB option from Amazon is indeed $599; that extra cost is well worth the investment, even though you can now purchase the 4 GB configuration for $529.99 (affiliate link).
Aside from the extra RAM all of the specs on the $599 model are the same as the lower-priced one:
- Intel Core m3-8100Y, 2C/4T, 1.1GHz (4MB cache, up to 3.4GHz)
- 14” LED-backlit IPS NanoEdge display, 100% sRGB, 1920 x 1080 with 5mm bezels and a 360-degree hinge
- 4 or 8 GB LPDDR3 memory depending on the model you buy
- 64 GB eMMC storage
- MicroSD card reader, 802.11ac Wi-Fi, Bluetooth 4.0
- Two USB Type-C ports, one USB Type-A port (all ports are USB 3.1)
- Backlit keyboard and multi-touch trackpad
- HD webcam, presumably 720p based on the lack of a “FullHD” mention
- 48 WHr battery with an estimated 10 hours of runtime
- 3.2 pounds
Note that if you plan to use Android Studio to build Android apps, the Asus Chromebook Flip C434 isn’t on Google’s list of recommended Chromebooks. That’s because it uses the lower-powered Intel Y-series chips, not the company’s U-Series processors.
Additionally, Amazon doesn’t appear to have inventory of the 8 GB model in stock currently. Delivery dates for Prime members are quoted to be between May 28 and June 12, although that can change at any time.
