Affordable laptops are standard, but few offer a sleek and capable device for less money, like a Chromebook.
PCMag’s analysts have reviewed laptops and Chromebooks for years since their launch.
They use detailed testing methods to assess performance, battery life, and usability.
Chromebooks run ChromeOS, which isn’t compatible with many Windows or macOS benchmarks. For these devices, PCMag uses unique testing tools.
Their top recommendation is the Asus Chromebook Plus CX34. It delivers top-notch performance and features at a competitive price.
They also recommend other Chromebooks tailored to various needs and budgets. Below are some of their top picks:
- Best Overall: Asus Chromebook Plus CX34 ($439.95 at Amazon)
- Best Budget Option: Acer Chromebook Plus 514 ($310.02 at Amazon)
- Best Convertible: Acer Chromebook Plus Spin 714 ($699.00 at Best Buy)
- Best Detachable: Lenovo IdeaPad Duet 5 Chromebook ($369.00 at Lenovo)
Each model meets specific needs, offering excellent value for its category.
Chromebooks were basic when they first launched over ten years ago. They needed an internet connection for most tasks.
Now, they can handle much more and work offline. Google also updates them regularly with new features and security improvements.
CNET tested every Chromebook listed here and reviews new models often. Brands like Lenovo, Acer, Asus, HP, and Samsung offer excellent performance and features for their price.
If you’re unsure about choosing a Chromebook, here’s a comparison with traditional laptops.
Top Choices:
- Acer Chromebook Plus 514 – Best overall Chromebook, priced at $379 at B&H Photo-Video.
- Acer Chromebook Spin 714 – Best premium Chromebook, priced at $699 at Best Buy.
- Lenovo Duet Chromebook – Best 2-in-1 tablet, priced at $250 at Lenovo.
Laptop Deals of the Week:
- Dell Inspiron 15 3520: $500 (save $200)
- HP Envy x360 16-inch OLED 2-in-1: $950 (save $350)
- Lenovo Yoga 7 16-inch 2-in-1: $780 (save $335)
- Asus Vivobook Pro 15 OLED RTX 3050: $700 (save $600)
Which Chromebook is the Best Overall?
The Acer Chromebook Plus 514 is the top Chromebook we tested this year.
It belongs to Google’s Chromebook Plus lineup, which ensures specific performance standards, hardware specifications, and exclusive software capabilities.
This series helps users who need reliable performance instead of focusing only on discounts.
The Chromebook Plus models come with:
- At least a 12th-gen Intel Core i3 or AMD Ryzen 3 7000 processor
- 8GB or more of RAM
- 128GB or more of storage
- A 1080p IPS LCD or better
- A 1080p webcam with noise reduction
Chromebook Plus laptops have a Google One AI Premium subscription for one year.
It includes Gemini Advanced, Gemini for Google Workspace, 2TB of cloud storage, and other benefits from the $20 per month Premium plan.
The Acer Chromebook Plus 514 meets all these standards and costs under $300.
It provides excellent value with a bright 14-inch screen, a spacious 512GB SSD, a high-quality webcam, and long battery life.
Best Chromebooks for 2025
Over ten years ago, Chromebooks had essential functions and needed the internet for most tasks.
Now, they have improved and can function without an internet connection. Google frequently updates them to add features and ensure security.
CNET has tested all the Chromebooks listed here and continues to review models from brands like Lenovo, Acer, Asus, HP, and Samsung.
Each Chromebook offers excellent value and performance for its price.
If you’re unsure whether a Chromebook is right for you, consider how they compare to traditional laptops.
Recommended Models
- Acer Chromebook Plus 514
- Price: $379 at B&H Photo-Video
- Pros: Long battery life, excellent webcam, bright touchscreen, durable build, 512GB SSD
- Cons: No backlit keyboard, some keyboard and touchpad flex, slower USB-C ports
- Acer Chromebook Spin 714 (Premium Option)
- Price: $699 at Best Buy
- Pros: Great port options, durable design, high-quality webcam
- Cons: Small touchpad, lacks a microSD card slot
- Lenovo Duet Chromebook (Best 2-in-1 Tablet)
- Price: $250 at Lenovo
- Pros: Includes keyboard cover, versatile for laptop or tablet use, excellent value
- Cons: Small touchpad, slower performance
Key Things to Know Before Buying a Chromebook
When choosing a Chromebook, remember a few essential factors to ensure it fits your needs.
- Applications: Chromebooks mainly support web-based apps, Android apps, and some Linux programs. Before buying, check if the apps you rely on are available. For example, specific professional or niche applications may not work without a workaround.
- Operating System: Chromebooks run on ChromeOS, which differs from Windows or MacOS. Programs made for other systems won’t work directly. Popular apps like Photoshop or some business tools require alternatives to function.
- Hardware: While ChromeOS is lightweight and doesn’t need high-end hardware, it’s still a good idea to buy a model with the best specifications you can afford. Since Chromebooks don’t support upgrades later, storage, RAM, and processor power are essential.
- Security: One of the best features of Chromebooks is their built-in security. They are highly resistant to viruses and malware, so you don’t need to install additional antivirus software.
- Auto-Update Expiration (AUE): Google supports updates for 8 to 10 years on each Chromebook model. Check the updated expiration date of the device before purchasing to ensure you get a longer lifespan.
Taking time to understand these points will help you make the right choice.
Our Laptop Testing Process
We test laptops in two ways: controlled performance testing in the lab and practical use by our reviewers.
Reviewers assess the design, usability, and features, considering the price. The final review combines both measurable data and personal opinions.
We use standard tools like Geekbench 5 and 6, Cinebench R23, PCMark 10, and various 3DMark tests based on compatibility.
For photo and video tasks, we run UL Procyon if it works. Our testing also includes a battery assessment.
We test gaming laptops by running benchmarks for Guardians of the Galaxy, The Rift Breaker (CPU and GPU), and Shadow of the Tomb Raider.
Chromebooks undergo different testing because they don’t support Windows or MacOS apps.
During hands-on testing, the reviewer uses the laptop for their tasks to evaluate the overall experience.
They check how the design, features (like the screen, camera, and speakers), and software work together. They also consider the cost and whether the price reflects upgrades or compromises.
We update our benchmarks and testing criteria as technology changes. More details about our process are available on the How We Test Computers page.
