If you are looking for a budget Chromebook, then we have come up with a list of 5 best Chromebooks under $300.
As gadget users, we have always been fond of Chromebooks. Unlike regular Windows-powered laptops, Chromebooks are usually smaller in size, and despite offering a restricted set of attributes; they are no pushovers when computing performances are concerned.
However, the sub-$300 price tag for a Chromebook isn’t all that convincing if you are interested in getting hold of the best laptops with a Chrome operating system, housed within. Therefore, it wouldn’t be wrong to state that the best Chromebooks under $300 will surely cut some corners.
Then again, it is up to you to decide the nature of the compromises and choose laptops, accordingly. Besides, you need to understand that the list price of 300 dollars or less isn’t all that underwhelming for a Chromebook and you might still end up identifying a reasonably powered device.
In the subsequent sections, we shall enlist 5 of the best Chromebooks under $300 choices whilst testing more than 15 gadgets across diverse parameters.
Our experts readily used each of the reviewed Chromebooks under $300 as their secondary laptop, with the usage including but not restricted to travel and diverse online processes.
What is the best Chromebook under 300 dollars: Our Pick?
TOP PICK
In case you want to go with the best Chromebook for the given price point and skip the rest of this discussion, the Chromebook 315 from Acer comes forth as the best option to invest in. For a gadget with Chrome operating platform sitting underneath, the Acer Chromebook 315 is adequately powered and comes with a pretty expressive specs sheet.
For starters, we were impressed with the eye-pleasing display, much like the high-end Asus Chromebooks, which is perfectly complemented by the wider viewing angle. Besides, Acer also accommodates a resourceful, Intel Celeron processor, a decent chunk of RAM, and a decent connectivity suite.
5 Best Chromebooks Under $300 in 2022: Detailed Reviews
1. Acer Chromebook 315
PROS
- Long-lasting battery
- Competent processor
- Performance-centric system memory
- Reliable keyboard
- Excellent set of ports
CONS
- Dull display
- eMMC isn’t the fastest when OS boot-up is concerned
- Processor-Intel Celeron N4000
- RAM-4 GB
- Storage-32GB eMMC
- Screen-15.6-Inch HD
- GPU-Intel UHD Graphics 600
- Battery- Up to 12.5 Hours
- Highlight- ComfyView screen
Review
The Acer Chromebook 315 readily fits in as one of the best Chromebooks under $300 in the market, for a list price of close to 210 dollars. Contrary to popular opinion, this Chromebook from Acer is loaded with several class-leading features, which are otherwise common to Windows-powered budget laptops.
Design and Display
Starting off, the Acer Chromebook 315 flaunts a sleek and light chassis that is primarily made of plastic. However, as it flaunts a 15.6-inch screen, much like a standard business notebook, it doesn’t cut down on a lot of heft and still manages to weigh somewhere close to 4 pounds. That said, the sleek chassis does make a few heads turn courtesy of the empowering aesthetics.
Coming back to the screen size , the standard 15.6-inch ComfyView panel deserves a special mention, owing to the glare-free projection of the visuals.
For the given price range, the overall resolution of 1366 x 768 pixels seems more than appropriate. Besides, this Chromebook also flaunts a 180-degree foldable chassis and has speakers located at strategic positions.
Internals
When it comes to the processing power, the Intel Celeron processor is no pushover, especially if you have a basic job profile or personal preferences. The boosted clock speed of up to 2.60GHz ensures that you can easily stream online media or indulge in productivity-centric tasks using Google Docs or Sheets.
Casual games and online editing tasks can be skillfully managed by the Intel UHD 600 graphics. Besides, this Chromebook from Acer doesn’t ask you to keep a tab on the browsing indulgences owing to the 4 GB Low-power DDR4 RAM.
In case you are a bit skeptical regarding the 32 GB eMMC SSD storage support, the lack of internal storage space makes a lot of sense when Chromebooks are concerned.
Productivity
As far as productivity is concerned, Acer Chromebook 315 certainly scales beyond other laptops courtesy of the exceptional visual presence and the HD webcam that allows you to stay connected to the world even while globetrotting. The dual speakers, as mentioned previously, are loud enough. Acer sweetens the pot further with a protective sleeve in play, allowing you to carry the gadget in a protective folio.
What impressed us the most is the decent connectivity suite, comprising two USB 3.1 and 2 Type-C slots. However, we were expecting a full-size HDMI port considering the size of this machine. As far as the keyboard is concerned, we get the usual Chromebook design followed by a decent key travel. Lastly, the Chromebook autonomy exceeds expectations as Acer allows you to churn out 12.5 hours of long battery life.
Therefore, if you are planning to purchase a light yet sizable gadget as your go-to secondary unit, the concerned Acer Chromebook certainly fits the bill, more so with an SD card reader to account for.
2. Lenovo Chromebook Duet
PROS
- Full HD display
- Light and portable
- Long-lasting Lithium-Ion Battery
- Sizable storage space for a Chromebook
- Octa-core processor
CONS
- Smaller screen size for users with bigger hands
- Lacks an HDMI port
- Processor-MediaTek Helio P60T
- RAM-4 GB
- Storage-64GB
- Screen- 10.1-inch Full HD
- GPU- ARM G72 MP3
- Battery- Up to 10 Hours
- Highlight- Dual Camera Setup
Review
Despite the smaller chassis and a pretty restrictive screen, the Lenovo Chromebook Duet happens to be one of our favorite laptops with the Chrome operating platform on-board. As a detachable, this is easily one of the best Chromebooks under $300 in the market, provided you are looking for something sleek and ultraportable.
Design and Display
The Lenovo Chromebook Duet flaunts a standout aluminum-clad layout, boasting of a sophisticated texture and a dual-colored chassis. As an ultraportable, this Chromebook is easy to hold and carry around, courtesy of the slightly rugged structural footprint.
When it comes to the display, there is a 10.1-inch screen to work with. However, this Chromebook trumps any kind of competition, courtesy of the 1080p panel, bolstered further by the slimmest possible bezels and 400-nits of brightness level. The Lenovo Chromebook Duet is one of the few Chromebooks to bring in the In-plane switching technology, despite the affordable list price. Lastly, when used in the tablet mode, the sunlight visibility is beyond far, making it the best Chromebooks under 300 dollars.
Internals
Coming to the processing components, the Lenovo Chromebook Duet incorporates a MediaTek chipset. The P60T, octa-core mobile SoC is best known for the lowest possible TDP levels and minimal performance compromises. The 4GB system memory is a cost-appropriate addition that is more than sufficient for taking care of web browsing and CPU-intensive tasks.
Relevant to the processing conglomerate is the ARM G72 GPU, which isn’t a pushover and exhibits adequate processing firepower. Not just that, this is one of the few Chromebook graphics cards to clock at 800MHz. Storage-wise, the 64 GB eMMC flash memory is adequate for a typical Chromebook.
Besides the internal storage, the Lenovo Chromebook Duet also offers 100GB of cloud storage support. Moreover, if you are concerned about the boot-up speeds, relevant to the Google Chrome operating system, the gadget takes less than 10 seconds to start up.
Productivity
The detachable, Lenovo Chromebook Duet is one of the most productive Chromebook choices in the retail space. While it starts with the touch screen display, Lenovo extends the same to extended support for updates and virus protection. The magnetic keyboard attaches to the 0.99-pound tablet and works seamlessly and even comes across as an asset for the more expressive content creators.
Other relevant specs include dual speakers with Smart Amp and Dolby audio enhancement followed by a dual-camera setup, comprising the 2MP front shooter and the 8MP AF, rear camera unit.
As far as the port arrangement is concerned, the Lenovo Chromebook Duet gives you access to the Pogo connector, headphone jack, and USB-C slot. Connectivity-wise, you get access to the BT 4.2 and Wi-Fi 5 standards. Lastly, this 2.03-pound, detachable Chromebook exhibits 10 hours of gadget autonomy, which furthers the portability quotient.
3. HP Chromebook 14
PROS
- Fully functional HDMI port
- Widescreen viewing angles
- Excellent battery backup
- Dedicated card reader
- Reliable HD webcam
CONS
- Subpar internal storage capacity
- Processor- Intel Celeron N2840
- RAM-4 GB
- Storage-16GB eMMC
- Screen- 14-inch HD
- GPU- Intel HD Graphics
- Battery- Up to 9 Hours
- Highlight- Houses an HDMI port
Review
The HP Chromebook 14 is one of the few standard laptops that exhibit the lowest possible list price. However, HP doesn’t compromise on the specs sheet and readily accommodates a vibrant screen and an entry-level processor with support for turbo boost speeds.
Design and Display
At 3.7 pounds, the HP Chromebook 14 is one of the lightest 14-inch laptops in the market. While the gadget primarily flaunts a plastic-clad chassis, the construction readily adheres to the aesthetic standards.
Next in line is the sharp and adequately bright SVA display. The existing screen boasts of the WLED-backlit technology, which works in cohesion with the BrightView paneling.
Internals
Coming to the processing components, this Chromebook under 300 dollars appropriately stacks in the Intel Celeron dual-core chipset.
The featured dual core processor is best known for its support for the Intel HD graphics, a reliable feature that lends adequate casual gaming support. Besides, the integrated graphics coprocessor is also the reason behind the visual clarity. In case you are concerned about the processing firepower, the 1MB cache support followed by the turbo clock speed of up to 2.58GHz comes in as a decent inclusion.
For online process handling and task management, there is 4GB of DDR3L system memory to rely on. However, the processing speed of 1600MHz might be a bottleneck for certain tasks that rely on pace.
Storage-wise, the 16 GB eMMC hard drive is pretty meager, despite this being an otherwise reliable Chromebook and we were expecting something on the lines of at least, 32GB.
Productivity
The HP Chromebook 14 is best known for the functional HD webcam that comes integrated with a standard microphone. This feature, associated with the Chromebook 14, readily qualifies the same as a business laptop.
You also get access to stereo speakers followed by a decent arrangement of ports, which include USB 2.0 slots, solitary USB 3 0 output, HDMI support, and other units for accommodating legacy peripherals. When it comes to battery life, the HP Chromebook 14 offers 9 hours of extended backup, on moderate usage. All these above points make it secure the 3rd position among the best Chromebooks under $300.
4. Samsung Chromebook 4
PROS
- Durable chassis
- A sizable chunk of system memory
- Class-leading storage capacity
- Long-lasting battery backup
CONS
- The display isn’t the brightest
- Lacks sufficient USB ports
- Processor- Intel Celeron N4000
- RAM-6GB
- Storage-64GB eMMC
- Screen-11.6-inch HD
- GPU- Intel UHD Graphics 600
- Battery- Up to 12.5-Hours
- Highlight- Gigabit Wi-Fi support
Review
In case you are seeking a powerful yet ultraportable laptop, the Samsung Chromebook 4 is one of the best possible choices in our list of best Chromebooks under $300. While there are quite a few other Chromebooks available in the market, this one from Samsung strikes the perfect balance between aesthetics and specifications. Not just that, this is one of the few Chromebooks to accommodate advanced security specs and the elusive Google Assistant.
Design and Display
This is one of the few Chromebooks in the market to flaunt a durable, military-grade chassis, comprising metallic accents and plastic.
Regardless of the structural strength, this is one of the slimmest gadgets on the list, weighing less than 3 pounds. However, what impressed our experts the most is the 11.6-inch LED panel, bolstered further by an overall display resolution of 1366 x x768 pixels.
Internals
At the core, the Samsung Chromebook 4 houses the Celeron N4000 chipset, which is more than capable of managing basic content creation, Google-based resources, online interfaces, and more. However, we were more than impressed with the UHD 600 graphics coprocessor. This feature allows creatives to approach basic designs and online photo edits.
Instead of 4GB system memory, this is one of the few Chromebooks to make room for 6GB of the same. Besides, the Low-power DDR4 RAM ensures negligible heating and allows you to manage close to 20 browsers, sans lags. As far as the storage requirements are concerned, you can rely on the 64 GB eMMC module.
Productivity
In addition to speeding up the boot-ups associated with the concerned Operating system, this sleek and ultraportable machine also comes equipped with a smooth trackpad and a full-size keyboard.
The port arrangement is painstakingly average with the Chromebook 4 only offering a standalone USB port i.e. the Type-C slot, albeit with support for charging. Not just that, Samsung also brings in the Gig-supported Wi-Fi 5 connectivity standard followed by 12.5 hours’ worth of battery life.
Regardless of the existing attributes and lack of USB ports, this is one of the best Chromebooks in the market, if you seek something with multiple levels of virus protection and device security, followed by support for automatic updates.
5. Lenovo Chromebook 100E
PROS
- Durable chassis with rubber bumpers
- Spill-resistant keyboard
- High-speed storage unit
- Ultrafast Wi-Fi standard
- Integrated card reader and USB 3 0 ports
CONS
- Lacks the HDMI port
- 4GB of RAM is one the slower side
- Processor- MediaTek MT8173C
- RAM-4 GB
- Storage-16GB
- Screen- 11 6-inch HD
- GPU- PowerVR GX6250
- Battery-Up to 10 Hours
- Highlight- Water Resistant keyboard
Review
The last Chromebook on our list of best Chromebooks under $300 is a highly relevant and resourceful asset for the teachers and online tutors, having a penchant for durability and enhanced productivity specs. The Lenovo Chromebook 100E is easily one of the more dependable computing resources in the market, best attributed to teachers and professionals.
Design and Display
When it comes to the design, the Lenovo Chromebook 100E makes room for a rugged yet light chassis. As this Lenovo Chromebook is primarily designed for classrooms and online tutoring, it exhibits a military-grade chassis. Furthermore, the design elements that stand out include rubberized bumpers, exceptional and elusive drop-resistant build quality, and the reinforced, 180-degree hinge.
As far as the display is concerned, this is one of the few Chromebooks in the list to showcase the 11 6 inch panel. The HD screen isn’t the brightest one around but lives up to the expectations for the given list price. Regardless of the sharpness of the display or the visual clarity, it is the anti-glare panel that readily increases the face value of the Lenovo Chromebook 100E.
Also read: Best 11 inch laptops.
Internals
While some of our experts weren’t on-board with the given MediaTek processor at the beginning, the decent-enough processing performances did change quite a few perceptions. However, we were more impressed with the PowerVR GPU which works closely with the 4 GB system memory.
When it comes to on-premise storage, the Lenovo Chromebook 100E flaunts the 16GB eMMC unit. However, the OS loading and device boot-up speed suggest that this Lenovo Chromebook has added TLC SSD functionality to the storage unit.
Productivity
The Lenovo Chromebook 100E is one of the more productive Chromebooks for teachers, students, and professionals, owing to the Play Store compatibility and the innovative, spill-resistant keyboard.
Needless to say, the included touchpad also joins the spill-resistant bandwagon, a feature that has been individually tested and confirmed by our experts. Other relevant specs include the HD webcam with an integrated microphone followed by a pretty standard port arrangement.
This includes two USB 3 0 ports, micro-SD support, and the 2×2 Wi-Fi AC standard that allows you to establish the fastest possible connections in no time. Apart from that, the Lenovo Chromebook 100E is also a G-suite compatible device and also offers 100GB of cloud storage support. In terms of autonomy, the Lenovo Chromebook 100E offers close to 10 hours of extended backup, regardless of the usage patterns.
Bottom-Line
We have enlisted Chromebooks from almost every reputed brand, to create a list of best Chromebooks under 300 dollars.
Regardless of the affordable list price, our selections include standard clamshells, nifty detachables, interactive touch screen convertibles, ultraportable Chromebooks, and more. However, each of these gadgets serve a specific purpose and offer the best value for money.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Q1. What is the best Chromebook for the money you are supposed to shell out?
A1. In case you are interested in portability and aesthetics, our vote would readily go to the Lenovo Chromebook Duet. However, based on the sheer size of the display and the laptop-like appearance, we would suggest you opt for the Acer Chromebook 315. Besides, if you are open to other OEMs, Asus Chromebooks are also worth investing in. -
Q2. What’s the best laptop for under $300 with Chrome OS as the preferred operating platform?
A2. For users who are looking to explore the Google Chrome operating system in its entirety, the Lenovo Chromebook 100E is the perfect gadget to invest in. This is one of the few Chromebooks that allow you to take complete advantage of the OS-centric perks like the G-suite, hangouts, Google Classroom, and more. Besides, the USB 3 0 slots offer ample opportunities to connect data drives and peripherals. Also see: Our detailed guide of Best laptops under $300 -
Q3. Are Chromebooks worth it in 2022?
A3. While you might be tempted to opt for Windows-powered laptops, Chromebook are still hugely relevant in 2022, provided you adhere to certain specific qualities like the touch screen displays, anti-glare panels, lithium-ion battery modules for better charge retention, card reader slots for upgrading the storage, a decent chunk of flash memory, USB 3 0 ports, and an HD webcam for staying connected with friends and family. Therefore, other than the mentioned options, you can also look at other Acer, Dell, and Asus Chromebook selections, based on the desired preferences.