Best Chromebooks Under $200 In 2023

Updated on December 24, 2023
Best Chromebook

Not every computer is going to be used to run new games or high end business software. Particularly for education settings, Chromebooks are a much cheaper, much lighter option than a full laptop. With that said, let’s take a look at the best Chromebooks 2024 on the market this year!

Lightweight designs and sleek, stripped down operating systems are the order of the day with a Chromebook. You won’t find huge amounts of RAM or onboard storage space, but that’s not the purpose of these machines.

Although the processor speeds and memory tend to be on the lower end, you get better security and faster web browsing. Chromebooks are much less susceptible to malware than your average Windows machine. When kids need a laptop for school or college work, that’s a feature that simply can’t be overstated.

The Lineup At A Glance

Best Chromebook Under $200 In 2024

Samsung Chromebook 3 – Entertainment Chromebook

Samsung Chromebook 3
Looking to dip your toes into the Chromebook waters without fully jumping in and spending hundreds of dollars? This should be your pick for the best Chromebook model!

Want something with a little more power under the hood than a basic tablet but don’t want to drop the money on a full laptop? This is your perfect middle of the road solution.

Want to listen to Spotify or Amazon music while working on a school project and browsing Facebook? That’s no problem here, and it can also run video streaming apps like Netflix or Hulu.

Buyers just switching from Windows 10 to Chrome constantly mention the lack of massive updates and bloatware. The Chrome OS may have slightly less functionality, but it’s also faster and sleeker than Microsoft’s flagship operating system.

To get a machine this inexpensive, you do have to give up a few features, though. Unfortunately, there’s no touch screen or extra internal storage space with this contender.

Between the lack of a touch screen or stylus, the and limited storage space, this Chromebook isn’t meant for drawing or design tasks. For light web browsing or school tasks however, this unit gives you everything you need at a very low price.

Hardware Specifications for Samsung Chromebook 3

CPU: Intel Celeron N3060| Graphics:Intel HD Graphics 400| RAM: 4GB RAM | Screen: 11.6-Inch 1366×768 display| Storage: 16GB SSD| Operating System: Chrome OS| Battery Life: up to 11 hours | Weight: 2.54 lbs

Acer Chromebook – Ubuntu supported

Acer Chromebook
Having difficulty choosing between Chromebook and Ubuntu? Why not buy a Chromebook that is Ubuntu supported if ever you change your mind!

This machine boasts a long-lasting 9-hour battery life, which is suitable for work and school. Who doesn’t like to stay away from outlet right? Perfect for hours of classes, downloading, watching multiple movies, and long internet browsing.

Powered by an Intel Celeron 2.16GHz processor and a 2GB SDRAM, it allows the user to open and edit files using QuickOffice editor or Google Docs. So you edit docs while you are offline which is pretty convenient for a Chromebook laptop.

Want to switch to Ubuntu? Using just a simple ley command you can switch between Chromebook and Ubuntu operating systems with ease and feel free to use LibreOffice and other free Linux Applications that Ubuntu offers.

In addition to twice the storage space, the big draw here is avoiding the bulk of a full laptop. While much lighter, you can still go about blogging, sending emails, browsing the web, or watching Netflix.

Buyers also frequently mention that this model is more durable than a tablet, holding up well even if you accidentally drop it occasionally.

Hardware Specifications for Acer Chromebook

CPU: Intel Celeron N2840| Graphics:Intel HD Graphics| RAM: 2GB RAM | Screen: 11.6-Inch 1366×768 display| Storage: 16GB SSD| Operating System: Chrome OS| Battery Life: up to 9 hours | Weight: 2.87 lbs

HP Chromebook 11 G3 – Great Keyboard

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If you’re a new writer and on the hunt for budget-friendly yet best Chromebooks, HP Chromebook G3 is so cheap yet powerful enough to suffice your writing needs, and your entertainment too!

Aside from a comfortable keyboard, it also has a solid audio quality which makes this Chromebook good for entertainment too. The compact design makes this Chromebook stands out from the pack.

HP Chromebook G3 is powered by Intel Celeron and 4GB of RAM, which is more than enough for a Chromebook that is mainly for browser activities. While the 16GB SSD storage makes sure the machine boots fast so you don’t have to wait.

Also, the 4GB of RAM allows you to open up to 16 tabs in Chrome, far more superior than 2GB Chromebooks. So you don’t need to worry about opening many tabs for whatever your purpose is.

The only downside is that the battery life compared to other listings here is subpar, it only last for 7 hours. Aside from that, HP Chromebook G3 is a great buy for under $200!

Hardware Specifications for HP Chromebook 11 G3

CPU: Intel Celeron N2840| Graphics:Intel HD Graphics| RAM: 4GB RAM | Screen: 11.6-Inch 1366×768 display| Storage: 16GB SSD| Operating System: Chrome OS| Battery Life: up to 7 hours | Weight: 3.89 lbs

Dell Chromebook 11 – BrightView Backlit

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This is one of the best Chromebooks with a backlit screen, a great display, and anti-glare for security when accessing sensitive data in a public area.

Powered by Intel Celeron 2955U and 4GB of RAM, Dell Chromebook 11 is powerful enough to suffice browsing needs. Students can take advantage of this cheap machine for studies as well, the 4GB RAM allows you to open several tabs in Chrome at the same time which is perfect for research and similar activities.

It provides a cost-effective learning solution, with a compact design to withstand every school day. This lightweight 2.9 pounds machine is very portable, allowing you to carry it everywhere to want it or toss it in your bag without worrying about getting smashed.

The Dell Chromebook boots up in less than 8 seconds and loads web pages in an instant for better productivity, every student needs to be productive which makes them a perfect match.

The 10 hours battery life is very convenient for students or anyone who wants to work on web all day without finding an outlet just right after you started! How is that for the best Chromebook?

Hardware Specifications for Dell Chromebook 11

CPU: Intel Celeron 2955U| Graphics:Intel HD Graphics| RAM: 4GB RAM | Screen: 11.6-Inch 1366×768 display| Storage: 16GB SSD| Operating System: Chrome OS| Battery Life: up to 10 hours | Weight: 2.9 lbs

Lenovo Chromebook N22 – Spinning Camera

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Lenovo N22 is durable enough to be knocked around, suitable for students who want a sturdy machine. Needless to say, it’s possible to see a spinning camera in a laptop, and of course, you’d have to check out the best Chromebook laptops to find it.

The Intel Celeron N3050 and 4GB of RAM make sure you have plenty of power to do multiple browsing, writing, or even entertainment. It can handle multitasking and everyday computing needs.

The battery would last an entire day at school or work, under continuous web surfing over wifi it could last for up to 10 hours. More than enough power to carry around the school or even work before the need to find an outlet.

The keyboard and touchpad are built tough, perfect for students who hardly type in keyboards! The touchpad is spacious and accurate for a smooth navigating experience, the 16 GB storage is enough to store light files.

The only downside is that the audio coming from Lenovo N22 is distorted, so it’s not really good for users who want quality audio. Setting that aside, Lenovo N22 is good for multitasking, compactly built, and worth the price.

Hardware Specifications for Lenovo Chromebook N22

CPU: Intel Celeron N3050| Graphics:Intel HD Graphics| RAM: 4GB RAM | Screen: 11.6-Inch 1366×768 display| Storage: 16GB SSD| Operating System: Chrome OS| Battery Life: up to 10 hours | Weight: 2.6 lbs

Acer C720-2844 – Cheapest 4GB RAM Option

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Want to try a Chromebook or hunting for a cheap Chromebook that is not fitted with the lowest specs? The Acer C720-2844 is very cheap yet contains specs you will surely love!

The Acer C720 is fitted with Intel Celeron 2995U dual-core processor and a 4GB of RAM, this machine is perfect for your kids. It is enough for lessons, surfing, and online learning. It is nothing fancy but will serve your kid’s school needs perfectly for a cheap price.

Though it is pretty cheap, the machine looks compact and stylish with its glossy gray color. The keyboard is decent enough for typing and it comes with plenty of ports in the side.

This Chromebook is heavier than others, it weighs 4.29 pounds.

So, for parents who want to buy the best Chromebook for their kids, the Acer C720 is a great deal, perfect for an online class, web browsing, and any other web activities without an expensive price tag.

Hardware Specifications for Acer Chromebook C720-2844

CPU: Intel Celeron 2955U| Graphics:Intel HD Graphics| RAM: 4GB RAM | Screen: 11.6-Inch 1366×768 display| Storage: 16GB SSD| Operating System: Chrome OS| Battery Life: up to 8 hours | Weight: 4.29 lbs

Asus Chromebook Flip – Best Chromebook with 2-in-1 functionality

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Want a slim stylish 2in1 Chromebook that won’t hurt your pocket? The Asus Chromebook Flip is very stylish with its sleek aluminum metal body and 360-degree hinge for tablet mode and more!

This machine boots up in less than 8 seconds and lasts for an entire day without charging, it boasts a 10-hour battery life which is perfect for school and work usage.

Powered by a Rockchip processor and 4GB of RAM to ensure smooth browsing experience, the Asus Chromebook Flip is powerful enough to suffice day to day computing need, whether at school or at work.

This 2-in-1 best Chromebook has only 10.1-inches screen size which is smaller than the other listings here, but in terms of class and durability, this Chromebook surpasses them.

This is a great buy for students who want a classy 2in1 Chromebook that would last for an entire class and would suffice student’s browsing needs!

Hardware Specifications for Asus Chromebook Flip

CPU: Intel Rockchip| Graphics:ARM Mali-T764| RAM: 4GB RAM | Screen: 10.1-Inch 1280×800 display| Storage: 16GB SSD| Operating System: Chrome OS| Battery Life: up to 10 hours | Weight: 2 lbs

Acer Chromebook 14-inch – Best Chromebook with Widescreen Display

Acer Chromebook 14-inch
Want to buy a robust Chromebook that is not lacking in screen size? Acer Chromebook comes with a 14-inch widescreen LED-backlit ComfyView Display for a price that is under $200!

The aluminum body of Aer Chromebook 14-inch is much nicer than the plastic competition, the 14-inch full HD IPS display that has matte finish is great for work and study while still keeping this Chromebook small enough to bring with you anywhere.

This stylish Chromebook stands out from the rest because of its larger screen size and classy look at an affordable price.

Packed with Intel Quad-Core Atom E8000 processor and 4GB of RAm, ensuring a smooth browsing experience. The processing speed could reach 2.00 GHz which is faster than most Chromebooks in the list.

All of this in a compact designed Chromebook that would last for up to 12 hours of usage, perfect for students and writers who want to have their work done in coffee shops without the worry of sitting next to an outlet.

All in all, Acer Chromebook 14-inch is a great deal for students that wants superb battery and performance with a classy-looking machine.

Hardware Specifications for Acer Chromebook 14-inch

CPU: Intel Quad-Core Atom E8000| Graphics: Intel HD Graphics| RAM: 4GB RAM | Screen: 14-Inch 1366×768 display| Storage: 32GB SSD| Operating System: Chrome OS| Battery Life: up to 11 hours | Weight: 4.79 lbs

HP Chromebook 11.6-inch – Best Touchscreen Under $200

HP Chromebook 11.6-inch
Want to buy a touchscreen Chromebook to browse and navigate faster? The HP Chromebook 11.6-inch is the cheapest touchscreen Chromebook that would suffice your needs!

The HP Chromebook 11.6-inch Chromebook comes with a touchscreen IPS display for faster web navigation and ensures a great viewing experience when using the machine for visuals.

It is powered by the Intel Celeron N3060 processor and 4GB of RAM to power up your web browsing without getting laggy. Good for students with minimal browsing activities and for work-related tasks.

This compact built laptop can withstand harsh users, just don’t drop it too far! Good for long used for its battery lasts for up to 11 hours, plenty enough juice for a whole class or coffee shop work moment.

It almost surpasses the $200 mark, because of its compact design and powerful specs. So, this Chromebook is surely a great buy for touchscreen lovers!

Hardware Specifications for HP Chromebook 11.6-inch

CPU: Intel Celeron N3060| Graphics: Intel HD Graphics 400| RAM: 4GB RAM | Screen: 11.6-Inch 1366×768 display| Storage: 32GB SSD| Operating System: Chrome OS| Battery Life: up to 11 hours | Weight: 2.5 lbs

Acer CB3-532 Chromebook- Longest Battery Life

Acer CB3-532 Chromebook
When looking for a Chromebook, specifically for all-day use in school or work the battery comes first right? The Acer CB3-532 boasts a 12 hours battery life and comes with 3x faster data transfer on Wi-Fi!

This 15.6-inches Chromebook comes with Intel HD Graphics 400 for a smoother viewing experience.

Powered by Intel Celeron Dual-Core N3060 and a 2GB of RAM, it could chew any browsing activities you threw at it. 

The greatest strength this Chromebook brings with is the 12 hours battery life, it could last all-day without you finding an outlet. This is a very good feature for students and workers who need a lot of juice in order to get some work done.

It also comes with wireless 802.11ac Wi-Fi adapter for faster data transfer rate, it is 3x faster than other wireless adapters. Making it a good choice for students who share internet connections on campus or any public networks.

The Acer CB3-532 features a Zero Air Gap screen, which makes it ideal for open space viewing. The Zero Air Gap Feature gives enhanced clarity even in sunlight.

All in all, this Chromebook is definitely a great buy under $200!

Hardware Specifications for Acer CB3-532
CPU: Intel Dual-Core N3060| Graphics: Intel HD Graphics 400| RAM: 2GB RAM | Screen: 1.6-Inch 1366×768 display| Storage: 16GB SSD| Operating System: Chrome OS| Battery Life: up to 12 hours | Weight: 2.6 lbs

Picking The Best Chromebook Under $200 In 2024

What Sort Of Hardware Specs Will I Get With A Chromebook?

Due to their compact design and the streamlined Chrome operating system, most Chromebooks won’t have the same specs as similar full laptops.

In general, you can expect 4GB of RAM to be the baseline for most Chromebook models, although that’s really all you need.

Between 16 – 64GB of storage space is standard, as Chromebooks are meant for saving data in the cloud instead of on a physical drive.

That may be difficult to wrap your head around when first moving away from Windows. Anything you do on a Chromebook — from word processing to photo editing to gaming — is meant to be done exclusively online.

Processors also typically won’t be blazing fast 8th gen Intel models like with newer laptops. That sort of CPU simply isn’t necessary for web browsing or using Android apps, however.

Where Chromebooks shine over their Windows counterparts is in terms of battery life. You may not always be able to easily plug in during a class or workday, so you want a device that will go all day.

That’s what you get with a Chromebook, where the baseline battery life is typically a whopping 10 hours! Even at the lower end with the screen brightness cranked up, you can usually get a solid eight hours of battery life.

Which Chromebook will work best for you depends on your specific needs from a machine. When browsing the contenders in our roundup, be sure to take into account if you need extra USB ports or a touch screen.

In general, most Chromebook models tend to be significantly cheaper than high end laptops. Despite the low price, you’ll still find features here that aren’t standard in most laptops yet. 360 degree hinges, touch screens with an attached stylus, and backlit keyboards are often available at much cheaper price points with a Chromebook.

What’s The Advantage Of A Chromebook Over A Normal Laptop?

A Chromebook may not be able to install the full executable programs of a Windows machine, but that’s not as big a downside as you may think.

By stripping out all the bloatware associated with Windows 10, Chromebooks actually tend to run faster. They also don’t need to install massive, hours-long updates nearly as often as a Windows machine.

Chromebooks can now all run Android apps, which means you don’t actually lose many options from a Windows machine. Most programs, from word processors to photo editing tools, have an Android app version.

The Google Play store is also full of games covering every possible genre, so you even have some light gaming opportunities.

Finally, Chromebooks connect directly to your Google account. This makes it incredibly easy to move over bookmarks, Google Doc files, and so on from your home or work desktop.

Is the Best Chromebook for you?

At a fraction of the price of a Windows ultrabook, Chromebooks still give you extreme portability and plenty of functionality.

What did you think of our roundup of the absolute best Chromebooks currently available, and will you be picking up any of these models? Let us know in the comments section below!

FAQs

1. Are $200 Chromebooks worth it?

Yes, $200 Chromebooks are really worth it and upon our discovery and testing, we are safe to say that you even have plenty of decent options within this budget. That’s exactly what Chromebook laptops are, and while there are more expensive Chromebook options out there, if you’re sticking to this budget, you still have plenty of choice.

2. Why are Chromebook laptops so cheap?

Chromebook laptops are cheap because they focus on giving users the best when it comes to browsing the internet and using light apps. Therefore, these laptops don’t require a high-end configuration, which makes them cheaper to make and put on the market.

3. Why are Chromebook laptops so popular?

If you don’t need a laptop for advanced work and tasks, Chromebook is a good choice since it syncs seamlessly with your Google account, all Google apps, and even Google Pixel phones. This way, you get the most from using Google and its products for a very reasonable price.

4. Are Chromebook laptops prone to viruses?

No, Chromebook laptops aren’t prone to viruses for two reasons. The main reason is ChromeOS, which integrates multiple layers of protection so the viruses just can’t get through and do any damage to your Chromebook. A second reason is that the main target for viruses is a lot more common operating systems, so currently, ChromeOS is still flying under the radar.

Jeremy has been building computers for the last 20 years. He has expert knowledge of computer hardware, and a passion for writing to match. He has joined the NetbookNews.com team to share his knowledge and passion for computer technology with you.

Article by:
Jeremy Miller
Jeremy has been building computers for the last 20 years. He has expert knowledge of computer hardware, and a passion for writing to match. He has joined the NetbookNews.com team to share his knowledge and passion for computer technology with you.

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