Can someone recommend me a Chromebook

Posted 16th Jul 2023

Hi all

My windows laptop has died so I’m in the market for a new one.

I'm thinking of simplicity this time, so fancy getting a Chromebook.
im after getting a 2 in 1, which can be plugged into an external monitor for light coding, website editing, light photo editing. Not after a gaming machine, as I’ve all the consoles, but I can’t stand computers that feel slugggish.

looking to spend about £500 ish. Any suggestions?

13 Comments

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16th Jul
For that amount of money you can get a decent spec of Chromebook. When you say you want to connect to an external monitor, you might need to remember that some of the modern Chromebooks don't have HDMI out any more - so you might need to factor in a Type C to monitor cable.
16th Jul
I bought a chromebook a couple of years ago and soon realised I needed a laptop as well so bought one. Chromebooks are fine for browsing, but laptops win if working with Microsoft 365 as so much easier. (edited)
Author
16th Jul
If I get find a non sluggish 2 in 1 windows machine for £500, I’ll consider it
16th Jul
What models have you shortlisted?
Author
16th Jul
Was looking at the 713, but would prefer something in my price range from this year.

Looking for a convertible, that I can use in tablet mode for general stuff whilst sat on the couch (my tablet has gone sluggish, so 2 birds 1 stone)
16th Jul
You're better off with a windows pc for what you need it for. Chromebooks are good for web browsing and that's it
16th Jul
Disagree. But it does raise a good point.

What software/website are you planning to use for the "light coding, website editing, light photo editing"?

Chromebooks run completely different software to Windows PCs. (edited)
Author
16th Jul
So the consensus is to get a windows machine.

ok thanks
16th Jul
I disagree. I have had a very cheap touchscreen 360 degree ASUS chromebook for almost 2 years now. Of course I am biased - but no more than the Windows guys. At heart, I am a Linux fan, and I only use my Windows machines as reference machines to help others with. (I volunteer for AbilityNet)
My ASUS Chromebook has fantastic battery life - lasts around 12 hours. I use the Linux development environment on it and have installed Libre Office. You can also use GIMP for photo editing.
HP probably has the best reputation for chromebooks and based purely on your budget and 2-in-1 criteria I would take a look at this
pricespy.co.uk/com…844

I have to say though I would only ever buy any laptop after a physical inspection - screen brightness and keyboard is so important to me.
Typed on my ASUS Flip C234MA (very rare) Whenever I need to buy its replacement it could well be another ASUS, Lenovo, or HP.