Chromebooks have carved a niche of their own in the competent laptop marketplace, appealing to anyone who demands a portable, adaptable computer.
Essentially a laptop or tablet that runs the Chrome OS (Linux-based) operating system, Chromebooks were first launched in 2011.
These laptops are amazingly responsive—a bonus that is attributed primarily to employing the cloud for storage. Most of your applications rest in the cloud as opposed to the machine, and this speeds things up magnificently.
While many tech giants have started manufacturing Chromebooks, Acer is among the most popular for its attractive pricing and intelligent mix of features. The company was the first to begin shipping a Chromebook several years ago and retains an edge to this date.
Over time, the company has announced new Chromebooks with novel features like a hinge-based design for multi-mode use, engaging displays with narrow bezels, and add-ons like backlit keyboards.
Thanks to the constant progress, Acer enjoys a fine standing in the Chromebook market, often among the top brands in terms of recall value.
In this article, we discuss the various reasons why you might want to opt for a Chromebook.
This will help you get a complete picture of what’s in the package and whether a Chromebook will fit your lifestyle.
We have collected the ten finest Acer Chromebooks for you to choose from, selected across budgets, requirements and form factors.
Our Picks: 10 Best Acer Chromebooks 2023
While perusing this list, remember your top considerations in a laptop; processing power, display, portability and durability are some of the major ones.
The good thing is, many modern Chromebooks by Acer have an intelligent way of combining many of these must-haves.
1. Acer Chromebook 314
This Chromebook is delightfully tiny—smaller than an A4 sheet of paper.
The 14-inch Acer Chromebook 314 is perfect for anyone who wishes to own a super-light, super-compact device that gets the job done.
It weighs all of 2.2lbs but offers a responsive work environment, virus protection, and a narrow-bezel display (7.3mm or 0.28”) for engaging viewing. On a single charge, this laptop can run for 10 hours—almost all-day productivity.
A competent array of connectivity options is one of the biggest advantages of this laptop. For wireless connectivity, you can employ Intel Gigabit Wi-Fi (802.11ac) with 2×2 MU-MIMO.
The computer is also fitted with two USB Type-C ports, two USB 3.0 Type-A ports and a microSD card reader for additional storage. From providing super-quick data transfer to charging, the reversible Type-C port is quite the champion of modern-day computing.
2. Acer Chromebook 514
For those looking for a compact 14” Chromebook with a long-lasting battery, the Acer Chromebook 514 is an excellent choice.
Boasting of a lightweight aluminum chassis that is designed to fit in a smaller footprint, this laptop is high on portability.
If you are a student, working professional, traveler, etc., it will be convenient for you to pack this device into a backpack and get going.
The FHD screen is compatible with IPS to guarantee comfortable viewing from multiple positions. It also has a thin bezel (6mm or 0.23”) to limit external interference and make multimedia sessions more engaging. This device uses Corning Gorilla glass to give you a protected, smooth user experience.
Further upping the mobility of this laptop is its massive unplugged usage (up to 12 hours) and provision of a reversible USB 3.1 Type-C port. This port works excellently for speedy data transfer, battery charging and video streaming.
3. Acer Chromebook Spin 311
A 360°-hinge design is the hallmark of the 11.6” Acer Chromebook Spin 311, making life simpler for anyone on the move.
This super-compact device weighs 2.2lbs and is smaller than an A4 sheet of paper.
Add to that its usability in four modes, and you have a versatile performer that suits a myriad of audiences (read professionals, entertainment seekers, wanderers).
Performance-wise, this Chromebook uses an Intel Celeron N4000 processor, although you can also opt for an AMD A4-9120C CPU. It comes with 4GB RAM and up to 64GB of memory—a configuration that should serve you well for standard tasks.
Portability is a serious commitment for this Chromebook. It delivers 10 hours of battery life to ensure easy unplugged usage.
You can also make the most of Intel Gigabit Wi-Fi, 802.11ac Wi-Fi and two USB Type-C ports for rapid data transfer and quick charging. This device is fitted with two USB 3.0 Type-A ports and a microSD slot.
4. Acer Chromebook 715
Stylish and powerful, the award-winning Acer Chromebook 715 is sturdily built for versatile tasks like video transcoding and number crunching.
One of the first Chromebooks ever to include a dedicated numerical keypad, this device is perfect for those who demand swift data input (read data-entry professionals, business people who use a lot of Excel, etc.).
Build-wise, this laptop employs a 100% aluminum chassis to emerge both lightweight and resilient. Since the aluminum is anodized, you can save yourself trouble with chipped paint and corrosion.
Using this Chromebook is straightforward, with features like dual-microphone voice processing, an optional backlit keyboard, and a Corning Gorilla glass touchpad.
It also includes an HDR webcam with a wide field-of-view (75-degree lens). The embedded fingerprint reader allows you to sign in without a password, which is a great help for frequent travelers.
Bonus: Acer has built this laptop to be Citrix ready. So, if you need to use organizational applications like Citrix Receiver or XenDesktop, this device can fit right into your life.
5. Acer Chromebook 714
Another top-of-the-rung Chromebook from the Acer family that combines excellent performance with durability is the Acer Chromebook 714.
Built with a 100% aluminum chassis that is sturdy and long-lasting, this laptop is well-suited to being up and about.
It comes equipped with the classic features that Chromebook is known for: virus protection, automatic updates to the OS, quick boot time and immense responsiveness.
On the display front, you get a narrow-bezel display (6.18mm or 0.24”) for an immersive visual experience. If you need a touch monitor, Acer offers a 10-point touchscreen with IPS. The Corning Gorilla glass protection lets you use the device without fear of damage.
Keeping you sorted and secure on the run is an embedded fingerprint reader. You can also opt for a backlit keyboard to work in dimly lit environs without a hassle.
Since this Chromebook is compatible with dual-microphone voice processing, you can comfortably use Google Assistant to get things done quickly.
6. Acer Chromebook 315
A 15” Chromebook with over 10 hours of battery life and excellent wireless connectivity, the Acer Chromebook 315 is worth considering for those with a travel-intensive lifestyle.
The stand-out feature of this device is its provision for wireless connectivity. You can access Intel Gigabit Wi-Fi (802.11ac) with 2×2 MU-MIMO.
Depending upon your network, you are likely to enjoy high-speed connectivity and a consistent signal. Additionally, this Chromebook also has inbuilt USB Type-C ports, USB 3.0 Type-A ports, and a microSD card reader.
While the card reader is terrific for extra storage when you want it, the Type-C ports let you transfer data rapidly and enjoy quick charging.
Although it is a compact computer, it is designed for engaging audio-visual experiences. This laptop comes with a thin-bezel screen (9.5mm or 0.37”) and an anti-glare panel. The latter helps to reduce eye strain even after long hours of work.
7. Acer Chromebook 311
A cost-effective Chromebook driven by an Intel Celeron N4000 processor, the 11.6” Acer Chromebook 311 is a smart choice for new-age audiences.
It comes with 4GB RAM and 32GB of storage, which is good for day to day tasks.
It is also very portable, with a weight of only 2.2lbs and a footprint that’s smaller than an A4 sheet of paper. Plus, since it delivers a 10-hour battery life, you can carry it along on your day without fretting over charging stations.
The connectivity department is excellent detailed, with Intel Gigabit Wi-Fi and 2×2 MU-MIMO technology. Chances are you will experience the gold standard of wireless connectivity: consistency with high speed.
The Chromebook also includes reversible USB 3.1 Type-C ports and two USB 3.0 Type-A ports to allow you to connect to peripherals. A microSD slot lets you expand the available storage.
8. Acer Chromebook 15 CB315
If you are looking for an aesthetically pleasing Chromebook that offers brilliant multimedia, then the 15.6” Acer Chromebook 15 CB315 comes highly recommended.
The device has a glorious cross-hair brush pattern on its chassis that stands out in a crowd.
It also boasts of thoughtfully placed speakers (at the top) to generate clear and loud audio. This placement ensures that the sound doesn’t get distorted or dampened by your lap/desk.
Driving this laptop is the quintessential responsiveness of Chrome OS, complete with virus protection and automatic updates. Since you get up to 12-hours of battery life, you can travel with this device freely.
It even offers an HDR webcam with a wide field-of-view for engaging video calls. Additionally, there are two USB 3.1 Type-C ports to improve the mobility quotient further.
Not only can you transfer data rapidly, but you can also avail of quick charging and connect to multiple devices and peripherals.
9. Acer Chromebook Enterprise 715
Fancy a dedicated numerical keypad and tremendous sturdiness of build? The Acer Chromebook Enterprise 715 could be the perfect choice for you.
Built with a 100% anodized aluminum chassis, this device liberates you of worries like chipped paint or corrosion.
It includes a Corning Gorilla glass touchpad that is both smooth and durable. (Note: You can also opt for a 10-point touch screen with IPS.) Basically, if travel is a key part of your life, here is a device that understands this and adapts beautifully.
This Chromebook sports some great features in the usability department. For instance, it comes with an optional backlit keyboard that enables you to work conveniently in poorly lit rooms.
Thanks to dual-microphone voice processing, you can use Google Assistant smoothly for voice commands.
There is also an HDR webcam with a wide field-of-view (75° lens) to facilitate comfortable video calling. You needn’t crowd in front of the screen when participating in conferences as a group.
10. Acer Chromebook Enterprise 714
Another 100%-aluminum Chromebook from the Acer family is the Acer Chromebook Enterprise 714.
The anodized metal body remains free of chipping or corrosion for a long time, guaranteeing sustainability and cost-effectiveness.
This laptop has an immersive display—a narrow-bezel monitor (6.18mm or 0.24”) and an optional 10-point touch screen with IPS. The Corning Gorilla glass touchpad gives you a user-friendly, smooth work experience.
The optional backlit keyboard and fingerprint reader are great bonuses with this purchase, opening up a world where you can enjoy flexibility and security in one neat, compact package. This device has dual-microphone voice processing as well, which makes it simple to let Google Assistant fulfill your voice commands.
Another impressive feature of this Chromebook is its HDR webcam with a wide field-of-view. The 75°-lens allows you to communicate effectively and clearly without needing to block the screen for a good view.
Related Posts:
- 10 Best Backlit Keyboard Chromebooks
- Top 10 Best Ultrabooks
- 10 Best Windows Laptops
- The 10 Best Laptops for College Students
- Best 11 Inch Laptops
Why Purchase an Acer Chromebook?
Here are the top reasons many users lean toward Chromebooks in general and Acer models, in particular:
The responsive Chrome OS
The operating system is one of the major draws of a Chromebook. It is incredibly responsive and boots up really fast, cutting down on your waiting time and ensuring your tasks get completed faster.
It also comes with inbuilt virus protection to safeguard your machine from external threats and malware.
Finally, the OS updates automatically, thereby ensuring you are on top of the game without having to go through the trouble of manual updates.
Your device is ready to go within minutes—an advantage, mainly when you use tools like Google Assistant for instant query resolutions.
Portability
Chromebooks are popular for their commitment to mobility and keeping you on the go. Most of these laptops weigh in the range of 3–4lbs.
Some new devices by Acer, such as the Acer Chromebook 314 and the Acer Chromebook 311, weigh as little as 2.2lbs. This is so light that you can carry the laptop about all day in a backpack without feeling it. Goodbye, backache!
Thankfully, although Chromebooks are highly portable, they don’t compromise on durability to achieve this. Many new models by Acer use a 100% aluminum chassis that is light but durable and well-suited to the rigors of travel.
Furthermore, it is built to resist corrosion, heat buildup and paint-chipping. Special additions like Corning Gorilla Glass protect the display from damage while adding to the overall appeal, smoothness and usability of the touch screen.
Note that while many Acer Chromebooks use robust construction standards, they are by no means boring. Some of them come with crossed brushed patterns that are certain to grab eyeballs. You can also get devices with footprints as tiny as A4 sheets of paper.
Long battery life
Dependable unplugged usage is another incentive that Chromebooks have going for themselves. You can expect your machine to last on a single charge for 8–10 hours, while some like the Acer Chromebook 514 last even longer (12 hours or more).
This kind of freedom is great for anyone who needs to be on the move constantly. You can get your work done in public transport, while waiting for a flight, etc.
A host of connections
Do you frequently need to plug into devices and peripherals such as external displays, SD cards, mice, etc.? Many Acer Chromebooks come packed with USB ports and SD card readers.
Some even have Type-C ports that are famous for rapid data transfer and swift charging. Besides this, you can also find several options for wireless connectivity.
From Gigabit Wi-Fi to 802.11ac, Acer makes it straightforward to get connected to the internet and stay attuned to your world.
User-friendly features
One of the most winsome features of a typical Acer Chromebook is its desire to go the extra mile.
Many laptops in this lineup have additional features to boost user-friendliness, security and flexibility. For instance, backlit keyboards are available to facilitate use in poor/absent ambient lighting.
Fingerprint readers are included to let you sign in without entering a password, thus upping both security and ease of use during travel. Some Chromebooks also have dedicated numeric keypads, which makes things a lot easier for anyone who handles numbers on a daily basis.
Budget-friendliness
Possibly, the most tempting incentive that Chromebooks have to offer is that they are usually light on the pocket. Acer has several models priced under $400—a terrific bargain for anyone on a tight budget. Some models allow you to choose an AMD processor over an Intel Core CPU, and this further brings down the asking price.
On the downside, a few Chromebooks offer scanty memory and storage to store your important documents. You may be left wanting for processing power in budget-friendly models.
However, since the basic premise of these laptops is their cloud-based processing, you should be able to use the cloud to stock up.
Most of your data can reside in remote applications, available at a moment’s notice. Plus, you can avail of extra storage options like the inbuilt SD card slots, whenever required.
Final Word
Selecting a Chromebook as your daily computing partner is a smart and increasingly widespread choice.
As a company and brand, Acer has emerged as a go-to as far as Chromebooks go, excelling at producing devices that blend performance with portability.
In fact, Acer has garnered a reputation for acutely understanding the needs of the modern-day user and tailoring its offerings to cater to them.
The variety of options available is jaw-dropping, too, from robust laptops built to withstand damage to stylish computers with pleasing yet durable aesthetics.
For instance, the Acer Chromebook 514 is a great choice for those who desire massive unplugged usage as it can run on one charge for up to 12 hours.
The Acer Chromebook Spin 311, on the other hand, is superior at flexibility and supports different modes of use. You can also find devices with a host of connectivity options for those who wish to stay plugged in, wherever they go.
Whatever your priorities are, the odds are that a Chromebook can make a budget-friendly, pro-travel proposition.
You got to love the Chrome OS for its brilliant responsiveness and smart features like virus protection. When packaged in a lightweight chassis and complemented by a vivid display, you have quite a glittering deal.