Chromebook Preview: Flipping Out in the Classroom

(Image credit: Acer)

The latest convertible Chromebooks squeeze a lot of school computer into small, light and adaptable cases. Take Asus’s Flip C436, which has a 14-inch HD display but fits into a 2.6-pound package that’s closer in size to traditional 13-inch systems. It combines a fingerprint sensor, four speakers and a pressure-sensitive stylus with the latest Core processors, up to 16GB of RAM and 512GB of solid-state storage as well as the latest Wi-Fi 6 wireless connectivity.

Then, take a look at Acer’s TravelMate Spin B3. Built to be small, light and tough, it has an 11.6-inch wide-XGA screen and easily fits into a child’s backpack. Yet, the Spin B3 can stand up to abuse with the military’s MIL-STD 810G certification. It combines a pressure-resistant top cover with reinforced corners and soft bumpers to absorb the shock of an impact. The system combines a Celeron or Pentium processor, 4- or 8GB of RAM with 64-, 128- or 256GB of storage space and the latest wireless data technology. It should be out by the spring and cost $329.

 

Brian Nadel