The Verdict

The Chromebook world has come a long way since the first Google Cr-48 back in 2010. From what was seen as a barely usable device to something that could be your daily driver, capable of running Linux tools and Android apps. This

Roundup covers a full spectrum of specifications and prices; our final judgement tries to take into account that if you’re after a budget Chromebook then the Google, Lenovo and likely the Asus won’t be considered. Conversely, if you’re looking for something more capable then you’ll probably discount the HP and Acer.

You should also keep in mind that a number of these models offer alternative specifications. We’d pick out the Yoga C630 as an example; we tested the 4K model, which is hard to find and frankly we’d recommended the 1080p variant for its better battery life and better value. However, we’d most definitely plump for the Google Pixelbook Go at this price bracket, because it delivers most of the performance, but with unsurpassed battery life and an excellent display. We feel the Yoga has outspeced itself even for its performance at this price.

We do love balance and that’s why we’ve awarded the Asus Flip C434 first place. The 128GB version can be picked up for £500 and offers excellent battery life, excellent power, and tablet features for a decent price. It’s made well enough and has excellent display and keyboard. We’d be tempted by the Google model, but it’s basically an extra £129 for an additional hour of battery life, plus a slightly improved screen.

Chromebooks have always rocked the budget end of the market and both the HP and Acer models do an excellent job at their price point. Considering the Acer R 13 processor is technically four years old, it still manages to hold its head up and if you’re not going to be pushing multiple tabs in your browser then its battery life is impressive – more so than the HP’S, which is still reasonable. It’s good to see both budget systems offering decent 1080p panels, too. Frankly though, the HP at its price point really outdoes the Acer, if you’re okay with its plastic chassis and don’t feel you need the convertible features.

So, on a purely value front the Asus comes out on top, but if we had a spare £130 we’d pick the Google model because it’s easily the most capable device. We’re putting the HP third as it’s an excellent budget model, the Lenovo comes fourth but we’d advise going for a 1080p version, and while the aging Acer R13 comes in last, it can still hold its head up high with a fine battery life.

1st Asus Chromebook Flip C434 9/10

Web: www.asus.co.uk Price: £500

Spec: 14-inch, Intel Core m3-8100y, 4GB, 128GB SSD

A solid benchmark performance, lovely chassis and display and decent price.

2nd Google Pixelbook Go 9/10

Web: www.google.co.uk Price: £629

Spec: 13.3 inch, Intel Core m3-8100y, 8GB, 64GB SSD Slightly more competent than the ASUS but less value for money, too.

3rd HP Chromebook 14 G5 7/10

Web: www.hp.co.uk Price: £292

Spec: 14-inch, Celeron N3350, 4GB, 32GB SSD

A near perfect budget Chromebook with a 1080p display and plenty of power.

4th Lenovo Yoga C630 6/10

Web: www.lenovo.co.uk Price: £800

Spec: 15.6-inch 1080p, Intel Core i5 8250U, 8GB, 64GB SSD Very powerful and the 1080p model is worth considering if you can find one.

5th Acer Chromebook R 13 6/10

Web: www.acer.co.uk Price: £399

Spec: 13.3-inch, Mediatek M8173C, 4GB, 64GB SSD

Not quite budget enough for its performance, but battery life is a strong plus.