The 7 best Chromebooks of 2017: the top Chromebooks ranked

In 2011, Google partnered with Asus and Samsung to pioneer a brand of Linux-based laptops it hoped would give budget Windows notebooks a run for their money. Although the reality is that Microsoft now has its own lineup of Windows 10 S products to compete, Chromebooks had their headstart years ago.

If you thought Chromebooks were nothing but Windows laptops stripped down to the Chrome browser, however, you would be dead wrong. That’s because recently Google implemented access to its Play Store across all newly released Chromebook devices, gracing users with a pool of 2.8 million apps to choose from in addition to its web-based services.

Generally, Chromebooks range from around $199 (£154, AU$266) – if you’re on the prowl for, say, an HP Chromebook 14 – to roughly $499 (£388, AU$668) for the uniquely versatile, 2-in-1 Asus Chromebook Flip. To help you sort through the options, we’ve formulated a list below that covers all ends of the spectrum, with only the top Chromebooks included.

Before the Asus Chromebook Flip came around, pickings were slim when it came to affordable Chromebooks with full-on Intel Core processors and full HD 1080p displays, not to mention touchscreens, backlit keyboards and USB-C ports. It may take advantage of an Intel Pentium chip on the low-end, but the Asus Chromebook Flip is by no means low-end. Compared to what’s offered by the competition, the Asus Chromebook Flip’s value is unparalleled, and that’s without getting into its pristine tablet mode, which blows other hybrids completely out of the water.

Read the full review: Asus Chromebook Flip 

The Samsung Chromebook Pro is the result of Google’s efforts in converging Android and Chrome OS. With the Google Play Store now supported on every new Chromebook that comes out, it only makes sense to design a Chromebook with a 12.3-inch QHD touchscreen, a 360-degree hinge and stylus support to boot. It may have a keyboard that’s too compressed for comfort, but the Samsung Chromebook Pro more than makes up for it doubling as a tablet that puts most Android slates to shame. It even managed to nail pen input on the first go, which took Microsoft three tries to get to that point with the Surface Pro.

[Editor's Note: The Samsung Chromebook Pro won't be available for purchase until later this Spring.]

Read the full review: Samsung Chromebook Pro

On this Chromebook 11, you'll find a 180-degree reinforced hinge, sturdy design, sealed keyboard and trackpad and a punchy typing experience accompanying a perfectly portable package. In addition to using the Chromebook for classwork, bass-happy students will appreciate the loud stereo speakers for music and videos. Everyone else will appreciate the Dell Chromebook 11’s ability to lay flat using a 180-degree barrel hinge, an effective inclusion for touch-based activities. Don’t worry about dinging it, either. This device remains the most rugged Chromebook on our list.

Read the full review: Dell Chromebook 11

Rather than “Think Different,” Acer's spin on Apple’s catchphrase would be “Think Bigger.” Unlike most in its class, this Chromebook is blessed with a 15.6-inch Full HD screen made better only by its optional Intel Core i5 processor. You probably won't need all that power on a Chromebook (luckily, there’s a newer, even cheaper model that’s been added recently), but it sure is nice to have the option. When it comes to larger Chromebooks, there isn’t much selection, but luckily, Acer has devised a no-brainer.

Read the full review: Acer Chromebook 15

The R11's minimalist design may not win any fashion shows, but behind that plain shell is a surprisingly fit laptop destined to endure an entire day's work. It’s even among the first Chromebooks to support Android apps by way of the Google Play Store. So, if you’ve ever wanted to use Firefox on a Chromebook, well, now you can. The R11 packs day-long battery life, punchy performance and a 360-degree hinge with touchscreen. It won't break the bank, thereby making flaws, like an iffy trackpad and barely-HD touch display, a little easier to swallow.

Read the full review: Acer Chromebook R11

With a rock-bottom starting price, the HP Chromebook 14 is the best choice for those seeking a basic web browsing machine. While Acer's Chromebook 15 serves up similar components (save for SSD storage rather than eMMC), HPs' 14-incher is a bit more compact and better looking to boot. The HP Chromebook 14 sports a bright blue finish and a screen devised to surprise. Overall, this machine boasts the best value out of every Chromebook you could buy. Albeit average in both battery life and performance, the HP Chromebook 14 is a sublime offering considering the cost.

Read the full review: HP Chromebook 14

This Chromebook offers a handful of distinct features from what you might find on a comparable Windows laptop. You’re guaranteed at least a 1440p screen – above average for a Chromebook. Even better are the not one, but two USB-C ports. And, if you're willing to shell out just a bit more cash, you can also nab yourself an Intel Core-M processor rather than a Pentium. All of this is complemented by incredible style, a metallic design that exudes Pixel influence. Given that Google discontinued its own Chromebook earlier in the year, the HP Chromebook 13 wins the best high-end Chromebook position handily.

Read the full review: HP Chromebook 13

Juan Martinez and Gabe Carey have also contributed to this article.

Contributer : Techradar - All the latest technology news http://ift.tt/1r1r8fz