The best Chromebooks for every task

The Asus Chromebook Flip continues to be a top-choice — a hard-working Chromebook with attractive specs. Quite literally in the case of its Full HD display. It also has 360-degree hinges that allow the device to switch between tablet and laptop. It’s perfect for turning your long flight or ride into a mini-Netflix marathon.

And with an Intel Core processor and 8GB RAM, it’s powerful enough to handle other tasks while on the go. As long as your carry-on luggage can handle its full 16 inches, that is. Indeed, it’s a whopping display with NanoEdge technology (which basically means the picture and touchscreen goes right to the edge of the device).

The speakers aren’t quite as good as Asus says, so streaming sessions are best accompanied by headphones. Otherwise, this is a solid option.

If Chromebooks mostly fall into the cheap, cheerful, and Chrome-powered category, the Lenovo IdeaPad Duet 5 is edging towards the premium end of that category — yet it’s still relatively affordable, which is part of the Chromebook appeal.

It’s a 2-in-1 model that converts between laptop and tablet thanks to a detachable, snap-on keyboard. The display is OLED touchscreen — seriously impressive for a Chromebook — so streaming, games, and video calls are a bright-and-crisp dream. Video calls are further bolstered by a Full HD webcam.

Other bonuses include a Qualcomm Snapdragon 7c Gen 2 CPU — impressively powerful — plus an unusual amount of on-board storage for a Chromebook. Best of all? Its 15-hour battery outlasts laptops you'll find at more than double the price.

Few gamers would think of the Chromebook as a first-choice gaming laptop. Indeed, gaming laptops are usually high spec and high cost. The Acer 516 GE could change minds, though — a highly-efficient gaming Chromebook from a manufacturer that knows more than a thing or two about gaming performance.

To be clear, the Acer 516 GE streams games, which means the additional subscription cost of a gaming streaming service. But once you’re locked and loaded, it runs the latest games with competitive-level performance. The display — a 2560 x 1600 HD with a 120Hz refresh rate — is way beyond the other Chromebooks on this list, and its battery outpaces much pricier gaming machines (which are famously short on juice).

The Acer 516 GE also doubles up as an all-round excellent Chromebook. It's as good at multi-tasking and everyday work as it is gaming.  

Lenovo makes the list again and you can’t blame us for that: Lenovo is just very good at Chromebooks. Unlike the Duet, the Lenovo IdeaPad Flex 5i doesn’t split into two parts, but it still converts between laptop, tablet, and tent modes. It also lays out completely flat, which makes it good for cooperative working. It’s an all-round multitasker.

If you need to relax after a hard day’s multitasking, it has you covered entertainment-wise. The convertible design is obviously great for propping up and streaming, with a nice display, solid audio, and enough battery to power through a box set.

We appreciate other details too: a fingerprint sensor, webcam shutter, a nice port selection, and zippy CPU. It could be the best value for money on this list.

Need a laptop that can get the job done and not break the bank? Look no further than the Acer Chromebook 314 — not only is it affordable but it’s a very well-reviewed class-leader in its always-agreeable price range.

The 14-inch screen is larger than competing budget models and it provides a full HD 1080p display. That does come with a trade off: This Chromebook is a touch heavier, coming in at 1.45 kilograms, though it’s still perfectly portable.

Battery life is also excellent for a device of this size: You'll get almost 12 hours on one charge. That is stellar for any laptop, and especially good for one of the heftier guys. For the price, you’ll struggle to find anything that matches the value here. 

Chromebooks have become reliable options for schoolwork, but haven’t really made a dent into the office. Until now, that is. The HP Chromebook x360 14c threatens to change the perception of what the Chromebook is capable of.

With a powerful Intel processor and 4GB of RAM, it’s capable of handling most work tasks that you throw its way. It also sports a fingerprint sensor and webcam kill switch to provide an extra bit of security — great if you’re working on important documents. 

It’s a little heavier than your average Chromebook and the display doesn’t shine, but this is a Chromebook that wouldn’t look out of place in a boardroom.

For first timers — whether that means a fresher getting their very first laptop or anyone who's not exactly tech savvy — the Dell Chromebook 11 is a perfect way to dip your toe into the water. But without a huge learning curve (or a steep price tag). 

It feels tough and sturdy and will be able to withstand most things a kid could throw at it. The screen is pretty minuscule at 11.6 inches (with not-so-thin bezels), but this also makes it small and light enough for a kid's backpack or other travelling needs. The CPU is respectable enough for the price and the battery will run for about 10 hours, which will get anyone through a day of studying. 

There's also a modest selection of ports and slots along the side, which are handy for connecting peripheral devices or extra storage.