Chromebook Recommendations?
Chromebook Recommendations?
I'm searching for a fresh Chromebook since my old Asus 14-inch model has several problems. The screen is damaged and some keys stop working. It's been in my hands for years, but the flickering issue when moving it makes it nearly unusable. I need to replace it soon.
There are some deals on sale at Best Buy and Costco right now, priced around $200 or more including tax. The top choices seem to be the first two models from Best Buy—Acorn Spin 514 or Costco options. The Asus Spin 514 uses a Ryzen 3 processor but still has 4GB RAM, while the Intel Celeron 4020 offers double the storage at 128GB compared to the 64GB version. Both have IPS screens and 1920x1080 resolution, which is important. Is the Spin 514 worth it given its specs? The processor is slower, but the extra storage could be useful.
I should avoid other Asus models because of their slower processors and lower storage. The HP options look decent too—Intel Celeron 4500 or similar. I mainly plan to use this Chromebook for browsing the web and watching videos. Streaming content like sports, movies, and TV shows is part of it. I’ve downloaded adult material from forums before, so I’m okay with a bit of malware risk. My current Chromebook has been used for those too.
If I stick with my old model, I might end up getting viruses despite not doing much important work. Should I still buy another Chromebook or opt for a budget Windows PC with an IPS screen and 8GB RAM? That would be better for virtual machines and running programs that need more power. I’d probably spend at least $350 for something with an IPS display and high resolution.
If I get a Windows laptop, would I need to run it as a virtual machine for security reasons? Also, if I download adult content, would I have to use it as a virtual machine to avoid infection risks?
Best Buy offers a Ryzen 3 with 64GB EMCC, compatible with tablets.
Costco has an ASUS Chromebook in 14-inch size with Intel Celeron N4020, 128GB EMCC, priced at $150 plus tax.
Costco also stocks an ASUS Chromebook in 14-inch size with Intel Celeron N3350, 128GB EMCC for $130 plus tax.
Costco provides a HP Chromebook bundle featuring Intel Celeron N3350, 1080p display, and bonus accessories including sleeve and wireless mouse, totaling $200 plus tax.
Costco lists an HP Chromebook bundle with Intel Celeron 4500, 128GB EMCC, including laptop sleeve and wireless mouse, priced at $170 plus tax.
Also the second link of the Asus laptop I shared... it seems the screen isn't an IPS type but a TN? TN screens are generally poor quality and should be avoided. I noticed a Lenovo Chromebook at Best Buy with a TN screen, and its colors looked dull and the viewing angle was terrible. Is the Asus Spin 514 with the Ryzen 3 really that important? Still, it has 4GB of RAM.