Best student Chromebooks Android Central 2021While we have already reviewed the top Chromebooks available, there are many other options for students. Chromebooks for education are built to withstand abuse from a class full of children and being carried in a backpack. Ports and reinforced hinges are standard, along with water-resistant keyboards. These laptops are lightweight and have the most helpful keyboard shortcuts that will help your child quickly get their homework done once they have found their rhythm. There are many options, but the ASUS Chromebook Flip C214 is our top choice. These are just a few of the trusted favorites we recommend.Source: Ara Wagoner / Android CentralBecause it offers a great experience in a small, sturdy package, the ASUS Chromebook Flip C214 Chromebook is the best Chromebook. The 11.6 inch screen can be seen clearly even in bright Florida sunlight. The zinc alloy hinge lets you rotate the screen 360 degrees to make it a tent or tablet. The 2-in-1 Chromebook allows students to interact with content and lessons in their own way. They can use the keyboard and mouse, or the touchscreen. A C214 can be ordered with a built in stylus. This is great for people who struggle to touch small touch targets accurately, or who prefer tablet mode for drawing. The usefulness of the stylus is invaluable for precision tapping in tent/tablet modes and while I read webcomics while munching on powdery snacks. This is what I use it most often. A stylus is a great tool for precision tapping, and keeping my screen clean when I'm snacking on powdery snacks. The C214 can last about 10 hours on one charge. This means that it will last you through the entire school day, homework, and possibly some more before you have to look for a charger. The C214 is powered by a 45W Power Delivery Charger, which means that even if your child loses or damages the charger in the box, they can easily find a replacement charger. The C214 has two USB-C ports, one USB-A port, and a microSD card slot that can be used to expand the 32GB storage. This model has a microSD slot that is recessed to prevent accidental ejection. However, the edges have been sculpted so that clothespins can be used for inserting or ejecting cards. This little joy is a testament to the care ASUS has put into the reliable, rugged C214. Although there is only 32GB internal storage and 4GB RAM, 4GB of RAM will be sufficient for schoolwork, research and homework, I don't mean Twitch streams. Although 32GB could be a bit too much if you install a lot of Android apps at once, this should not make it too difficult for elementary and middle school students. The Chromebook's corners are rubberized and the outside shell is coated with non-slip, scratch-resistant textures. The keyboard is spill-resistant and the ports have been reinforced. This should make it able to endure a few years of chaos along with your child. The only problem with the ASUS Chromebook Flip C214, which was released in 2019, is its two-year-old age. The replacement model is due in June 2026. However, the C214 will still be able to last you 4-5 years before needing updates. By then, your child will likely want something more powerful. The C214's exceptional battery life is a plus.Stylus is a nice wordIn full sunlight, the screen is visibleCompact and robustSpill-resistant keyboard cons: Only 4GB RAMIt is popular and is often sold outBest Chromebook for students ASUS Chromebook Flip C214 C214MA-YS02T. Rugged, reliable and ready to pull an all nighter. With a durable shell, easy-to-read touchscreen and a sturdy shell, the C214 Chromebook is great for homework and classroom use. Amazon, $285 (Non-Stylus).Amazon (Stylus): $409Dell Chromebook 3100 2-in-1 Tons ports and very durableSource: Ara Wagoner / Android CentralDell is a long-standing manufacturer that makes school-tailored computers. My schools' computer labs were filled with Dells back then. The Dell Chromebook 3100 2-in-1, one of the most durable and popular Chromebooks on today's education market, is why they are so popular with schools. The 3100 2-in-1 features two USB-A ports and one USB-C port on each side, as well as a microSD card slot and a headphone jack. Although the extra USB-A port may not be necessary, spares will always be appreciated if they fit into the same chassis. The stylus is not available here which is disappointing. However, performance is good and the 8GB RAM configuration is highly recommended if your child has had issues with Meet or Zoomcrashing on their school-issued laptop. It was possible to add 64GB storage but this option seems to have disappeared. Although you can save some money by purchasing the clamshell model, I recommend that most users purchase a 2-in-1 Chromebook. For studious children, a 2-in-1 Chromebook is almost essential. The tablet mode can be used in car or at school, while tent mode transforms the 3100 into an easel for digital art. It is definitely worth the extra money. The Dell 3100, like the ASUS C214 is two years old. However, Dell has not yet announced its successor so I don't expect to see another Dell replace it in the next four month. The pros: It meets MIL-spec durability standards and is spill resistantThere are many USB-A/C portsOptional 8GB RAMChrome updates to June 2026 Cons : No stylusMore expensiveThe best ports and durability Dell Chromebook3100 2-in-1. Designed for the real world but priced higher than the classroom. While the C214 has more memory/storage, the base model is less expensive, but it will still be a high-quality device. Dell starting at $316Acer Chromebook Spin 311 CP311-3H - The best-looking, but not overly rugged optionSource: Ara Wagoner / Android CentralOver the years, Acer has had multiple generations of the CP311 throughout its history. This latest model is an excellent choice for parents who want their child to have a Chromebook that has a long life expectancy and sufficient power for online learning or full-time adult work. I was full-time using this Chromebook for over a month. The Mediatek-powered Chromebook is capable of handling a Google Meet call, 6-10 tabs at once, and it's perfect for students who are familiar with laptop care. Although this Chromebook is not as robust or rugged as the ASUS C214 and Dell 3100, it does offer extra durability testing and kid-proofing. Although most Chromebooks are durable, it's not possible to replace an Education model. So make sure your child doesn't throw their Chromebook or use the USB-C port. This last part is particularly important as the Spin 311 (3H), unlike other Chromebooks in the past 2-3 years, only one USB-C and one USB–A ports. Chromebooks with USB C ports on both sides of the laptop are my preference. This allows you to charge from both sides, but it's possible to do without one. There is no microSD card slot so you will need to determine how much storage you need before you buy. The 64GB option is recommended, as only a few Chromebooks with 11.6 inches have 64GB options. Additionally, Android apps require more storage, and most Android apps can't use external storage because of quirks in Chrome OS permission structures. Cons: A 14-hour battery lifespanDesign is light and thinOptional 64GB storageChrome OS updates to June 2028 ConsLimited ports / no microSDHigh school students will love the Lenovo Flex 5 ChromebookSource: Ara Wagoner / Android CentralThe Lenovo Flex 5 Chromebook offers the best value for Chromebooks because it has all of the features you would expect in a mid-sized Chromebook, without costing a semester's allowance. The laptop is smaller than the ASUS C214 in size, but it boasts a larger 13.3-inch 1080p screen, backlit keyboard and loudspeakers. The Intel Core i3 processor is more powerful than the Celeron. You also have more storage to run Linux apps and download Disney+ movies when you're bored at school. Han Solo said, "She's got it where its counts, kid." Although the Lenovo Flex 5 laptop isn't as ruggedized or life-proofed as the C214, it is perfect for older kids as well as adults. The keyboard is well-lit and comfortable for procrastination. There are also two large, front-facing speakers that can be used to play music while you work. This port configuration is similar to the C214 with two USB-C ports and one USB-A port. However, you will need to use this laptop more gently if you want it last eight years of Chrome OS updates. With the included 45W PD charger, you can charge it up quickly. The battery should last for a school day with homework. Although Wi-Fi 6 routers are rare in families and schools, you will still be able to get better Wi-Fi stability. Bluetooth 5.0 can also be used for Bluetooth headphones and Bluetooth mice. The Flex 5 is not kid-proofed. It's also a brand new model that has been difficult to find in stock. If you are able to find it, your high-schooler will be grateful that you bought them one of the most useful Chromebooks for students as well as adults. Pros Crisp 1080p touchscreenLoud upward-facing speakersAmazing internal specificationsBacklit keyboardWi-Fi 6 compatibility issues Not as durableLimited availabilityHigh school Lenovo Chromebook Flex 5 Best Chromebook for Teens. This Chromebook is perfect for teens who don't require a child-proofed model. Amazon: $342Upgrade: Acer Chromebook Spin 713Source: Ara Wagoner / Android CentralThe Acer Chromebook Spin 713 is the perfect choice if you don't have the budget for a new Chromebook. Project Athena Chromebook features a 10th-Gen Intel Core i5 processor that can run Windows programs via Parallels when the program is from Chrome Enterprise or Chrome Education. It also has 8GB RAM to allow you to multitask throughout the day and a 128GB SSD. SSD storage is more efficient and lasts longer than eMMC storage that most Chromebooks use. The Spin 713's strong internals also mean that Steam gaming can be properly transferred to Chromebooks using the Spin 713. This includes any game streaming services such as Stadia, GeForce Now or Xbox Game Pass. The Spin 713's power means it can run almost any Linux app, which is great news for STEM students who may need to use CAD software or a programming IDE. A Chromebook is a popular choice for programmers and IT professionals because it's easy to maintain but still does everything they need. The Spin 713 Chromebook has a USB-A and HDMI port, which is a significant advantage over the earlier Project Athena Chromebooks. It also features two USB-C ports, a microSD slot, and two USB-C ports. There's also the feature you'll love every day, no matter how hard you work: the 13.5-inch touchscreen. It has a bright 450 nit brightness so it can be used outside more easily. The screen also features a 2K resolution so that videos and handouts will look amazing. It has a 3 to 2 aspect ratio which means that you can see more of a webpage at once, especially when you split-screen your research paper or Twitch stream (I mean TED Talk). The boring, educational TED Talk... Powerful futureproof specsBright 3:2 screen to increase productivityThe built-in HDMI port for Cons Speakers isn't very useful.ExpensiveUpgrade pick Acer Chromebook Spin 713 2-in-1 13.5" Amazon: Starting at $512Best Buy: $629Best Chromebook tablet: Lenovo Chromebook DuetSource: Ara Wagoner / Android CentralAlthough I would love to point you in the direction of a child-proofed ChromeOS tablet, there are only about half a dozen available. Today's education-grade Chrome OS tablets are either two-years-old, extremely overpriced due to 2020's lockdown-fueled Chromebook scarcity, or simply not available in commercial channels. It's not a child-proofed Chrome OS tablet that I recommend, but it is an excellent Chrome OS tablet with a crisp 1080p screen and at least 64GB storage. There are also 8 years of Chrome OS support before it. It also has a detachable kickstand, and a keyboard. This means you won't need to spend a hundred dollars on accessories as you would for an iPad. The battery life of the Lenovo Chromebook Duet is impressive, especially for those who are just reading or playing "edutainment" games. The screen is bright enough to view videos and read comics. Although the battery is advertised as lasting 10 hours, I have found that it lasts between 10 and 12 hours.Source: Ara Wagoner / Android CentralIt's easy to see why the included keyboard feels a little cramped on adults. However, the keyboard is great for children and it uses a pogo connector instead of Bluetooth so you don't need to worry about charging it or making poor connections. It's also easy to disconnect the keyboard when you're done with your homework and are ready to relax with some e-comics. I have spent whole weekends reading fanfiction on Duet and I don't regret one second. The Duet only has one USB-C port. This means that you will need to use Bluetooth headphones, and the port should not be used for charging. The Duet does not have a microSD slot. However, 64GB should be sufficient for most children. There is also a 128GB option. Although I am disappointed that there isn’t a USB–C port on both ends, as almost every Chromebook in the past two years has, there had to be some compromise. The Duet ships with a 10W USB A charger. You'll need to upgrade to an 18W power delivery charger to get faster recharges. The Duet charges at only 18W, unlike regular Chromebooks. However, due to its Power Delivery technology, it can be plugged into a 45W charger and charged at 18W. Pros Excellent battery lifeKeyboard and kickstand includedBright 1080p screen to view comics and videos.Only one USB-C portBest for budget: HP Chromebook 11a (111a-na0060nr).Source: HPThe Lenovo Chromebook C330 was my favorite run-and-gun Chromebook and held the honor in this roundup as well as Best Chromebooks for most of 2019 and the first half 2020. It was durable, had enough ports to do my job, and was light enough to be carried around in my bag all day. Even though the Lenovo C330 is still available for sale at almost the original price 2.5 years ago, the HP Chromebook 11a offers the same performance for a fraction of the cost. The MediaTek 8183 processor is what HP uses to replace the C330's 8073. We've also updated ports to allow for microSD cards instead of full SD. And we've eliminated the HDMI port so it's no longer a problem for your child. Although it isn't as robust as HP's EE Editions, this Chromebook should still be able to withstand a little wear and tear while going to school. Mediatek's processor uses less battery power, so you can get a full day of school on one charge. You only need one USB-C port, but that's all you really need unless your child loves to stick crayons in ports. Although the design isn't revolutionary, the Indigo Blue color contrasts with the silver and black Chromebooks. The pros: Durable and affordableIt still has a touchscreenDependable keyboardJune 2028 AUE Date Cons: No additional storage/RAM optionsOnly one USB-C portThe best budget HP Chromebook 11a (11a-0160nr) for those who only need the basics. This blue model is a great way to teach your child how to care for a laptop. Amazon: $229HP - $230Best Buy: $229What is the best Chromebook for students, and why? You may feel tempted to choose a non-touch Chromebook for students. But resist this temptation! These Chromebooks with touchscreens are not much more expensive. These devices are much easier to use, especially for students who enjoy educational games and artistic apps to distract themselves from boredom. The ASUS Chromebook FlipC214 Styluses are perfect for art apps, and people who have a tendency to touch target as much as me. However, it's okay to skip the purchase if you don’t feel the need for the extra (easy-to-lose) piece. Although now is not the best time to purchase education Chromebooks, new models from Acer, Lenovo and HP aren't yet on sale. However, the Lenovo Flex 5 Chromebook for older children is a great choice. For younger children, the ASUS C214 is a good choice. The supply of Chromebooks was limited for much of last year. However, it has now stabilized. After last year's lack of Chromebook sales, we may be able to get student Chromebook deals in the back-to-school season. Chromebooks education and regular are 11.6 inches. This size is standard because it's small enough that you can carry around while still being able to do your work. For teachers who spend most of their time in one place, 13-14 inch laptops are a good choice. However, students who need to carry laptops around between classes will prefer smaller laptops. High-quality 14-inch touchscreen Chromebooks can be expensive, but they are worth it if you need something bigger than a standard spiral notebook.Use a Chromebook to teach students in the classroom.Chromebooks are used in schools for many reasons. Each reason is equally important. Google Chromebooks are powered by Google. School districts know that the company will continue to support the product for its life.Google is a well-known name in technology and schools know that the company will continue to support the product's life. Easy to use Chrome OS is lightweight and easy-to-use, even for parents who aren't tech-savvy.Chrome OS is lightweight and easy to use, even for parents who are not tech-savvy. Chrome OS has security and administration tools. Chromebooks are also designed for the Enterprise space. A G Suite administrator can secure Chrome OS to meet school IT policies.Chrome OS is built with security in mind (since Chromebooks also target the Enterprise space), and a G Suite administrator has the ability to lock down the system to comply with school IT policies. For hundreds of dollars less than the price of other devices such as iPads or Windows laptops, Chromebooks for classroom use can also be purchased in bulk.For hundreds of dollars less than the cost of other devices such as iPads or Windows laptops, Chromebooks can be purchased in bulk. A Chromebook can also be provided by parents. They are affordable and simple to use. Although school systems are known for being cash-strapped, understaffed, they have the responsibility of shaping the next generation throughout their formative years. According to school officials, this can make their job difficult because they sometimes can't give teachers or other educators the tools they need. Chromebooks are an affordable option that can be purchased and supported. This makes them a great choice for underfunded schools. Chromebooks are a portal to all the information a student requires to learn, and all the teacher's needs to help them in class. It is easy to take little things for granted, such as automatic updates or the ability to sign into any device and see your profile. This allows you to spend more time on studies and less on administration. Chromebooks can be used with Google's educational software suite. Chromebooks can also be used with Google's educational software, such as Google Classroom and G Suite for Education. They can also seamlessly integrate with Google's consumer apps like Gmail and Google Keep. These apps and services allow students and teachers to work online and offline while seamlessly synchronizing with Google's servers. Although it's difficult to know if an app stores its data in cloud, the user experience is amazing. However, you will be able to tell when you get a new Chromebook and everything is exactly the same as before. This is great news for students as it allows them to return to work even if they spill some water on their Chromebook. Chromebooks and Google's educational app suite are easy to use and well integrated into cheap Chromebooks. They are the ideal foundation for education. What is special about Chromebooks for education?Source: Ara Wagoner / Android Central
