Best Chromebox Android Central 2021Chrome OS is available on two types devices: Chromebooks for laptops and Chromeboxes for desktop computers. Chromebooks are the most well-known and have more options than Chromebooks. Chromeboxes, however, are limited in number. They only have one option from each major manufacturer that is updated every few years. The year 2021 will be a great year to use a Chromebox, since we get updates to the most popular Chromeboxes. The ASUS Chromebox 4 will be the best Chromebox for its extra ports and power.Source: Ara Wagoner / Android CentralASUS Chromebooks are among the most powerful Chromebooks available for work. It is proud to offer every feature and port possible to make it stand out in a highly competitive Chrome Enterprise market. Whether you buy the ASUS Chromebox 4 for business or the consumer version, all of us benefit from ASUS’s commitment to making the best machine possible. As most desktop workers need to connect a mouse and keyboard to their computer, as well as a webcam and microphone, USB-A ports can quickly fill up. ASUS chose to have five USB-A ports instead of the four on the HP G3. Two HDMI ports are included to support dual 4K monitors. A USB-C port allows for more peripherals, or you can connect a third monitor through a USB hub. ASUS has included a 10th-Gen Intel Core i3, i5, and i7 along with 8-16GB RAM. More ports and greater power are always welcomed. ASUS has a slight advantage over Acer and HP in storage. Each of the ASUS Chromebox4 configurations has SSD storage. The Chromebox 4's overall speed is higher because it doesn't have to be held back by eMMC storage. There's also more space for Linux apps and offline files. Even if you don’t require a full-time desktop computer, the ASUS Chromebox 4 can be used as a media PC. It supports almost all Android media apps, and also offers full Chrome browser support for niche services that don’t support Chromecasting. ASUS has decided to skip the keyboard and mouse in order to reduce shipping and packaging costs for its Chromebox 4. A great Chromebook mouse is available for as low as a large pizza, and more manufacturers are creating Chrome OS-specific keyboards. I am okay with this decision, especially since it will save a few bucks on the Chromebox 4's high price tag. The Chromebox 4's faster processing speed and more storage options are prosFifth USB-A portLarger selection of processorsWider availability ConsThe box contains no keyboard or mouseOverall, the ASUS Chromebox 4 is the best. ASUS is a better option for long-term use due to the SSD upgrades and additional ports, but only if you are willing to spend the extra money. B&H Photo: Starting at $499Adorama: $499The HP Chromebox G3 is the best budget optionSource: HPHP was the first company to launch its next-generation Chromeboxes and also to begin selling them. The 10th-generation Intel processors power HP Chromebox G3 & Chromebox Enterprise G3, while a Celeron option is available for those who are more budget-conscious. HP offers up to 16GB DDR4 RAM and 128GB storage. However, the 32-64GB models get slower eMMC storage than the 128GB M.2 SSD. The HP Chromebox G3 also has a microSD slot that allows you to add more storage if the existing storage isn’t sufficient. Due to the increasing popularity of USB-C, HP has added a single USB port to the back. This is in addition to dual USB-A ports and dual HDMI ports. Dual HDMI ports are a great option for people who use multiple monitors. The Chromebox G3 can power two 4K monitors. The Chromebox G3 has four USB-A ports, two at the front and two at the back, and a USB -C port. However, I would love to see a second USB -C port. Many of our devices have the USB C port. It would be nice to be able to plug in a USB hard drive or monitor, as well as a phone or peripheral. Even though it does not have as many ports as the ASUS Chromebox 4, having four USB-A ports makes life easier for those with older peripherals. The G3's limited availability is another problem. It was launched almost six months ago. It is not always in stock on HP's website. B&H does not have the Celeron model in stock so if you are in urgent need of one, you will either have to get the cheaper Celeron model, or choose ASUS. You can also find older G2 models, but don't pay too much for them. The ASUS Chromebox 4 and the G3 have twice the support life due to the June 2028 AUE. The pros: A brand new model2028 AUE DateThree 4K monitors can be poweredThere are many ports and power options.Only one USB-C portIt does not include a keyboard or mouseA budget-friendly HP Chromebox G3 is the best choice for you if you are looking for 10th-gen Intel processors and many ports. The Chromebox G3 by HP is a great option. B&H: The Celeron model starts at $264$590 at Staples (Intel Model)Is this a good time for a Chromebox to be purchased?Source: Jerry Hildenbrand/Android Central It's coming soon.We are currently in a transitional phase for the Chromebox market, as we have mentioned many times. Although the ASUS Chromebox 4 (and HP Chromebox G3) are now available, there is limited availability at this time. These Chromeboxes are still superior to the Acer CXI4, but it is still a great time to purchase a new Chromebox. Although we will have more availability over the next six months, both Chromeboxes still have the same core under the chassis and the same Auto Update Expiration Date of June 2028. The ASUS Chromebox 4 offers one more USB-A port than the HP Chromebox G3 as well as more SSD configuration options. If you are looking for the best Chromebook, the ASUS Chromebox 4 will be your choice. The bottom line: There are very few options available when it comes to finding the best Chromebox. This is especially true right now, as many manufacturers and retailers are moving from older models to newer models. The new generation Chromeboxes will receive Chrome OS updates through June 2028. They'll last a long time and can be easily upgraded if needed. You would expect the ASUS Chromebox 4 to be as good as any Chromebox. The Intel Core i3 & i5 models are both powerful and will last for eight years. Each configuration offers the power and ports you need for a great experience. All models are compatible with Google's Chrome software. It's our top choice for Chromeboxes. The best Chromebox upgrades Although you cannot swap the mainboard or CPU, you can swap the RAM and hard drives with the help of the guides that you will find online. This is the gear you should buy.More RAM Crucial 16GB kit (2 x 8GB). DDR4 PC4-21300 2666MHz SSODIMM The Right Stuff It's harder to find the right RAM than actually upgrading it. This RAM is perfect for your Chromebox, and you can get 16GB! Amazon: $93B&H Photo: $86More Storage Crucial 500GB 3D NAND SSD M.2 Type 2280SS M.2 Type 5280SS Internal SSD (CT500MX500SSD4) Plenty of room The M.2 SATA drive can be inserted right into the Chromebox 3. It has 500GB of storage, so you'll have plenty of room to store all your memes. Amazon: $120Logitech Pebble M350 mouse Slim and sleek. The Logitech Pebble M350 mouse is small and lightweight. It can also connect via Bluetooth and Logitech's Unifying Receiver. Amazon: Starting at $24$25 on Best BuyDell: $24Made for Chrome Logitech K580 Chrome OS. All the right buttons Chrome OS. While you can use any keyboard's F keys, it is easier to have a model that has the correct keycaps. Amazon: $45Best Buy: $48Walmart: $43
