Quick notes
- The Acer Chromebook 314 comes with a Celeron N4500 processor, while the HP Chromebook 14a features a Celeron N5100 processor.
- The Acer Chromebook 314 has two USB-C ports and a USB-A port, while the HP Chromebook 14a has one USB-C port and two USB-A ports.
- The HP Chromebook 14a, on the other hand, boasts a 5-megapixel webcam with a wider field of view and better image quality.
In the realm of budget-friendly laptops, the Acer Chromebook 314 and HP Chromebook 14a stand out as formidable contenders. Both devices offer a sleek design, ample performance for basic tasks, and a user-friendly Chrome OS experience. However, subtle differences set these Chromebooks apart. This comprehensive comparison will delve into the key features of the Acer Chromebook 314 and HP Chromebook 14a to help you make an informed decision.
Design and Build
The Acer Chromebook 314 boasts a slim and lightweight chassis, weighing just 2.6 pounds. Its sleek metallic finish adds a touch of sophistication. In contrast, the HP Chromebook 14a has a slightly bulkier design, weighing 3.2 pounds. However, it compensates with a more durable construction, featuring a reinforced metal chassis that can withstand daily wear and tear.
Display
The Acer Chromebook 314 features an 11.6-inch IPS display with a resolution of 1366 x 768. While it offers decent color accuracy and viewing angles, the relatively low resolution can make text and images appear pixelated. The HP Chromebook 14a, on the other hand, sports a larger 14-inch IPS display with a higher resolution of 1920 x 1080. This provides a more immersive viewing experience with sharper details.
Performance
Both the Acer Chromebook 314 and HP Chromebook 14a are powered by Intel Celeron processors. The Acer Chromebook 314 comes with a Celeron N4500 processor, while the HP Chromebook 14a features a Celeron N5100 processor. While both processors offer comparable performance for basic tasks such as web browsing, email, and document editing, the N5100 processor has a slight edge in terms of speed and efficiency.
Battery Life
Battery life is crucial for portable devices. The Acer Chromebook 314 claims to offer up to 12 hours of battery life on a single charge. The HP Chromebook 14a, on the other hand, boasts an impressive 13 hours of battery life. In real-world usage, both devices can easily last through a full day of light to moderate use.
Storage and Connectivity
Storage space is often limited on budget-friendly Chromebooks. The Acer Chromebook 314 comes with 64GB of eMMC storage, while the HP Chromebook 14a offers a more generous 128GB of eMMC storage. Both devices also support microSD card expansion, allowing you to add additional storage if needed.
In terms of connectivity, both Chromebooks feature dual-band Wi-Fi and Bluetooth 5.0. The Acer Chromebook 314 has two USB-C ports and a USB-A port, while the HP Chromebook 14a has one USB-C port and two USB-A ports.
Webcam and Audio
For video calls and conferences, the Acer Chromebook 314 features a 720p webcam. The HP Chromebook 14a, on the other hand, boasts a 5-megapixel webcam with a wider field of view and better image quality.
Both Chromebooks come with built-in speakers, but the HP Chromebook 14a has a slight advantage in terms of audio quality. It features a pair of Bang & Olufsen-tuned speakers that deliver louder and clearer sound.
Price and Availability
The Acer Chromebook 314 is available for purchase at a starting price of around $200. The HP Chromebook 14a has a slightly higher starting price of around $250. Both devices are widely available from major retailers and online stores.
Final Verdict: The Ultimate Choice
The Acer Chromebook 314 and HP Chromebook 14a are both excellent budget-friendly Chromebooks. The Acer Chromebook 314 is a great option for users who prioritize portability and affordability. The HP Chromebook 14a, on the other hand, offers a larger display, better performance, and a more durable design.
Ultimately, the best choice between the Acer Chromebook 314 and HP Chromebook 14a depends on your individual needs and preferences. If you’re looking for a lightweight and affordable Chromebook for basic tasks, the Acer Chromebook 314 is a solid choice. If you value a larger display, better performance, and a more durable construction, the HP Chromebook 14a is the way to go.
Frequently Discussed Topics
Q: Which Chromebook has a longer battery life?
A: The HP Chromebook 14a boasts a slightly longer battery life of 13 hours compared to the Acer Chromebook 314’s 12 hours.
Q: Which Chromebook has a better webcam?
A: The HP Chromebook 14a features a superior 5-megapixel webcam with a wider field of view and better image quality.
Q: Which Chromebook has more storage space?
A: The HP Chromebook 14a offers more storage space with 128GB of eMMC storage compared to the Acer Chromebook 314’s 64GB.