Essential Information
- Both the 14a and 14b feature a sleek and stylish design with a 360-degree hinge that allows you to use them in laptop, tablet, stand, and tent modes.
- If you need a budget-friendly convertible with a touchscreen, extra RAM, and storage, the HP Chromebook x360 14b is the better choice.
- However, if you are on a tight budget and don’t need a touchscreen, the HP Chromebook x360 14a is a solid option.
When it comes to budget-friendly 2-in-1 Chromebooks, the HP Chromebook x360 14a and 14b are two of the most popular options. Both offer a versatile design, decent performance, and long battery life, making them ideal for students, professionals, and casual users alike. But which one is the better choice for you? In this comprehensive comparison, we’ll dive into the key differences between the HP Chromebook x360 14a and 14b to help you make an informed decision.
Design and Build Quality
Both the 14a and 14b feature a sleek and stylish design with a 360-degree hinge that allows you to use them in laptop, tablet, stand, and tent modes. The 14a has a more angular design with a textured finish, while the 14b has a smoother, more rounded look. Both models have a sturdy construction, but the 14b feels slightly more premium thanks to its metal chassis.
Display
The HP Chromebook x360 14a and 14b both have 14-inch IPS displays with a resolution of 1920 x 1080. The 14a’s display is slightly dimmer than the 14b’s, but both offer good color accuracy and viewing angles. However, the 14b has a touchscreen, while the 14a does not. This makes the 14b a better choice if you plan on using your Chromebook for drawing, note-taking, or other touch-based activities.
Performance
The HP Chromebook x360 14a is powered by an Intel Celeron N4020 processor, while the 14b has an Intel Celeron N4500 processor. Both processors are entry-level options, but the N4500 is slightly more powerful. In real-world use, both Chromebooks perform adequately for basic tasks like browsing the web, checking email, and running productivity apps. However, the 14b may be a better choice if you plan on running more demanding apps or multitasking heavily.
Memory and Storage
The HP Chromebook x360 14a comes with 4GB of RAM and 64GB of eMMC storage, while the 14b has 8GB of RAM and 128GB of eMMC storage. eMMC storage is slower than SSD storage, but it is still fast enough for most users. The 14b’s extra RAM and storage make it a better choice for users who need to run multiple apps simultaneously or store a lot of files locally.
Battery Life
The HP Chromebook x360 14a and 14b both have long battery lives, but the 14b has a slight edge. The 14a can last up to 12 hours on a single charge, while the 14b can last up to 13 hours. This makes both Chromebooks ideal for students who need a device that can last through a full day of classes or professionals who need a reliable laptop for long work sessions.
Ports and Connectivity
The HP Chromebook x360 14a and 14b both have a good selection of ports and connectivity options. Both models have two USB-C ports, a USB-A port, a microSD card slot, and a headphone/microphone jack. However, the 14b also has an HDMI port, which is useful for connecting an external monitor or TV.
Price
The HP Chromebook x360 14a starts at $299, while the 14b starts at $349. The 14b is the better value for money if you need a touchscreen, extra RAM, and storage. However, the 14a is a good option if you are on a tight budget.
Which HP Chromebook x360 is Right for You?
Ultimately, the best HP Chromebook x360 for you depends on your specific needs and budget. If you need a budget-friendly convertible with a touchscreen, extra RAM, and storage, the HP Chromebook x360 14b is the better choice. However, if you are on a tight budget and don’t need a touchscreen, the HP Chromebook x360 14a is a solid option.
Superiority of the HP Chromebook x360 14b
While both the HP Chromebook x360 14a and 14b are excellent budget-friendly convertibles, the 14b has several key advantages over the 14a:
- Touchscreen: The 14b’s touchscreen makes it more versatile and easier to use for drawing, note-taking, and other touch-based activities.
- Extra RAM and Storage: The 14b’s 8GB of RAM and 128GB of storage give it a performance boost over the 14a, making it better for multitasking and storing large files locally.
- HDMI Port: The 14b’s HDMI port allows you to connect an external monitor or TV, which is useful for presentations, watching movies, or playing games.
Verdict
If you are looking for a budget-friendly 2-in-1 Chromebook with a touchscreen, extra RAM, and storage, the HP Chromebook x360 14b is the best choice. However, if you are on a tight budget and don’t need a touchscreen, the HP Chromebook x360 14a is a solid option.
Common Questions and Answers
Q: Which HP Chromebook x360 has a better display?
A: The HP Chromebook x360 14b has a slightly brighter display than the 14a.
Q: Which HP Chromebook x360 has a longer battery life?
A: The HP Chromebook x360 14b has a slightly longer battery life than the 14a.
Q: Which HP Chromebook x360 is better for multitasking?
A: The HP Chromebook x360 14b is better for multitasking thanks to its extra RAM and storage.
Q: Which HP Chromebook x360 is more durable?
A: The HP Chromebook x360 14b has a metal chassis, making it slightly more durable than the 14a.
Q: Which HP Chromebook x360 is lighter?
A: The HP Chromebook x360 14a is slightly lighter than the 14b.