Quick summary
- Both the Samsung Chromebook 4 and the Acer Chromebook 311 run on Chrome OS, which is a lightweight and user-friendly operating system.
- If you prioritize a sleek design, longer battery life, and a built-in stylus, the Samsung Chromebook 4 is the better choice.
- However, if you prefer a lower price, a touchscreen display, and slightly more storage, the Acer Chromebook 311 is a solid option.
In the realm of affordable laptops, Chromebooks reign supreme. Two standout options in this category are the Samsung Chromebook 4 and the Acer Chromebook 311. Both devices offer impressive features at a budget-friendly price, but which one is the better choice? Let’s dive into a comprehensive comparison to help you make an informed decision.
Design and Build Quality
The Samsung Chromebook 4 boasts a sleek and sturdy design with a brushed metal finish. Its compact size makes it highly portable, weighing just 2.56 pounds. The Acer Chromebook 311, on the other hand, features a durable plastic build and weighs slightly less at 2.43 pounds. However, its glossy finish may be more prone to scratches.
Display and Sound
The Samsung Chromebook 4 sports an 11.6-inch HD display with a resolution of 1366 x 768 pixels. The screen offers decent brightness and color accuracy, making it suitable for basic tasks like browsing, watching videos, and working on documents. The Acer Chromebook 311 has a smaller 11.6-inch display with a slightly lower resolution of 1366 x 768 pixels. While the brightness is comparable, the colors may appear less vivid.
Both Chromebooks feature built-in speakers, but the Samsung Chromebook 4 delivers slightly better audio quality. It produces louder and clearer sound, making it more enjoyable for listening to music or watching movies.
Performance and Storage
Under the hood, the Samsung Chromebook 4 is powered by an Intel Celeron N4000 processor, while the Acer Chromebook 311 features an Intel Celeron N4020 processor. Both processors offer similar performance levels, making them suitable for everyday tasks and light multitasking.
The Samsung Chromebook 4 comes with 4GB of RAM and 32GB of eMMC storage, while the Acer Chromebook 311 offers 4GB of RAM and 64GB of eMMC storage. Both devices provide ample space for storing essential apps and files.
Battery Life and Connectivity
The Samsung Chromebook 4 boasts an impressive battery life of up to 12.5 hours on a single charge. This makes it an excellent choice for students or professionals who need a device that can last throughout the day. The Acer Chromebook 311 has a slightly shorter battery life of up to 10 hours, but it’s still sufficient for most users.
In terms of connectivity, both Chromebooks offer Wi-Fi 5 and Bluetooth 5.0. The Samsung Chromebook 4 includes two USB-C ports, while the Acer Chromebook 311 has one USB-C port and one USB-A port.
Operating System and Features
Both the Samsung Chromebook 4 and the Acer Chromebook 311 run on Chrome OS, which is a lightweight and user-friendly operating system. It offers access to a wide range of apps and extensions from the Google Play Store.
The Samsung Chromebook 4 comes with a built-in stylus, which can be used for taking notes, drawing, or navigating the interface. The Acer Chromebook 311 does not have a stylus, but it features a touchscreen display.
Price and Availability
The Samsung Chromebook 4 is priced at around $250, while the Acer Chromebook 311 is priced at around $200. Both devices are widely available from various retailers.
The Verdict: Which Chromebook is Right for You?
Choosing between the Samsung Chromebook 4 and the Acer Chromebook 311 depends on your specific needs and preferences.
If you prioritize a sleek design, longer battery life, and a built-in stylus, the Samsung Chromebook 4 is the better choice. However, if you prefer a lower price, a touchscreen display, and slightly more storage, the Acer Chromebook 311 is a solid option.
Ultimately, both devices offer excellent value for their respective price points. By considering the factors discussed above, you can make an informed decision and choose the Chromebook that best meets your needs.
Answers to Your Most Common Questions
Q: Which Chromebook has a better display?
A: The Samsung Chromebook 4 offers a slightly better display with higher brightness and more accurate colors.
Q: Which Chromebook has longer battery life?
A: The Samsung Chromebook 4 has an impressive battery life of up to 12.5 hours, while the Acer Chromebook 311 has a battery life of up to 10 hours.
Q: Which Chromebook is more portable?
A: Both Chromebooks are highly portable, but the Samsung Chromebook 4 is slightly lighter at 2.56 pounds compared to the Acer Chromebook 311’s weight of 2.43 pounds.