Best Chromebook for Kids
Although many people think of Chromebook laptops as limited devices because they can only run programs online, that is not entirely true. Apart from supporting different Android applications, they also blend productive budget tools through G-Suite, easy device management, task distribution/management through Google Classroom, and easy integration with 3rd party tools/platforms making them very popular among US teachers and kids across the world.
Another less known but notable feature of Chromebooks is that, if you misplace it, you would not have lost everything in it. All you have to do is borrow one or get another one, log into your Google account, and you have all your documents, homework, email accounts, and calendars intact. What’s more, these laptops are much safer than other laptops because you cannot install third-party applications, and the Chrome operating system encrypts all your documents.
So, contrary to what most people think, Chromebook laptops are worth every penny. Besides, even if your kid’s school doesn’t use Chromebook’s tools, the need for virtual learning has surged considerably during 2020’s Covid-19 pandemic lockdowns, making them very important for kids. Similarly, the uncertain situation around the 2020 academic calendar is making their demand even stronger.
How to choose the best Chromebook for your kid
Chromebook laptops mainly use the same Google Chrome browser you or your child uses when you allow them to use your current tablet, smartphone, or laptop. This technically means that if your kid needs a device to access the internet, you do not need to install anything when purchasing a Chromebook. All you have to do is launch the browser, and you are in business.
Also, the latest versions can install applications. The process works in the same way as installing applications on your Android phone; visit the Chrome Web Store or Google Play Store download what you want then install. Chrome Web Store has tons of kid-friendly applications developed specifically for children. And they are not just games; there are also tools for screen-casting, drawing, book publishing, podcasting, note-taking, and other modern schoolwork tools.
The specifications
Children do not need all the pomp and color that come with premium Chrome laptops. They only need a device that is functional enough to help them do classwork or participate in various school-related activities. Chromebooks with less powerful processors like Intel Celeron N4000 or the MediaTek Helio P60T can do the job. However, if the Chromebook will also be used to do other heavy tasks like gaming or video editing, workhorses with Core i5 processors and Intel Core M3 will be ideal. Also, if you are looking for a more robust machine that can install Android apps as well as run several chrome tabs, 8GB of Random Access Memory should be the minimum.
For a kid that is often on a desk doing classwork, traditional type Chromebooks will be good, but you will want to go for something with an easy to wipe exterior in case of a spill or any other mess. If the young one prefers to use a mouse, go for a laptop that has a USB input. It will simplify the process of connecting the mouse, and you will not have to buy a compatible USB-C. For the playful or on the go type, a convertible tablet would be excellent as it has the versatility of doing schoolwork in any comfortable environment, even on a beanbag chair.
Don’t forget the screen size
In terms of the right screen size, 11 inches should be big enough for your child. On the other hand, middle schoolers and older kids will be comfortable with something with a slightly bigger display like 13 inches or more. Now, note that because most Chromebook models are not essentially renewed every year, make sure that the model you opt for will get security and software updates in the future. All the models mentioned in this guide are set for up upgrades until 2025. This will ensure that the laptop works optimally for a while and is not exposed to any security problems. With that in mind, here are the best Chromebook laptops for kids.
With tons of noticeable features that make it ideal for budget-minded parents and kids alike, Samsung’s Chromebook 4 is a great value option. It features 32 GB of storage, which is relatively good if you compare it with other laptops in the same price point. It also sports an 11.6 inch HD screen, 4GB of DDR4 RAM, Intel Celeron Processor N4000, and Wi-Fi – XE310XBA-K01US.
There is a MicroSD slot for adding more storage along with USB and USB- ports. The USB-C is also its charging port. In terms of design, it features military-grade construction, making it resistant to changes in pressure, dust, temperature, vibrations, and drops. The robustness in design does not compromise its portability, as it hits the scales at 2.6 pounds only.
When it comes to battery life, the device will keep going for up to 12 hours on a full charge. Actually, this is one of the best at the price point. The laptop also comes with an option to upgrade the RAM from 4GB to 6GB. So if your kid likes to open several tabs on Google Chrome, the upgrade can make a big difference, and the best part is that it doesn’t cost much.
The only notable drawback of the machine is the screen. At 11.6 inches, it is slightly small, and the viewing angle is a bit narrow. This notwithstanding, this Samsung product is a great budget buy, especially considering its sturdy yet lightweight design and long battery life.
Specs
CPU: Intel Celeron N4000
RAM: 4GB
Storage: 32GB
Display: 11.6-inch, 1366 x 768-pixel
Dimensions: 11.3 x 8 x 0.7 inches
Weight: 2.6 pounds
pros
Comes with a stylus and carrying case
Meets military standards for durability
Small and lightweight enough for little arms to carry
Android app support
Upgradable storage
Compact and durable build
Excellent battery life
Cons
The screen is a bit small
The single USB-C port is also used for charging.
Lenovo Chromebook Flex 5 13″ Laptop
If your child is the careful type and can handle a laptop carefully, get the Lenovo Chromebook 2 in 1, 5 Flex. It sports a crisper and bigger screen, a powerful processor, and an evenly backlit keyboard for typing in low light or late-night typing. The Lenovo product checks all the right boxes without necessarily compromising on performance or price tag.
Though bigger than Lenovo C214, It features a 13.3” 1080 touchscreen with narrow bezels. While it is not poofed or ruggedized like its counterparts in the same category, it is still ideal for older kids and adults. There are front-facing robust speakers on both sides to keep the music going as the kid types.
Simply put, your kid can work from school, home, or anywhere with the device’s extraordinary blend of connectivity, performance, and entertainment thanks to a 10th Gen Intel Core Processor. The 2 in 1 feature, on the other hand, makes it easy to use everything on display. It also supports Lenovo’s digital pen to drag files, click or write on the screen quickly.
In terms of connectivity, it comes with a headphone jack, one USB-A port and two USB-C ports for plugging in older USB peripherals or flash drives, and a microSD card for additional storage. It sports Bluetooth 5.0 for more stability when using a Bluetooth mouse or headphones. The battery can last up to 12 hours while the Google account allows users to easily store or access files, documents, music, videos on the cloud from virtually anywhere.
Specs
CPU: 2.1GHz Intel Core i3-10110U
RAM: 4GB
Storage: 64GB eMMC
Display: 13.3 inches, 1920 x 1080 pixels, touchscreen
Dimensions: 12.2 x 8.42 x 0.66 inches
Weight: 2.97 pounds
Pros
PROS
Comfortable keyboard
MicroSD card reader
Pleasing soft-touch plastic chassis
Digital stylus support
Long battery life
CONS
Dim 250-nit display
Uncomfortable touchpad
Cramped 64GB storage drive
ASUS Chromebook Flip C434 2-In-1 Laptop
The Asus Chromebook Flip C434 is another notable convertible laptop. It has several configurations, but this guide reviews the lower-end version. It comes with 4GB of RAM, 64 GB of eMMC storage, and a dual Core m3-8100Y processor. Its matte aluminum finish and chrome trim design, make it look very appealing. Similarly, when you switch it on, its 14-inch screen displays a sharp and crisp display that is very pleasing to the eye. The High definition display also has a 360-degree hinge that you can use to flip it to tablet, stand or tent mode.
The device runs on the Chrome Operating System, which is designed specifically for the 21st century. The OS updates automatically, boots in seconds, it is fast and has in-built virus protection. Also, all your favorite Google applications come standard on this Chromebook, meaning your kid can download, convert, and edit Microsoft files in slides, sheets, and Google Docs flawlessly.
On the other hand, its Google Play Store means your child will be able to access a wide array of library apps, books, movies, music, and games. In terms of ports, it is designed with two USB-C ports, one USB 3.1 Type-A port, a MicroSD slot, and a headphone jack. Its Li-Ion 48W/H battery can serve the kid for up to 10-hours, which is quite decent considering the price.
Specs
CPU: 1.1GHz Intel Core m3-8100Y
RAM: 4GB
Storage: 32GB eMMC
Display: 14-inches, 1920 x 1080 pixels, touchscreen
Dimensions: 12.6 x 7.9 x 0.6 inches
Weight: 3.2 pounds
Pros
Appealing design
Can turn into a tablet
Fast
Great processor
Inbuilt Virus protection
Cons
No color options
The exterior gets a bit cold in the winter
Lenovo Chromebook Duet, 2-in-1
Though there are several laptops in the market designed specifically for the classroom environment, none of them has managed to check all the boxes as the Lenovo Chromebook duet has. It is one of the few Chromebook laptops that gets almost everything right. The screen looks exquisite whether the child is watching experiment videos or reading class e-books.
The battery can also go all day while the keyboard and kickstand come in handy when the child needs to use it as a laptop instead of a tablet. However, note that the 10-inch keyboard might feel a bit crampy for older children after typing for a while. Nonetheless, for smaller kids with smaller fingers, the Chromebook is a good option both as laptops and tablets.
Also, keep in mind that the laptop’s construction isn’t as sturdy as most Chromebooks in this guide, so before you buy it, make sure that your kid is responsible and careful enough not to throw or drop it. That notwithstanding, the machine comes with a 64 GB storage(expandable to 128GB) and 4GB RAM, making it quite decent. The expandable memory is convenient as the device lacks a microSD reader, which is standard on most modern Chromebooks. There is only one USB-C port, and the kid will get up to 12 hours from the battery on a single charge.
Specs
CPU: 2.0GHz octa-core MediaTek Helio P60T
RAM: 4GB
Storage: 64GB eMMC, 128GB eMMC
Display: 10.1 inches, 1920 x 1200 pixels
Dimensions: 9.64 x 6.66 x 0.71 inches
Weight: 2 pounds
PROS
Low price
Includes keyboard
Handy tablet gestures
Android phone integration
Decent cameras
Good battery life
CONS
Only one USB port and no headphone jack but supports Bluetooth headphones
Cramped keyboard
No memory card slot
The Google Pixel Slate Chromebook features a 3000 by 2000 Molecular display. That is around 229 pixels every inch. The large display means an enticing viewing experience. The edges on the bezels are circular, and the robust front-facing speakers provide crystal clear solid sound. This ensures that watching videos online, playing games, or reading e-books is nothing but impressive. The Chromebook also ships with Good Play Store, so your child can access more than a million applications, thousands of music videos, TV shows, and movies.
The Chrome run laptop supports both desktop and tablet modes. The unit automatically changes modes when you attach or detach the keyboard. For instance, when you disconnect the keyboard, the screen looks like an android Smartphone with a multi-window support feature. The opposite happens when you attach the keyboard; the home screen changes to desktop mode.
The battery lasts up to 12 hours on a single charge. So the kid will be able to use it the whole day when in school or when out and about. There are cameras on each side; the front side has a DuoCam-Optimized 8 megapixel camera with an ƒ/1.9 aperture and 1.4um pixels that can easily take 1080p videos 30fps. On the other hand, the rare side has an eight-megapixel camera with a 1.12um sensor and a ƒ/1.8 aperture that can record video at 30fps.
Specs
Chrome OS
Display 12.3-inch 3000 x 2000 (293 ppi) Molecular Display
Multi-touch with Google Pixelbook Pen support
Processor Intel Core i5 processor Eighth Generation
RAM 8GB
Storage 128GB SSD
Battery 48 Wh (Use time of up to 12 hours)
Fast charging
USB-C Power Delivery compliant
Connectivity :Wi-Fi: 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac, 2×2 (MIMO), dual-band (2.4 GHz, 5.0 GHz)
Bluetooth 4.2
Weight 731g (1.61 lbs)
Pros:
Beautiful 3000 x 2000 Molecular display
Five models to choose from
Touch-friendly desktop experience
Full support for the Pixelbook Pen
12 hours of battery life
Cons:
It’s big and can be unwieldy
Pricey
Apart from Google Pixel Slate, the Chromebook 714 is the only laptop with a Chrome OS with a fingerprint scanner. Like Pixel Slate, your kid will be prompted to touch the power button with their finger during the initial setup. This feature allows them to use their finger to switch it on, unlock the laptop after stepping away for a few minutes or approve connections with other devices.
It also sports a 720p webcam that takes decent photos and videos with more than enough lighting even in low light environments. Though Google Duo shots look a bit soft, they are awash with nice colors and a balanced grain. It’s bottom based speakers can easily fill a room with tracks coming through quite clearly. While it lacks a bit in terms of bass, the sound comes out without tinny or buzzy overtones.
In terms of performance, it comes with a 14-inch touch screen display, 64 GB eMMC, 8GB DDR4 memory, Intel Core i3-8130U processor, and up to 12 hours of battery life. The inbuilt storage is used to store files offline, and there is an extra Google Drive Space to ensure that all the stored files are backed up. There is also a one year warranty, plus Citrix Ready and Google Chrome Enterprise approval seals. The two certify the laptop’s compatibility with XenApp and Citrix Receiver platforms.
Specs
Budget, Chromebook
Intel Core i3-8130U
Speed 2.2 GHz
RAM 8 GB
Boot Drive Capacity 64 GB
Screen Size 14 inches
Display Resolution 1920 by 1080
Screen Refresh Rate 60 Hz
Graphics Processor Intel UHD Graphics 620
Wireless Networking 802.11ac, Bluetooth
Weight 3.5 lbs
Operating System Google Chrome OS
Tested Battery Life 12 hours
PROS
Unique fingerprint scanner
Great performance for multitaskers
Military-rated durability
Feel-good aluminum chassis
Clicky, backlit keyboard
Cloud storage available
CONS
Dim display
Mediocre speakers
Acer Chromebook Spin 13 Convertible
If your child is the tech-savvy type and fancies the greatest and latest specs in their devices, Acer’s Project Athena Chromebook Spin 13 is ideal for them. Athena is a project initiated by Intel in conjunction with various manufacturers to produce reliable, powerful, and fast computers. And this Chromebook is precisely that; it comes with a 10th Gen Intel Core Processor, an SSD storage instead of eMMC like most Chromebooks and 8GB of RAM.
In a layman’s language, the Spin 13 is a powerhouse! And thankfully, it costs way less than most Project Athena Chromebooks. It also has a wide array of ports, including a microSD reader for additional storage if needed, two USB-C ports, an HDMI port, and one USB-A port. The trackpad is wide and nice while the backlit keyboard is spacious enough thanks to the 13.5” screen with a 3:2 aspect ratio. The screen also features a 2k feature for small and crisper text when reading e-books or watching videos. Yes, this is a slightly pricey Chromebook, however, with it getting OS updates until mid-2028, it is a device that can last your loved one through high school and even college.
Specs
Processor Intel Core i5-8250U
RAM 8GB LPDDR3
Screen Size 13.2-inches
Hard Drive 128GB eMMC
Pros:
Best Chromebook for graphic design and drawing
Stunning 2K screen
Massive SSD
8GB of RAM
Backlit Keyboard
Cons:
Price
No color options
Google Pixelbook Go M3 Chromebook
Although powerful enough for most tasks, Google’s Pixelbook has a Core I5-8200Y processor with a wattage of 1.3GHz, which is way better than most standard laptops. It has a magnesium alloy lid with a ribbed easy to grip base, making it hard to drop. So if your kid has busted a few laptops before because of falls, this is an excellent feature. Similarly, at 12.2 by 8.1 by 0.5 inches and 2.3 pounds, it is also easy to carry around.
The model has an 8GB RAM, 64GB SSD, and a brilliant 13.3″ HD touch screen display with dual stereo speakers. This means the kid will get an amazing picture quality and sound for video chatting, watching movies, or editing photos. The backlit keyboard, however, does not have a lot of room. But the Hush Keys make using the laptop quiet and comfortable. The touchpad is also accurate and spacious.
In terms of ports, it does not perform well. All you get is a headphone jack, one USB-C on the right, and one USB Type C port on the left. It uses the USB-C ports to charge. When it comes to battery life, it is a champ. Its 4-cell, 47W/H battery delivers up to 11.5 hours! Essentially, the Go Chromebook is a good device for on the go kids. It has a great screen, fast enough, and decent battery life.
PROS
Chic styling.
Magnesium alloy body.
High-quality 1080p camera.
Good audio output.
Long battery life
.
CONS
Expensive for a Chromebook.
No digital stylus support.
Specs
CPU: 1.1GHz Intel Core m3-8100Y
RAM: 8GB
Storage: 64GB eMMC
Display: 13.3-inches, 1920 x 1080 pixels, touchscreen
Dimensions: 12.2 x 8.1 x 0.5 inches
Weight: 2.3 pounds
Do you remember the good old white Mac-book? Well, HP’s Chromebook 11 resembles it in almost every aspect in terms of design. This HP has all the good features and curves at the right places, from the sleek construction to rounded corners and shiny white exterior. Also, just like the MacBook, it has has a couple of distinct features that make it stand out. A good example is the display; unlike the basic panels synonymous with most laptops like Samsung Series 3 or Acer’s C7, HP Chromebook 11 has an IPS panel. This means the display is a bit big with wider viewing angles, and the colors pop out more.
The device also comes with Samsung’s Exyno 5250 1.7GHz dual-core ARM processor. Combined with 16 GB of internal flash storage, plus 2GB RAM, it makes it ideal for the lightweight Chrome Operating System. That doesn’t mean it is slower. Actually, it is at par with Samsung Series 3, offers faster browsing, snappy boot times, and does not require cooling fans thanks to the Exynos processor.
It also comes with Intel HD Graphics 400(1.6 GHz/2.48GHz, 2M cache) and 4 GB DDR3L-1600 SDRAM. There is a non-removable battery allowing it to have a seamless, slimmer design, and gladly, the battery life is relatively good. Similarly, it uses a micro USB charger (the one most android and tablet devices use) that can be shared seamlessly across several devices. And if it is misplaced, you can use any other micro USB charger instead of ordering a new one online.
Specs
Type Ultraportable
Screen size 11.622
Screen resolution 1366 x 768
Chrome OS
Processor speed Intel Celeron
System RAM 4GB
Maximum battery life 10 hours
Pros
Extremely affordable sub-$300 price
Sleek design
Lots of extras, like free Google Drive space, free music,
Micro USB charging is an incredible innovation.
Great-looking IPS display
Nice build quality
Well laid out keyboard with decent travel
Accurate trackpad
Cons
No SD card slot
Performance lags a bit behind other similar models
Acer 15.6″ HD WLED Chromebook 15
If the ‘bigger the better’ works for you or your kid, the Acer Chromebook 15 with a 15.6-inch screen and 1366 x 768 HD resolution is your best bet. Retailing at around $300, the Chromebook packs various handy features, including one of the biggest screens you can buy. Apart from the big display, it also sports a solid performance with decent battery life, backlit keyboard, and loudspeakers. All these great features In a budget device is definitely make it a worthy purchase.
Unlike its predecessor that had an all-plastic build, this new version HD WLED Chromebook 15 with 3X Faster Wi-Fi Laptop comes with a plastic and aluminum construction with coll chambered edges on-trend metal. Also, the blended silver bezels plus slim dimensions make the Acer look like a costly machine.
It hits the scales at around 4.85 pounds making it very portable, despite its oversized dimensions. The affordable product runs on the Chrome Operating system, Intel Celeron Core N3060, 16GB eMMC, 4GB RAM, and speeds up to 2.48GHz. Also, like all other Chromebooks, you can use it to check Gmail accounts, browse using Google Chrome, and work on Google Docs. There is also Google Play Store for downloading various apps, including those that were only limited to Android phones and tablets. It comes with 802.11ac Wi-Fi, Bluetooth 4.2, USB 3.0, and HDMI ports in terms of connectivity.
Specs
Display: 15. 6″ 1366 x 768 HD resolution
LED backlight display
Intel HD Graphics 400
Intel Celeron Processor N3060 @ 1. 60GHz (2 Core, 2M Cache, up to 2. 48 GHz)
RAM: 4GB LPDDR3,
16GB em,
No Optical Drive
Google Chrome OS,
3-cell Battery
Pros
Excellent 1080p display
Great performance
All-day battery life
Dual-band 802.11ac wireless.
Attractive, fanless design
Cons
Trackpad feels clunky
Sudden crashes