Since its introduction in 2011, the Chromebook has taken a firm place in the laptop market and has offered professionals and graphic designers alike a laptop that is built to handle any of the daily tasks that they need to accomplish. Choosing the best one for your needs, however, can be a difficult proposition with all the choices out there.
To help, we wanted to narrow our focus to help you pick the best Chromebook you can use as a graphic designer. That way, you not only get a high-quality laptop at an affordable price but also one that doesn’t skimp on the specs so you can handle anything during your day.
Before we start though, let’s make sure our shopping list is up to date so we know what to look for in our next Chromebook.
Top Laptops
- 17 Essential Tools for Designers
- Best Chromebooks for designers
- Best laptops for designers
- Best computers for designers
- Best Macbooks for designers
- Fastest laptops for designers
- Best laptops for programming & coding
- Best budget laptops for designers
- Best bags & backpacks for laptops
Top Gear for Video Editing
- Best monitors for editing video
- Best laptops for video editing
- Best computers for video editing
- Best external hard drives
More Top Gear for Designers
- Best printers for designers
- Best monitors for designers
- Best tablets for designers
- Best Huion tablets for designers
- Best mouse for designers
- Best earphones for music-lovers
- Best cameras for designers
- Best microphones for designers
- Best office chairs for designers
- Best external hard drives for designers
- Best monitor calibrators for designers
- Best pens for creatives
- Best phones for designers & creatives
- Best smartphone tripods
How do you pick a tablet for all of this work? That was our first question as well so I guess we should start there.
Shopping list for your next Chromebook
Design
The design of a Chromebook generally comes in one of two variations: a standard laptop or a two-in-one. Depending on the type of work you’re doing, choosing the right option for you becomes much easier. If you use a lot of apps during your day, buying a two-in-one Chromebook might be your best option because you can switch it back and forth from tablet to laptop. A two-in-one gives you many different modes to use it in including full tablet, tent, or show modes.
Storage
While storage isn’t the primary focus when it comes to choosing a Chromebook, you shouldn’t overlook it either. The overall design of a Chromebook is built to make use of cloud-based storage services like Google Drive, DropBox, and others that are out there. This is a great option, as long as you have access to the internet. Even with those choices available, you should still choose a Chromebook with some onboard storage. If you’re going to primarily save your work in the cloud, 16GB or 32GB should be more than enough. Otherwise, you may want to look at one starting with 64 or even 128GB of storage.
RAM
The amount of memory that your new Chromebook comes with will help it run faster especially when you’re doing multiple things at once. While most Chromebooks come with 4GB of RAM which is good if you’re planning on leisurely browsing the web or watching videos all day. If you’re planning on doing some heavy-duty work, you may want to shoot for 8 or even 16GB of RAM as some Chromebooks can be specced out to provide that much memory.
Price
One of the benefits when it comes to Chromebooks is that they can be much more affordable than many other options on the market. Most laptops that are running Chrome OS can cost between $199 and $499. While releasing more expensive Chromebooks has just started to become a trend, most Chromebooks are still well within a budget-friendly price range.
Best Chromebooks for Graphic Design in 2020
There can be a lot of Chromebooks on the market to choose from and that becomes an instant headache when you need a laptop to complete your work.
Below is our list of the best Chromebooks for graphic design in 2020. Let us know if you agree with our top picks!
- Acer Chromebook Spin 311 – $469
- HP Chromebook 14 – $309
- Acer Chromebook Spin 11 – $429
- Acer Chromebook 15 – $499
- Acer Chromebook Spin 15 – $399
- Asus Chromebook Flip C436F – $799
- Acer Chromebook Spin 713 – $799
- Google Pixelbook Go – $649
- Asus Chromebook Flip – $799
- Lenovo IdeaPad Duet Chromebook – $339
Best Chromebooks for Graphic Design in 2020 Compared
Best Chromebooks for Graphic Design in 2020
Acer Chromebook Spin 311 – $469
A versatile Chromebook for home and the office
CPU: Intel Celeron N4000 | Graphics: Intel UHD Graphics 600 | RAM: 4GB | Screen: 11.6″ HD (1366 x 768) 16:9 IPS touchscreen | Storage: 64GB Flash Memory
If you’re looking for a versatile Chromebook that can handle everything you throw at it in the office and at home, then Spin 311 is a great option for you. The specs come with everything a quality Chromebook has – a great battery life, robust build, and solid usability. The 311 is tops in the versatility game with its abundance of ports, a 2-in-1 portable design, plus a great touchscreen display. While the size could be a benefit to some, some might find it uncomfortable using it for long periods.
Learn More
Latest Price on Amazon:
- Chromebook runs on chrome OS - an operating system by Google that is built for the way we live today. It comes with built-in virus protection, updates automatically*, boots up in seconds and continues...
- All the Google apps you know and love come standard on every Chromebook, which means you can edit, download, and convert Microsoft Office files in Google Docs, Sheets and slides.
- Get access to more than 2 million Android apps from Google Play to learn and do more.
- Chromebooks come with built-in storage for offline access to your most important files and an additional 100GB of Google Drive space to ensure that all of your files are backed up automatically.
- CP311-2H-C3KA comes with 11.6” HD touch convertible Display, Intel Celeron N4000, 4GB LPDDR4 Memory, 64GB eMMC, Google Chrome, up to 10-hours Battery Life
HP Chromebook 14 – $309
A perfect balance between value and design
CPU: Intel Celeron N2840 – N2940 | Graphics: Intel HD Graphics | RAM: 2GB – 4GB | Screen: 14-inch, HD (1,366 x 768) BrightView | Storage: 16GB – 32GB eMMC
The best Chromebooks are a combination of affordable pricing and using the Chrome OS in the most efficient way possible. One of the best examples of that is the Chromebook 14 from HP. The compact design and bright blue finish help the beautiful HD display stand out. While the battery life and overall performance of the Chromebook are average compared to similar models, it is one of the best Chromebooks to be released. A great choice for anyone looking for an ultra-portable, long-lasting laptop that will let you work anywhere with ease should look at the HP Chromebook 14.
Learn More
Latest Price on Amazon:
- 14" diagonal FHD IPS anti-glare WLED-backlit (1920 x 1080), AMD Dual-Core A4-9120C APU (1.6 GHz base clock, up to 2.4 GHz max boost clock, 1 MB cache)
- 32GB eMMC flash memory, 4GB 1600MHz DDR3L SDRAM
- Multi-format media reader (SD, SDHC, SDXC), Built-in HP TrueVision HD webcam with microphone
- 2 USB 3.1 Gen 1 Type-C (Charging, power delivery, video, data); 2 USB 2.0 Gen 1; 1 headphone/microphone combo, Qualcomm Atheros QCA6174A-5 802.11a/b/g/ac 2x2 Wi-Fi and Bluetooth 4.2 Combo
- B&O Play Audio, Dual speakers, Chrome OS
Acer Chromebook Spin 11 – $429
One of the best Chromebooks gets a fresh spin
CPU: 1.1GHz Intel Celeron N3350 | Graphics: Intel HD Graphics 500 | RAM: 4GB LPDDR4 | Screen: 11.6-inch HD (1,366 x 768) IPS touch | Storage: 32GB eMMC SSD
Whether you’re a student or a professional just starting your career, a great Chromebook can help you on your journey and the Chromebook Spin 11 from Acer is a great first step. A cheap, durable, and capable laptop that can as easily help you with coursework as it can with your next big project. Despite the plastic body that its made of, the Spin 11 is by no means flimsy but remains light and easy to carry. With two USB-C ports, two USB 3.0 ports, and a MicroSD slot, this Chromebook has everything you need.
Learn More
Latest Price on Amazon:
- 11.6" 10-point multitouch screen - CineCrystal glossy screen technology maintains the vivid colors in your photos and videos. Typical 1366 x 768 HD resolution. AHVA technology. LED backlight.
- Intel Celeron processor N3350 - Entry-level dual-core processor for general e-mail, Internet and productivity tasks. Intel HD Graphics 500 - On-processor graphics with shared video memory provide...
- 4GB system memory for basic multitasking - Adequate high-bandwidth RAM to smoothly run multiple applications and browser tabs all at once; 32GB eMMC flash memory - This ultracompact memory system is...
- Wireless/Wired connectivity (WiFi 5 - 802.11 ac) - Connect to a Wireless-AC router for nearly 3x the speed, more capacity and wider coverage than Wireless-N. Backward-compatible with all other Wi-Fi...
- Chrome OS is the speedy, simple and secure OS that powers every Chromebook. Chrome OS updates automatically every 6 weeks with the latest software and virus protection.
Acer Chromebook 15 – $499
What it lacks in specs, it makes up for in longevity
CPU: Intel Pentium N4200 | Graphics: Intel HD Graphics 505 | RAM: 4GB | Screen: 15.6-inch, FHD (1,920 x 1,080) | Storage: 32GB eMMC
While the rest of the computing world may have gone two-in-one crazy, the Acer Chromebook 15, with its solid build quality and impressive style is still one of the best out there. With great battery life and a beautiful 15-inch screen, while it’s not as new or might not have the specs that current Chromebooks have, it is still an impressive piece of tech.
Learn More
Latest Price on Amazon:
- Chromebook runs on Chrome OS: An operating system by Google that is built for the way we live today. It comes with built in virus protection, updates automatically, boots up in seconds and continues...
- All the Google apps you know and love come standard on every Chromebook, which means you can edit, download, and convert Microsoft Office files in Google Docs, sheets and slides
- Get access to more than 2 million Android apps from Google Play to learn and do more
- Chromebooks come with built in storage for offline access to your most important files and an additional 100GB of Google Drive space to ensure that all of your files are backed up automatically
- CB515 1HT C2AE comes with 15.6 inch Full HD Touch Display, Intel Celeron N3350, 4GB LPDDR4 Memory, 32GB eMMC, Google Chrome, Aluminum Cover, 180 Degree Lay Flat Design, Up to 12 hours Battery Life
Acer Chromebook Spin 15 – $399
The best Chromebook for multitasking
CPU: Intel Core i5 – i7 | Graphics: Intel HD Graphics 615 | RAM: 8 – 16GB | Screen: 12.3-inch, QHD (2,400 x 1,600) touchscreen | Storage: 128GB – 512GB
While its less-than-ideal trackpad keeps it from being a higher choice on our list, the Spin 15 from Acer makes up for it with enough power under the hood to handle all the multitasking you need to do. The excellent battery life and gorgeous 12.3-inch touch display will make you feel like you’re getting the deal of the century with its budget-friendly price.
Learn More
Latest Price on Amazon:
- Google Chrome OS; Intel® Pentium® N4200 processor; 15.6" display; 4GB memory; 64GB solid state drive; Bluetooth; touch screen; DisplayPort; DVD/CD drive not included
Asus Chromebook Flip C436F – $799
A high-quality premium Chromebook
CPU: 10th-generation Intel Core i3 – i5 | Graphics: Intel UHD Graphics | RAM: 8GB – 16GB 2133MHz LPDDR3 | Screen: 14” LED-backlit Full HD (1920 x 1080) 16:9 display | Storage: 512GB / 256GB / 128GB PCIe® NVMe 3.0x 2 M.2 SSD
While the majority of Chromebooks fit into the budget-friendly category, there are some out there that can be considered premium options and the Flip C436F fits into that category. Combining superb power, a premium build, and a wonderful feature set along with a price tag that is cheaper than the other options out there. A stunning 1080p display makes everything you do from documents and artwork to watching the latest hit movie on Netflix look incredible.
The best thing about this premium Chromebook is how lightweight, yet durable it feels powerful enough to handle anything you throw at it.
Learn More
Latest Price on Amazon:
- A perfect companion for a content creator, programmer and power seeker powered by the Intel Core i3-10110U Processor (4M Cache, up to 4.1 GHz).
- 128GB PCIe NVMe M.2 SSD and 8GB RAM, Gig+ Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax) + Bluetooth 5.0
- 14 inch touchscreen Full HD 1920x1080 4-sided NanoEdge Display
- A durable 360 degree hinge that can be used to flip the touchscreen display to tent, stand, and tablet mode
- 2x USB Type-C (Gen 1) ports plus an illuminated keyboard (*USB Transfer speed may vary. Learn more at ASUS website)
Acer Chromebook Spin 713 – $799
An incredible high-end Chromebook
CPU: 10th Gen Intel Core i5 | Graphics: Intel UHD Graphics | RAM: 16 – 64GB | Screen: 13.5-inch, 2K (2,256 x 1,504) touchscreen | Storage: 128GB
Hands-down, the Spin 713 is the best Chromebook available in 2020. From the beautiful 13.5-inch screen to the 10th-gen Intel processor that can handle just about anything you throw at it. With the Chromebook’s thin profile, it’s surprising to see an HDMI port which isn’t very common on thin laptops. While the speakers aren’t the best available, it’s a small grip when it comes to a great Chromebook at a reasonable price when compared to its competition.
Learn More
Latest Price on Amazon:
- CPU: 10th Gen Intel Core i5-10210U Processor @ 1.60GHz (4 Cores, 6M Cache, up to 4.20 GHz)
- Display: 13.5" 2K (2256 x 1504) VertiView IPS CineCrystal Touchscreen; Graphics: Intel UHD Graphics; 360° flip-and-fold convertible design
- 8GB DDR4 SDRAM Memory for full-power multitasking; 128GB PCIe NVMe SSD. Ideal for Home, Student, Professionals, Small Business, School Education, and Commercial Enterprise, Online Class, Google...
- IEEE 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac/ax and Bluetooth 5.0; 2 x USB-C 3.1 Gen 1 (power delivery, DisplayPort), 1 USB 3.0 Type A; 1 HDMI; 1 headphone/microphone combo
- ▌Authorized BROAGE Bundle ▌Bundled with BROAGE 3 In 1 Design Stylus (Stylus Pen + Ballpoint Pen + USB 3.0 64GB Flash Drive), Authorized Sellers ONLY. Chrome OS; Backlit Keyboard; Steel Gray
Google Pixelbook Go – $649
The best Chromebook of 2020
CPU: Intel Core m3 – Intel Core i7 | Graphics: Intel UHD Graphics 615 | RAM: 8GB – 16GB | Screen: 13.3-inch Full HD (1,920 x 1,080) or 4K LCD touchscreen | Storage: 128GB – 256GB eMMC
Google continues its tradition of making the best Chromebooks on the market and the Pixelbook Go has set the bar. The Pixelbook Go proves that Chromebooks can be stylish and as powerful as traditional laptops and the Go brings many of the premium features that past iterations have had and still keep an affordable price. If there is one thing that stands out, its battery life. The battery lasts far longer than a traditional laptop and always has enough power so you can get to work. The Pixelbook Go is a game-changer and if you were to buy one Chromebook from our list, this should be it.
Learn More
Latest Price on Amazon:
- Good to Go: Pixelbook Go lets you stay unplugged for up to 12 hours, [2] so you don't need to carry a charger. And when you do need a charge, get up to 2 hours of use in just 20 minutes so you can...
- Made to move: Pixelbook Go is lightweight - barely 2 pounds. It’s 13 mm thin with a grippable design, making it easier to carry. [1]
- Get it done Fast: Pixelbook Go starts up in seconds, and makes working a breeze. The 8th Gen Intel Core Processor is quick and responsive, powering everything you do. And Chrome OS doesn't slow down...
- Go without worry: Pixelbook Go is designed to prevent things from getting off track. The Titan C security chip and built-in anti-virus software help protect your data. And Chrome OS updates...
- Built for comfort: A backlit keyboard and Hush Keys make using Pixelbook Go comfortable and quiet. The touchpad is spacious and accurate, so you only need to use a light touch. The fan less design...
Asus Chromebook Flip – $799
Premium specs with affordable prices
CPU: Intel Pentium 4405Y – Intel Core m3-6Y30 | Graphics: Intel HD Graphics 515 | RAM: 4GB | Screen: 12.5-inch, FHD (1,920 x 1,080) LED-backlit anti-glare | Storage: 32GB – 64GB eMMC
The Asus Flip proves to consumers that a Chromebook can be affordable but still be stylish, sleek, and come packed with premium features. The full-HD display and Intel Core processor give the Flip the tools it needs to stick with you through any task you may have to handle during your day. The best part is it does this without compromising its performance, which can be a balancing act many other Chromebooks cant achieve. While it’s not the newest on the block, the combination of performance, quality, and affordable price make this an excellent choice for any designer.
Learn More
Latest Price on Amazon:
- A perfect companion for a content creator, programmer and power seeker powered by the Intel Core i3-10110U Processor (4M Cache, up to 4.1 GHz).
- 128GB PCIe NVMe M.2 SSD and 8GB RAM, Gig+ Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax) + Bluetooth 5.0
- 14 inch touchscreen Full HD 1920x1080 4-sided NanoEdge Display
- A durable 360 degree hinge that can be used to flip the touchscreen display to tent, stand, and tablet mode
- 2x USB Type-C (Gen 1) ports plus an illuminated keyboard (*USB Transfer speed may vary. Learn more at ASUS website)
Lenovo IdeaPad Duet Chromebook – $339
What netbooks should have been
CPU: MediaTek Helio P60T Processor | Graphics: ARM G72 MP3 800GHz | RAM: 4 GB LPDDR4X | Screen: 10.1″ FHD (1920 x 1200) IPS, glossy, touchscreen, 400 nits | Storage: 64 GB eMMC
The Duet Chromebook from Lenovo firmly plants itself in the two-in-one category that has all the versatility that Chromebooks are known for without busting your budget. Like many other Chromebooks, the battery life is top-notch, giving you enough juice to pull an all-nighter if you need to and still have enough power left. With its affordable price, some parts of the Chromebook may not sit well with users such as a tiny keyboard and a less than reliable trackpad. If you’re on a budget though, the IdeaPad Duet Chromebook is a great option.
Learn More
Latest Price on Amazon:
- This ultraportable 2-in-1 Chromebook includes a fast and stable plug-and-play detachable keyboard enabled with 5-point pogo pin and magnet design
- Take it with you everywhere. Thin and lightweight the Chromebook Duet offers up to 10 hours of battery life (2)
- The unique dual-tone design with aluminum alloy on the tablet is a standout design with sophisticated fabric texture on the stand cover you'll be stylish productive and practical
- Fast secure and easy to use: This touchscreen Chromebook boots up quickly with just your Google login to give you access to all of your cloud-based documents email and more
- With the 10 1" FHD (1920 x 1200) IPS display and stunning colorful details you won't sacrifice for great visuals; The 10-point multi-touch touchscreen is also USI pen compatible (pen sold separately)
Best Chromebooks for Graphic Design in 2020
A Chromebook can be an excellent choice for any designer whether they have been in the business for years or if their career is just beginning. With affordable prices and powerful specs, they can stand up to just about anything you put them through. We hope our list of the best Chromebooks for Graphic Design in 2020 has helped you consider buying a Chromebook the next time you need a laptop. You won’t be disappointed.
No comments:
Post a Comment