Google has announced a new line of laptops called Googlebook, suggesting that its long-running Chromebook platform may be entering a transition. Standard Chromebooks will remain available for now, but some newer models will be eligible for updates to the Googlebook operating system. The first five Googlebook models have already been released, although first-generation compromises mean buyers should consider their options carefully.
After testing Chromebooks for more than a decade, I recommend starting with the less expensive models. For additional buying advice, see the guides to the best laptops, best cheap laptops, best Android tablets and best Android phones.
Affordable Chromebooks worth considering
Unlike with recommended Windows laptops and MacBooks, price remains the most important factor for many Chromebook buyers in 2026. Chromebooks have long been marketed as less expensive alternatives to PCs and Macs, and affordability remains their strongest advantage even as Googlebook arrives.
Acer Chromebook Plus 516
The Acer Chromebook Plus 516 is a top choice because it often sells for less than $500, making it cheaper than the Windows laptops recommended for purchase. Its responsive, smooth-feeling touchpad makes everyday tasks such as clicking, dragging and selecting text less frustrating.
The laptop’s biggest weakness is its display, a common problem among inexpensive Chromebooks. Colors look unattractive and desaturated, with an unpleasant green tint. The screen is also not especially sharp: it has a resolution of 1,920 × 1,200 pixels spread across a large 16-inch panel.
Even so, the Acer Chromebook Plus 516 offers strong value when ease of use and performance are considered. The configuration combines an Intel Core i3 processor with 8 GB of RAM and 128 GB of storage. At a sale price of $350, it is a particularly good bargain.
Asus Chromebook CX14 and CX15
The Asus Chromebook CX14 and CX15 can sometimes be found for as little as $130. Unlike the Acer model, neither is a “Chromebook Plus” device, so they are available with less RAM and storage, as well as lower-power processors. The 8 GB RAM version is the recommended configuration, but both models are relatively attractive laptops for their prices.
The CX14 and CX15 have relatively thin bezels and chassis, larger touchpads and comfortable keyboards. The CX15 is also available in a striking blue color. However, neither the touchpad nor the display is particularly strong. Color reproduction is poor, brightness reaches only 250 nits, and the 720p webcam makes video calls look rough. These shortcomings are common among competing laptops in this price range.
Of the two, the CX14 is the preferred model. The CX15 lacks a number pad and has an off-center touchpad, and both features can be difficult to use. No laptop costing less than $200 is likely to inspire affection, but the Asus Chromebook CX14 can help reduce some of the frustration associated with buying at this price.
Google’s transition from Chrome OS to Googlebook is outlined in its official explanation of the evolution from Chrome OS.
Source: www.wired.com
