Performance: Performance was excellent. Speed was tops for productivity and Web-based tasks such as word processing, Web browsing, and online game play. You'll have performance room to grow.
Portability: This Chromebook is an excellent choice for traveling. Battery life lasted 17.75 hours in a light load of web browsing tests, and 12 hours in a heavier load of 4K video playback tests. Results were outstanding enough to last well beyond a typical day of mixed use, lasting longer than most other similar Chromebooks. At 2.9 lbs, weight was typical for a Chromebook this size and light enough to carry for long periods of time.
Ergonomics: The keyboard and case were well-designed, making it comfortable and convenient to use. The keyboard has large keys and was comfortably sized. Its low contrast letters were difficult to read, although the backlighting can be useful in dark rooms. The power button was well-labeled and conveniently located. The touchpad was among the largest of those tested, and provides ample space for different touch gestures. The touchscreen is smooth enough for fast swipes, and fingerprints clean off easily. Testers liked the sturdy build of the chassis.
Display: The display quality was very good overall. Colors were near-accurate and mostly realistic and natural looking. The display was brighter than most but it was highly prone to glare so it's somewhat difficult to see in a brightly lit room or outdoors. The display has a wide viewing angle, especially important if more than one person needs to see the screen at a time, say, for a video or presentation. Its display produces a wider array of colors and has better contrast than on most other tested Chromebooks, which may lessen the realism of videos or slideshows.
Useful features and attributes on this model include: The Chromebook has a convertible form factor and can be folded backwards for use as a tablet. Its storage space of 256GB is larger than most other Chromebooks, good for storing local backup files. This Chromebook supports DisplayPort over USB-C for connecting to an HDTV or monitor. The power supply and chassis are lighter than the average weight of a chromebook and power supply. This model still has most of its lifespan remaining during which Google will continue to update the OS.
Downsides: There is no memory-card reader, so you'll need to buy an external reader or connect your digital camera directly to this laptop to transfer photos.
