Performance: Performance was good. Speed was adequate for productivity and Web-based tasks such as word processing, Web browsing, and online game play.
Portability: This Chromebook is an excellent choice for traveling. Battery life lasted 15.5 hours in a light load of web browsing tests, and 10.5 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 3.3 lbs, weight was typical for a Chromebook this size and light enough to carry.
Ergonomics: Some features of the keyboard and case were well-designed, making it comfortable or convenient to use. The keyboard has large keys and was comfortably sized. Its high contrast letters were easy to read, and the backlighting can be useful in dark rooms. The power button was well-labeled and conveniently located. Friction on the touchscreen may prevent fast swiping, and fingerprints may take some effort to clean off.
Display: The display quality was very good overall. Colors were near-accurate and mostly realistic and natural looking. The display was brighter than most and it's anti-reflective, a plus for viewing 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 than on most other tested Chromebooks.
Useful features and attributes on this model include: Its storage space of 128GB is larger than most other Chromebooks, good for storing local backup files. This Chromebook has a full-size HDMI port and 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.