It's been well over three years since Samsung unveiled the Chromebook 3 at CES 2016. The tech giant has finally launched two new Chromebook 4 models, improving on both the design and specifications without sacrificing affordability. These are relatively simple machines with few bells and whistles, but offer either 11.6-inch or 15.6-inch displays with a new Intel Celeron Processor, all for under $300.
The Chromebook 4 has an 11.6-inch HD display (1,366 x 768) and is a featherweight at only 2.6 pounds (virtually the same as its predecessor).
The Chromebook 4+ shrinks the bezels with a 15.6-inch FHD display (1,920 x 1,080) and is a bit heavier at 3.75 pounds. Both come with an Intel Celeron N4000, options for 32GB or 64GB of storage and 4GB or 6GB of RAM, and Gigabit Wi-Fi. Google Assistant and the Play Store are baked in as well. The chromebooks are also durable as they meet eight military-grade standards including shock, extreme temperature and dust resistance. Platinum Titan is currently the only available color.
Battery life is excellent on both machines (they share a 39Wh battery), lasting 12.5 hours on the Chromebook 4 and 10.5 hours on the larger 4+, and both charge via USB-C. Ports include one USB-C on the smaller variant and two on the larger, with a single USB Type-A, headphone/microphone jack and microSD slot. Both come with a 30W USB-C power adapter and the USB-C port can transfer data up to 5Gb/s and display content on a 4K monitor. Stereo speakers and a 720p HD webcam also come standard.
There are a few omissions, such as no touchscreen, backlit keyboard or stylus support (no integrated pen), but with prices starting at $229.99 for the Chromebook 4 and $299.99 for the Chromebook 4+, these are great deals. Both Chromebooks are available now at Best Buy and Samsung.com (and other participating retailers).
source: Samsung
