HP today unveiled two new Chromebooks it will release later this month: a $219 model and a more premium consumer PC that starts at $499.
HP Chromebook x360 14c
That high-end Chromebook x360 14c can act as a standard laptop or flip into a tablet, thanks to the 360-degree hinge. Its 14-inch touch-screen HD display has fairly thin bezels for an 88 percent screen-to-body ratio — the largest ever on one of the company’s consumer Chromebook, HP says. It supports a stylus, which is sold separately.
HP Chromebook x360 14c (Credit: HP)
The x360 14c will be available starting with a low-end Intel Pentium Gold processor and up to a 10th-generation Core i5 chip. Expect a 13.5-hour battery life. Consumers can also configure it with up to 128GB of eMMC storage.
Other specs include Wi-Fi 6, Bluetooth 5, an HD web camera with dual microphones, a micro SD card reader, two USB-C ports, and a USB Type-A slot. According to HP, the laptop weighs in at about 3.6 pounds and measures at 17.95mm (0.7 inches) in thickness.
HP Chromebook 11a
HP Chromebook 11a (Credit: HP)
For those on a budget, the 11-inch HP Chromebook 11a is surrounded by thicker bezels and packs a lower-powered Intel Celeron dual-core processor.
Other compromises include only 32GB of storage, a slower Wi-Fi 5 modem, and Bluetooth 4.0. However, the company says the product’s smaller size and 3-pound weight make it easier for a child to carry. The HP Chromebook 11a has a 13-hour battery life and retains the HD webcam. In addition, buyers can add touch-screen functionality to the device.
HP Chromebook 11a (Credit: HP)
Both laptops are designed for consumers who need a laptop primarily to access the internet as opposed to a pricier Windows machine. HP recently asked consumers how they’ve been using their PCs during the pandemic and found that over 60 percent are relying on them to help their children complete schoolwork and for entertainment purposes. These applications generally only require an internet browser and a webcam to complete.
Both models will go on sale on HP.com and via Best Buy this month. For business customers, the company last month introduced three new Chromebook models, including two higher-end models slated to arrive this summer.
