Google is introducing a new, cheap laptop based on its Chrome operating system. The new HP Chromebook 11 starts selling Tuesday for $279.
As all Chromebooks, the new model relies heavily on having a continuous Internet connection to run Google and other online services. Many apps don't run directly on the device but over the Internet.
The HP Chromebook 11 is thin with no extra fluff, at just over two pounds. There are also no sharp edges and it is powered by a micro-USB charger, which can also be used to juice up your Android phone or tablet.
The Chromebook has a simple look as well as a fanless design means it doesn't need any grills for venting. And it comes in a variety of colors to match your mood.
The Chromebook's 11.6-inch IPS screen has a 176-degree viewing angles. Its magnesium frame makes it sturdy - you can hold it from a single corner without it bending or flexing. And instead of having the speakers on the bottom, the speakers on the new Chromebook are under the keyboard. And, of course, many Google apps come built-in, including 100GB of Google Drive cloud storage (free for two years) and a 60-day free trial of Google Play Music All Access.
Under the hood, the HP Chromebook 11 has the Sasmung Exynos 5250 dual-core processor, 2GB of RAM and a 16GB SSD. As for WiFi, we're looking at dual-band 802.11 a/b/g/n (with Bluetooth 4.0) though a rep said a 4G option will be available as well. The Chromebook 11 also has two USB 2.0 ports, a VGA Webcam, and a SlimPort video out.
Look for it starting today at Best Buy, Amazon, Google Play and HP Shopping in the U.S., as well as at Currys and many other retailers in the U.K.
Full specs
Screen
- 11.6" display with 16:9 aspect ratio (IPS Panel)
- 1366 x 768
- 60% Color Gamut
- 300 nit screen
- Wide viewing angle (176 degree)
Inputs
- Chrome keyboard
- Fine-tuned, clickable touchpad
- VGA Webcam
Ports
- 2 x USB 2.0
- Micro-SIM slot (3G and 4G/LTE model only)
- Micro USB for 15.75W charging and SlimPort video out
Design
- Magnesium chassis for strength
- Available in black or white with a choice of 4 accent colors
- Silent, fanless design
- No visible screws, vents, or speakers
Size: 297 x 192 x 17.6 mm
Weight: 2.3lb / 1.04kg
CPU: Exynos 5250 GAIA Application Processor
Memory
- 2GB (4x 4Gbit) DDR3 RAM
- 16GB Solid State Drive1
Audio
- Combined headphone / microphone jack
- Digitally-tuned speakers with sound ported up through the keyboard
Battery: Up to 6 hours of active use (30 Wh battery)
Network
- Dual-band WiFi 802.11 a/b/g/n
- Bluetooth 4.0
- Verizon LTE connectivity (optional and coming soon)
Goodies
- 100 GB Google Drive cloud storage, free for two years
- 60-day free trial with Google Play Music All Access, and $9.99/month pricing
after that
- 12 free sessions of GoGo Inflight Internet