By Nick Mediati
Introduction and design
Say what you will about Chromebooks, but they don’t have a reputation for being particularly high-end machines. Sure, you’ll find premium Chromebooks, like Google’s Chromebook Pixel.
But, generally speaking, they’re seen as budget machines, both in price and in terms of fit-and-finish.
With the $299 (about £206, AU$401) Acer Chromebook 14, the venerable PC maker hopes to bring the polish of a high-end notebook to the entry level. And, in terms of build quality, the Chromebook 14 delivers. But in terms of performance? Things aren’t so clear.
Design
I’m not going to lie – when I first pulled the Chromebook 14 out of its box, the first thing I thought of was the MacBook Air. Tapered design? Check. All-metal case? Check That distinct Apple-style hinge? Check.
If the HP Chromebook 14 I previously reviewed was fun and funky, the Acer Chromebook 14 is svelte and professional. And it’s solidly constructed in a way that belies its relatively low price.
In terms of construction, the Acer Chromebook 14 is as solid as they come. The all-metal enclosure is rigid, with minimal flexing and almost no creaking. The case does attract fingerprints and smudges, though …read more
Source:: techradar.com – PC and Mac