“Practical Evaluation: Investigating the Newest Chromebooks from Samsung and Lenovo”

"Practical Evaluation: Investigating the Newest Chromebooks from Samsung and Lenovo"

“Practical Evaluation: Investigating the Newest Chromebooks from Samsung and Lenovo”

# Chromebooks Are Excellent, But They’re Set to Become Even Better

For quite some time, Chromebooks have been a popular choice for individuals looking for a lightweight, cost-effective, and efficient computing solution. However, if you thought the capabilities of Chromebooks had reached their highest potential, think again. The realm of ChromeOS devices is about to become even more thrilling with the launch of two new models: the **Lenovo Chromebook Duet 11** and the **Samsung Galaxy Chromebook Plus**. These upcoming devices are set to enhance the Chromebook experience with upgraded hardware, creative features, and a range of updates to ChromeOS itself. Let’s explore what distinguishes these new Chromebooks and why they deserve your consideration.

## Lenovo Chromebook Duet 11: A Beloved Model Receives an Upgrade

The Lenovo Chromebook Duet series has been a beloved choice since the debut of its original model in 2020. The Duet 3, introduced in 2022, built upon that success, and now, Lenovo has returned with the **Chromebook Duet 11**. While the enhancements may seem minor compared to the transition from the Duet to the Duet 3, they are still meaningful enough to make this new model a deserving successor.

### Key Specifications of the Lenovo Chromebook Duet 11:
– **Display**: 10.95-inch, 1920 x 1200 (WUXGA)
– **Brightness**: 400 nits
– **Processor**: MediaTek Kompanio 838
– **RAM**: 8GB
– **Storage**: 128GB
– **Battery Life**: Up to 12 hours
– **Extras**: USI 2.0 Stylus support (sold separately), comes with case featuring keyboard and kickstand

### What’s Different?
One of the most apparent modifications in the Duet 11 is the reconfiguration of ports. Lenovo has now included a 3.5mm headphone jack, a feature absent in the Duet 3, and has relocated the USB-C port to the top for easier access with peripherals. An additional beneficial feature is a physical privacy switch for the camera, increasingly common in Chromebooks today.

The Duet 11 also embraces **USI 2.0 stylus** technology, which enhances palm rejection and writing precision, making it an excellent choice for note-takers and digital creators. However, it’s important to mention that the stylus is sold separately, which may disappoint some buyers.

The provided **Case with Keyboard and Kickstand** has also been revamped, replacing the fabric finish with a sturdier rubber/silicone texture. The kickstand now accommodates both horizontal and vertical positions, adding further versatility to the device.

### A Missed Chance?
One surprising feature lacking is that the Duet 11 does not come under the new **Chromebook Plus** category, likely due to its dependence on the MediaTek Kompanio 838 processor rather than an Intel or AMD chip. This means it won’t access certain advanced features exclusive to Chromebook Plus models, yet it still provides a robust ChromeOS experience at a competitive price of **$349**.

## Samsung Galaxy Chromebook Plus: Redefining Premium Chromebooks

Samsung is making a significant resurgence in the Chromebook market with the **Galaxy Chromebook Plus**, a device that aspires to set a new benchmark for high-end Chromebooks. With its elegant design, powerful specifications, and innovative features, the Galaxy Chromebook Plus is poised to be a transformative addition.

### Key Specifications of the Samsung Galaxy Chromebook Plus:
– **Display**: 15.6-inch OLED
– **Brightness**: 400 nits
– **Processor**: Intel Core 3 100U (Raptor Lake-R)
– **RAM**: 8GB
– **Storage**: 256GB
– **Battery Life**: Up to 13 hours
– **Weight**: 2.58 pounds
– **Extras**: Quick Insert key

### What Sets It Apart?
The Galaxy Chromebook Plus is being heralded as the **slimmest Chromebook Plus to date**, measuring merely 11.8mm thick and weighing only 2.58 pounds. Despite its lightweight design, Samsung has successfully integrated a **15.6-inch OLED display**, delivering vivid colors and rich blacks ideal for media consumption and creative tasks.

Beneath the surface, the Galaxy Chromebook Plus is powered by an **Intel Core 3 100U** processor, part of Intel’s Raptor Lake series, which promises exceptional performance for multitasking and productivity. Combined with 8GB of RAM and 256GB of storage, this Chromebook is equipped to manage most tasks with ease, though it’s worth mentioning there is only one configuration available.

### The Quick Insert Key: A New Working Method
A prominent feature of the Galaxy Chromebook Plus is the introduction of the **Quick Insert key**