The Lenovo Chromebook Plus 14 has emerged as a standout contender in the world of Chromebooks, drawing comparisons to the MacBook Air. This Arm-based thin-and-light laptop boasts impressive specifications, remarkable battery life, and an exceptional keyboard, all wrapped in a solid build quality. Most notably, it features a vibrant 14-inch OLED screen that is available in the base configuration starting at just $649, with a touchscreen option for $749. This pricing is notably lower than competitors such as the Samsung Galaxy Chromebook Plus and the Acer Chromebook Plus Spin, making it an appealing choice for budget-conscious consumers.
The base model of the Lenovo Chromebook Plus 14 is powered by the MediaTek Kompanio Ultra 910 processor, complemented by 128GB of storage and 12GB of RAM, all while delivering that stunning OLED display. For those who require more memory and storage, the review configuration—priced at $749—offers double the storage at 256GB, 16GB of RAM, a touchscreen interface, and a convenient fingerprint reader. The weight is slightly increased at 2.78 pounds, compared to the base model's 2.58 pounds, but it remains impressively portable.
Measuring just 0.62 inches in thickness, the Lenovo Chromebook Plus 14 provides a sleek and modern design. It includes a variety of ports—two USB-C ports, one USB-A port, and a 3.5mm audio jack—allowing users to connect up to two external 4K monitors. Although the USB-C ports operate at a slower 5Gbps speed, they still offer versatility for users needing additional display connections.
One of the standout features of the Lenovo Chromebook Plus 14 is its 1920 x 1200 OLED display. While the resolution and refresh rate may not be groundbreaking, the color accuracy and contrast are exceptional. The audio quality is commendable as well, with speakers that produce rich sound for music and podcasts. However, users may notice minor issues with the webcam, which has a greenish tint, and the mechanical trackpad that produces a loud click when used.
Performance-wise, the Lenovo Chromebook Plus 14 does not disappoint. Its fanless design, similar to the MacBook Air, ensures a completely silent operation. The 8-core MediaTek processor, paired with 16GB of RAM, easily manages multiple Chrome tabs and Android apps without noticeable lag. Users can expect smooth multitasking even during demanding tasks, such as uploading documents while running various applications.
Equipped with a 60Wh battery, this Chromebook excels in battery life. Users can comfortably use the device throughout a typical workday, often lasting from morning until evening without needing to recharge. With moderate use, it’s feasible to achieve multiple days of battery life, making the Lenovo Chromebook Plus 14 a reliable companion for on-the-go professionals.
Given its performance, battery life, and exceptional screen, the Lenovo Chromebook Plus 14 stands out as one of the best Chromebook offerings available today. Although the architecture may pose challenges for certain Linux applications, the ability to run both Android and Linux apps enhances its versatility. While some users may prefer x86 Chromebooks for better Linux compatibility, the Lenovo’s competitive pricing, particularly with the touchscreen option, positions it as a top choice among Chromebooks.
In summary, the Lenovo Chromebook Plus 14 is not just another laptop; it is a compelling device that combines affordability with high-end specifications, making it an excellent choice for anyone seeking a reliable and powerful Chromebook. Whether for work or play, this laptop is poised to meet diverse user needs effectively.
