Lenovo and Samsung have new Chromebooks you need to check out
Google recently showcased the newest Gemini AI tools going into Chromebooks during an event in New York. While the AI tools are impressive, let's shift our focus to the exciting new Chromebook models unveiled by Lenovo and Samsung.
Lenovo's Updated Chromebook Duet
The original Lenovo Chromebook Duet, launched back in 2020, was a game-changer with its 10-inch tablet form factor, detachable keyboard, and kickstand included in the box. The affordable price point made it a popular choice among consumers, earning it the title of "The Basically Perfect Chrome OS Device." The latest iteration of this model, simply named the Duet, retains the form factor but brings significant improvements in build quality and performance.
The new Duet features a solid build that is reminiscent of Microsoft's Surface devices, with a brighter display and improved keyboard. While the device is still budget-friendly starting at $340, Lenovo has made deliberate upgrades such as adding a second USB-C port and a headphone jack, addressing some of the shortcomings of the original design.
Additionally, Lenovo is offering an education variant of the Duet with an impact-resistant case to cater to the needs of students and educators. The tablet is compatible with various styluses, including the USI 2.0 stylus, and boasts improved palm rejection technology on the screen.
Samsung's Chromebook Plus
If you're in the market for a more premium Chromebook experience, Samsung's Chromebook Plus is worth considering. The device stands out for its thin and light design, reminiscent of the LG Gram series, yet packs impressive hardware features.
The highlight of the Chromebook Plus is its 15.6-inch OLED screen, a rarity in the Chromebook market. Despite its slim profile, Samsung has managed to include two USB-C ports, a full-sized USB-A port, and a full HDMI port on the Chromebook Plus. With a Core i3 processor, 8GB of RAM, and 256GB of storage, the device offers a smooth performance at a competitive price of $699.99.
One area of interest for potential buyers is the battery life, an aspect that Samsung has worked on improving in this model. The Chromebook Plus features a revamped keyboard layout with additional functionality, reflecting Google's commitment to enhancing user experience on Chrome OS devices.
