STACK #231 January 2024

TECH FEATURE

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Looking for a more affordable – but still plenty capable – alternative to a laptop? Consider a Chromebook. Built by Google, these simplified devices shear off much of the fluff that can clog up laptops, making them easier to use without sacrificing productivity.They’re perfect for students, and can be a great first step towards developing basic computer skills that will be important throughout life. CHROMEBOOKS

Words Michael Irving

Chrome OS Powering every Chromebook is Chrome OS, Google’s own operating system that trims the fat you might expect from others. Based on the company’s internet browser of the same name, Chrome OS is largely cloud-based, so your Gmail, Google Drive files, and Chrome settings will carry across from other devices to your Chromebook and back. It still works offline too though – recent files and downloaded apps will be there when you need them.

Routine ready Not only are Chromebooks easy to use, they smoothly slot into a student’s routines. They’re thin and light to slide into a school bag without adding much weight, and they have battery lives long enough to see out the school day. Booting up in just seconds, Chromebooks are ready when students are. Study buddies Chromebooks are ready to tackle any assignment. They work seamlessly with Google’s apps, like Docs, Sheets, and Meet,

but other familiar faces are also available to download via purchase or subscription from the Play Store, including Microsoft Office and Adobe Creative apps. When the school day is done, Chromebooks can help students kick back with Netflix or games like Minecraft . Safety first Cybersecurity is important, especially when it comes to your kids – which is why Chromebooks are designed like Fort Knox. Google’s own virus protection comes pre-installed, so you don’t

need to mess around with other security software and ongoing subscriptions. On every start-up the system performs a Verified Boot, a rigorous security check-up to prevent malware taking hold. Even if something malicious does manage to get through, a technique called sandboxing separates software, isolating infected sections so they don’t spread far. And finally, a built-in security chip locks the most sensitive data behind extra encryption, for better peace of mind.

Lenovo IdeaPad Slim 3 Chromebook

Asus CX1 Chromebook This affordable and capable Chromebook can handle school tasks with aplomb, without bombing the budget. The sturdy shell has been tested to withstand the bumps, shocks and drops that can come from busy days at school, and a battery life of up to 11 hours will keep them going for long study sessions anywhere.

OUR PICKS

This slim and stylish Chromebook is a perfect starting point for students. It’s simple to set up and use, and has a small profile to maximise focus. The MicroSD card reader allows the storage space to be expanded, and the case is finished in a calming blue colour. 14” HD display MTK Kompanio 520 processor 2.02GHz 4GB RAM 128GB storage USB-A/USB-C/MicroSD Bluetooth v5.1 Wi-Fi 6

15.6” FHD display Intel Celeron N5100 processor 2.8GHz 8GB RAM 64GB storage 2x USB-A/2x USB-C Bluetooth v5.0 Wi-Fi 6

Disclaimer: Battery life based on manufacturer testing and can vary significantly based on usage, network and feature configuration, signal strength, settings and other factors.

12 JANUARY 2024

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