Best Chromebooks Under $400 in 2026: 15 Picks Compared on Specs

Revised October 9, 2026

In this price segment, the best Chromebook is the ASUS 2026 Chromebook Plus, which pairs a Core i3 processor with 8GB RAM and 256GB storage. That combination is rare in this range. This guide compares 15 models from a pool of 46 affordable Chromebooks, using their listed specifications to highlight the best options for different needs.

13 picks from 4 Chromebooks that match this guide with a price we can quote today, made by 6 makers. Each price below is read live and stamped with the time it was read.

The short list

Who each pick suits

• For students on a budget: A convertible with a touchscreen and solid performance for notes and assignments. The Acer Spin 314 offers an 8GB Core i3 in a 2-in-1 design. See pick 2
• For the big-screen fan: If you want maximum real estate, the Acer 15.6-inch touch model provides a large display and 8GB RAM. See pick 5
• For Chromebook Plus features: Get the AI integration and extra storage with the ASUS 2026 Chromebook Plus, the best Plus model in this segment. See pick 1
• For travelers: The Lenovo Duet 5 offers an OLED screen and a detachable design, making it easy to pack. See pick 13

The 13 picks, one by one

1 Best overall

ASUS 2026 14" FHD IPS Touchscreen Chromebook Plus

Screen size

14 in

Memory

6 to 8 GB

Storage

256 GB

Processor

Intel Core

Touchscreen

Yes

Chromebook Plus

Yes

View on Amazon

This Chromebook Plus pairs an Intel Core i3 processor with 8GB of RAM and 256GB of storage, the largest storage capacity among the picks. Its 14-inch FHD touch display and Chromebook Plus label add software features that justify its position at the top of this list.

Pros

• 256GB storage, the most in this selection
• 8GB DDR5 RAM
• Intel Core i3 processor
• Chromebook Plus features including Gemini integration

Cons

• Not a 2-in-1 design
• Larger storage may be overkill for basic cloud-based work

Good fit if

• Students or professionals who need local storage and faster multitasking
• Anyone who wants the latest Chromebook Plus features

Skip if

• You need a convertible laptop
• You prefer an ARM-based design for longer battery

Verdict: The best Chromebook for performance and storage in this price segment.

2 Best 2-in-1

Acer Chromebook Spin 314 CP314-2HN-30V1 Convertible Laptop

Screen size

14 in

Memory

6 to 8 GB

Storage

128 GB

Processor

Intel Core

Touchscreen

Yes

2-in-1

Yes

$499.99 price as of 2026-10-09 05:24 UTC (Details)

Outside this guide's budget at today's price.

View on Amazon

This Acer Spin 314 combines a Core i3-N305 processor, 8GB of RAM, and a 14-inch WUXGA touch display with a 360-degree hinge. It's one of only two picks with a Core i3 and 8GB, and the only one with a convertible design.

Pros

• 8GB RAM
• Core i3-N305 processor
• 14-inch WUXGA IPS touchscreen
• 2-in-1 form factor

Cons

• 128GB storage is mid-range
• No Chromebook Plus label for extra AI features

Good fit if

• Students who need a versatile laptop/tablet
• Anyone who prefers a convertible for note-taking or presentations

Skip if

• You want a larger screen
• You need more than 128GB of storage

Verdict: The best convertible in this price range for performance and flexibility.

3 Best display

HP 2-in-1 Chromebook Laptop

Screen size

14 in

Memory

6 to 8 GB

Storage

64 GB

Processor

Intel N-series

Touchscreen

Yes

2-in-1

Yes

View on Amazon

The HP 2-in-1 has a 14-inch 2K IPS touchscreen, a higher resolution than the 1080p panels on most of the other picks. It also includes 8GB RAM and an Intel N150 processor, making it a well-rounded pick for visual work.

Pros

• 2K resolution display
• 8GB RAM
• Touchscreen
• 2-in-1 design

Cons

• Only 64GB storage
• Intel N150 is less powerful than Core i3 options

Good fit if

• Anyone who spends a lot of time in front of the screen
• Photo editing or spreadsheet work where sharp text helps

Skip if

• You need more local storage
• You need a faster CPU

Verdict: The pick for the sharpest display among our budget selection.

4 Best 15-inch media machine

Lenovo Chromebook m 15"

Screen size

15 in or more

Memory

6 to 8 GB

Storage

128 GB

Processor

MediaTek

View on Amazon

This Lenovo Chromebook m 15 features a 15.3-inch WUXGA IPS display, one of the largest screens, and a MediaTek Kompanio 540 processor with 8GB RAM. It balances a big screen with adequate memory for multitasking.

Pros

• 15.3-inch WUXGA IPS display
• 8GB RAM
• 128GB storage
• MediaTek Kompanio 540 processor

Cons

• Not touchscreen
• No Chromebook Plus label

Good fit if

• Users who want a large screen for movies or documents
• Those who don't need a touch display

Skip if

• You want a 2-in-1
• You need a more powerful Intel Core processor

Verdict: A solid large-screen Chromebook with strong memory and storage.

5 Best large touchscreen

Acer 15.6” FHD Touch Chromebook

Screen size

15 in or more

Memory

6 to 8 GB

Storage

128 GB

Processor

Intel N-series

Touchscreen

Yes

$299.00 price as of 2026-10-09 05:24 UTC (Details)

Outside this guide's budget at today's price.

View on Amazon

The Acer 15.6-inch FHD touch Chromebook offers one of the largest touchscreens in this price range, along with 8GB RAM and 128GB storage. Its Intel N50 processor handles everyday web and productivity tasks smoothly.

Pros

• 15.6-inch FHD touchscreen
• 8GB RAM
• 128GB storage
• Touch capability

Cons

• Intel N50 processor is entry-level
• Not a convertible design

Good fit if

• Users who want a big touchscreen for interactive content
• Families sharing a device for casual use

Skip if

• You need a 2-in-1 form factor
• You require a faster processor for heavy multitasking

Verdict: The go-to choice for a large touch display in this price category.

6 Best MediaTek for battery

ASUS Chromebook CM15 Laptop

Screen size

15 in or more

Memory

6 to 8 GB

Storage

128 GB

Processor

MediaTek

View on Amazon

The ASUS Chromebook CM15 includes a MediaTek Kompanio 540, 8GB RAM, and a 15.6-inch FHD display. ARM-based processors like this often offer better power efficiency, and the 8GB memory keeps it responsive for everyday work.

Pros

• MediaTek Kompanio 540 is power-efficient
• 8GB RAM
• 128GB storage
• 15.6-inch FHD display

Cons

• Not a touchscreen
• No Chromebook Plus features

Good fit if

• Those who prioritize battery life over raw CPU speed
• Users comfortable with ARM architecture

Skip if

• You need an Intel-based Chromebook for compatibility
• You want a touch display

Verdict: A strong ARM-based 15-inch laptop with ample memory.

7 Best for note-taking

Lenovo Chromebook 2-in-1

Screen size

14 in

Memory

4 GB or less

Storage

128 GB

Processor

Intel N-series

Touchscreen

Yes

2-in-1

Yes

View on Amazon

This Lenovo 2-in-1 offers a 14-inch WUXGA IPS touchscreen, 128GB storage, and an Intel N150 processor, making it a versatile convertible option for students and professionals who take notes by hand.

Pros

• 2-in-1 design
• 14-inch WUXGA IPS touchscreen
• 128GB storage
• Intel N150 processor

Cons

• Only 4GB RAM
• Not Chromebook Plus certified

Good fit if

• Budget buyers who want a convertible for light use
• Students who need a touchscreen for note-taking

Skip if

• You need more than 4GB of RAM
• You want a larger screen

Verdict: A solid convertible with a touchscreen, ideal for note-taking on a budget.

8 Best HP 2-in-1

HP Chromebook X360 14b

Screen size

14 in

Memory

4 GB or less

Storage

128 GB

Processor

Intel N-series

2-in-1

Yes

View on Amazon

The HP Chromebook X360 14b is a 14-inch convertible with an Intel N100 processor and 128GB storage. It only has 4GB RAM, but the N100 is a modern chip that handles everyday tasks well, and the 2-in-1 design adds flexibility.

Pros

• 2-in-1 design
• Intel N100 processor
• 128GB storage
• 14-inch touchscreen

Cons

• Only 4GB RAM
• Display resolution not stated

Good fit if

• Anyone who likes the HP X360 design language
• Users who want a convertible with solid storage

Skip if

• You need 8GB of RAM
• You prefer a Chromebook Plus model

Verdict: A reliable convertible with a modern processor and generous storage.

9 Best 14-inch flip

ASUS Chromebook Flip CX1 Convertible Laptop

Screen size

14 in

Memory

6 to 8 GB

Storage

128 GB

Processor

Intel Celeron or Pentium

Touchscreen

Yes

2-in-1

Yes

View on Amazon

The ASUS Flip CX1 is a 14-inch FHD touch convertible with 128GB storage and 6 to 8GB RAM. It's a versatile option that covers both productivity and entertainment, though the Celeron N4500 is a step down from the N-series chips on other picks.

Pros

• 14-inch FHD touchscreen
• 2-in-1 design
• 128GB storage
• 6 to 8GB RAM

Cons

• Intel Celeron N4500 is an older chip
• No Chromebook Plus label

Good fit if

• Users who want a basic 2-in-1 with a full HD screen
• Those who need a laptop for light web and app use

Skip if

• You want a faster Intel N-series or Core processor
• You need more than 128GB storage

Verdict: An affordable convertible with a sharp display and average performance.

10 Best touchscreen clamshell

Lenovo Chromebook 14 Laptop

Screen size

14 in

Memory

4 GB or less

Storage

64 GB

Touchscreen

Yes

View on Amazon

The Lenovo Chromebook 14 provides a 14-inch FHD touchscreen, a 2.0GHz 8-core processor, and 4GB RAM, plus a 64GB eMMC with an additional 128GB SD card. It's a solid touchscreen choice for those who don't need a convertible hinge.

Pros

• 14-inch FHD touchscreen
• 128GB SD card included
• 8-core 2.0GHz processor
• 64GB eMMC storage

Cons

• Only 4GB RAM
• Processor name not specified

Good fit if

• Budget-conscious users who want touch functionality
• Students who need a basic Chromebook for school work

Skip if

• You need 8GB of RAM for heavy multitasking
• You prefer a convertible form factor

Verdict: A functional touchscreen Chromebook that keeps the price low.

11 Best for productivity on a budget

Acer Chromebook 315 Laptop Intel N100 8GB RAM 64GB Storage Touch

Memory

6 to 8 GB

Storage

64 GB

Processor

Intel N-series

Touchscreen

Yes

$329.00 price as of 2026-10-09 05:24 UTC (Details) Typical price: $349.99, 6% off

View on Amazon

The Acer Chromebook 315 offers a 15.6-inch touchscreen, 8GB RAM, and an N100 processor. While it lacks a 2-in-1 hinge, it provides a large display and enough memory for running multiple apps and tabs.

Pros

• 15.6-inch touchscreen
• 8GB RAM
• Intel N100 processor
• 64GB storage

Cons

• Not a convertible
• Only 64GB storage

Good fit if

• Users who need a large screen and good multitasking
• Those who don't require a touch display

Skip if

• You want a 2-in-1 design
• You need more local storage

Verdict: A perfect mix of performance and screen size for work and study.

12 Best compact convertible

Samsung Chromebook Plus V2 360

Screen size

12 to 13 in

Processor

Intel Celeron or Pentium

2-in-1

Yes

View on Amazon

The Samsung Chromebook Plus V2 360 is a 12.2-inch 2-in-1 with a 360-degree hinge and touchscreen. It's one of the few picks with a smaller form factor, making it easy to carry, though it uses an older Celeron 3965Y processor.

Pros

• 12.2-inch compact design
• 360-degree hinge
• Touchscreen
• 2-in-1 form factor

Cons

• Intel Celeron 3965Y is an older chip
• RAM and storage not stated

Good fit if

• Travelers who prioritize portability
• Users who want a tablet-like Chromebook

Skip if

• You need a larger screen
• You want a more modern processor

Verdict: A portable 2-in-1 with a small footprint and touch support.

13 Best OLED display

Lenovo 82QS0000US

Screen size

12 to 13 in

Memory

4 GB or less

Storage

64 GB

Processor

Qualcomm

Touchscreen

Yes

View on Amazon

The Lenovo IdeaPad Duet 5 stands out with a 13.3-inch FHD OLED touchscreen, offering deep blacks and vibrant colors that no other pick can match in this price range. It runs on a Qualcomm Snapdragon SC7180 with 4GB RAM and 64GB storage.

Pros

• 13.3-inch OLED touchscreen
• Detachable design for tablet use
• Qualcomm Snapdragon SC7180
• 64GB storage

Cons

• Only 4GB RAM
• Smaller storage capacity

Good fit if

• Media consumers who value display quality
• Users who want a tablet that can attach to a keyboard

Skip if

• You need a traditional clamshell laptop
• You require 8GB of RAM

Verdict: The standout choice for an OLED screen at a budget price.

Comparison table

How this list was made

We started with a pool of 46 Chromebooks in this price segment. After filtering out duplicates and models with incomplete specifications, we selected 15 distinct machines that represent the range of features available. We evaluated each based on processor class, RAM, storage, display quality, and form factor. We also looked for Chromebook Plus models, which come with additional AI and performance features. Prices are live and read from the listing; we did not physically test any of these laptops. Our picks are based on the specifications published by the seller and manufacturer, so you can verify every detail before buying.

Choosing the right one

Processor: Intel N-series vs. Core i3 vs. MediaTek

The processor is the biggest determinant of how responsive a Chromebook feels. In this price range, you'll find three main options. Intel N-series chips (N100, N150) are the modern entry point and are fine for browsing, email, and office apps. Core i3 processors (like the i3-N305 or the i3-8130U) offer a noticeable boost for heavier multitasking and more demanding web apps. MediaTek ARM chips (like the Kompanio 540) are common in 15-inch models and are designed for power efficiency, which can translate to longer battery life, though some software is built for x86 and may not run as well on ARM.

RAM: Aim for 8GB if you can

Chromebooks are lightweight, but having more RAM prevents slowdowns when you have many tabs open or use Android apps. In this market, you'll see both 4GB and 8GB configurations. We recommend 8GB for anyone who expects to keep more than a dozen tabs open or runs apps like Google Earth or Linux tools. Dual-core processors combined with 4GB RAM are best left to single-task users. If you see a model with 4GB but a better screen, weigh that trade-off carefully.

Storage: eMMC vs. SSD and expandability

Most Chromebooks at this price rely on eMMC storage, which is slower than an SSD but fine for cloud-focused work. Capacities range from 32GB to 256GB. If you plan to download large files or install many Android apps, aim for 128GB or more. Some models also include an SD card or have a microSD slot for expansion. Consider that Google offers 100GB of Drive storage for a year with many new Chromebooks, but that doesn't help offline. Check the listed storage and compare with your needs.

Display: resolution and touch

A Full HD (1920x1080) display is the minimum we'd recommend for comfortable use; you'll also find WUXGA (1920x1200) and 2K options on some models. If you enjoy tablet mode or note-taking, a touchscreen is a plus. Many 2-in-1 models include touch, but some clamshells do too. The display quality also matters: IPS panels offer better viewing angles, and we've noted which picks specify IPS. Keep in mind that some sellers don't state the resolution, which is a red flag; we've called that out in the cons.

Form factor: clamshell vs. 2-in-1 vs. detachable

Think about how you'll use the Chromebook. A clamshell is the standard laptop shape, best for typing on a lap. A 2-in-1 has a 360-degree hinge so you can fold the keyboard behind and use it as a tablet or in tent mode. A detachable (like the Duet 5) lets you remove the keyboard entirely, making it lighter and more tablet-like. Each has trade-offs: 2-in-1s and detachables are often pricier or have smaller screens, while clamshells might offer better specs for the same money.

Chromebook Plus: is the label worth it?

Chromebook Plus is a hardware certification from Google that guarantees a minimum of 8GB RAM, 128GB storage, and a modern processor. It also brings exclusive software features like Gemini integration, AI photo editing, and advanced video call effects. In our pool, only the ASUS 2026 model carries the Plus label. If those features matter to you, it's the clearest choice. If not, you can save money or get a different combination of specs without the label.

Questions

How many years will a Chromebook under $400 receive updates?

Google's Auto Update policy guarantees 10 years of updates for Chromebooks released after 2021. Since most models in this list are from recent years, you can expect them to be supported until at least the early 2030s. You can verify the exact end date by going to Settings, About ChromeOS, and checking the 'Update schedule' for your specific model.

Can I run Android apps and Linux on a budget Chromebook?

Yes, ChromeOS now includes both Android app support and a Linux development environment by default for most models. To enable Linux, go to Settings, About ChromeOS, Developers, and turn on the Linux development environment. Android apps are available through the Google Play Store. Note that Linux hardware acceleration isn't yet supported, so don't expect to run GPU-heavy Linux applications.

Is 4GB RAM enough for a Chromebook under $400?

4GB is the minimum you'll find, and it's fine for basic tasks like checking email, browsing the web, and using Google Docs. You'll notice slowdowns if you keep many tabs open or run large Android apps. If you can stretch your budget to get 8GB, you'll have a much smoother experience and more headroom for future needs.

What is the difference between eMMC and SSD storage?

eMMC is a type of flash storage that is slower and cheaper than a traditional SSD. Most Chromebooks in this price range use eMMC, which is noticeable during file transfers and when opening large apps. SSDs offer faster performance but are rare in this price segment. If you see a model with an SSD and it fits your budget, it's worth considering for a snappier feel.

Can I use a Chromebook under $400 for gaming?

These Chromebooks are not designed for high-end gaming, but you can play Android games from the Play Store and stream games via platforms like GeForce Now or Xbox Cloud Gaming. For cloud gaming, you'll need a stable internet connection and a compatible browser. Look for a model with 8GB RAM and a recent processor, such as the ASUS Chromebook Plus, for the best streaming experience.

What changed

• 2026-10-07: First published.

Sources

• ChromeOS Auto Update policy
• Update your Chromebook's operating system
• Google Chromebook Plus
• Set up Linux on your Chromebook