Acer Chromebook Spin 311
The Acer Chromebook Spin 311 is a versatile, budget-friendly Chromebook that doubles as an Android tablet. It features an 11.6-inch HD IPS touch panel powered by a Dual-core Intel Celeron N4000 Processor. The Chromebook has 4GB of RAM and 64GB of eMMC storage, providing smooth web browsing and ample storage for media and documents. It also boasts a good selection of ports, including two USB-C ports that support USB PD charging and display output, two full-size USB 3 ports, and a microSD card slot for additional storage. Despite being made of plastic, the design stands out from other budget Chromebooks, offering a solid build quality and minimal wobble when used as a tablet.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Solid build quality | Made of plastic |
| 360-degree hinge for tablet mode | Speakers produce little bass |
| Good selection of ports | No backlit keyboard |
| Comes with Google Play Store installed | Battery life could be better |
The Acer Chromebook Spin 311's standout feature is its 360-degree hinge, which allows the display to fold all the way into tablet mode, making it a versatile 2-in-1 device. The Chromebook also features an HD webcam, making it suitable for conference calls. The keyboard is not backlit but offers a tactile experience with decent-sized keycaps and key travel. The trackpad has good tracking performance and palm rejection, which is rare in entry-level Chromebooks.
Reviewers' Take on Acer Chromebook Spin 311
In a review by KLGadgetTV, the Acer Chromebook Spin 311 is described as "the nicest budget Chromebook" they've come across. The reviewer was particularly impressed with the build quality, solid display hinges, and comfortable keyboard and trackpad. However, they pointed out that the media consumption experience could be improved due to the loudspeakers producing little bass. The reviewer also confirmed the quoted battery life of up to 10 hours, stating, "In my experience, I got up to an impressive 8 hours with a mixture of video streaming and web browsing activities."
Matthew Elliott from PCMag describes the Acer Chromebook Spin 311 as an affordable and versatile option for grade-school students. He mentions its ability to double as an Android tablet, stating, "Finding this 2-in-1 versatility in a Chromebook at this price is rare and is the Spin 311's chief attraction." However, he also points out that the Spin 311's small, low-res screen and disappointing battery life might be a deal-breaker for some users.
Customer Reviews of Acer Chromebook Spin 311
Customers have expressed high satisfaction with the Acer Chromebook Spin 311. They highlight its value for money, exceptional hardware, and user-friendly features. The 2-in-1 flip screen is a standout feature, allowing users to use the device as a traditional computer or a large tablet. Younger users particularly appreciate this versatility.
One reviewer, an IT professional with over 20 years of experience, highly recommends the Chromebook, noting that it is not designed for gaming but excels in other areas. The device's long battery life, quick startup time, and touchscreen are exceptional features.
However, it's important to note that the device's performance may only meet some users' expectations. As one customer pointed out, the Chromebook is a sturdy, efficient, and cost-effective device suitable for preteens and those with the right expectations.
Conclusion
The Acer Chromebook Spin 311 is a good choice for users who primarily work on the web and use Google's suite of apps and services. Its ability to double as an Android tablet adds tremendous value to this budget-friendly machine. However, users who require a device for more demanding tasks or prefer a more premium build might want to look for a different Chromebook. For a more comprehensive comparison of Chromebooks, users can refer to Starry Hope's Chromebook Comparison Tool.
