Google has recently unveiled the Chromebook Plus as the new benchmark for Chromebooks, and Acer is one of the first manufacturers to adopt this standard. The Acer Chromebook Plus 515, priced at $400, comes with a plastic build and boasts a 15.6-inch, 1080p display.
Despite its affordable price, the build of the laptop feels sturdy and not cheaply made. It also comes with a comfortable keyboard layout that offers a pleasant typing experience. Furthermore, the top-facing speakers on the Chromebook Plus 515 are a significant improvement over the typical downward-firing speakers found in this price range.
While the trackpad is usable, some users feel that it could be improved. Additionally, the US version of the laptop lacks certain features, including a fingerprint sensor, keyboard backlighting, and a touchscreen.
On the positive side, the display is good, reasonably sharp, and bright, ensuring a pleasant viewing experience. The laptop is equipped with an Intel Core i3 processor and 8GB of RAM, which provide sufficient performance for everyday tasks such as web browsing, writing, and video calls.
Battery life is another strong point for the Acer Chromebook Plus 515, as it can last for around 8 hours of active use, making it perfect for on-the-go productivity. Furthermore, the laptop charges via USB-C and has USB-C ports on both sides, adding convenience to its usage. The port selection also includes a full-size HDMI port, a USB-A port, and a headphone jack.
Overall, the Acer Chromebook Plus 515 is a solid choice for those looking for a reliable laptop at an affordable price. While it usually retails at $399, it is often available for as low as $299 at Best Buy, making it an even more enticing option. With its decent performance, long battery life, and user-friendly features, the Acer Chromebook Plus 515 proves to be a worthy competitor in the Chromebook market.
