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Rockchip ARM quad-core powers new Chromebooks from CTL

Krystle Vermes
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Oregon-based computer manufacturer CTL announced today that it has launched new Chromebooks for education in partnership with Google. The CTL Chromebook J2 and CTL Chromebook J4 are among the first models to include the Quad Core ARM Cortex-A17 RK3288 processor from Rockchip.

“The Rockchip RK3288 processor has been designed specifically for the Chromebook in order to maximize power and offer a competitive price point,” said Feng Chen, chief marketing officer of Rockship. “We’re excited that CTL will be among the first companies to bring a Chromebook to the market that utilizes our innovative technology.”

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The CTL Chromebook J2 has 2GB of RAM, while the J4 comes with 4GB. They both have more than nine hours of battery life and weigh approximately 2.46 pounds, which makes them 20 percent lighter than other Chromebook models on the market. With two USB 2.0 ports, Bluetooth 4.0, and a slot for a MicroSD card, the products offer reasonable but not excellent connectivity.

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“CTL is proud to partner with Google to bring our education customers a Chromebook that provides students, teachers and IT managers with a powerful and durable device that enhances the learning experience,” said Erik Stromquist, chief operating officer of CTL. “We understand the budgetary constraints that school districts are facing today. The new CTL J2 and J4 Chromebooks for Education are part of our ongoing mission to provide educators with innovative, cost effective solutions.”

Other features of the J2 and J4 include an 11.6-inch anti-glare HD display of 1366 x 768 pixels, a 1.3 MP webcam, and 16 GB of eMMC solid state storage.

The education pricing for the CTL Chromebook J2 starts at $179.00, and the J4 is available for $209.00. These are rather low prices even for a Chromebook, though it’s perhaps worth noting that some alternatives from Acer are very close in price, and also offer Intel processors. It’ll be interesting to see if Rockchip’s ARM quad-core can hold up in performance tests when CTL’s Chromebooks hit our review bench.

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Krystle Vermes
Krystle Vermes
Former Digital Trends Contributor
Krystle Vermes is a professional writer, blogger and podcaster with a background in both online and print journalism. Her…
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