The Dell Chromebook 11 is one of the best Chromebooks available at the moment, boasting specs up to an Intel Core i3 processor and 4GB of RAM, but the 11-inch screen isn’t big enough for some folks. Dell has heard the desire for a larger Chrome OS device and announced the Dell Chromebook 13 to fill the gap.
The Dell Chromebook 13 builds on the performance and professionalism of the Chromebook 11, expanding the performance options to include not just a fifth generation Intel Celeron chip, but also a Core i3-5005U or Core i5-5300U. That dual-core i5 chip is one of the most powerful to find its way into a Chrome OS laptop, boasting a 2.3GHz base clock and 2.9GHz Turbo Boost. In addition, you have the option of upgrading to up to 8GB of RAM, plus your choice of 16 or 32GB SSD.
Bigger means better too, at least when it comes to the display. Not only is the size up to 13.3 inches, but the resolution is up to full 1080p HD, with available touch screen. That’s a noticeable increase from the 1,366 x 768 of the 11-inch model, and a necessary upgrade given the added display size.
For connectivity, the Chromebook 13 packs in 802.11AC Wi-Fi, Bluetooth 4.0, a single USB 2.0, and a USB 3.0 port, plus an HDMI port for video out. The rest of the design received a makeover as well, with a new woven carbon fiber shell and magnesium alloy palm rest, plus a lightweight, sturdy aluminum base. The screen is coated in thick, scratch-proof Corning Gorilla Glass too, so you don’t have to worry about anything breaking when you take it with you, and the keyboard is now backlit.
The Dell Chromebook 13 will hit shelves on September 17th, with a starting price of $399. Upgrades will cost a little more from there, but you’re likely to still have an awesome, functional Chromebook for under $500.
