Amazon has run a number of deals on Chromebooks these past few months, savagely slashing the prices of the already inexpensive laptops again and again, so it’s only fitting they end the year on a high. It could be that Google’s feeling Microsoft’s heat more than ever in the low-cost PC arena.
Or maybe the search giant and its partners are looking to clear stocks in anticipation of next year’s Chromebook revolution. Or perhaps these things simply aren’t selling like hotcakes outside of the education scene.
Whatever the cause, we’re glad to see so many Chromebooks go for all-time low prices. Starting at the very bottom, an entry-level 11-inch Acer costs $169, after a $30 trim. The downside? It’s currently unavailable and won’t be back in stock until December 25th, so it’s out as a stocking-stuffer.
Also a bargain, albeit not quite as cheap, is the Acer 13 CB5-311. It offers a 1080p display, quad-core Nvidia Tegra K1 processor and a claimed 11 hours of battery life for the low, low price of $230. That’s discounted from $300, and likewise due on your doorstep by the time Santa comes to town.
Willing to trade the exquisite 1080p panel for some extra storage room and better multitasking support? This $229 13-inch Asus accommodates a few extra HD movies in its 32GB flash drive, and lets you open as many Chrome browser tabs as you need thanks to its four gigabytes of memory.
Last but not least, if you’re not a big fan of either Asus or Acer, this HP 11 will keep you jolly after the holidays pass. While it can only last 6 hours between charges, the Exynos-powered “snow white” 11 incher can be grabbed at $188, which is $92 off list. Too bad it arrives after Christmas even if you order it today.
