When you have a child, you need to get used to constant requests for new technology. Kids love tech, and they always want to have what their friends have.
While you might not be sold on some of the things they swear they must have, Chromebooks are different. The best Chromebooks for kids can be useful for schoolwork, and they might stop your child from having to use your laptop or desktop computer all the time.
- Backlit keyboard with quiet keys
- Fast charge technology
- HD touchscreen & stereo speakers
- Clear screen with excellent color
- Sturdy, rugged design
- HD webcam
- 360-degree flip design
- Super-fast internet connection capabilities
- Built-in virus protection
- Larger onboard storage
- Integrated webcam shutter
- The screen has anti-glare coating
- Flip “ergo-lift” hinge
- Wi-fi tech is less prone to interference
- Backlit keyboard
- Excellent HD display
- Two forward-facing speakers
- Bright screen
- Built-in webcam & microphone
- Spill-resistant keyboard
- Weighs 3 pounds
- High quality display
- Large RAM storage
- Excellent and almost silent fan
- Removable “plug & play” keyboard
- Includes a screen stand
- Battery charging via pogo pin
- High-quality audio speakers
- Stable & fast internet connectivity
- Comes with Google assist
The Best Chromebook for Kids of 2023
After taking all of this information into consideration, and scouring the web to read Chromebook reviews, we have put together our list of the best Chromebooks for kids.
Google Pixelbook Go M3 Chromebook
Best 13-Inch Chromebook for Kids
The Google Pixelbook Go is the closest thing you’ll find to a future-proof computer for your child. With a 64-GB hard drive, your child may not need all the memory available to them right now. But as they grow, there will be plenty of room to store music, images, files, school projects, textbooks, and more.
It is 0.5 inches thick, just over two pounds, and has a special grippable design to make it easy to carry.
The Pixelbook Go is also available with a 4K display, but this saps the battery life faster, so we recommend the HD version which still has a fabulous display.
Pros
- Backlit keyboard with extra quiet “hush” keys and a large touchpad make navigation a breeze.
- Fast charge technology provides two hours of charge in 20 minutes.
- HD touchscreen and stereo speakers for prime quality video meetings and movie viewing.
Cons
- Does not fold flat or allow you to flip the screen and use it as a tablet.
Product Specs
| RAM | 8 GB |
| Storage | 64 GB |
| Screen size | 13.3 inches |
| Battery life | Up to 12 hours |
| Ports | 2 USB-C ports, 3.5 mm headphone jack |
Our Ratings
The Samsung Chromebook 3
Best Budget Chromebook for Kids
Available for significantly less than you’ll pay for many cell phones, the Samsung Chromebook 3 is an outstanding pick for an affordable first Chromebook for kids.
The water-resistant keyboard is made for those who are less than careful with their drinks, while the slight curve to the keys makes it comfortable to use.
Pros
- A crisp, clear screen with excellent color and a wide viewing angle.
- Sturdy, rugged design stands up well to being dropped on the floor in a backpack.
- The screen is way better than you’ll find on similarly-priced computers.
- The HD webcam has live filters for video chats and Multi-Shot mode for the camera.
Cons
- The speakers aren’t the best, so you may want to use a pair of headphones.
Product Specs
| RAM | 4 GB |
| Storage | 32 GB |
| Screen size | 11.6 inches |
| Battery life | Up to 11 hours |
| Ports | 1 USB 2.0 port, 1 USB 3.0 port, 1 full-size HDMI port, 3.5mm headphone jack |
Our Ratings
Acer Chromebook Spin 11 Convertible Laptop
Best Touchscreen Chromebook for Kids
The all-plastic build of the Acer Chromebook can be off-putting at first, but it is way more durable than it feels.
With an HD touchscreen, the Acer Spin 11 allows you to do anything you would normally do on your phone or tablet. The stylus allows you to draw, write, or edit just as you would with a pen, or brush with ease, making this an ideal Chromebook for your budding artist.
You also get a bundle that includes a touchscreen pen and a Chromebook cover.
Pros
- The 360-degree flip design allows you to use the Acer Chromebook Spin as a laptop, tablet, or at any angle in between.
- It has an 802.11ac and 2×2 MIMO, which, in layperson’s terms, means super-fast internet connection capabilities.
- Built-in virus protection.
Cons
- If you are likely to use a printer with this Chromebook, check that your model is compatible with it before purchase.
Product Specs
| RAM | 4 GB |
| Storage | 32 GB |
| Screen size | 11.6 inches |
| Battery life | Up to 10 hours |
| Ports | 2 USB-C ports, USB-A ports, 3.5 mm headphone jack |
Our Ratings
Lenovo Chromebook C340 2-in-1 Laptop
Best Chromebook for Older Kids
The Lenovo Chromebook C340 is a durable and versatile pick for tweens and teens who may need additional onboard storage.
It has a premium feel that is unusual at this price point. This Chromebook has the ability to angle the screen and keyboard to almost any point in a 360-degree range. That makes this Lenovo excellent for typing and creating and editing images.
The large screen with a narrow bezel and a wide viewing angle also makes this great for viewing movies with friends.
Pros
- Larger onboard storage for plenty of images, videos, and music.
- An integrated shutter on the webcam is a reassuring safety and security feature.
- The screen has an anti-glare coating.
Cons
- At 4.4 pounds, this is heavier than most Chromebooks.
Product Specs
| RAM | 4 GB |
| Storage | 32 GB – 64GB with an option available |
| Screen size | 15.6 inches |
| Battery life | Up to 10 hours depending on use |
| Ports | 2 USB C ports, 1 USB A port, 3.5 mm headphone jack |
Our Ratings
ASUS Chromebook Flip C434
Best Mid-Range Chromebook for Kids
At 0.6 inch, this super-slim Chromebook packs a full 14-inch screen into a chassis the size of the average 13-inch screen laptop.
The most impressive thing about this version of the ASUS Chromebook Flip is that you get an expensive, premium model made affordable by choosing the lowest specifications. So, you get a backlit keyboard and a large touchpad that has palm rejection and supports multi-touch gestures.
Ultraslim bezels, full HD, and a 178-degree viewing angle result in a screen that is excellent as both a tablet and for TV and movie watching.
Pros
- The “ergo-lift” hinge allows you to set the keyboard at an angle to the screen for a more comfortable typing position.
- Includes Wi-Fi 5 (802.11ac), which is less prone to interference from other Wi-Fi signals.
- The backlit keyboard is great for older kids who work after dark on their computers.
Cons
- The white letters on the aluminum keys can be difficult to see in daylight.
Product Specs
| RAM | 4 GB |
| Storage | 64 GB |
| Screen size | 14 inches |
| Battery life | Up to 10 hours |
| Ports | 2 USB-C ports, 1 USB-A port, 3.5 mm headphone jack |
Our Ratings
Acer Chromebook 15
Best 15-Inch Chromebook for Kids
If you are looking for a Chromebook with a large screen for a slightly younger child, the Acer Chromebook 15 is our pick.
This model has an excellent full HD, 15-inch touchscreen which is good for use at home and school. What makes this a great choice for kids is that, unlike the ASUS Chromebook at number five on our list, this Chromebook does not flip. This makes it a good bet for little ones who may handle a flip model too roughly.
Pros
- HD IPS Touch display has 41 percent more pixels than a standard HD display.
- Two full-sized forward-facing speakers provide clear sound, without the need for headphones.
- The screen is bright, which younger kids will like.
Cons
- At 5.8 pounds, this is the heaviest Chromebook on the list, which is good for little ones at home, but not the best for carrying any distance.
- Will only connect to a wireless printer.
Product Specs
| RAM | 4 GB |
| Storage | 32 GB |
| Screen size | 15.6 inches |
| Battery life | Up to 13 hours |
| Ports | 2 USB-A ports, 1 USB-C port |
Our Ratings
Dell Inspiron 11 Chromebook
Best 11-Inch Chromebook for Kids
If you have a child who adores their tablet, but will need the use of a keyboard for some school work, the Dell Inspiron 11 Chromebook has your back.
The sharp HD screen provides you with a display similar to your regular phone or tablet, making this a usable option for kids who like to play basic app games and watch cartoons. Its powerful 4GB RAM is capable of no lag web browsing.
Pros
- The reasonable-quality, built-in webcam, and microphone are suitable for virtual classes and meet-ups with friends.
- The spill-resistant keyboard gives you a fighting chance against accident-prone kids.
- Lightweight at 3 pounds.
Cons
- Not an especially exciting design, so the appearance may be off-putting for some.
Product Specs
| RAM | 4 GB |
| Storage | 16 GB |
| Screen size | 11.6 inches |
| Battery life | Up to 10 hours |
| Ports | 2 USB-A ports, 1 HDMI port, headphone jack, 1 SD card reader |
Our Ratings
Google Pixelbook Go i7 Chromebook
Best High-End Chromebook for Kids
This is easily my favorite of all the Chromebooks I have tried and tested. So why is it in eighth place? The higher specifications mean a higher price.
Similar to the Pixelbook Go M3 that is in first place on our list, the i7 benefits from a 4K Ultra HD screen, 16GB RAM, and 256GB memory. This makes it excellent for storing textbooks, downloading memory-eating programs, and storing an entire music and movie library.
The high specifications also mean this will be suitable for years of use before it becomes obsolete.
Pros
- A better quality display than many TVs and monitors and the touchscreen is good for detailed image editing.
- Large RAM allows you to juggle many tasks at once.
- An excellent and almost silent fan makes this comfortable and safe for use on your lap.
Cons
- Cannot “flip” the screen and use it as a tablet.
Product Specs
| RAM | 16 GB |
| Storage | 256 GB |
| Screen size | 13.3 inches |
| Battery life | Up to 12 hours |
| Ports | 2 USB-C ports, 3.5mm headphone jack |
Our Ratings
Lenovo Chromebook Duet
Best Lightweight Chromebook for Kids
The Lenovo Chromebook Duet packs a mighty punch into its tiny frame. While we can’t guarantee that your child will never complain about carrying it, the fact that this model is under a pound makes it as unlikely as possible.
That’s not to say the Lenovo is delicate. Testing shows it to stand up well to general use, and even after being dropped on the floor in a backpack, it was intact, and working fine.
Pros
- The “Plug and Play” keyboard can be removed entirely, so you can use the main body as a laptop.
- A stand on the back of the screen portion allows you to use the unit with the screen upright.
- The battery charger is connected via a pogo pin connection which is useful if your kids are not too gentle.
Cons
- There is only one USB-C port and no headphone jack so you need to rely on the internal speakers.
Product Specs
| RAM | 4 GB |
| Storage | 64 GB |
| Screen size | 10.1 inches |
| Battery life | Up to 10 hours |
| Ports | 1 USB-C port |
Our Ratings
ASUS Chromebook Flip C302
Best Flip Chromebook for Kids
The 360-degree hinge on the ASUS Chromebook Flip allows you to use this as a tablet, a laptop, in a tent formation, or as a screen with a stand.
The touchscreen display is exceptionally responsive, making it easy to use.
That is an advantage if you have easily frustrated kids who feel compelled to jab repeatedly at their screens.
Pros
- Excellent speakers with extra-large resonate chambers for high-quality audio, meaning your child doesn’t have to wear headphones all the time to enjoy movies.
- 802.11ac Wi-Fi means you have extremely stable and fast internet connectivity which is less likely to suffer interference.
- Google assist allows you to achieve multiple tasks without switching screens.
Cons
- Some owners complain they haven’t received the best customer support when they have had issues.
Product Specs
| RAM | 4GB |
| Storage | 64GB |
| Screen size | 12.5 inches |
| Battery life | Up to 10 hours |
| Ports | 1 USB-C port |
Our Ratings
| Product | Best | RAM | Storage | Screen size | Battery life | Ports |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Google Pixelbook Go M3 | 13-Inch | 8 GB | 64 GB | 13.3″ | 12 hours | USB-C, headphone jack |
| The Samsung Chromebook 3 | Budget Pick | 4 GB | 32 GB | 11.6″ | 11 hours | 2.0 & 3.0 USB, HDMI, headphone jack |
| Acer Chromebook Spin 11 Convertible | Touchscreen | 4 GB | 32 GB | 11.6″ | 10 hours | USB-C, USB-A, headphone jack |
| Lenovo Chromebook C340 2-in-1 | Older Kids | 4 GB | 32 GB/ 64GB | 15.6″ | 10 hours | USB-C, USB-A, headphone jack |
| ASUS Chromebook Flip C434 | Mid-Range | 4 GB | 64 GB | 14″ | 10 hours | USB-C, USB-A, headphone jack |
| Acer Chromebook 15 | 15-Inch | 4 GB | 32 GB | 15.6″ | 13 hours | USB-A, USB-C |
| Dell Inspiron 11 Chromebook | 11-Inch | 4 GB | 16 GB | 11.6″ | 10 hours | USB-A, HDMI, headphone jack |
| Google Pixelbook Go i7 | High-End | 16 GB | 256 GB | 13.3″ | 12 hours | USB-C, headphone jack |
| Lenovo Chromebook Duet | Lightweight | 4 GB | 64 GB | 10.1″ | 10 hours | 1 USB-C port |
| ASUS Chromebook Flip C302 | Flip Chromebook | 4GB | 64GB | 12.5″ | 10 hours | 1 USB-C port |
What Is a Chromebook?
A Chromebook is not just a smaller, cheaper version of a regular laptop. Laptops and Chromebooks differ in several ways.
Operating System
The biggest difference between a laptop and a Chromebook is the operating system. With a MacBook, you’ll be using iOS, regular laptops operate on Windows, and the Chromebook uses Chrome OS.
Chrome OS is like Google’s Chrome web browser with a few tweaks to make it feel like a familiar Windows experience. This operating system needs minimal work to keep it updated.
Apps
On a Chromebook, you can only use web apps — you cannot download an app and use it. This means you can’t download iTunes or other programs you use unless they have a web app option.
However, you don’t need internet access to use a Chromebook. You can download movies and shows to watch offline on Google Play and access your Google Docs.
Storage
Chromebooks make use of on-line storage, so there’s little space on the machine itself. This could be an issue for anyone who downloads and stores files.
Should I Buy My Kid a Chromebook?
If you’re considering a Chromebook, especially if it’s for schoolwork purposes, ask about the machines used at school, and whether your child will have a seamless experience between school machines and their own.
Then you need to consider your child’s age. Do they need a Chromebook or laptop of their own yet? Will they be transporting the machine from home to school or other locations? If so, can you trust your child to be careful with their device?
If you feel they are old enough and responsible enough, these are the main pros and cons to consider.
Advantages of Chromebooks For Kids
- Chromebooks are easier to carry as they are typically smaller and lighter than other laptops.
- They use Google Docs and Google Drive and these back up to the cloud. So, if the Chromebook breaks or your child leaves their Chromebook somewhere, they can still access their files via the web.
- When using Google Docs, it updates automatically. That means you won’t have a panicking child who has worked for hours on a project only to realize they forgot to save it before shutting their computer down.
- Chromebooks don’t have fast processors or large memories, making them more affordable than other options.
- Chromebooks are quick and easy to set up and personalize. You don’t have to be especially tech-savvy to help your kids get the most from theirs.
- A Chromebook is more secure because of a concept called sandboxing. Unlike Windows or iOS operating systems, on a Chromebook, each process works within its own isolated, secure, “sandbox.” If one process becomes infected, which is unlikely, the virus cannot spread to other files, processes, or the operating system (1).
- If your Chromebook is one of the rare examples that become infected, it is much easier to deal with than a Windows laptop or MacBook.
- The parental controls are a little different on Chromebooks, but it is still easy to protect your child from unsuitable content.
Disadvantages of Chromebooks For Kids
- Being smaller and lighter, they are more likely to be damaged if dropped. This makes it a less attractive option than a sturdier laptop for a younger child.
- There is little onboard storage.
- While you can use a Chromebook without an internet connection, you do need a connection to access your full range of apps and files.
How to Choose the Best Chromebook for Kids
If you don’t know much about computers, it can be overwhelming trying to sort out which one would be best for your child. Here are some categories to consider that will help you make a smart choice.
Child’s Age
The older your child, the more likely they are to need more storage on their Chromebook. School textbooks and projects may need to be stored if they cannot be accessed online.
RAM and Storage
The size of a computer’s RAM will dictate how many things it can do at once. Since Chromebooks work primarily online, they do not need a lot of RAM. Most have 4GB, and this is plenty for most users.
Storage is not so straightforward. The size of the storage your child needs depends on the apps they will be using. More specifically, how many Android apps they might use.
Android apps need some local storage on your machine. If your child will use few, if any, Android apps, 16GB will probably be enough, especially if they will be working mostly with Google Docs.
For kids who use a lot of Android apps, you should move up to 32GB.
Chromebooks with 64GB are available but are mostly for those who want to use Linux apps on their Chromebooks in the future.
Screen Size
You’ll see Chromebooks with screens between 10.1 and 15.6 inches. The most popular sizes are 11.6, 13.3, and 15.6 inches. For most kids, the 13.3-inch screen will be a suitable fit for size and usability.
Types of Ports
Check to see if the Chromebook has USB-C ports and USB-A ports. This will allow you to connect the Chromebook to older peripherals.
If you may want to connect to a larger screen or monitor, look for a Chromebook with an HDMI port.
Budget
One of the most attractive things about Chromebooks is the price. You will find Chromebooks that fit into almost every budget.
Weight
Does your child have to carry the Chromebook far for school? A heavier Chromebook may not be a good choice when it has to be carried around all day, so go for a lighter option if possible.
Purpose
Consider what your child will be doing with their Chromebook. Do they need a touchscreen? Will they be watching shows and movies?
Versatility
Some Chromebooks are set up just like a traditional laptop, but others can be flipped so we can use them as a tablet or viewing screen. Is this function important to you?
Battery Life
Look for a battery life that will last the entire school day. And, if you can find a quick charging battery so if your child forgets to plug their Chromebook in overnight, they won’t have to wait forever before they can use it.
Durability
Due to their lightweight design, some Chromebooks are less durable than others. Laptop Mag carried out an extensive range of drop tests on several popular Chromebooks, and we’ve referenced these results when choosing our top ten (2).
FAQs
Still, have some questions you want to be answered? The three questions we hear most about Chromebooks are:
Chromebook Or Laptop? Which Is Better?
For children who will be using a machine for school work and watching movies, videos, and TV shows, a Chromebook is the best option. If you need to store large files or use programs that must be housed on the machine, a laptop may be a better choice.
Why Do Schools Use Chromebooks Instead Of Laptops?
Chromebooks are increasingly popular for schools because of their low price point, combined with the G Suite programs.
What Can A Kid Do On A Chromebook?
Chromebooks are excellent for schoolwork, internet research, web-based apps, and watching shows and movies.
Can I Put Parental Controls On A Chromebook?
Yes, you can put parental controls on a Chromebook. First, you have to set up a Google Family Link account. Then you can implement parental controls through the “Privacy and Security” tab found in settings.
How Do I Child Proof My Chromebook?
Parental controls can prevent your child from accessing content inappropriate for them.
To child-proof the physical Chromebook, you can buy a case or cover and instruct your child on proper use.
Made For Kids
Chromebooks are an excellent choice for the majority of school-age children. They provide a place to work and a place to play with excellent security features built-in.
And, perhaps best of all, they won’t bankrupt parents since they are so affordable.
