Lenovo has introduced a new budget Chromebook to the market, the Chromebook Flex 3i.
Chromebook Flex 3i Specs
| Display: | 11.6″ IPS touchscreen (1366×768) |
|---|---|
| CPU: | Intel Celeron N4020 (dual-core @ 1.10Ghz) |
| RAM: | 4GB |
| Storage: | 32GB or 64GB eMMC |
| Ports: |
2 USB Type-C 2 USB 3.1 microSD slot 3.5mm audio |
| Battery: | 45Wh |
| Price: | From $329 |
The Chromebook Flex is priced from a fairly reasonable $329 and as the model name will have spoiled already this is a convertible Chromebook.
Yes, the Flex can flip and fold back into tent, tablet and all those essential angles in-between thanks to the use of a 360-degree hinge.
Thoughtfully positioned power and volume buttons remain accessible in all modes, at all times. This is a nice touch (and something a few Chrome OS “convertibles” do lack, weirdly).
Alas, we reach the compromises. To meet its budget price tag the specs of the Chromebook Flex 3i are not, on paper, particularly persuasive.
The device is powered by a low-end dual-core Intel Celeron chip and just 4GB RAM — the absolute bear minimum anyone expects in 2020.
What’s particularly nice is that despite being a low-end model there is a touchscreen and a convertible hinge. This will come especially handy for ebook reading or using Android apps (as many students will be keen to do).
Lenovo say the Flex comes preloaded with Google Assistant (though there’s no dedicated Assistant button) and Android Studio (because hey, why not).
Weighing in a 2.64lbs (or 1.2kg, if you prefer) the device is, on paper, light enough for throwing in a bag to carry around. Although Lenovo list one colour option (“Almond”, pictured above) on their web site the body text references an “Abyss Blue” model.
Interested? You can buy the Chromebook Flex 3i in the USA via the official Lenovo product page below. Availability in other countries will vary.
Savvy shoppers willing to wait will likely be able to snag an older, but more powerful Chromebook with sales season approaching.
h/t Lukas