Acer Chromebook 315: Renewed
In today’s review, we delve into the Acer Chromebook 315, a budget-friendly option that has been on the market for a couple of years. With a price tag of $99.99 for the renewed version, it promises decent performance for everyday tasks.
We’ll explore its design, features, and overall performance to help you decide if this renewed Chromebook is still worth purchasing in 2024.
Having used the Acer Chromebook 315 extensively over the past year, I find its design predominantly plastic but surprisingly sturdy. The 15.6-inch screen is quite large, making it less portable but providing a good viewing experience.
The Chromebook’s performance is adequate for basic tasks like web browsing and streaming. However, its 720p resolution can be a drawback for those seeking higher video quality. On the bright side, its speakers are impressive, and the battery life ranges between 10 and 12 hours.
Design and Build Quality
The Acer Chromebook 315 features a design that is predominantly plastic, although it gives the illusion of being aluminum. Despite its plastic construction, the build does not feel flimsy and maintains a solid structure. The Chromebook’s bottom is also made of plastic, which contributes to its lightweight feel. The device includes a variety of ports, such as USB-C, USB Type-A, an SD card expansion slot, and a headphone jack, providing ample connectivity options for users.
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Display and Screen Resolution
The Acer Chromebook 315 boasts a 15.6-inch display, which comes in two main resolutions: 720p and 1080p. The 1080p resolution offers better display quality and more screen real estate, making it ideal for watching videos on platforms like Netflix, Amazon, and YouTube. The 720p version, however, may appear more zoomed in and offer less clarity, which could be a drawback for users who prefer higher-definition content. Nonetheless, both versions provide good brightness levels.
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Touchscreen Functionality
Some models of the Acer Chromebook 315 come with touchscreen functionality, adding versatility to how the device can be used. While the touchscreen feature allows the Chromebook to function similarly to a tablet, it is not a 2-in-1 device, meaning the screen cannot be flipped all the way around. Users can interact with the touchscreen in laptop mode, but many may find themselves relying more on the traditional keyboard and trackpad setup for daily tasks.
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Performance and Processor Variations
The Acer Chromebook 315 is equipped with various Intel Celeron processors, such as the N4000, N4020, and N4500. Each processor offers incremental improvements in performance, with the higher-numbered CPUs providing slight boosts in speed and efficiency. For general day-to-day tasks, users are unlikely to notice significant differences between these processors. However, those engaging in more demanding activities, like gaming, may experience marginal performance gains with the newer CPUs.
Memory and Storage Options
The Chromebook comes with either 4GB or 8GB of RAM, depending on the model. The higher RAM capacity can offer smoother multitasking and better performance for more intensive applications. Storage options include 32GB and 64GB of flash memory, which may be limited but can be supplemented with cloud storage solutions. It’s crucial for buyers to check the specific model’s description to ensure it meets their memory and storage needs.
Audio Quality and Speakers
The Acer Chromebook 315 features speakers on both sides, delivering clear and loud audio. The speakers are particularly noted for their good volume levels and presence of some bass, making them suitable for video calls, media consumption, and casual listening. Users can expect a satisfactory audio experience, although those looking for high-fidelity sound may still prefer external speakers or headphones.
Battery Life and Charging
One of the standout features of the Acer Chromebook 315 is its impressive battery life, which ranges from 10 to 12 hours, depending on usage. Users engaging in lighter tasks such as browsing and emailing can expect the upper end of this range, while continuous video playback may result in slightly lower battery life. The Chromebook charges via USB-C and can reach full charge in about two hours, adding to its convenience for users on the go.
Keyboard and Trackpad
The Chromebook’s keyboard is full-sized and includes a number pad, making it suitable for extensive typing sessions. The keys are well-spaced and offer a comfortable typing experience. The trackpad is responsive and complements the keyboard well, allowing for efficient navigation and multitasking. Overall, the input devices are well-designed and cater to users who need a reliable and ergonomic solution for daily use.
Webcam and Microphone
The Acer Chromebook 315 is equipped with a front-facing webcam and a built-in microphone, making it suitable for video conferencing and online communication. While the quality of the webcam and microphone is adequate for general use, users seeking higher-quality video and audio may need to consider external peripherals. Despite this, the built-in components perform well enough for standard video calls and virtual meetings.
Build Quality and Durability
Despite being a refurbished product, the Acer Chromebook 315 often arrives in excellent condition, showing limited or no wear. The device comes with all original accessories and includes a 90-day warranty, providing peace of mind for buyers. Many users report that the refurbished units feel almost brand new, with minimal scratches or dents, making it a cost-effective option for those looking for a reliable Chromebook without the premium price tag.
Pros:
- Affordable price point
- Large 15.6-inch display
- Good battery life
Cons:
- Plastic build
- 720p resolution is grainy
- Not very portable due to size
Conclusion
Overall, the Acer Chromebook 315 offers good value for its price, especially for those who need a budget-friendly device for everyday use. Its design and performance are satisfactory, though the display could be better.
For $99.99, it’s a solid choice, particularly if you are willing to compromise on screen resolution. This renewed model can serve well for basic tasks and casual use.
Questions & Answers:
Question: Does the Chromebook come with a charger?
Answer: Yes, the Chromebook comes with a USB-C charger included in the box.
Question: Is this model touchscreen?
Answer: Some models of the Acer Chromebook 315 are touchscreen, but not all. Be sure to check the product description.
Question: How long does the battery last?
Answer: The battery life is approximately 10 to 12 hours, depending on usage.
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