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9 Best Chromebooks in Malaysia 2024 - Budget Laptops

For those who do not want to spend the price of a laptop

To most people who are on a budget, a Chromebook is usually considered a cheaper alternative compared to a typical laptop. It runs on ChromeOS and usually isn’t packed with powerful hardware specs. Thus, it naturally does not have advanced gaming capabilities nor video editing, or Photoshop. 

While we do agree that a Chromebook is the simplified version of a traditional laptop, today there are quite a number of high-end Chromebooks in the market that can rival the normal ones in terms of performance, design, and power efficiency. They also carry some unique features which can’t normally be found on a typical laptop such as a slim and lightweight design, a simple operating system, fast boot-up speed, and a long-lasting battery. 

If you are eyeing one, you should take a look at our guide for the best Chromebooks that promise great value for money.  


9 Best Chromebooks in Malaysia

Best Chromebook overall – also best buy
HP
HP EliteBook X360 1030 G2
Check HP EliteBook X360 1030 G2 price below:
add_circle Compact and lightweight
add_circle Fast processing
add_circle Marathon battery life
add_circle Includes an array of ports
remove_circle Only has microSD card reader

Why is it our top pick

“For such a price, the EliteBook x360 1030 offers nearly everything you need for a Chromebook– a vibrant screen, an excellent keyboard, and impressive battery longevity, all packaged within a sturdy and premium design. The fact that it’s also a 360° 2-in-1, it’s easy to understand why many users are satisfied with the product,”

Overview

Designed for on-the-go professionals, the HP EliteBook x360 1030, with its 360° versatility, caters to your diverse needs. It's equipped with a powerful Intel Core i7-7600U Dual-Core processor that enables seamless multitasking and is backed by the 8GB RAM to quickly access frequently used files and programs.

But if you feel like ditching multitasking and wanting to focus on resource-intensive tasks, the processor can reach a maximum clock speed of 3.9 GHz using Intel Turbo Boost 2.0 technology, making sure they are also handled with ease and efficiency. 

HP EliteBook X360 1030 G2 Specifications:

  • CPU: Intel Core i7-7500u
  • GPU: Intel HD 620 Graphics
  • RAM: 8GB
  • Storage: 128GB SSD
  • Display: 13.3-inch, 1920 x 1080 pixels (HD), LED-Backlit
  • Weight: 1.28kg
  • Ports: x1 USB Type-C with Thunderbolt, x2 USB 3.1 Gen 1, x1 HDMI, x1 MicroSD card slot, x1 combined stereo jack
  • Dimensions: 218mm x 316mm x 14.90mm

Who is this for?

If you don’t want to splurge too much on a Chromebook while still preferring it to be as good as any standard model out there, the HP EliteBook X360 1030 G2 is a solid option to consider, even more so if your job involves intense computing tasks. 

Best Chromebook for writing
Dell
Dell Inspiron 15 3515
Check Dell Inspiron 15 3515 price below:
add_circle Large 15-inch display
add_circle Slim and straightforward design
add_circle Plenty of ports
add_circle 120Hz display refresh rate
add_circle Low noise level
remove_circle Weak battery life
remove_circle Non-backlit keyboard

Overview

Writing can often feel like a daunting task, especially when your typing machine isn’t conducive. Thankfully, the Dell Inspiron 15 3515 changes the game. Its large 15-inch anti-glare display provides a bigger view for you to work on so you won’t have any eye discomfort after working for hours. Boasting various device connections and data transfer, you can easily access your resources anytime, anywhere. 

Also, having as much juice as you do, the AMD Athlon Silver 3050U processor is good for everyday computing tasks. So as long as you don’t go ham with heavy gaming sessions, you can expect seamless performance to match your needs.

Dell Inspiron 15 3515 Specifications

  • CPU: AMD Athlon™ Silver 3050U
  • GPU: Integrated graphics with AMD APU
  • RAM: 4GB RAM
  • Storage: 256GB SSD
  • Display: 15.6-inch, 1366 x 768 pixels (HD), anti-glare, LED-Backlit
  • Weight: 1.6kg
  • Ports: x2 USB 3.2 Gen 1 ports, x1 USB 2.0 port, x1 Headset jack, x1 HDMI 1.4 port, x1 SD card slot
  • Dimensions: 17.5 mm x 235.56 mm x 358.5 mm

Who is this for?

The 4GB version should work just fine for light multitasking but if you find that your computing needs expand or you plan to use more resource-intensive applications, it's worth noting that this system also offers the option to upgrade to up to 12GB. Just remember to plug it in at some point while using those applications as its battery only lasts long enough for a typical eight-hour workday. 

Best budget Chromebook for kids
Acer
Acer Chromebook C740
Check Acer Chromebook C740 price below:
add_circle Great durability
add_circle Comfortable keyboard
add_circle Slim enough to fit a backpack
remove_circle Low-end processor

Overview

Planning to buy an inexpensive Chromebook to keep your kids busy? Make way for Acer C740, a sleek Chromebook with sturdy metallic hinges that is designed to survive your child's clumsiness. Similar to its 720 counterpart, it also has awesome performance and a battery life that will get you through whatever work you have to do should you ever think of borrowing it from your kid once in a while.

Furthermore, parents can also rest easy knowing that, via an easy-to-manage interface and display that is not too heavy on the eyes, they can enjoy some well-deserved relaxation while their children immerse themselves in simple cartoons. 

Acer Chromebook C740 Specifications

  • CPU: Intel Celeron 3205U
  • GPU: Intel HD Graphics
  • RAM: 4GB
  • Storage: 16GB SSD
  • Display: 11.6-inch, 1366 x 768 pixels (HD), LED-Backlit
  • Weight: 1.3kg
  • Ports: x1 HDMI, x1 USB 2.0, x1 USB 3.0, x1 SD card reader
  • Dimensions: 20.40 cm (W) x 28.80 cm (D) x 2.00 cm (H) 

Who is this for?

Any gear you entrust a kid with must be capable of handling a few knocks and jolts, and in this regard, the Acer Chromebook C740 emerges as an ideal choice. Adding to that, the keyboard is also a comfort haven for children as it’s well-spaced and adequately responsive, which is good at providing an optimal computing experience for young learners and reducing potential frustration during learning and play. 

Best Chromebook for gaming
Asus
Asus Vivobook 15
Check Asus Vivobook 15 price below:
add_circle Can handle most casual games
add_circle Optional fingerprint touchpad
add_circle Good thermal management
add_circle Wide and bright display panel
remove_circle Slightly heavier for ultraportables

Overview

Although the ASUS VivoBook 15 isn't categorised as a Chromebook, its price and size give it a Chromebook-like appearance. It's robust enough to handle casual gaming and capable of running less demanding titles like Pubg or Roblox at low to medium settings, maintaining a frame rate of 30 FPS or higher. 

If you find yourself wanting to unwind from work with some gaming, find comfort in knowing that the laptop has an anti-glare wide display that is TÜV Rheinland-certified for eye care, and effectively manages heat, maintaining an average surface temperature even during demanding tasks.

ASUS Vivobook 15 Specifications

  • CPU: Intel Core™ i3-1220P
  • GPU: Intel UHD Graphics
  • RAM: 4GB
  • Storage: 512GB
  • Display: 15.6-inch, 1920 x 1080 (HD), touchscreen, anti-glare, TÜV Rheinland-certified
  • Weight: 1.7kg
  • Ports: 1x HDMI 1.4, 1x 3.5mm Combo Audio Jack, 1x USB 2.0 Type-A, 1x USB 3.2 Gen 1 Type-C, 2x USB 3.2 Gen 1 Type-A
  • Dimensions: 35.97 cm x 23.25 cm x 1.99 cm

Who is this for?

While the ASUS VivoBook 15 may not be the top pick for resource-intensive gaming, it remains a flexible laptop, striking a decent balance between work and leisure, making it suitable for users seeking a dual-purpose device. But if you’re leaning more on the gaming side, opt for the 12GB RAM model. 

Best 2-in-1 (touchscreen) Chromebook
Asus
ASUS Chromebook Flip C214 (C214M-ABU0462)
Check Asus Chromebook Flip C214 (C214M-ABU0462) price below:
add_circle Versatile and lightweight
add_circle Spill-resistant keyboard
add_circle 360° touchscreen
add_circle Extensive connectivity
remove_circle No built-in stylus

Overview

Accidents happen, and the ASUS Chromebook Flip C214 is always prepared with its ultimate rugged design. All four of its exterior edges are well protected by a tough rubber bumper to reduce the impact of physical shocks from knocks and drops. 

And just like any other 2-in-1 laptop, the ASUS Chromebook Flip C214 features a touchscreen display so you can tap, swipe, and pinch-to-zoom just like you would on a smartphone or tablet. Only that it also comes with a versatile 360° any-position hinge allowing total flexibility– from scrolling social media, watching your favourite shows in tent mode to typing reports in laptop mode.

Asus Chromebook Flip C214 Specifications

  • CPU: Intel Celeron N4120
  • GPU: Intel UHD Graphics 600
  • RAM: 4GB
  • Storage: 32GB eMMC
  • Display: 11.6-inch, 1366x768 pixels (HD), touchscreen, anti-glare, LED Backlit
  • Weight: 1.20kg
  • Ports: 1x USB 3.2 Gen 1 Type-A, 2x USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-C, 1x Micro SD card slot, 1x 3.5mm combo audio jack
  • Dimensions: 292.0 (W) x 199.0 (D) x 19.5 (H) mm 

Who is this for?

The ASUS Chromebook Flip C214 is highly versatile with its 360° hinge, which makes it a pretty good deal for those who value comfort. With its smooth multitasking and fast loading time, switching tasks and taking a few breaks for Youtube streaming and casual games should not be much of a hassle for this chromebook to handle.  

Best Chromebook for students
Dell
Dell Latitude 3180 Education
Check Dell Latitude 3180 Education price below:
add_circle Long battery life
add_circle Doesn't get overly hot
add_circle Fast-running system
remove_circle Less contemporary design
remove_circle Less vibrant colours

Overview

Everyone learns continuously but some may do it more intensively than others. Those types of learners are sure to benefit from the Dell Latitude 3180 Education which packs everything they need– from a comfortable keyboard, a cheaper price tag, and down to a robust plastic casing that makes it as tough as they are. 

If we’re talking about performance, you can rely on the Intel Celeron N3350 to deliver enough computing power for office and Internet applications. 

Dell Latitude 3180 Education Specifications

  • CPU: Intel Celeron N3350
  • GPU: Intel HD Graphics 500
  • RAM: 4GB RAM
  • Storage: 64GB eMMC
  • Display: 11.6-inch, 1366x768 pixels (HD), LED-backlight
  • Weight: 1.26 kg
  • Ports: x1 HDMI, x1 USB 3.1 Gen 1 with PowerShare, 1x USB 3.1 Gen 1 port, x1 microSD card
  • Dimensions: 30.33 cm (W) x 20.6 cm (D) x 2.075 cm (H)

Who is this for?

While it may not be the most potent Chromebook on the market, reliability often matters more to students than sheer power. This is especially true when their primary tasks involve homework, note-taking, and the occasional Netflix session. 

Its long battery life and smooth performance make it an enduring typewriter and browsing tool for students and teachers alike. As long as you’re fine with its dowdy design, this Chromebook should be a choice you cannot bat your eyes at. 

Best Chromebook for photographers
HP
HP ProBook 640 G4
Check HP ProBook 640 G4 price below:
add_circle Include security features
add_circle Decent CPU performance
add_circle Comfortable keyboard
add_circle Extensive connectivity
remove_circle Heavier compared to others
remove_circle Only has a microSD card reader

Overview

The HP ProBook 640 G4 is a laptop from HP's business-class lineup, but if you're looking for a Chromebook to assist you with your basic editing job, this might be it. Featuring a 14-inch LED-backlit display with a resolution of 1920 x 1080 pixels, it delivers sharp and vibrant visuals. Its screen has a matte finish that reduces glare and reflections, making it easier to use in brightly lit environments.

To ensure your work remains secure and uninterrupted, the laptop is equipped with HP Sure Start Gen4, which is designed to protect the BIOS from malware attacks.

HP ProBook 640 G4 Specifications

  • CPU: Intel Core i5-8250U
  • GPU: Intel HD Graphics 620
  • RAM: 8GB
  • Storage: 256GB
  • Display: 14.1-inch, 1920 x 1080 pixels (HD)
  • Weight: 1.73kg
  • Ports: x1 audio combo, x1 USB 3.1 Gen1 Type-C, 2x USB 3.0 Type-A, x HDMI, x1 RJ45-Ethernet, x1 MicroSD slot, 1x VGA
  • Dimensions: 340 cm x 240 cm x 20.9 cm

Who is this for?

Overall, the HP ProBook 640 G4 is a reliable choice that is ideal for professionals who need fast and efficient performance, as well as added security features. It has extensive connectivity for you to access your external resources but given the size, the space between ports might be a hassle for some.

Best Chromebook for movies
Lenovo
Lenovo Thinkpad T480s
Check Lenovo Thinkpad T480s price below:
add_circle Includes Thunderbolt 3
add_circle Runs on Windows Pro 11
add_circle Back-lit and spill-resistant keyboard
add_circle HD webcam with ThinkShutter privacy cover

Overview

The ThinkPad T480s stands as a modern and slim laptop with numerous appealing features. It boasts USB-C Thunderbolt 3, a distinctive ThinkPad keyboard, and a high-performing Intel Core i5 (8th generation) CPU. For entertainment use specifically, it runs on Integrated Intel UHD Graphics 620 for vibrant visuals and is equipped with Dolby Audio and stereo speakers for immersive sound quality. 

But even if your primary focus isn't on entertainment, you can still excel in productivity and versatility thanks to its decent battery health, Windows 11 Pro operating system and bundled software, including Office 2019. 

Lenovo Thinkpad T480s Specifications

  • CPU: Intel Core i7-8650U (8th generation)
  • GPU: Intel UHD Graphics 620
  • RAM: 8GB
  • Storage: 256GB SSD
  • Display: 14-inch, 1920 x 1080 pixels (HD), touchscreen
  • Weight: 1.4kg
  • Ports: x1 USB-C Thunderbolt 3, 2 x USB 3.0 USB-C, x1 4-in-1 Micro SD card reader (SD, MMC, SDHC, SDXC), x1 combo jack, x1 HDMI, x1 RJ45-Ethernet
  • Dimensions: 331 mm x 226.8 mm x 18.45 mm

Who is this for?

With a focus on both productivity and entertainment in mind, it’s not far-fetched to say that the Lenovo Thinkpad T480s is designed for almost everyday use. It even excels as a travel companion, offering not only a slightly above-average size but also the reassurance of a robust carbon-fibre chassis and a spill-resistant keyboard.

Best Chromebook under RM500
Acer Chromebook R11
Check Acer Chromebook R11 price below:
add_circle Convertible
add_circle Attractive design
add_circle Good battery health

Overview

Ending the list is Acer Chromebook R11. Look, while it might not be the best, it got some of the important aspects of a functional Chromebook that are not a killjoy to your accounting nailed down. It operates on Integrated HD Graphics with resolution of 1366 x 768 pixels and has touchscreen enabled display. For seamless connection, there are two USB 2.0 and USB 3.0 ports, a HDMI port as well as a SD card slot. 

It is also said that you can run less graphics-intensive games and apps such as Pubg, Roblox, Microsoft Office, Zoom and Netflix. If your neck hurts after switching between apps too much, you can surely benefit from its convertible design. 

Acer Chromebook R11 Specifications

  • CPU: Intel Celeron
  • GPU: Integrated HD Graphics
  • RAM: 4GB
  • Storage: 16GB 
  • Display: 11.6-inch, 1366 x 768 pixels (HD), touchscreen, LED-backlit
  • Weight: 1.25kg
  • Ports: x1 HDMI, x1 USB 3.0, x2 USB 2.0, x1 SD card
  • Dimensions: 298 mm x 211 mm x 20.90 mm

Who is this for?

If your computing needs revolve around productivity, online meetings, content consumption, and casual gaming, the Acer Chromebook R11 can be a cost-effective solution. 


FAQ

- How to reset a Chromebook

Resetting a Chromebook is a common choice for various reasons. However, it's important to note that there are two primary methods for performing a reset, each with its own purpose and implications, and the choice between them varies depending on your specific needs and circumstances (so be careful). 

  • Powerwash

The first one is a Powerwash, which is a less drastic reset that removes user accounts and settings while retaining the Chrome OS operating system. This option is suitable for troubleshooting minor issues or preparing your Chromebook for someone else's use. 

To perform this, first of all, you need to open the Chrome browser. Click the menu button, represented by three vertically aligned dots and located in the upper right-hand corner of your browser window. Then, when the drop-down menu appears, select Settings. Now that the Settings interface is displayed, scroll to the bottom and click Advanced. Under Advanced Settings, scroll down again until you find the Reset settings section and select the Powerwash option.

After selecting the Powerwash option, a dialogue box labelled Restart your device should be displayed, overlaying the Settings interface and you may click on Restart. Your Chromebook will now be restarted and the Powerwash process will complete. All that you have left to do is to sign in with your Google Account credentials and follow the on-screen prompts to set up your newly restored Chromebook.

  • Factory reset

Factory reset, on the other hand, is a more comprehensive reset that erases everything, including the operating system. It's a useful option when you want to completely wipe your Chromebook or if it's experiencing severe issues. 

To factory reset your Chromebook, start by signing out of your Chromebook if you're currently signed in. After that, press and hold the Ctrl + Alt + Shift + r keys simultaneously. This action will prompt your Chromebook to restart.

 When it restarts, you'll see a dialogue box with options; select "Powerwash" and then click "Continue." Follow the on-screen instructions that appear, and make sure to sign in with your Google Account. Just a reminder, do note that the account you sign in with after the reset will become the owner account for the Chromebook so don’t forget to choose your Google Account wisely. 

- Chromebook vs. Laptop

Although they come in the same clamshell designs, there are a great many differences between a Chromebook and a normal laptop, while some are even exclusive to the Chromebook. Here are a few significant differences you should know before you decide on placing an order for a laptop or a Chromebook. 

  • Operating System

Unarguably, the most significant and exclusive feature of a Chromebook is its operating system – ChromeOS. You can enjoy a simpler and more stable operating system while having higher protection over viruses and malware. Google updates the OS automatically so you won’t have to worry about missing any important system updates. And if you happen to open a virus-containing website, the chances to get infected are little thanks to the safe-browsing, encryption and verified boot of Chrome. 

Running on ChromeOS, you can also enjoy your favourite Android apps on your Chromebook by making use of both Chrome and Android apps to increase your productivity. Since you can’t install Microsoft programs in your Chromebook, Google is ready to provide all the necessary tools like Spreadsheets, Slides, Drives, and Documents in the Chrome browser. 

  • Portability

Chromebooks usually come with compact and lightweight designs as their lack of taxing operations allow simpler hardware configurations, hence a thinner chassis design to house them. You can easily get a Chromebook that is less than 2.0 mm and around 1.5 kg, allowing you to carry it around wherever you go. Some even come with rubberized edges and enhanced build material, giving you extra confidence to slip them into your backpack or by hand carry. Not to mention a Chromebook often comes with amazing battery life. You can easily work on your device for hours on a single charge.

  • Price

While this isn’t applicable for all the Chromebooks out there, some cost significantly less than your average laptop. This is largely due to the fact that Chromebooks have simpler hardware specifications and can perform decently with ChromeOS which is less hardware dependent. Moreover, you probably won’t find any need for post-purchase upgrades on a Chromebook as it already comes with 100GB of free Cloud storage upon purchase.

Now that you are aware of some of the differences between a laptop and a Chromebook, we are confident that you can choose wisely based on your usage. Whether you decide on a laptop or Chromebook, we hope that you can make use of and take advantage of each type’s unique features.


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