View at Amazon in your region: amzn.to/3ORlyhA (my affiliate link) ✨Find/follow/support the channel: linktr.ee/mergedroid ✨ Chromebook Plus Playlist: th-cam.com/play/PLNSLoCmFMc8qm1a5XOh5p3JMh4S2qPm6U.html
Fantastic video, I got the c515 plus based on your helpful video and I can't thank you enough. You really made my decision much easier, I will get my friends to subscribe to you as well. Keep up the great work😊
Thanks so much for your comment, I hope you'll subscribe and enjoy more of the Chromebook content on the channel 👍 Chromebook Plus Playlist might be a good place to start: th-cam.com/play/PLNSLoCmFMc8qm1a5XOh5p3JMh4S2qPm6U.html
I bought this laptop and find the trackpad quite loose. At least on the unit I received. You don't seem to mention anything about a loose trackpad on your review, so I am wondering if it is a manufacturing defect with my unit? Like even just lightly tapping the trackpad makes quite an audible clacking sound. **UPDATE: I received a replacement unit and the touchpad on my replacement unit is perfect! Doesn't feel loose or make any rattling sound when tapping it at all. All in all, I am very happy with my purchase of this Chromebook
Hi, it certainly shouldn't be loose by design. A number of Chromebooks I've had on the channel (both brand new and some refurbs) have suffered with this. It's not just Chromebooks of course, other laptops can also suffer from this. It seems like one of the few manufacturing issues that can still 'slip through' any QA. I guess it's one of the main moving parts of a device (ignoring each individual key on the keyboard!). Some I've opened up and adjusted (you'll see this in some videos), others I've sent back. I'd certainly recommend you do the latter if it's possible and get a replacement. An annoyance to go through I can appreciate, but keeping it and using it like that would be even more so. Are you able to get a refund or replacement?
@@MergeDroid Thanks so much for the quick and detailed response! I bought the Chromebook 2 weeks ago, so still within the period I can exchange or return due to manufacturing fault. I have been internally debating whether to exchange or if the trackpad is like that by design. But the more I use it, I can't imagine they would design a trackpad so loose on purpose 😅 Even a light tap makes an audible sound and it is annoying me more and more. I think I am going to contact the store I bought from and request an exchange while I still can. Thanks so much for your feedback! I have just subscribed to your channel :)
@@marceltex You're welcome and I'm glad you can get it sorted! Please do post back with an update. Also, welcome along to the channel! I hope more of the content will be of use! You might like to check this video out, an Acer that I received with a loose touchpad as shown in the video - th-cam.com/video/VtcLeh5tqXg/w-d-xo.html More frustrating that it was a refurb, I would have thought a human would have been involved in testing it before it went out, oh well 🤔 If you have some patience I also have an older much more basic video but showing a Lenovo with the problem and a repair in more detail - th-cam.com/video/bW5Fsd-CXRQ/w-d-xo.html
@@MergeDroid So in case you were interested in an update. Not a very positive update, but an update nonetheless 🥲 I am based in the UK. I bought this Acer Chromebook Plus 515 from the John Lewis online store. Reached out to John Lewis online support chat to describe the loose touchpad issue and requested a replacement, since I am reporting the issue within 14 days of delivery. They told me there is no way for them to verify this fault online so the best is for me to take the laptop in store for a technical support agent to have a look. Already a bit strange, since I bought this laptop online and not in store. Feels strange I need to go in store for after sales support. Made a trip to a nearby John Lewis store this afternoon. Explained my issue, but the "technical" support agent I spoke to was not very technical, neither were they very interested in assisting me 😔When I described the problem, the support agent stopped me mid-sentence saying I can easily adjust the trackpad's firmness in the settings of the laptop. I told them I am pretty sure this Chromebook does not have a setting to adjust trackpad firmness. They looked at me as if I am the ignorant one. When I asked them to demonstrate how to adjust the firmness in the Chromebook's Settings menu, they could not find the option and instead start adjusting the speed of the mouse pointer telling me that is the setting I want 🙃 Secondly, they did not seem very interested in processing a replacement for me. They told me they could not hear or feel that the trackpad on my unit is loose in any way. The problem is, in a John Lewis store with background music and people talking, it is quite difficult to hear the clicking of the loose trackpad. I tried to explain this to them, but they told me since the trackpad is still able to perform click actions and move the mouse pointer around the screen, it is functioning correctly and there is no defect with my unit. They said the trackpad looseness I am complaining about is "disputable" and not a clear fault upon their inspection. The resolution they gave me (to get me to leave the store more than anything) is they provided me with a phone number to contact Acer UK support and told me Acer could repair my laptop, if needed. I find their resolution wrong, since I bought the laptop from John Lewis and it was clearly defective on opening and I am reporting the issue within 14 days. I shouldn't need to reach out to Acer directly and I don't want Acer to repair my laptop. I feel I should be eligible for a replacement device. **Sorry about venting my frustrations on this post. I guess I will contact Acer support tomorrow and see if they are anymore help
Sorry I didn't get notified about your reply before. So sorry, that's crazy, including the suggestion of it having a setting to adjust, comical. Are you going to retry anything with JL online on the 14 day point? Did they have one on display in the store you could demo the difference to them on? If you do go the down the Acer support route, I can tell you I experienced this recently and it went well - th-cam.com/video/bYhlXSXIPKg/w-d-xo.html In the mean time, any updates or venting needed, the channel is here for it 👍
Hi, thanks very much, always great to hear from an owner! For the multiple monitors, at my desk I use something like this - th-cam.com/video/jRQX34UsBpA/w-d-xo.html or while I'm out one one these - th-cam.com/video/PMQnSA7eHXw/w-d-xo.html
@@alexandrenarolles7994 You're welcome, hope it helps with your setup. I hope you might find some more of the Chromebook and ChromeOS content on the channel useful too, please do consider a sub if so 👍
Hi, I'm looking to buy a 15.6 inch chromebook primarily for watching Netflix etc. I'm looking at the Acer Chromebook Plus 515 or the HP Chromebook Plus 15a. Which do you think has the better screen? Thanks for any advice.
Hi, you can see my video on the HP Chromebook Plus 15a here - th-cam.com/video/DsbDyNz4JDo/w-d-xo.html From memory the displays themselves are quite similar in overall quality. However.... - The HP's display was slightly brighter to my eye. - The HP's screen can't go back 180 degrees like the Acer's can. Practicalities like that can make a difference, especially if you're mainly using it for watching movies and videos and may need to adjust it. - The Acer has its speakers on the keyboard deck firing sound up, rather then on the bottom of the Chromebook like the HP. If you want to check out any other large Chromebooks (15.6inch and above) I have a playlist on the channel - th-cam.com/play/PLNSLoCmFMc8o9-Dt-k8fNy5zUZ18QSrl5.html
@@MergeDroid Many thanks for the quick reply. In your HP Chromebook Plus review you briefly mention a 15b model, and I notice Amazon has a 15b. Do you happen to know what the difference between the 15a and 15b is? I'm trying to get as much model information as possible because earlier in the week I bought the cheapest Acer 315 on Amazon (£169.99) which was listed as full HD but only turned out to be 1366x768. I've returned it now. Trying to avoid any further mishaps.
@@roberthf1092 Sorry to hear about that Acer. With any Chromebook model, inc. the 14B, you really need the long full model name to get the full spec, as a lot can vary in the range. Do you have that for the 14B? If you're looking to get good spec without spending too much, did you see my video on the older Acer Chromebook 515 ? Review is here if not - th-cam.com/video/W3z8jFsra_I/w-d-xo.html and the unboxing - th-cam.com/video/cyFOECr21hA/w-d-xo.html If you don't want to spend too much and would consider a refurb that will have some signs of use, Tab Retail still have a 'Very Good - Refurbished' for £149.99 on ebay UK, search item 196742509560. See the photos and condition description.
@@MergeDroid I'm resigned to spending a bit more now. I'd also like new, just for the piece of mind, and a 15 inch'. The model number I saw on Amazon UK was: 15b-nb0002sa. I tried to add a link, but it was too long, but it can be found just by searching that model number. It's got an i3-N305, 8gb ram, and 128gb of storage.
@@roberthf1092 You don't necessarily need to spend too much to get a decent option. Looking for your 15b, those Amazon pages can sometimes be challenging to navigate when they have multiple listings on one page. When you actually select the option you're looking at which falls under the main title 15b, but look at the 'Model name' does it say '8Z238EA' ? If so, if you Google that it comes back as a 15a on HP's own website.
Hi, it's going to come down to the exact model spec you select of both - they have the ability to match each other and be near identical in the most common model specs available, but there are a few factors to watch out for with the key components that will influence the performance... * PROCESSOR - The main variations of both offer 12th Gen Core i3, 15 or i7 processors, but the Acer also has 13th gen processor options, like the one I have in this video. * STORAGE - The storage will be the other main factor, again with most options for both using Universal Flash Storage (UFS), APART from an option I show in my video on the ASUS in the US for a 512GB NvME config option that should be quicker than the UFS. * RAM - As for RAM, the CX34 has a 16GB RAM option in the US. I haven't seen this available for the Acer, but I wouldn't rule it out from existing. Does this help? If anyone else is reading and looking for it my review of the ASUS CX34 is here: th-cam.com/video/O6w07enZFw4/w-d-xo.html
great video and channel! thanks so much for your work! which model would you recommend between this one (priced 400 euros with 256 gb SSD and LPPDR5X) and the Acer Vero 514 (only 128 gb SSD and LPPDR4X but with backlit keyboard) priced 350 euros)? Thank you for your advice and hi from a new subscriber from Paris, France! Cheers
Hi, thanks for the kind words, really appreciate it, merci! A nice choice to have. Which processors are you comparing in both of those models? I think the biggest part of the decision for you should likely come down to the size, if you value the extra display in the 515 vs the better portability of the Vero 514? Just to check, you've seen my video on the Vero?
@@MergeDroid Thanks for the reply! Both come with the Intel Core i3-1215U processor. Yes I have seen your other video on the Vero as well but still can't decide haha! I guess I'm overthinking it but apparently the screen of the Vero is brighter than the 515 and it is more portable but the 515 has more SSD and better RAM LPPDR5X vs LPPDR4X on the Vero and upward firing speakers. Anyway I don't want to bother you I just wanted to know if you had a personal preference 🙂 Keep up the good work your reviews are really great!
@volodia1210 no bother at all, this is what I'm here for 😎 Did you see that slight issue / annoyance with the Vero's back-lit keyboard? If you don't expect to store loads (e.g. not really needing the extra storage of the 515), for me personally I really liked the unique design of the Vero, prefer the 'all round' more balanced portability/size of the Vero and having the back lit keyboard (even with the slight odd behaviour, but understanding how to manage it).
@volodia1210 brilliant, glad to help. Please do drop a comment on that video when you have it so you can post your thoughts. I'm sure you'll be pleaded, but for anyone else reading this both are great Chromebooks, as usual depends on your preferences.
Hello MergeDroid, Would you be able to give me some advice on which laptop to get out of this- (Acer CB515-2H 15.6in i3 8GB 256GB Chromebook Plus) or (Lenovo Chrome Slim 3 14in i3 8GB 256GB Chromebook) Thanks
Hi, thanks for checking this video too. If you or anyone reading is interested in the Lenovo IdeaPad Chromebook Plus 3i it's worth checking my video here too - th-cam.com/video/DN8IGSkhMV4/w-d-xo.html If you are looking at the 256GB model I *think* you are likely to see the back-lit keyboard option on that one, but here's how to check the exact spec of any Lenovo you're considering buying - th-cam.com/video/dHgKl4eMwIA/w-d-xo.html They are both nice options, but a lot comes down to how you will use it and your personal preference on things. I think for your decision first decide, do you want a larger 15.6 inch Chromebook Plus model or a 14 inch Chromebook Plus? Let me know, as what to compare against each other becomes more obvious from that. Also keep in mind the Lenovo IdeaPad Chromebook Plus 3i (and many others) have recently had their update life to ChromeOS extended - th-cam.com/users/shortsuo0HSMKlBgs If you're set on a Chromebook Plus in general, you can checkout my playlist here - th-cam.com/play/PLNSLoCmFMc8qHWiHLk5bPV0Nn6tWkfEJ-.html
@@MergeDroid Hi, thankyou for the reply. Basically from what I understand, the Lenovo I asked about has better picture, display, battery, portability, audio, whilst the Acer has better CPU capabilities. It seems to come down to, the general user experience or what I could do on it in regards to gaming, storage etc. I've read polar reviews that state either one is the much better choice, so I'm stumped.
@@hiddensword9387 I don't think you're going to be disappointed with either, but I can feel your pain. With the Lenovo you need to look at the exact model to know the spec of the display in particular, I believe only the touch screen models have the 100% sRGB coverage. Do you know if the model you're looking at has the touch display, or to double check the spec can you follow the approach I outline here - th-cam.com/video/dHgKl4eMwIA/w-d-xo.html Linked to that, have you got the backlit keyboard option in the Lenovo spec you're looking at too? If important to you that may be key factor when weighing up these two. For the audio, remember the speakers are on the bottom front of the Lenovo, whereas they are on the keyboard deck of the Acer, I'd say that certainly has the advantage there but both of course are laptop speakers. With the processor, it depends if you want more power vs a more balanced performance including for battery life with the Core i3-N305, plus as mentioned you'll get even longer ChromeOS updates there too now - th-cam.com/users/shortsuo0HSMKlBgs Also think about how much you value the larger 15.6 inch size/display over 14 inch - that's really personal preference, of course the 14 inch size is technically more portable.
the 515 comes with steam installer which opens up a beta version of steam that works well, the integrated graphics let me play age of empires 2 without having to leave the stable channel. the only downside is Gemini AI is hamstrung at the moment (july 2024) in the UK and EEA, doesn't let you create images, hopefully this will change soon.
Glad you like your Chromebook Plus 515. Yes, hopefully we see Gemini developments soon, in theory it can only get better 🤞 I wasn't sure if the image generation is limited everywhere?
@@MergeDroid its limited in UK Eu and Switzerland (EEA) - i was initially going to return it as the AI was the reason i bought it, When amazon rep asked why i wanted to return it i told him about the image creation and they rolled over immediately. You also don't get image blur or magic eraser (yet). Its even turned off going thru the browser (google,Gemini) , if u make a query you get a glimpse of something then a splash screen saying its not yet available. I changed my mind about the return as i got a good deal, and on reflection im glad i kept it, it is a quality machine
@@MergeDroid is there a difference between an 14 inch laptop with intel 3, and an 15.6 inch laptop with intel 3. Do they run the same, or would an intel 5 be better for the 15.5 inch?
... and the same processor in the 14 inch version? If both exactly the same it'll more likely come down to the other components like the amount and speed of RAM, type of storage etc. You could look up the exact specs of both if possible?
Which 14 inch are you comparing to, there's an older Chromebook Plus 514 with an AMD processor or the newer 2024 Chromebook Plus 514 with the Intel Core i3-N305 that I unboxed last week - th-cam.com/video/C0gypJegeZ8/w-d-xo.html ?
It is indeed. Didn't take me too long to get use to the @ placement, but I missed the £ sign 😎 Any retail Acer 515 in the UK would come with a UK keyboard.
Hi, if you buy one brand new you should get the offer for the 12 months of the Google AI package including Gemini Advanced, yes 👍 If the Chromebook is refurbished or second hand, very unlikely.
@@skymagician Globally it's through to the end of this year, so in theory as long as you have a brand new Chromebook Plus and log in to activate the order by/before 31st Dec. 2024 you're good.
Which device size is more valuable to you, the extra screen real estate of this 15.6 inch Acer Chromebook Plus 515, but a little heavier, or the smaller screen, but more convenient portability of the 14 inch ASUS Chromebook Plus CX34? Also, how much do you value the back-lit keyboard of the ASUS? Are storage options equal on the models you're comparing? Worth considering.
Hi, it's really a question of how you would install that on ChromeOS. I don't see it via the Google Play Store, and also get a message there "The Sims FreePlay by Electronic Arts isn't available on Google Play on this device". Any Linux compatible install available that you know of?
The review Chromebook I was provided was a US model so has a US keyboard. Any sold in the UK will have the standard UK keyboard 👍 I think you commented the same the other day(?)
View at Amazon in your region: amzn.to/3ORlyhA (my affiliate link)
✨Find/follow/support the channel: linktr.ee/mergedroid ✨
Chromebook Plus Playlist: th-cam.com/play/PLNSLoCmFMc8qm1a5XOh5p3JMh4S2qPm6U.html
Fantastic video, I got the c515 plus based on your helpful video and I can't thank you enough. You really made my decision much easier, I will get my friends to subscribe to you as well. Keep up the great work😊
That's great to hear, exactly how I want these videos to help people 👍 Thanks for much for your support too and enjoy your new Chromebook 😎
WOW! Brilliant review - now I am going to look for others by you. Thank you.
Thanks so much for your comment, I hope you'll subscribe and enjoy more of the Chromebook content on the channel 👍 Chromebook Plus Playlist might be a good place to start: th-cam.com/play/PLNSLoCmFMc8qm1a5XOh5p3JMh4S2qPm6U.html
I bought this laptop and find the trackpad quite loose. At least on the unit I received.
You don't seem to mention anything about a loose trackpad on your review, so I am wondering if it is a manufacturing defect with my unit?
Like even just lightly tapping the trackpad makes quite an audible clacking sound.
**UPDATE: I received a replacement unit and the touchpad on my replacement unit is perfect! Doesn't feel loose or make any rattling sound when tapping it at all.
All in all, I am very happy with my purchase of this Chromebook
Hi, it certainly shouldn't be loose by design. A number of Chromebooks I've had on the channel (both brand new and some refurbs) have suffered with this. It's not just Chromebooks of course, other laptops can also suffer from this. It seems like one of the few manufacturing issues that can still 'slip through' any QA. I guess it's one of the main moving parts of a device (ignoring each individual key on the keyboard!). Some I've opened up and adjusted (you'll see this in some videos), others I've sent back. I'd certainly recommend you do the latter if it's possible and get a replacement. An annoyance to go through I can appreciate, but keeping it and using it like that would be even more so. Are you able to get a refund or replacement?
@@MergeDroid Thanks so much for the quick and detailed response!
I bought the Chromebook 2 weeks ago, so still within the period I can exchange or return due to manufacturing fault.
I have been internally debating whether to exchange or if the trackpad is like that by design. But the more I use it, I can't imagine they would design a trackpad so loose on purpose 😅 Even a light tap makes an audible sound and it is annoying me more and more.
I think I am going to contact the store I bought from and request an exchange while I still can.
Thanks so much for your feedback! I have just subscribed to your channel :)
@@marceltex You're welcome and I'm glad you can get it sorted! Please do post back with an update.
Also, welcome along to the channel! I hope more of the content will be of use! You might like to check this video out, an Acer that I received with a loose touchpad as shown in the video - th-cam.com/video/VtcLeh5tqXg/w-d-xo.html More frustrating that it was a refurb, I would have thought a human would have been involved in testing it before it went out, oh well 🤔 If you have some patience I also have an older much more basic video but showing a Lenovo with the problem and a repair in more detail - th-cam.com/video/bW5Fsd-CXRQ/w-d-xo.html
@@MergeDroid So in case you were interested in an update. Not a very positive update, but an update nonetheless 🥲
I am based in the UK. I bought this Acer Chromebook Plus 515 from the John Lewis online store.
Reached out to John Lewis online support chat to describe the loose touchpad issue and requested a replacement, since I am reporting the issue within 14 days of delivery. They told me there is no way for them to verify this fault online so the best is for me to take the laptop in store for a technical support agent to have a look. Already a bit strange, since I bought this laptop online and not in store. Feels strange I need to go in store for after sales support.
Made a trip to a nearby John Lewis store this afternoon. Explained my issue, but the "technical" support agent I spoke to was not very technical, neither were they very interested in assisting me 😔When I described the problem, the support agent stopped me mid-sentence saying I can easily adjust the trackpad's firmness in the settings of the laptop. I told them I am pretty sure this Chromebook does not have a setting to adjust trackpad firmness. They looked at me as if I am the ignorant one. When I asked them to demonstrate how to adjust the firmness in the Chromebook's Settings menu, they could not find the option and instead start adjusting the speed of the mouse pointer telling me that is the setting I want 🙃
Secondly, they did not seem very interested in processing a replacement for me. They told me they could not hear or feel that the trackpad on my unit is loose in any way. The problem is, in a John Lewis store with background music and people talking, it is quite difficult to hear the clicking of the loose trackpad. I tried to explain this to them, but they told me since the trackpad is still able to perform click actions and move the mouse pointer around the screen, it is functioning correctly and there is no defect with my unit. They said the trackpad looseness I am complaining about is "disputable" and not a clear fault upon their inspection.
The resolution they gave me (to get me to leave the store more than anything) is they provided me with a phone number to contact Acer UK support and told me Acer could repair my laptop, if needed.
I find their resolution wrong, since I bought the laptop from John Lewis and it was clearly defective on opening and I am reporting the issue within 14 days. I shouldn't need to reach out to Acer directly and I don't want Acer to repair my laptop. I feel I should be eligible for a replacement device.
**Sorry about venting my frustrations on this post. I guess I will contact Acer support tomorrow and see if they are anymore help
Sorry I didn't get notified about your reply before. So sorry, that's crazy, including the suggestion of it having a setting to adjust, comical. Are you going to retry anything with JL online on the 14 day point? Did they have one on display in the store you could demo the difference to them on? If you do go the down the Acer support route, I can tell you I experienced this recently and it went well - th-cam.com/video/bYhlXSXIPKg/w-d-xo.html
In the mean time, any updates or venting needed, the channel is here for it 👍
Very nice video! I have got myself a 515! so far so good since i do 99% of myh stuff through google! How did you connect 2 external monitors?
Hi, thanks very much, always great to hear from an owner!
For the multiple monitors, at my desk I use something like this - th-cam.com/video/jRQX34UsBpA/w-d-xo.html or while I'm out one one these - th-cam.com/video/PMQnSA7eHXw/w-d-xo.html
@@MergeDroid thank you very much for the info!
@@alexandrenarolles7994 You're welcome, hope it helps with your setup. I hope you might find some more of the Chromebook and ChromeOS content on the channel useful too, please do consider a sub if so 👍
@@MergeDroid I will check the other videos
@@alexandrenarolles7994 Hope they're useful
Hi, I'm looking to buy a 15.6 inch chromebook primarily for watching Netflix etc. I'm looking at the Acer Chromebook Plus 515 or the HP Chromebook Plus 15a. Which do you think has the better screen? Thanks for any advice.
Hi, you can see my video on the HP Chromebook Plus 15a here - th-cam.com/video/DsbDyNz4JDo/w-d-xo.html From memory the displays themselves are quite similar in overall quality. However....
- The HP's display was slightly brighter to my eye.
- The HP's screen can't go back 180 degrees like the Acer's can. Practicalities like that can make a difference, especially if you're mainly using it for watching movies and videos and may need to adjust it.
- The Acer has its speakers on the keyboard deck firing sound up, rather then on the bottom of the Chromebook like the HP.
If you want to check out any other large Chromebooks (15.6inch and above) I have a playlist on the channel - th-cam.com/play/PLNSLoCmFMc8o9-Dt-k8fNy5zUZ18QSrl5.html
@@MergeDroid Many thanks for the quick reply. In your HP Chromebook Plus review you briefly mention a 15b model, and I notice Amazon has a 15b. Do you happen to know what the difference between the 15a and 15b is? I'm trying to get as much model information as possible because earlier in the week I bought the cheapest Acer 315 on Amazon (£169.99) which was listed as full HD but only turned out to be 1366x768. I've returned it now. Trying to avoid any further mishaps.
@@roberthf1092 Sorry to hear about that Acer. With any Chromebook model, inc. the 14B, you really need the long full model name to get the full spec, as a lot can vary in the range. Do you have that for the 14B?
If you're looking to get good spec without spending too much, did you see my video on the older Acer Chromebook 515 ? Review is here if not - th-cam.com/video/W3z8jFsra_I/w-d-xo.html and the unboxing - th-cam.com/video/cyFOECr21hA/w-d-xo.html
If you don't want to spend too much and would consider a refurb that will have some signs of use, Tab Retail still have a 'Very Good - Refurbished' for £149.99 on ebay UK, search item 196742509560. See the photos and condition description.
@@MergeDroid I'm resigned to spending a bit more now. I'd also like new, just for the piece of mind, and a 15 inch'. The model number I saw on Amazon UK was: 15b-nb0002sa. I tried to add a link, but it was too long, but it can be found just by searching that model number. It's got an i3-N305, 8gb ram, and 128gb of storage.
@@roberthf1092 You don't necessarily need to spend too much to get a decent option.
Looking for your 15b, those Amazon pages can sometimes be challenging to navigate when they have multiple listings on one page. When you actually select the option you're looking at which falls under the main title 15b, but look at the 'Model name' does it say '8Z238EA' ? If so, if you Google that it comes back as a 15a on HP's own website.
How is this compared to Asus cx34 in terms of pure performance like just the Linux or android application and multitasking
Hi, it's going to come down to the exact model spec you select of both - they have the ability to match each other and be near identical in the most common model specs available, but there are a few factors to watch out for with the key components that will influence the performance...
* PROCESSOR - The main variations of both offer 12th Gen Core i3, 15 or i7 processors, but the Acer also has 13th gen processor options, like the one I have in this video.
* STORAGE - The storage will be the other main factor, again with most options for both using Universal Flash Storage (UFS), APART from an option I show in my video on the ASUS in the US for a 512GB NvME config option that should be quicker than the UFS.
* RAM - As for RAM, the CX34 has a 16GB RAM option in the US. I haven't seen this available for the Acer, but I wouldn't rule it out from existing.
Does this help? If anyone else is reading and looking for it my review of the ASUS CX34 is here: th-cam.com/video/O6w07enZFw4/w-d-xo.html
great video and channel! thanks so much for your work! which model would you recommend between this one (priced 400 euros with 256 gb SSD and LPPDR5X) and the Acer Vero 514 (only 128 gb SSD and LPPDR4X but with backlit keyboard) priced 350 euros)? Thank you for your advice and hi from a new subscriber from Paris, France! Cheers
Hi, thanks for the kind words, really appreciate it, merci! A nice choice to have. Which processors are you comparing in both of those models? I think the biggest part of the decision for you should likely come down to the size, if you value the extra display in the 515 vs the better portability of the Vero 514? Just to check, you've seen my video on the Vero?
@@MergeDroid Thanks for the reply! Both come with the Intel Core i3-1215U processor. Yes I have seen your other video on the Vero as well but still can't decide haha! I guess I'm overthinking it but apparently the screen of the Vero is brighter than the 515 and it is more portable but the 515 has more SSD and better RAM LPPDR5X vs LPPDR4X on the Vero and upward firing speakers. Anyway I don't want to bother you I just wanted to know if you had a personal preference 🙂 Keep up the good work your reviews are really great!
@volodia1210 no bother at all, this is what I'm here for 😎 Did you see that slight issue / annoyance with the Vero's back-lit keyboard? If you don't expect to store loads (e.g. not really needing the extra storage of the 515), for me personally I really liked the unique design of the Vero, prefer the 'all round' more balanced portability/size of the Vero and having the back lit keyboard (even with the slight odd behaviour, but understanding how to manage it).
@@MergeDroid I think you're right it's more balanced and cheaper so I will buy the Vero! Thanks a lot for your help!
@volodia1210 brilliant, glad to help. Please do drop a comment on that video when you have it so you can post your thoughts. I'm sure you'll be pleaded, but for anyone else reading this both are great Chromebooks, as usual depends on your preferences.
Hello MergeDroid,
Would you be able to give me some advice on which laptop to get out of this-
(Acer CB515-2H 15.6in i3 8GB 256GB Chromebook Plus)
or
(Lenovo Chrome Slim 3 14in i3 8GB 256GB Chromebook)
Thanks
Hi, thanks for checking this video too. If you or anyone reading is interested in the Lenovo IdeaPad Chromebook Plus 3i it's worth checking my video here too - th-cam.com/video/DN8IGSkhMV4/w-d-xo.html If you are looking at the 256GB model I *think* you are likely to see the back-lit keyboard option on that one, but here's how to check the exact spec of any Lenovo you're considering buying - th-cam.com/video/dHgKl4eMwIA/w-d-xo.html
They are both nice options, but a lot comes down to how you will use it and your personal preference on things. I think for your decision first decide, do you want a larger 15.6 inch Chromebook Plus model or a 14 inch Chromebook Plus? Let me know, as what to compare against each other becomes more obvious from that.
Also keep in mind the Lenovo IdeaPad Chromebook Plus 3i (and many others) have recently had their update life to ChromeOS extended - th-cam.com/users/shortsuo0HSMKlBgs
If you're set on a Chromebook Plus in general, you can checkout my playlist here - th-cam.com/play/PLNSLoCmFMc8qHWiHLk5bPV0Nn6tWkfEJ-.html
@@MergeDroid Hi, thankyou for the reply.
Basically from what I understand, the Lenovo I asked about has better picture, display, battery, portability, audio, whilst the Acer has better CPU capabilities. It seems to come down to, the general user experience or what I could do on it in regards to gaming, storage etc.
I've read polar reviews that state either one is the much better choice, so I'm stumped.
@@hiddensword9387 I don't think you're going to be disappointed with either, but I can feel your pain.
With the Lenovo you need to look at the exact model to know the spec of the display in particular, I believe only the touch screen models have the 100% sRGB coverage. Do you know if the model you're looking at has the touch display, or to double check the spec can you follow the approach I outline here - th-cam.com/video/dHgKl4eMwIA/w-d-xo.html Linked to that, have you got the backlit keyboard option in the Lenovo spec you're looking at too? If important to you that may be key factor when weighing up these two.
For the audio, remember the speakers are on the bottom front of the Lenovo, whereas they are on the keyboard deck of the Acer, I'd say that certainly has the advantage there but both of course are laptop speakers.
With the processor, it depends if you want more power vs a more balanced performance including for battery life with the Core i3-N305, plus as mentioned you'll get even longer ChromeOS updates there too now - th-cam.com/users/shortsuo0HSMKlBgs
Also think about how much you value the larger 15.6 inch size/display over 14 inch - that's really personal preference, of course the 14 inch size is technically more portable.
the 515 comes with steam installer which opens up a beta version of steam that works well, the integrated graphics let me play age of empires 2 without having to leave the stable channel. the only downside is Gemini AI is hamstrung at the moment (july 2024) in the UK and EEA, doesn't let you create images, hopefully this will change soon.
Glad you like your Chromebook Plus 515. Yes, hopefully we see Gemini developments soon, in theory it can only get better 🤞 I wasn't sure if the image generation is limited everywhere?
@@MergeDroid its limited in UK Eu and Switzerland (EEA) - i was initially going to return it as the AI was the reason i bought it, When amazon rep asked why i wanted to return it i told him about the image creation and they rolled over immediately. You also don't get image blur or magic eraser (yet). Its even turned off going thru the browser (google,Gemini) , if u make a query you get a glimpse of something then a splash screen saying its not yet available.
I changed my mind about the return as i got a good deal, and on reflection im glad i kept it, it is a quality machine
Glad you got to keep it and are pleased with it. Let's hope for some further political improvements to let the AI expand 🇪🇺 🤖 😎
Aw, this was posted on my bday 😂 Awesome video.
Happy belated birthday 🎂 🎉 😂
Does it have a backlit keyboard? Like does it glow up?
Please view the keyboard portion of the video, should cover it. Also check the channel for a playlist of models I've had with back lit keyboards.
@@MergeDroid is there a difference between an 14 inch laptop with intel 3, and an 15.6 inch laptop with intel 3. Do they run the same, or would an intel 5 be better for the 15.5 inch?
@keeljamio1407 what's the full processor name of each you're looking at?
@@MergeDroid i3-1215U processor on a 15.6 inch acer laptop
... and the same processor in the 14 inch version? If both exactly the same it'll more likely come down to the other components like the amount and speed of RAM, type of storage etc. You could look up the exact specs of both if possible?
Does the 14 inch run better than the 15.5 inch with this model?
Which 14 inch are you comparing to, there's an older Chromebook Plus 514 with an AMD processor or the newer 2024 Chromebook Plus 514 with the Intel Core i3-N305 that I unboxed last week - th-cam.com/video/C0gypJegeZ8/w-d-xo.html ?
@@MergeDroidthe one I’m looking at has a i3-1215U processor
@@MergeDroid Acer CB515-2H 15.6in i3 8GB 256GB Chromebook Plus
Thanks and which 14 inch are you comparing it to?
Is That a US Keyboard Layout
It is indeed. Didn't take me too long to get use to the @ placement, but I missed the £ sign 😎 Any retail Acer 515 in the UK would come with a UK keyboard.
@@MergeDroidok
No worries 👍
Can it use Gemini ai offer?
Hi, if you buy one brand new you should get the offer for the 12 months of the Google AI package including Gemini Advanced, yes 👍 If the Chromebook is refurbished or second hand, very unlikely.
yes option until Jan 2025 ( in UK anyway)
@@skymagician Globally it's through to the end of this year, so in theory as long as you have a brand new Chromebook Plus and log in to activate the order by/before 31st Dec. 2024 you're good.
14 inch asus chromebook plus i3 or the acer chromebook plus i3 ?
Which device size is more valuable to you, the extra screen real estate of this 15.6 inch Acer Chromebook Plus 515, but a little heavier, or the smaller screen, but more convenient portability of the 14 inch ASUS Chromebook Plus CX34? Also, how much do you value the back-lit keyboard of the ASUS? Are storage options equal on the models you're comparing? Worth considering.
@@MergeDroid i replied to you on another comment. Thanks for taking out the time
@@MergeDroid 14 is good. Back-lit keyboard is a must. LED is screen is a must. Laptop screen must look as good as looking at your phone lol
No worries, I also replied in the other comment. You're making the right decision for you I think, especially as wanting the back-lit keyboard 👍
Is there an empty ram slot?
Hi, thanks for checking the video. No, the RAM will be soldered to the board (common for most Chromebooks). 8GB is great for ChromeOS though ✅
The sims 4 friendly?
Hi, it's really a question of how you would install that on ChromeOS. I don't see it via the Google Play Store, and also get a message there "The Sims FreePlay by Electronic Arts isn't available on Google Play on this device". Any Linux compatible install available that you know of?
USA/Canada/Australia Keyboard Layout
With Symbols For The UK
The review Chromebook I was provided was a US model so has a US keyboard. Any sold in the UK will have the standard UK keyboard 👍 I think you commented the same the other day(?)
you're welcome @@MergeDroid
🙏