Chromebooks are laptops that are renowned for their affordability and straightforward operation, rendering them an excellent choice for children. Nevertheless, the selection of the optimal Chromebook for your child is a complex task due to the multitude of variations in models, including screen sizes, processors, and interfaces. That’s where PCMag comes in. Thousands of laptops, including hundreds of Chromebooks, have been tested and reviewed by PC Labs since its inception over a decade ago.
In order to generate exhaustive, dependable Chromebook reviews, our analysts and editors evaluate all models based on their design, connectivity, display quality, and overall value, in addition to testing their CPU and graphics performance. Currently, the Acer Chromebook Plus Spin 714 is the most exceptional Chromebook for children, offering category-leading performance and practical AI features at an affordable price. Learn about additional Chromebooks that are suitable for children, as well as detailed purchasing advice and a helpful spec comparison of all our recommendations.
The 5 Best Chromebooks for Kids in 2025
1- Acer Chromebook Plus Spin 714
The Acer Chromebook Spin 714 is a powerful and premium 2-in-1 Chromebook designed for professionals and students who need performance and flexibility. It features a 14-inch 1920×1200 IPS touchscreen, offering vibrant colors and crisp visuals for both work and entertainment. Powered by an Intel Core i5-1235U processor and 8GB LPDDR4X RAM, it ensures smooth multitasking and responsive performance.
The 256GB SSD provides ample storage space, while Wi-Fi 6E delivers fast and stable connectivity. Additional highlights include a FHD MIPI webcam for crystal-clear video calls, a backlit keyboard for enhanced typing in low-light conditions, and a sleek aluminum chassis. Running on Chrome OS, it integrates seamlessly with Google apps, making it an excellent choice for productivity and convenience.
Specs & Configurations
- Processor: Intel Core i5-1235U (Intel Evo)
- Display: 14″ 1920×1200 IPS Touchscreen
- RAM: 8GB LPDDR4X
- Storage: 256GB SSD
- Connectivity: Wi-Fi 6E
- Extras: FHD MIPI Webcam, Backlit Keyboard, Chrome OS
Pros:
- Powerful Intel Evo processor ensures smooth multitasking
- High-resolution touchscreen enhances user interaction
- Large SSD storage for faster performance
- Durable build, ideal for school use
- Wi-Fi 6E for better connectivity
Cons:
- Higher price point compared to kid-focused Chromebooks
- Slightly heavier than other models, reducing portability
2- Acer Chromebook Plus 514
The Acer Chromebook Plus 514 is an excellent mid-range laptop with a 14-inch WUXGA (1920 x 1200) IPS touchscreen, providing sharp and detailed visuals. It’s powered by an AMD Ryzen 3 7320C processor, paired with 8GB LPDDR5X RAM, ensuring smooth performance for everyday tasks like web browsing, video streaming, and multitasking. The 128GB eMMC storage is decent for a Chromebook, especially with Google Drive integration for cloud storage.
It supports Wi-Fi 6E, offering fast internet speeds and stable connections. The FHD webcam with Google AI enhancements ensures high-quality video calls, making it ideal for remote work or online classes. Running on Chrome OS, it’s a secure, lightweight, and fast laptop perfect for students and professionals alike.
Specs & Configurations
- Processor: AMD Ryzen 3 7320C
- Display: 14″ WUXGA (1920×1200) IPS Touchscreen
- RAM: 8GB LPDDR5X
- Storage: 128GB eMMC
- Connectivity: Wi-Fi 6E
- Extras: FHD Camera, Chrome OS, Google AI features
Pros:
- Responsive touchscreen for an intuitive experience
- AMD Ryzen 3 processor balances performance and efficiency
- Good battery life for extended learning sessions
- AI-powered features enhance usability for kids
Cons:
- eMMC storage is slower compared to SSD options
- No backlit keyboard, which may be a drawback in low-light environments
3- Lenovo IdeaPad Flex 5i Chromebook Plus
The Lenovo IdeaPad Flex 5i Chromebook Plus is a highly versatile 2-in-1 laptop that blends performance with portability. It features a 14-inch FHD+ touchscreen, making it perfect for drawing, note-taking, or media consumption. Powered by an Intel Core i3-1315U processor with 8GB RAM and 256GB storage, it handles tasks like document editing, video conferencing, and web browsing effortlessly.
The backlit keyboard ensures comfortable typing, even in dim lighting. The FHD webcam, coupled with Google AI features, enhances video calls with improved image quality and noise cancellation. Plus, it includes 2TB of cloud storage, making file access seamless across devices. With Chrome OS, users get a fast, secure, and efficient computing experience.
Specs & Configurations
- Processor: Intel Core i3-1315U
- Display: 14″ FHD+ 2-in-1 Touchscreen
- RAM: 8GB
- Storage: 256GB SSD
- Extras: Backlit Keyboard, FHD Webcam, Google AI, 2TB Cloud Storage
Pros:
- 2-in-1 design allows flexibility for various use cases
- Large SSD storage ensures smooth operation
- Backlit keyboard helps in low-light situations
- Includes 2TB of cloud storage, great for kids’ files and schoolwork
Cons:
- Slightly heavier than other models
- Higher price than some entry-level Chromebooks
4- ASUS Chromebook Flip CM3
The ASUS Chromebook Flip CM3 is a compact and lightweight 2-in-1 laptop that is perfect for students or those needing a portable secondary device. It comes with a 12-inch HD NanoEdge touchscreen, providing an immersive viewing experience with narrow bezels. The 360-degree hinge allows for tablet, tent, stand, and laptop modes, making it ideal for versatility.
It runs on a MediaTek 8183 processor with 4GB RAM, which is enough for light productivity tasks like web browsing, media streaming, and document editing. The 32GB storage is limited, but Chrome OS’s cloud-based environment makes up for it. Wi-Fi 5 support ensures reliable connectivity, and the aluminum chassis gives it a premium and durable feel despite its affordable price.
Specs & Configurations
- Processor: MediaTek 8183
- Display: 12″ HD NanoEdge Touchscreen
- RAM: 4GB
- Storage: 32GB eMMC
- Connectivity: Wi-Fi 5
- Extras: Aluminum design, Chrome OS, Arm Mali-G72 MP3 GPU
Pros:
- Compact and lightweight, great for younger kids
- Affordable price point
- 2-in-1 convertible design for added versatility
- Durable aluminum build
Cons:
- Limited storage and RAM may slow performance
- Older Wi-Fi 5 standard may impact connectivity speed
5- Lenovo Chromebook Duet 3
The Lenovo Chromebook Duet 3 is a sleek and ultra-portable 2-in-1 detachable Chromebook that’s perfect for students and travelers. It features a 10.95-inch 2K (2000 x 1200) IPS touchscreen, offering excellent brightness (400 nits) and vibrant colors. Powered by the Snapdragon 7c Gen 2 Compute Platform, 8GB LPDDR4X RAM, and 128GB eMMC storage, it delivers snappy performance for everyday tasks.
The detachable keyboard allows for easy transition between tablet and laptop modes. Chrome OS ensures fast boot times and smooth multitasking, making it great for browsing, streaming, and light productivity tasks. Long battery life and its compact design make it an excellent choice for those who need a lightweight and efficient device on the go.
Specs & Configurations
- Processor: Snapdragon 7c Gen 2 Compute Platform
- Display: 10.95″ 2K (2000×1200) IPS Touchscreen
- RAM: 8GB LPDDR4X
- Storage: 128GB eMMC
- Extras: 400-nit brightness, 60Hz refresh rate
Pros:
- Detachable keyboard for versatile use
- High-resolution 2K touchscreen enhances media and learning experience
- Lightweight and ultra-portable
- Strong battery life
Cons:
- Snapdragon 7c Gen 2 is not as powerful as Intel or AMD alternatives
Final Thoughts
For younger kids who need a compact and affordable Chromebook, the ASUS Chromebook Flip CM3 or Lenovo Chromebook Duet 3 are excellent choices. If performance and storage are top priorities, the Acer Chromebook Spin 714 or Lenovo IdeaPad Flex 5i are better options. The Acer Chromebook Plus 514 strikes a good balance between performance and price, making it a solid mid-range option.
FAQs:
What should I look for when choosing a Chromebook for kids?
When selecting a Chromebook for kids, prioritize durability, parental controls, and battery life. Look for a rugged design with spill-resistant keyboards and reinforced corners. A touchscreen can enhance usability for younger children. Chrome OS offers built-in security, and Google Family Link helps manage screen time and app access. Battery life of at least 8-10 hours ensures it lasts through a school day.
Are Chromebooks good for online learning and schoolwork?
Yes, Chromebooks are excellent for online learning and schoolwork. They integrate seamlessly with Google Classroom, Docs, and other educational tools. With fast boot times and automatic updates, they ensure a smooth learning experience. Most models support offline access for assignments. However, storage is limited, so cloud-based solutions like Google Drive are essential for managing files efficiently.
What are the best Chromebook brands for kids?
Top Chromebook brands for kids include Acer, ASUS, Lenovo, and HP. Acer and ASUS offer durable, budget-friendly options with spill-resistant keyboards. Lenovo’s Chromebooks often feature 360-degree hinges for tablet mode, great for interactive learning. HP models are known for solid performance and vibrant displays. Look for MIL-STD-810G-certified models to ensure durability against drops and rough handling.
Read more: