9 Top Picks
4 Reviewers
34 Hours of Research
27 Options Considered
Google Chromebooks need no introduction. These are the perfect laptops for our everyday basic needs. Of course, you can't place a Chromebook against gaming laptops, but it offers the right features for school-related stuff, office work, and leisure activities.
One outstanding feature that you'll find in the latest models is the backlit keyboard. By illuminating the keys from behind, users can see the letters and symbols clearly, even in dark conditions. Moreover, you can adjust the screen brightness level to fit your current environment.
This impressive attribute used to be reserved for high-end devices only. But I'm increasingly seeing it in budget laptops. And when I encountered the feature in a Chromebook for the first time, I got the inspiration to create this comprehensive review for anyone looking for the best Chromebook with backlit keyboard.
3 Top Chromebook With Backlit Keyboard
1. [Best Overall]
5/5
Understandably, folks may balk at the price of the ASUS Chromebook C433TA-AS384T, but the device has a lot to offer. The unit is sufficiently sturdy to withstand jostles and jolts and has a distinctive, velvety texture pleasing to the hands.
2. [Best For The Money]
4.9/5
Most people deem ChromeOS machines as the laptop world's pack mules. They're not flashy, nor do they exhibit gaudy capabilities. Instead, the models prioritize top-notch security and rock-solid reliability at a minimal price range.
3. [Best For The Bright and Crisp Display]
4.8/5
Considering its cost, size, and performance, the Acer Chromebook 314 offers excellent value. The 14-inch unit isn't a monster of a machine, but it delivers particularly within its confines.
Best Chromebook With Backlit Keyboard Reviews
[Best Overall]
5/5
Understandably, folks may balk at the price of the ASUS Chromebook C433TA-AS384T, but the device has a lot to offer. The ASUS Chromebook is sufficiently sturdy to withstand jostles and jolts and has a distinctive, velvety texture pleasing to the hands. Add a comfortable backlit keyboard, vivid display, touch screen, and a broad selection, and you'll have a device with an edge over numerous midrange Windows laptops.
Here are its stand-out features:
An attractive, sturdy construction – The Asus Chromebook has a plastic casing, a basic yet attractive design that's sufficiently sturdy without exhibiting the "cheap" vibe I've seen with most counterparts. The lower section is silver with blue accents, giving it a nice touch. Moreover, it has a durable 360-degree hinge for flipping to stand, tent, or tablet mode.
Remarkable display quality – This unit has a 14-inch touchscreen (Full HD display) with NanoEdge technology and ultra-slim bezels on each side. I always consider it a 14-incher installed in a 13-incher footprint.
Remarkable processing power – The laptop has an integrated Intel Core m3-8100Y processor that can hit upwards of 3.4 GHz to deliver snappy, super-fast performance. I love to open multiple tables, and the processor delivered sufficient power to address all my multitasking needs.
Impressive memory – ASUS Chromebook Flip C433 comes with 8GB of RAM, opening up big files, applications, and software way faster than most models in this list. It also has 64GB eMMC local storage to supplement its already efficient cloud capabilities.
Vast connectivity options – I didn't encounter challenges regarding connectivity options. The unit offers sufficient flexibility with a standalone USB-A port alongside a pair of USB-C (first generation). It also has a microSD card reader, which came through whenever I needed additional storage. You'll also get Wi-Fi 5, Bluetooth connectivity, and a not-so-impressive HD webcam for video and voice calls.
Impressive battery power – The manufacturer promises up to 10 hours of power, which is remarkable. Of course, it took this with scientism, but my tests didn't fall far off as the laptop delivered 8 hours and 35 minutes worth of juice.
Specifications
Viewable screen size | 14 inches |
Resolution | 920 x 1080 |
CPU | Intel Core m3-8100Y |
Battery life | Up to 10 hours |
RAM | 8 GB |
Storage | 64 GB eMMC |
Pros
Cons
[Best For The Money]
4.9/5
Most people deem ChromeOS machines as the laptop world's pack mules. They're not flashy, nor do they exhibit gaudy capabilities. Instead, the models prioritize top-notch security and rock-solid reliability at a minimal price range.
Chromebook 514, or Acer CB514-1H-C0FF, reflects the same attitude case in point, comprising a comfortable backlit keyboard as well as the following features:
- A simple yet impressive design – This 14-inch laptop gives me the impression of a modern clamshell unit. It sports an all-aluminum, silver chassis with a chrome accent along the OceanGlass touchpad. The machine's lid doesn't flip around like a 2-in-1 model, but opens wide enough for productive use.
- Get the best of chromeOS – While this operating system is standard in every Chromebook, this unit takes it a step ahead with in-built virus protection, automatic updates, and more efficiency. In addition, I could seamlessly access all the apps I needed from Google Play.
- Remarkable display quality – The unit features a 14-inch Full HD screen with Acer's CineCrystal IPS technology and a multi-touch display compatible with the USI Stylus.
- On-par processing power – Chromebook 514 leverages an Intel Pentium Silver N6000 Processor, which can reach upwards of 3.3GHz. It also has Intel HD graphics, which enhanced my overall experience.
- Sufficient local hardware – With 4GB of onboard RAM, I never had issues opening huge files or multiple programs consecutively. Furthermore, it offers 128GB of local storage, sufficient to keep all your files for offline use.
- Connection flexibility – The manufacturer had today's user in mind when designing the unit's connectivity. This Acer Chromebook model models one USB-C, two USB 3.2 (first generation), and an HDMI port. It also sports Intel Wi-Fi 6 (dual-band) with MU-MIMO technology. As always, you also get a Bluetooth connection.
- Stereo Speakers – This premium sounding laptop has DTS Audio, comprising a pair of face-up stereo speakers, each with a designated amplifier. This unique hardware feature allows me to enjoy audio how I should hear it—via two audio channels.
- Reliable battery – While I didn't receive the manufacturer's promise of up to ten hours of battery life, 8 hours and 40 minutes was just enough juice to power my full-day research work.
Specifications
Viewable screen size | 14 Inches |
Resolution | 1920 x 1080 |
CPU | Intel® N6000 |
Battery life | Up to 10 hours |
RAM | 4 GB |
Storage | 128 GB |
Pros
Cons
[Best For The Bright and Crisp Display]
4.8/5
Considering its cost, size, and performance, this Acer Chromebook offers excellent value. The 14-inch unit isn't a monster of a machine, but it delivers particularly within its confines.
Thus, its features maintain an outstanding balance between performance, design, usability, and long battery life for well-rounded computing, and they include the following:
Comfortable Viewing – One of the first things you'll notice with this device is the narrow 6mm bezels that ensure the lowest footprint possible for the 14-inch laptop screen. And with the optional Full HD and wide-ranging viewing angles, I could indulge in the full majesty of TV shows, prank videos, and series anytime, anywhere.
Futureproof Processing – This unit uses the advanced Intel Pentium Silver N6000 processor that guarantees responsive software. The performance boost made my graphics-intensive coursework projects more seamless than ever, completing my tasks quickly and without missing a beat.
Extensive battery power – The manufacturer promises upwards of 10 hours per day, which goes a long way. A single charge is enough for me to finish my entire day's work with some spare time for entertainment.
Connectivity convenience – You don't have to wait forever to transfer files. This Chromebook with backlit keyboard features an efficient USB-C 3.2 port for ultra-fast video streaming, data transfer, and battery charging. The unit also has a reversible USB-C connector, two USB-A ports, an HDMI port, and one MicroSD slot for peripherals and added storage.
Full connection – The monitor's 802.11ax antenna and Wi-Fi 6 feature deliver a consistent wireless signal, while the 2x2 MU-MIMO technology ensures fast wireless speeds.
Great conferencing ability – The machine's dual microphones, DTS Audio technology, and upward-facing speakers make it perfect for hybrid workers and scholars.
Top-level touchpad – I like the computer's OceanGlass™ touchpad, and every environmentally conscious user would. The manufacturer reused plastic waste adrift in the ocean to create a glass-like, sleek, tactile texture while scrolling across the touchpad.
Specifications
Viewable screen size | 14 inches |
Resolution | 1920 x 1080 Full HD |
CPU | Intel Pentium Silver N6000 Processor |
Battery life | Up to 10 hours |
RAM | 4 GB |
Storage | 128 GB |
Pros
Cons
4.7/5
ChromeOS machines have long promised high-end designs and seamless performance at a pocket-friendly price range, but only a few brands have actually accomplished the feat.
However, I can't say the same for Acer Chromebook 315. This 15.6-inch laptop is incredibly affordable, but it has the look and feel of something three times more expensive.
Here are its key highlights:
A large laptop screen – The stand-out feature of this ChromeOS machine is the viewable screen size, a generous 15.6 inches wide. This width is substantial for a Chromebook and perfect for movies, TV shows, and video calls.
Striking design and build – Besides the backlit keyboard, this unit has a plastic build that makes it affordable and light. I haven't seen many 381 by 256 by 20mm devices that weigh 3.15 lbs. The laptop's lid has a cross-hair pattern similar to brushed aluminum, giving it a clean aesthetic contrasting its affordable price.
Quick setup – Typical of any ChromeOS unit, I easily set up the Acer Chromebook 315. A Google account and internet connection are enough, but you can skip most formalities and complete them later.
Ample storage – ChromeOS laptops generally leverage cloud storage, but you may need some files in local storage for offline viewing. Therefore, 64GB in the Acer Chromebook 315 is more than welcome.
Multiple ports – This device's four USB ports comprise a pair of USB-A and two USB-C ports. The unit also has a MicroSD card slot, a headphone jack, and a Kensington security cable slot, although this isn't part of the package. One of the things I appreciate most is that I can power the device via USB-C ports on the right or left side.
Above-average audio – The laptop has impressive speakers with excellent audio quality for entertainment, audio-based files, and Zoom calls.
Impressive BATTERY power – Acer promises up to 12 hours and 30 minutes of battery life—way over the average ten-hour mark that most machines target. But upon testing, I never exceeded the 8-hour 30-minute mark. This is a huge difference, but sufficient for an entire workday.
Specifications
Viewable screen size | 15.6 inches |
Resolution | 1920 x 1080 |
CPU | AMD A4-9120C processor |
Battery life | Up to 12.50 Hours |
RAM | 4 GB |
Storage | 64GB |
Pros
Cons
4.6/5
Two-in-one laptops, or hybrids, are gaining popularity among students and at-home professionals. But only a few top-performing ChromeOS units are in the budget price category. Too often, buyers are confused about whether to stick to their budgets and adapt to slow processes or stretch their pockets thin and optimize their workflow.
Fortunately, Lenovo Chromebook Flex 5 serves as an exemplary middle ground. This premium 13.3-inch laptop has a backlit keyboard that can handle all your typing needs as well as the following features:
Quality, clutter-free display – The unit's narrow bezels deliver a stylish, trendy look with sufficient real estate for its 13.3-inch Full HD screen with explicit, crisp videos. Besides its wide-angle viewing feature, the machine has touchscreen capabilities and works with the digital pen, although it isn't in the package.
Breathtaking design – The Lenovo Chromebook will always look great from any angle. Whether you've set it to laptop, stand, or tent mode, its portable 360-degree convertible design will catch the eye.
Simplified webcam privacy – Like me, you probably worry about webcam hacking. But this shouldn't concern you with this device, as it has a physical shutter – a simple solution that ensures complete privacy and security.
Quality stereo sound – The unit has front-facing stereo speakers that enhanced my audio experience. Podcasts, movies, and music sounded more alive than ever.
Faster collaboration with G Suite – Leverage Google's powerful collaboration and productivity tools to accomplish your workday. Create, edit, and work with associates in real-time from anywhere while accessing a rich Google Play app library.
Safety first, always – The device updates its software every six weeks, ensuring top-level efficiency and maximum protection from cybersecurity threats. Furthermore, it undergoes a verified boot process during startup, but reverts automatically to the secure version upon detecting inconsistencies or malicious changes.
Connection flexibility – I like the device's port flexibility. It has one USB-A (first generation) and two USB-C 3.2 ports for faster data transfer, battery charging, and multimedia streaming. The unit also has a mic/headphone combo, a MicroSD card reader, and a Kensington security lock slot.
Long battery life – The manufacturer promises up to 14 hours of battery life for this unit. I achieved a decent 12 hours and 30 minutes with this Lenovo Chromebook, which is impressive.
Specifications
Viewable screen size | 13.3 Inches |
Resolution | Full HD |
CPU | AMD Ryzen 5 |
Battery life | 14 hours |
RAM | 16GB |
Storage | Up to 512GB SSD |
Pros
Cons
4.5/5
Don't have sufficient cash yet need the best Chromebook with a backlit keyboard? You're probably not looking for the robust computing experience of Lenovo Flex 5 – maybe something for basic tasks like web browsing, document creation and editing, and streaming. If your situation matches this scenario, this HP Chromebook will serve you well.
Here are its stand-out capabilities:
A simple, unique design – I don't think of it as a high-end piece of equipment, but it's a well-designed, slick machine. Its chassis' thickest point measures just 0.7 inches, and it weighs 3.24 pounds. While it's not as light as most ASUS Chromebook models, the extra weight offers more ports.
Excellent display quality – This HP Chromebook features a 14-inch micro-edge display (1366 x 768), typical of gaming laptops. I could stream 4K content smoothly and play my favorite games thanks to its Intel UHD Graphics 600.
Sufficient storage – There's nothing much to marvel about with the unit's local storage. However, 4GB RAM and 32GB eMMC storage are sufficient for this cloud-centered machine.
Multi-purpose design – The laptop's backlit keyboard, Intel processors, B&O stereo speakers, and extended battery life make it suitable for school, work, or home use. I could quickly shift between binge-watching my favorite shows and knocking out my online course projects.
Impressive all-day performance – This machine has an Intel Celeron N4020 processor that is perfect for value, power consumption, and performance. Thus, you can rely on it to tackle your busiest days.
Great battery life – HP promises up to 14 hours, but the furthest I went with this unit is 11 hours and 45 minutes. This is just sufficient juice to clear everything off my to-do list. Moreover, the monitor uses the HP Fast-Charge technology that takes only 45 minutes to fill the battery from 0 to 50%.
Solid connectivity – The laptop's Bluetooth 5.0 and Wi-Fi 5 (2x2) combo delivers robust connectivity for modern games, remote work, or streaming.
Multi-touch touchpad – One of the most innovative features in a ChromeOS machine, the unit's multi-touch touchpad supports four-finger gestures. I could zoom, navigate and scroll through the HP Chromebook with a simple touch.
Specifications
Viewable screen size | 14 Inches |
Resolution | 1366 x 768 |
CPU | Intel Celeron N4020 |
Battery life | Up to 14 hours |
RAM | 4 GB RAM |
Storage | 32 GB eMMC storage |
Pros
Cons
Like its CB315-3HT counterpart, the Acer’s Chromebook CB315-3HT-C29 is among the few ChromeOS units with a high-end design, seamless performance, and an affordable price range.
The backlit keyboard is only part of the additions; this portable laptop also boasts a sleek design and a host of impressive features such as:
Impressive display quality – This 15.6 inch Chromebook has a high-definition ComfyView display. Besides the 1366 x 768 resolution, the screen also delivers notable image clarity and vivid colors. I also like the energy-efficient screen’s vast brightness adjustment options and the anti-glare feature that makes it easy on my eyes.
Robust processor – The biggest difference between this unit and the CB315-3HT lies in the processing power. While the latter leverages an N4020 dual-core processor, the CB315-3HT-C29 has an Intel Celeron N4000 with upwards of 2.40GHz of frequency for high-efficiency power.
Local hardware you can count on – This laptop has 4GB of DDR4 RAM that enabled me to run multiple programs and light games with ease. It also comes with 32GB eMMC of local storage, an ultra-compact system that streamlines data management, offers sufficient flash storage, and ensures the shortest boot-up times.
Get the best of ChromeOS – The laptop’s simple and speedy operating system updates every six weeks. While this is a standard in most of its peers, the laptop’s unique combination of operation efficiency, display quality, and processing power help you get the most out of the operating system.
Reliable battery – The manufacturer promises up to 12 hours and 50 minutes. But the units I sampled hit a maximum of 10 hours and 55 minutes. Thus, the three-cell lithium-ion battery can handle a full workday.
All the necessary ports – Connectivity isn’t an issue with this unit as it comes with two USB-C ports, two USB-A, a memory card reader and a headphone/microphone combo jack. The laptop also includes Wireless AC, Marxsol Cable Accessories, and Bluetooth.
Specifications
Viewable screen size | 15.6 Inches |
Resolution | 1366 x 768 |
CPU | Intel Celeron N4000 |
Battery life | Up to 12.50 hrs |
RAM | 4GB |
Storage | 32GB |
Pros
Cons
4.2/5
ASUS has committed itself to ChromeOS for years, and with its Asus Chromebook C433TA-M364 model, the manufacturer has condensed all that knowledge into a remarkable unit. This laptop has a stylish and solid build quality and offers sufficient power for seamless operations no matter how many apps or tabs you open.
This i7 laptop isn't just a pretty face in my review. It offers the following features:
Design – This laptop initially gave me the impression of the brand's pricier ZenBook. Its lightweight matte-silver aluminum body gives the C433 a timeless look and enhances its durability. It also features a durable 360-degree hinge for flipping your touchscreen display to tent, stand, or tablet mode.
Multiple ports – The machine includes two USB-C ports, a USB 3.1-A, a headphone jack, and a MicroSD card slot. The two USB-C slots support charging, allowing you to plug in from either side.
Remarkable display – This laptop's 14-inch Full HD screen delivers vivid and bright visuals covering the sRGB color gamut of 93%. This makes it more vibrant than its forerunner, the Chromebook 302CA, which covers 76%.
Stellar performance – The unit has a snappy Intel Core m3-8100Y processor and 8GB of memory. This is sufficient muscle for comfortable web browsing and multiple simple tasks. For example, I could seamlessly load 19 Google Chrome tabs with this Asus Chromebook.
Sufficient local storage – Internal storage of 64GB eMMC is generous enough for a ChromeOS machine that's primarily cloud-based.
Quality keyboard and touchpad – This machine's backlit keyboard provides only 1.3 mm of key travel, but its typing performance is solid. Moreover, it features a swift response 4.1 by 2.4-inch touchpad, which never encountered any issues.
Enhanced battery life – This unit's battery life beats its forerunner's already respectable juice span of 8 hours and 54 minutes, promising up to 10 hours. The highest I got with my tests was 9 hours and 4 minutes, enough for everyday tasks.
Specifications
Viewable screen size | 14 Inches |
Resolution | 1920 x 1080 FHD |
CPU | Core™i7 |
Battery life | Up to 10 hrs |
RAM | Up to 8GB |
Storage | Up to 128GB |
Pros
Cons
4.1/5
ASUS' stunning new Flip 434 takes convertible ChromeOS technology to the next level. The laptop's thin design, contemporary looks, and full specs get most of my stuff done with no fuss. In addition, it offers a larger display, solid performance, and a more robust battery, so you can rely on it every day.
The unit is a considerable improvement over its laudable predecessor, the Flip C302CA, thanks to the following capabilities:
Noteworthy craftsmanship – You'd agree with me that this ASUS Chromebook aims for perfection. The machine has a precision-crafted, all-metal chassis with an anodized, diamond-cut finish at the edges. These refined looks stand out for anyone seeking on-the-go versatility on a peerlessly designed machine.
Outstandingly portable – The lightweight (3.2lb) and slim (15.7mm) laptop has a NanoEdge design for an ultra-compact footprint. Thus, you get all the benefits of a 14" 1080p display on a chassis befitting most 13-inches in the market.
Unbounded display – Providing the highest screen space in such minimal physical space delivers a breathtaking display with more immersive visuals. The laptop also has a high-resolution, clear, and crisp screen for a beautiful creative workspace.
Precision-engineered hinges – Most Chromebooks with backlit keyboards don't pay much attention to the hinges. Still, this one stood out for me with the 360° ErgoLift hinge that secures the display at any angle while enabling silky-smooth action. In addition, setting it on tent mode creates extra space below the machine, which enhances audio.
Reliable performance – The laptop features potent Intel Core processors that deliver impressive app performance with the highest power efficiency. Combining these with G Suite's full power and the numerous productivity tools on Google Play, the Flip C434 allowed me to breeze through everyday tasks.
Connection flexibility – I like how the laptop's two full-function USB-C ports simplified charging and external display connections. The ASUS Chromebook also has a standard USB-A port, a MicroSD slot, and an audio jack. Moreover, you'll like its advanced Wi-Fi 5 connectivity.
Powerfully clear audio – Despite its lightweight and thin design, this unit doesn't compromise audio quality. It has powerful stereo speakers and sufficiently large resonant chambers that deliver high-fidelity audio with surround-sound effects.
Specifications
Viewable screen size | 14-inch |
Resolution | 1920 x 1080 FHD |
CPU | Intel® Core™ i7-8500Y, Core™ i5-8200Y, or Core™ m3-8100Y |
Battery life | Up to 10 hours |
RAM | 8GB / 4GB |
Storage | 128GB / 64GB / 32GB eMMC |
Pros
Cons
Why a Chromebook?
While most entry-level Google Chromebooks may not offer all the bells and whistles that characterize their premium counterparts or gaming laptops, they can get the job done. If you have some extra cash, you can go for the premium brands with impressive features like the USI pen and touchscreens capabilities.
From my experience, Chromebook laptops are among the most portable devices I’ve used. They make the best choice because:
- They're suitable for students – Most learners use these devices ins school. They're accessible and secure laptops that you can simply pull out of your bag and get straight to work.
- They offer seamless web browsing – Chromebooks use browser-based services and software to serve almost every purpose of a regular laptop in terms of web browsing.
- A budget option – A 400-dollar Chromebook feels faster, lighter, and more compact than a Windows-based device in the same price range.
- They make great backups – A Chromebook laptop can be a reliable and affordable secondary device if you already have your main laptop or desktop.
The best experience only comes when you select a suitable machine. Thus, it's essential to familiarize yourself with the key consideration factors for shoppers.
Important Considerations When Shopping for The Best Chromebook with Backlit Keyboard
Pay attention to the following factors when looking for the right Chromebook for your needs:
Design
When it comes to design, you'll have to choose between a standard laptop or two in one. However, if you intend to use android applications on the device, the latter would be the best option as it offers the versatility of a 360-degree hinge. Also, most inexpensive devices in this category have plastic designs, so you'll encounter a pretty affordable variety whether you need a black or white backlit keyboard. Moreover, check for other vital design elements like a touch panel and a stylus pen.
Connectivity Options
Your preferred Chromebook should have the ports you need. Most of these laptops come with at least one USB-A port, but some of the latest models forgo this port to include a complete set of USB Type-C ports. Moreover, you'll encounter options offering additional connectivity options like DisplayPorts and HDMI ports. Therefore, consider how you intend to use the device before you decide on the ports you need.
Touch Screen Functionality
This may not be a top consideration when you're looking for a laptop, but the touch screen feature opens up a vast world of capabilities than you may have thought of—especially if you've never gone hands-on with one. This display enables a deeper level of immersion while offering multiple interactivity levels for all actions. It also provides intuitive navigation to facilitate note-taking, digital art, and seamless use of android applications.
Display Size
Like the touchscreen functionality, your Chromebook's display size also goes a long way in ensuring a more interactive and immersive experience. This is particularly crucial for me because I enjoy using android apps and streaming on the device.
Generally, you don't have numerous options in Chromebooks with backlit keyboards. Most units in my review have a viewable screen size of 14 inches, except the Acer Chromebook 315, which is relatively larger at 15.6 inches.
Local Hardware
The cloud-centered Google Chrome is the primary operating system of the Chromebook. Most key elements and features leverage internet connection, not local hardware. This feature enables the Chromebook to provide lots of functionality at pocket-friendly rates.
So when choosing the best Chromebook with a backlit keyboard, consider your routine and tasks. For example, are you constantly connected to a reliable internet? Do you handle multiple huge files? Fortunately, you have numerous options if you must use local functionality.
- Local Memory (RAM) – RAM is crucial to your device's response time and speed. While Chromebook laptops run most of their functions on the cloud, local memory significantly enhances your online experience. Most users would find the perfect compromise in 4GB of RAM. It's affordable and can handle the most commonly used applications. But if you need extra power, you can get numerous 8GB options or go for Lenovo Flex 5 with 16GB.
- Storage – Your Chromebook laptop's local storage will determine the data you store on your device without leveraging the cloud or compression. Since these laptops have high cloud functionality, local storage mostly stays lower than their iOS or Windows-based options. Most options boast 64GB eMMC, but you can use a 128GB drive. Lenovo Flex 5 goes hard with 512GB SSD.
Updates
You must also consider the availability of updates for a specific Chromebook with a backlit keyboard. For example, devices manufactured in 2018 ceased to receive automatic updates in 2022. Similarly, those released in 2020 will update automatically until 2028.
For this reason, it's essential to research a specific device's update availability. This information is available on Google Chromebook's support site. Additionally, you can update your operating system via the ChromeOS Productivity Launcher. This process entails a few straightforward steps, and you won't end up with many spaces when moving your apps.
Battery Life
On realizing that Chromebooks came with backlit keyboards, one of my most significant concerns was whether these devices had the suitable battery capacity to address this added feature. Interestingly, manufacturers have considered this aspect in their designs. As a result, most of the ChromeOS models offer impressive battery life.
Generally, consider a device that promises sufficient battery life for an entire workday. Your everyday tasks and commute are already a hassle, so you don't need the headache of looking for a charging station time after time.
I only have one piece of advice, though. Always approximate the battery life as 70% of what the manufacturer promises. This was the average difference during my tests.
Durability
ChromeOS laptops have outstanding durability. These machines are far more robust than many iOS and Windows devices and can put up with a substantial beating before finally going to laptop heaven.
So if you value durability, consider a device with a MIL-STD-810G certification. Such a laptop has passed rigorous US Military equipment tests. For instance, the Acer Chromebook 14 can survive falls, sand, extreme humidity, and rain. But you likely don't plan to subject your device to these conditions, so consider your preferred durability.
Brand
The Chromebook with the backlit keyboard you choose is only as good as the manufacturer standing behind it. Precise and timely tech support matters—that's why I decided to test all the major brands in this review. From my experience, Lenovo and ASUS stand out, while HP Chromebook and Acer took third and fourth positions, respectively.
Reliable support is only one aspect that makes a Chromebook worth your money. You must also consider how the respective brands stack up to the competition regarding performance, design, and other criteria.
Budget
Affordability is among the top attractions of Chromebooks. These devices mostly fall within the $199 to $499 price range, several hundred dollars below typical Windows devices (except the new Surface Go). All the factors I've outlined determine the price of a unit. So be sure to place your preferred features and capabilities against the price range you can afford.
FAQs
Do Chromebooks Have Backlit Keyboards?
Yes, ChromeOS laptops have backlit keyboards—but not all. Generally, most low-cost Chromebook keyboards don't have LED lighting. Instead, you'll find it in many mid-range units.
What Acer Chromebook Has a Backlit Keyboard?
Acer offers multiple ChromeOS laptops with backlit keyboards. The best models, which made it to my comprehensive review, include Acer Chromebook Spin 514, Spin 314, and Spin 315. Others include the Chromebook 715 CB715 and Spin 713.
Who Should Consider Buying a Backlit Keyboard Chromebook?
Anyone with experience using the Chrome browser should consider buying a backlit keyboard Chromebook. Such users can adapt to the machine naturally. Typically, it's a laptop of choice for young learners and elderly users who aren't truly conversant with Windows OS.
Can We Install Windows 10 on Chromebook?
Yes, we can install Windows 10 on Chromebook—particularly the models discussed in this review. This wasn't possible with all the Chromebooks—You cannot install the operating system on the older versions. But if you own an advanced version, like those with a backlit keyboard, you can format the disk to support Windows and install the OS via third-party software.