Skip to main content

Dell unwraps its very first Chromebook, priced under $300

dell reveals chromebook 11 price specs release date
Image used with permission by copyright holder

With Acer and HP already in on the Chromebook game, Dell has decided to cannonball itself into the Chrome OS-colored waters too.

Dell just announced the Chromebook 11, which is aimed at the education sector and is powered by a 4th-generation Intel Celeron 2955U processor, 11.6-inch 1366 x 768 display, a 16GB SSD and Intel integrated graphics. Dell states that there will be two flavors of the Chromebook 11 available; one will include 2GB of RAM, while the other unit doubles that figure to 4GB. The Chromebook 11 will support 802.11 a/b/g/n Wi-Fi connectivity, Bluetooth 4.0 and sport a pair of USB 3.0 ports along with an HDMI out. The Chromebook 11 will also be pretty easy to carry around; its weight “starts” at 2.9 pounds. Skype-ing and collaborating on projects and lessons will be made possible by the Chromebook 11’s front-facing 720p webcam. Dell also claims battery life of “up to 10-hours.”

Recommended Videos

Here’s what Caesar Sengupta, Google VP of Product Management, had to say about the announcement.

“Adding Dell’s first Chromebook to our stable of devices built for the classroom is a big milestone, and Dell has been a great partner in this effort. The Dell Chromebook 11 with Google Apps for Education will bring exciting new possibilities for learning and collaboration inside and outside the classroom.”

 The 2GB Chromebook 11 will be available starting January 2014, while the 4GB model is slated to hit the market sometime during the first quarter of next year. Though exact pricing details haven’t been revealed, Dell stated that both models should sell under $300 and will be available in both the U.S. and U.K..

Konrad Krawczyk
Former Digital Trends Contributor
Konrad covers desktops, laptops, tablets, sports tech and subjects in between for Digital Trends. Prior to joining DT, he…
This Dell Chromebook is $31 — it doesn’t get any cheaper than that
The Dell Chromebook 3180 on a white background.

Most shoppers opt for Chromebooks because they're generally cheaper than traditional laptop deals, but you probably didn't think they can get as cheap as this: the Dell Chromebook 3180, which had prices starting at $219 when it was released in 2017, is down to a very affordable $31 from Walmart. That's $188 in savings, but there's a catch -- this isn't a brand new device. If you're fine with that, and you just need a basic machine for simple tasks, then proceed with your purchase immediately if you don't want to miss out on this bargain.

Why you should buy the Dell Chromebook 3180
The Dell Chromebook 3180 doesn't look like it offers much in terms of performance, as it's only equipped with the Intel Celeron N3060 processor, Intel HD Graphics 400, and 4GB of RAM. However, since it's a Chromebook that's powered by Google's Chrome OS, it runs smoother than you would expect, as the operating system relies heavily on online apps for a lighter load on the device's systems. The Chromebook also comes with an 11.6-inch screen with HD resolution that keeps it portable, 16GB of internal storage that you can supplement with extra space on Google Drive, and a battery that can run for five hours on a single charge.

Read more
Do you need antivirus software on a Chromebook?
Chromebook on a table with a mouse and headphones

If you’re considering buying a Chromebook or have already made your purchase, you’re here because you want to know if you should invest in antivirus software for your new gadget. It's a common concern, especially considering how often these devices are used in education or corporate settings.

You’ll find varying opinions on whether or not you need an antivirus tool for a Chromebook. Some say that every computer should have such a tool no matter what, while others state that antivirus software is a waste of money when it comes to ChromeOS.

Read more
How to play Minecraft on a Chromebook
A player stands outside their village with mobs in Minecraft Legends.

Minecraft is the kind of cross-platform game that just keeps getting better. With tons of developer support, and mods a-plenty, there’s several ways you can experience the thrills of building, mining, and avoiding zombies. You’ll even be able to play Minecraft on a Chromebook, and no, it’s not going to fry your new 2-in-1.

Read more