After being launched last week and available to purchase earlier this week, the $249 Samsung Chromebook sold out of its initial production units in less than 24 hours after initially going on sale in the Google Play Store.
To re-cap, the Samsung Chromebook is equipped with an 11.6-inch screen sporting a resolution of 1366 x 768 pixels, and comes as you would guess running Google’s Chrome operating system, all powered by an ARM-based processor.
Brad Linder over on the Liliputing website has been using the new Samsung Chromebook for a few days and has had time to carry out some early benchmarks for the new notebook, explaining:
“I ran the same tests on an Acer Aspire V5 laptop with an Intel Core i5 Ivy Bridge CPU, Windows 7 software, and the Chrome web browser. It scored higher than either Chromebook, but that laptop also can’t boot in 10 seconds and costs more than $500.”
Adding..
“Here’s what the benchmarks alone won’t tell you. I’ve used the new Samsung Chromebook to write blog posts, conduct research with more than a dozen browser tabs open, and stream video. And so far it’s never felt slower than a typical laptop.”
Performance and Usability
The Samsung Chromebook’s performance is quite impressive given its price point. The ARM-based processor, while not as powerful as Intel’s Core series, is optimized for the Chrome OS, ensuring smooth performance for everyday tasks. Users can comfortably browse the web, stream videos, and even engage in light productivity tasks such as document editing and spreadsheet management. The Chromebook’s ability to handle multiple browser tabs without significant lag is particularly noteworthy, making it a suitable option for students and professionals who rely heavily on web-based applications.
Moreover, the Chromebook’s quick boot time of around 10 seconds is a significant advantage over traditional laptops. This feature is particularly beneficial for users who need to access their devices quickly, whether for a quick email check or an urgent online meeting. The lightweight design and long battery life further enhance its portability, making it an ideal companion for on-the-go use.
Comparisons and Market Impact
When compared to other devices in the same price range, the Samsung Chromebook stands out due to its seamless integration with Google’s ecosystem. The device comes pre-installed with Google apps such as Gmail, Google Drive, and Google Docs, providing users with a comprehensive suite of tools right out of the box. This integration is particularly advantageous for users who are already invested in Google’s services, as it allows for a more cohesive and efficient workflow.
The Chromebook’s affordability also makes it an attractive option for educational institutions looking to provide students with reliable and functional devices without breaking the bank. Many schools have adopted Chromebooks for their ease of use, low maintenance, and the ability to manage multiple devices through Google’s administrative tools.
In terms of market impact, the rapid sell-out of the initial production units indicates a strong demand for affordable, efficient, and user-friendly laptops. The success of the Samsung Chromebook could potentially influence other manufacturers to develop similar devices, further expanding the market for budget-friendly laptops.
Source: Liliputing
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