What To Know
- Both the Chromebook 3 and Chromebook 4 come with a range of features, including a webcam, built-in speakers, and a microphone.
- The Chromebook 4 has a newer generation processor, the Intel Celeron N4000, while the Chromebook 3 has an Intel Celeron N3060 processor.
- Can I upgrade the RAM or storage on the Chromebook 3 or Chromebook 4.
The Samsung Chromebook series offers a range of budget-friendly laptops designed for students, professionals, and everyday users alike. Two popular models in this lineup are the Chromebook 3 and Chromebook 4. While both devices share a similar price point and target audience, they have distinct features and specifications that may sway your purchasing decision. In this comprehensive comparison, we’ll delve into the key differences between the Samsung Chromebook 3 vs 4 to help you make an informed choice.
Design and Build
The Samsung Chromebook 3 sports a classic clamshell design with a plastic exterior. It’s available in a sleek silver color and weighs around 2.5 pounds, making it easy to carry around. The Chromebook 4, on the other hand, features a more modern design with a diamond-cut pattern on its lid. Its construction is also plastic, and it comes in a variety of colors, including black, white, and blue. While both devices feel sturdy enough for daily use, the Chromebook 4’s design may appeal to those seeking a more stylish option.
Display
The Samsung Chromebook 3 comes with an 11.6-inch TN panel with a resolution of 1366 x 768 pixels. The display is not particularly bright, and viewing angles are limited. The Chromebook 4, on the other hand, offers a larger 15.6-inch IPS display with a resolution of 1920 x 1080 pixels. The IPS panel provides better color accuracy and wider viewing angles, making it ideal for watching videos or working on documents.
Performance
Both the Chromebook 3 and Chromebook 4 are powered by Intel Celeron processors, but they differ in generation and clock speed. The Chromebook 3 features an Intel Celeron N3060 processor with a clock speed of 1.6GHz, while the Chromebook 4 has an Intel Celeron N4000 processor with a clock speed of 1.1GHz. While the Chromebook 3 has a higher clock speed, the Chromebook 4’s newer processor generation provides better overall performance.
Storage and Memory
The Samsung Chromebook 3 comes with 4GB of RAM and 32GB of eMMC storage. The Chromebook 4 also has 4GB of RAM but offers a larger 64GB of eMMC storage. While both devices have expandable storage via microSD card slots, the Chromebook 4’s increased storage capacity provides more flexibility for storing files and applications.
Battery Life
Battery life is a crucial factor to consider when choosing a Chromebook. The Samsung Chromebook 3 has a 39Wh battery, while the Chromebook 4 has a larger 48Wh battery. According to Samsung, the Chromebook 3 can last up to 11 hours on a single charge, while the Chromebook 4 can last up to 12.5 hours. However, actual battery life may vary depending on usage patterns.
Features
Both the Chromebook 3 and Chromebook 4 come with a range of features, including a webcam, built-in speakers, and a microphone. The Chromebook 4, however, offers a few additional features that may be useful for some users. These include a backlit keyboard, a USB Type-C port, and a microSD card slot that supports up to 256GB of storage expansion.
Key Points: Making the Right Choice
Ultimately, the best choice between the Samsung Chromebook 3 and Chromebook 4 depends on your individual needs and preferences. If you’re looking for a basic, budget-friendly Chromebook with a smaller display, the Chromebook 3 is a solid option. However, if you value a larger display, better performance, and additional features, the Chromebook 4 is the better choice.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Which Chromebook has a better camera?
Both the Chromebook 3 and Chromebook 4 have a 720p webcam.
2. Does the Chromebook 4 support stylus input?
No, neither the Chromebook 3 nor the Chromebook 4 supports stylus input.
3. Can I install Linux on the Chromebook 3 or Chromebook 4?
Yes, both devices support installing Linux via the Crostini feature.
4. Which Chromebook has a faster processor?
The Chromebook 4 has a newer generation processor, the Intel Celeron N4000, while the Chromebook 3 has an Intel Celeron N3060 processor.
5. Can I upgrade the RAM or storage on the Chromebook 3 or Chromebook 4?
No, the RAM and storage on both devices are not user-upgradeable.
