The Asus Chromebook Plus CX34 is a budget-friendly Chromebook that signifies a new direction for Chromebooks, offering enhanced performance and features at an affordable price. The CX34 is part of Google's "Chromebook Plus" initiative, aimed at elevating the Chromebook experience beyond what was previously available in the budget category. This in-depth examination will explore the CX34's design, performance, features, and value proposition, contrasting it with other Chromebooks in the market.

Affordable Powerhouse: A Shift in Chromebook Expectations

The CX34, priced at $399, challenges the notion that affordable Chromebooks must compromise on performance. It comes equipped with an Intel Core i3-1215U processor, a step up from the MediaTek and Celeron chips commonly found in this price range. This, combined with 8GB of RAM, previously the maximum RAM in most Chromebooks, and a 128GB UFS storage drive, positions the CX34 closer to premium Chromebooks in terms of hardware. The use of UFS storage, though not yet mainstream in laptops, is noteworthy, as it offers the potential for faster data access compared to the traditional eMMC storage found in most Chromebooks.

The CX34’s performance in benchmark tests validates this shift in expectations. It matches the significantly more expensive Acer Chromebook Spin 714 (2023) in productivity tests and surpasses other budget-friendly models by a large margin. This performance leap is not solely due to the CX34’s hardware. The new Chromebook Plus standards play a significant role, mandating more RAM and better processors across the board. This means even the most basic Chromebook Plus models, like the CX34, offer a performance level previously only found in premium models.

Design and Durability: Balancing Affordability with Practicality

While the CX34's performance may surprise, its design cues remain consistent with its budget-friendly nature. The plastic chassis, while clean and presentable, does exhibit some flex. However, this doesn't translate into a flimsy feel during everyday use. Asus’s claim of MIL-STD-810 certification adds a layer of assurance regarding the CX34's durability. This certification indicates the CX34 can withstand a variety of environmental stresses, including extreme temperatures, humidity, vibration, and even drops, making it a suitable choice for students or anyone needing a robust device.

The CX34 incorporates thoughtful design elements that enhance usability. The spacious 5.7-inch touchpad and comfortable keyboard contribute to a positive typing experience. The inclusion of a 1080p webcam with a physical shutter, a rarity in this price range, is a welcome addition, allowing for better video call quality and privacy.

Beyond the Basics: Connectivity and ChromeOS Enhancements

The CX34 stands out in terms of connectivity, offering a comprehensive set of ports that are often absent in budget-friendly laptops. These include dual USB-C ports, two USB Type-A ports, a full-size HDMI output, and an audio jack. This wide array of ports allows for seamless connection to peripherals, displays, and other devices, expanding the CX34’s versatility beyond basic computing tasks.

The CX34 benefits from the latest ChromeOS enhancements, pushing the Chromebook experience closer to a full-fledged PC environment. These enhancements include:

• Integration of Android apps: Expanding the functionality of Chromebooks by allowing users to access a wide range of Android applications.
• Cloud gaming capabilities: Providing access to a library of games streamed from the cloud, leveraging the power of remote servers rather than relying solely on the device's hardware.
• ChromeOS-optimized creative tools: Adobe and LumaTouch now offer ChromeOS-compatible tools for photo and video editing, previously a limitation of Chromebooks.

Value Proposition: Redefining Affordable Chromebooks

The Asus Chromebook Plus CX34 is a prime example of the Chromebook Plus initiative’s impact. It redefines the expectations for an affordable Chromebook, offering performance, features, and design elements previously only found in more expensive models.

Here’s a summary of what makes the CX34 a compelling choice:

• Robust Performance: Powered by an Intel Core i3 processor and 8GB of RAM, the CX34 delivers smooth performance for everyday tasks, matching and even surpassing some premium Chromebooks.
• Enhanced ChromeOS: The latest ChromeOS enhancements, including Android app integration, cloud gaming, and new creative tools, make the CX34 a more versatile and capable device.
• Comprehensive Connectivity: The CX34’s wide array of ports provides flexibility in connecting peripherals and displays.
• Durable Design: MIL-STD-810 certification ensures the CX34 can withstand the rigors of daily use.
• Affordable Price: At $399, the CX34 offers exceptional value, delivering premium-level features and performance at a budget-friendly price.

While the battery life, though exceeding 12 hours, is not a significant improvement over existing Chromebooks, it is still more than sufficient for a full day of work or school. The UFS storage, while promising, remains unproven in the long term.

Despite these minor drawbacks, the Asus Chromebook Plus CX34 is a clear winner in the budget Chromebook category, earning an Editor's Choice award for its impressive combination of performance, features, and affordability. It represents a new direction for Chromebooks, demonstrating that powerful and versatile devices are no longer out of reach for budget-conscious consumers.

Summary For Chromebook Plus CX34