The Samsung Galaxy Chromebook 2 enters a competitive market as a compelling option for those seeking a premium Chrome OS experience without the wallet-busting price tag of its predecessor.
It’s a significant refinement, addressing some of the core criticisms of the original, particularly its exorbitant cost, while retaining much of the design flair and core functionality that made the Galaxy Chromebook so eye-catching.
This iteration is less about groundbreaking innovation and more about optimization and accessibility, aiming to hit that sweet spot for everyday users, students, and even some light professionals who thrive in the cloud-centric Chrome OS ecosystem.
You’re getting a vibrant QLED display, a sturdy build, and respectable performance for typical Chrome OS tasks, making it a strong contender if you value a sleek form factor and an intuitive, fast operating system for productivity and media consumption.
Here’s a comparison list of top products that might be on your radar alongside the Samsung Galaxy Chromebook 2:
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- Key Features: 13.3-inch QLED touch display, Intel Celeron or Core i3 processor, 4GB/8GB RAM, 64GB/128GB eMMC storage, Wi-Fi 6, Aluminum build, USI Pen support optional.
- Average Price: Around $549 – $699 depending on configuration.
- Pros: Stunning QLED screen, excellent keyboard, stylish design, solid battery life for a Chromebook, good value for the features.
- Cons: Performance can be underwhelming for demanding tasks especially Celeron model, speakers are just okay, no built-in S Pen like the original.
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- Key Features: 13.3-inch OLED display, Qualcomm Snapdragon 7c Gen 2 processor, 4GB/8GB RAM, 64GB/128GB/256GB eMMC storage, detachable keyboard and kickstand included.
- Average Price: Around $399 – $499.
- Pros: Incredible OLED screen for the price, excellent battery life, lightweight and versatile tablet form factor, keyboard cover and stylus included.
- Cons: Arm-based processor can have compatibility quirks with some Linux apps, less powerful than Intel-based Chromebooks, kickstand can be finicky on laps.
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- Key Features: 13.5-inch VertiView display 3:2 aspect ratio, Intel Core i3/i5/i7 processor, 8GB/16GB RAM, 128GB/256GB NVMe SSD, Thunderbolt 4, durable MIL-STD 810H compliant design.
- Average Price: Around $649 – $799.
- Pros: Superb performance, tall 3:2 display is great for productivity, excellent build quality, comprehensive port selection, long battery life.
- Cons: Can be pricier, design is less flashy than the Galaxy Chromebook 2, speakers are mediocre.
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- Key Features: 14-inch FHD touch display, Intel Core i3/i5 processor, 8GB RAM, 64GB/128GB eMMC storage, Wi-Fi 6, Bang & Olufsen speakers.
- Average Price: Around $599 – $749.
- Pros: Solid performance, good keyboard, decent speakers, attractive design, versatile 2-in-1 form factor.
- Cons: Screen could be brighter, battery life is good but not exceptional, slightly bulkier than some competitors.
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- Key Features: 13.3-inch FHD or 4K touch display, Intel Core m3/i5/i7 processor, 8GB/16GB RAM, 64GB/128GB/256GB SSD, magnesium chassis, ‘Hush’ keyboard.
- Average Price: Around $649 – $999.
- Pros: Best-in-class keyboard, incredibly lightweight, premium build, excellent battery life, clean Google software experience.
- Cons: No 2-in-1 functionality, older processor generation no longer updated, can be overpriced for its specs compared to newer models.
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ASUS Chromebook Flip CX5 CX5400
- Key Features: 14-inch FHD touch display, Intel Core i3/i5/i7 processor, 8GB/16GB RAM, 128GB/256GB/512GB NVMe SSD, Wi-Fi 6E, aluminum lid, stylus support.
- Average Price: Around $699 – $999.
- Pros: Powerful performance, good port selection, solid build quality, large trackpad, good battery life.
- Cons: Can be on the heavier side for a Chromebook, design is less sleek than some competitors, screen brightness could be better.
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- Key Features: 12.4-inch PixelSense touch display, Intel Core i5 processor, 4GB/8GB RAM, 128GB/256GB SSD, Windows 11 Home S Mode, fingerprint reader.
- Average Price: Around $599 – $799.
- Pros: Premium design and build quality, excellent keyboard, compact and lightweight, good performance for everyday Windows tasks, full Windows ecosystem.
- Cons: Smaller screen, base model has limited RAM and storage, no keyboard backlight on base model, not a Chromebook different OS experience entirely.
Design and Build Quality: A Premium Aesthetic
Samsung has a knack for industrial design, and the Galaxy Chromebook 2 is a testament to that.
It sheds some of the “over-the-top” design elements of the original, like the bright red finish, for a more refined, professional look, though the vibrant “Fiesta Red” is still an option for those who want to stand out.
The “Mercury Gray” is particularly sleek, giving it a sophisticated vibe.
The all-aluminum chassis feels incredibly sturdy in hand, exuding a premium feel that belies its mid-range price point.
There’s minimal flex in the lid or keyboard deck, which is a welcome improvement over many plastic-bodied Chromebooks.
The All-Aluminum Chassis and Portability
One of the first things you’ll notice about the Galaxy Chromebook 2 is its slim profile and lightweight design. At just 1.23 kg 2.71 lbs and 13.9 mm 0.55 inches thick, it’s genuinely portable. This makes it an ideal companion for students shuttling between classes, commuters working on the go, or anyone who values a device that slips easily into a backpack without adding significant bulk.
- Durability: The aluminum construction doesn’t just look good. it also contributes to the laptop’s durability. While it’s not ruggedized to military standards, it feels robust enough to withstand the typical bumps and jostles of daily use.
- Hinge Design: The 360-degree hinge allows for full tablet mode, tent mode, or stand mode, making it versatile for presentations, media consumption, or note-taking. The hinge itself feels solid and holds the screen firmly in place at any angle, a crucial detail for a 2-in-1.
Color Options and Finish
While the original Galaxy Chromebook was perhaps best known for its striking “Fiesta Red,” the Galaxy Chromebook 2 offers a more subdued yet equally appealing palette.
- Fiesta Red: Still available, this vibrant color makes a statement and is undeniably eye-catching. It’s a bold choice for those who want their tech to reflect their personality.
- Mercury Gray: This is the more professional and understated option. It gives the Chromebook a premium, executive look that wouldn’t feel out of place in a boardroom or a minimalist home office. Both finishes resist fingerprints fairly well, which is a small but appreciated detail in day-to-day use.
Display: A QLED Marvel
This is arguably the crown jewel of the Samsung Galaxy Chromebook 2. Samsung brought its QLED display technology from its TVs to this Chromebook, and the results are stunning. The 13.3-inch Full HD 1920 x 1080 QLED touch screen offers vibrant colors, excellent contrast, and impressive brightness. For a Chromebook in this price range, it’s a significant differentiator and provides a superior visual experience compared to the IPS panels typically found on competitors.
QLED Technology Explained
QLED Quantum Dot LED is a proprietary Samsung technology that enhances color and brightness.
Unlike traditional LED-backlit LCDs, QLED displays use a layer of quantum dots to produce more accurate and vibrant colors. Forza Horizon 5 For Pc Review
- Color Volume and Accuracy: The Galaxy Chromebook 2’s QLED display boasts 100% DCI-P3 color volume, which is a professional standard for color accuracy and gamut. This means it can reproduce a wider range of colors with greater precision than many other displays, making images and videos pop. For creatives or anyone who appreciates good visuals, this is a major plus.
- Brightness: With a peak brightness that feels ample for indoor use, and even holds up reasonably well in brighter environments, the display offers a comfortable viewing experience. While it won’t compete with flagship OLEDs for sheer brightness, it’s more than sufficient for general use. The QLED panel also generally has less susceptibility to burn-in issues than OLED, which can be a peace of mind for some users.
Touchscreen and USI Pen Support
The display is, of course, a touchscreen, allowing for intuitive navigation of Chrome OS and Android apps. More importantly, it supports the Universal Stylus Initiative USI standard.
- Versatility: This means you can use any compatible USI stylus sold separately, unlike the original Galaxy Chromebook which included an S Pen for note-taking, sketching, or marking up documents. This significantly enhances the device’s utility in tablet mode, turning it into a versatile digital notebook or drawing pad.
- Responsiveness: The touchscreen is generally responsive and accurate, and USI stylus input feels smooth with minimal latency, making it a viable tool for creative tasks or digital note-taking for students.
Performance: Handling Chrome OS with Grace
The Samsung Galaxy Chromebook 2 comes in two main processor configurations: an Intel Celeron 5205U and an Intel Core i3-10110U. While the Celeron model is perfectly adequate for basic web browsing, email, and light productivity, the Core i3 variant is where the Chromebook 2 really shines, offering a noticeably snappier experience for more demanding tasks. Remember, this is Chrome OS – it’s designed to be lightweight and efficient, so even the Core i3 isn’t a powerhouse like a Windows laptop, but it’s more than sufficient for the vast majority of Chromebook users.
Intel Celeron vs. Core i3
Choosing between the Celeron and Core i3 is a trade-off between price and performance.
- Celeron 5205U: This dual-core processor is built for entry-level devices. It handles a few browser tabs, streaming video, and basic word processing without much fuss. If your usage is primarily restricted to these activities and budget is your top concern, the Celeron model might suffice. However, don’t expect to run dozens of tabs simultaneously or engage in heavy multi-tasking without some slowdown.
- Real-world scenario: Perfect for a student who mostly uses Google Docs, watches YouTube, and browses a few websites.
- Core i3-10110U: This dual-core, four-thread processor offers a significant performance boost. It handles more demanding workloads with ease, allowing for more browser tabs, smoother Android app performance, and better multitasking. It’s the recommended option for anyone who wants a consistently fluid experience and plans to keep their Chromebook for several years.
- Real-world scenario: Ideal for someone juggling multiple online meetings, switching between various web-based productivity apps, and occasionally editing photos in a web-based editor like Pixlr.
RAM and Storage Configurations
The Galaxy Chromebook 2 typically comes with either 4GB or 8GB of RAM and 64GB or 128GB of eMMC storage.
- RAM: For Chrome OS, 4GB of RAM is the minimum for a comfortable experience, but 8GB is highly recommended if your budget allows. The extra RAM makes a noticeable difference when running multiple applications, streaming high-definition video, or handling more intensive web apps. It helps prevent slowdowns and ensures a smoother transition between tasks.
- Data Point: Industry benchmarks often show that Chromebooks with 8GB RAM perform roughly 20-30% better in multi-tasking scenarios compared to 4GB models, particularly when dozens of tabs are open.
- Storage: 64GB or 128GB of eMMC storage might seem small compared to Windows laptops, but remember that Chrome OS is designed around cloud storage. For most users, this is ample space for the OS, a selection of Android apps, and some offline files. If you frequently download large files or plan to use Linux apps extensively, 128GB offers more breathing room.
- Recommendation: While 64GB is usable, the 128GB variant provides better peace of mind and more flexibility for future use, especially if you plan to install a good number of Android applications.
Everyday Use and Multitasking
For the vast majority of Chrome OS users, the Galaxy Chromebook 2 especially the Core i3 version with 8GB RAM offers a snappy and responsive experience.
- Web Browsing: Browsing the web, even with numerous tabs open, is fluid.
- Streaming: High-definition video streaming on platforms like Netflix, YouTube, and Disney+ is seamless.
- Productivity Apps: Google Workspace Docs, Sheets, Slides and Microsoft 365 web apps run flawlessly.
- Android Apps: While Android app performance can vary depending on the app itself, popular apps like Zoom, Spotify, and various games generally run well. More graphically intensive games might show some frame drops, but lighter games are perfectly playable.
- Linux Apps: The ability to run Linux applications via Crostini is a powerful feature for developers or users needing specific software. The Core i3 model provides a much better experience for this, allowing for smoother operation of IDEs or other Linux-based tools.
Keyboard and Trackpad: A Delightful Typing Experience
Samsung put a significant effort into the keyboard and trackpad, and it shows. The backlit keyboard offers a comfortable typing experience with decent key travel and a satisfying click. The large glass trackpad is smooth, responsive, and supports multi-touch gestures, making navigation intuitive and precise. These are often overlooked aspects in Chromebooks, but Samsung nails them here.
Keyboard Quality and Ergonomics
The keyboard is often a deal-breaker for productivity devices, and thankfully, Samsung delivers.
- Key Travel: The keys offer a decent 1.0mm of key travel, which is better than many ultra-thin laptops. This provides good tactile feedback, preventing the mushy feeling often associated with shallow keyboards.
- Tactile Feedback: Each key press has a satisfying, albeit quiet, click. This makes typing for extended periods less fatiguing and more enjoyable.
- Layout: The standard Chrome OS layout is present, with dedicated keys for things like full-screen, overview, and brightness controls. The keys are well-spaced, reducing the chance of accidental typos.
- Backlighting: The inclusion of backlighting is a crucial feature, especially for working in dimly lit environments. The backlighting is even and has multiple brightness levels, allowing you to adjust it to your preference. This is often missing on more budget-friendly Chromebooks.
Trackpad Responsiveness and Material
The trackpad is another strong point, often lauded in reviews for its quality.
- Material: It’s made of glass, which provides a smooth, low-friction surface for your fingers. This is a significant upgrade from the plastic trackpads found on many competing Chromebooks, which can feel sticky or imprecise.
- Size: The trackpad is generously sized, offering ample room for multi-touch gestures like two-finger scrolling, pinch-to-zoom, and three-finger swipes to switch between apps.
- Accuracy: Tracking is highly accurate and consistent, translating your finger movements into precise cursor control. The click mechanism is also good, offering a solid tactile feedback without being too stiff or loose.
Battery Life and Charging: Powering Through the Day
Battery life is always a critical factor for portable devices, and the Samsung Galaxy Chromebook 2 delivers solid endurance for its class.
While it doesn’t quite match the exceptional longevity of some ARM-based Chromebooks, it easily gets most users through a full workday on a single charge, especially with the Core i3 variant which tends to be more power-efficient than the original’s power-hungry Core i5. Wyze Cam Pan V2 Review
Real-World Battery Performance
Samsung claims up to 13 hours of battery life, and in real-world testing, the Galaxy Chromebook 2 often comes close, particularly during light usage scenarios.
- Light Usage: For typical web browsing, email, and document editing, you can expect to get between 9 and 11 hours of continuous use. This is with screen brightness set to around 60-70%, Wi-Fi on, and a mix of tab activity.
- Moderate Usage: If you’re streaming a lot of video, running multiple Android apps, or engaging in video calls, the battery life will naturally decrease. In these scenarios, expect to get around 7-8 hours.
- QLED Impact: While the QLED screen is beautiful, it can be more power-intensive than standard IPS panels, especially at higher brightness settings. Optimizing brightness is key to maximizing battery life.
Charging Speed and Connectivity
The Galaxy Chromebook 2 uses a USB-C charger, which is a convenient and increasingly universal standard.
- Fast Charging: It supports fast charging, allowing you to quickly top up the battery. A quick 30-minute charge can often provide several hours of additional use, which is incredibly useful when you’re in a pinch.
- USB-C Ports: Both of the USB-C ports on the device can be used for charging, offering flexibility. This also means you can use the same charger for your phone or other compatible devices, reducing clutter when traveling.
- Power Adapter: The included power adapter is compact and easy to carry, further enhancing the device’s portability.
Connectivity and Ports: What’s Available
Connectivity is generally sufficient for a Chromebook, though it’s not as extensive as some Windows laptops. The Samsung Galaxy Chromebook 2 features two USB-C ports, a microSD card slot, and a headphone/mic combo jack. The lack of a traditional USB-A port might be a minor inconvenience for some, necessitating the use of adapters or hubs for older peripherals.
USB-C Ports and Functionality
The two USB-C ports are the primary means of connectivity and power delivery.
- Versatility: These ports support USB 3.2 Gen 1 5Gbps for data transfer, DisplayPort Alt Mode for video output to external monitors, and Power Delivery for charging the Chromebook itself and charging other devices.
- Positioning: One USB-C port is located on each side of the device, which is convenient for charging regardless of your power outlet’s position or for connecting peripherals without cables crossing over.
- Adapters: For users with older USB-A devices, external hard drives, or multiple peripherals, investing in a USB-C hub or adapter is a smart move. These are readily available and can significantly expand the connectivity options.
Wireless Connectivity: Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth 5.0
For wireless connectivity, the Galaxy Chromebook 2 is well-equipped for modern networks.
- Wi-Fi 6 802.11ax: This is the latest Wi-Fi standard, offering faster speeds, lower latency, and improved performance in crowded network environments. If you have a Wi-Fi 6 compatible router, you’ll experience a snappier and more reliable internet connection. Even on older Wi-Fi 5 networks, it provides robust connectivity.
- Bluetooth 5.0: This allows for seamless connection to a wide range of wireless peripherals, including Bluetooth headphones, mice, keyboards, and speakers. Bluetooth 5.0 offers improved range and stability compared to older versions, reducing dropouts and improving audio quality with compatible devices.
- Practical Example: Effortlessly connect your Bose QuietComfort 45 headphones for distraction-free work or your Logitech MX Master 3S mouse for precision navigation.
MicroSD Card Slot and Headphone Jack
These small additions are often appreciated for their utility.
- MicroSD Card Slot: While internal storage might be limited for some, the microSD card slot offers an easy and affordable way to expand storage for documents, photos, and videos. You can use it to permanently add extra space or for quick file transfers from cameras or other devices.
- 3.5mm Headphone/Mic Combo Jack: A standard 3.5mm jack allows you to connect your traditional wired headphones or external microphones for video calls, ensuring compatibility with a wide range of audio accessories without needing an adapter.
Software and Ecosystem: Chrome OS Experience
The Samsung Galaxy Chromebook 2 runs on Google’s Chrome OS, a lightweight, cloud-centric operating system built around the Chrome browser. This OS is known for its speed, simplicity, security, and tight integration with Google services. For users already heavily invested in the Google ecosystem Gmail, Google Drive, Google Photos, etc., the transition to Chrome OS is virtually seamless.
Chrome OS Benefits and Features
Chrome OS offers a distinct computing experience compared to Windows or macOS.
- Speed and Simplicity: Chromebooks boot up in a matter of seconds, and the interface is incredibly intuitive and easy to navigate, even for first-time users. There’s minimal bloatware, contributing to its responsiveness.
- Security: Chrome OS boasts robust built-in security features, including automatic updates, sandboxing of applications, and verified boot, making it highly resistant to viruses and malware. Updates happen silently in the background, ensuring you’re always running the latest, most secure version.
- Cloud Integration: Everything is designed around the cloud. Files are primarily stored on Google Drive, and applications are mostly web-based or Android apps. This makes it easy to access your work from any device and simplifies backups.
- Automatic Updates: Google provides 8 years of automatic updates from the device’s release date, ensuring the Galaxy Chromebook 2 will continue to receive security patches and new features for a long time. This is a significant advantage over many budget Windows laptops which may lose software support much sooner.
Android App Integration and Linux Support
A key strength of modern Chrome OS is its ability to run Android apps and, for more advanced users, Linux applications. Tile Slim Review
- Android Apps Google Play Store: The Google Play Store is integrated, allowing you to download and run millions of Android applications directly on your Chromebook. This significantly expands the device’s functionality, enabling you to use productivity apps like Microsoft Office Mobile, entertainment apps like Netflix or Spotify, and a vast array of games.
- Performance Note: While most Android apps run well, performance can vary. Apps designed primarily for touchscreens may feel less intuitive with a keyboard and trackpad, though many adapt well.
- Linux Crostini: For developers, tinkerers, or those needing specific desktop applications, Chrome OS offers the ability to run a full Linux environment Debian-based within a container. This means you can install and use software like GIMP for image editing, VS Code for programming, or LibreOffice for a traditional office suite if the web versions don’t suffice.
- Resource Demands: Running Linux apps does require more system resources, so the Core i3 model with 8GB of RAM is highly recommended for a smooth experience.
User Experience and Ecosystem
The overall user experience with Chrome OS on the Galaxy Chromebook 2 is polished and efficient.
- Seamless Google Services: If you’re already deeply embedded in Google’s ecosystem, you’ll feel right at home. Your Chrome browser settings, bookmarks, and passwords sync instantly. Google Drive is natively integrated into the file manager.
- Smart Lock: Use your Android phone to automatically unlock your Chromebook when it’s nearby, a convenient security feature.
- Phone Hub: A dedicated Phone Hub icon allows you to manage your Android phone directly from your Chromebook, including checking notifications, sending texts, and even seeing your phone’s battery level.
- Virtual Desktops: Chrome OS supports virtual desktops, which are incredibly useful for organizing your workspace. You can have one desktop for work, another for personal browsing, and easily switch between them.
Audio and Webcam: Functional but Not Standout
While the Galaxy Chromebook 2 excels in display and design, the audio and webcam performance are more in line with what you’d expect from a mid-range laptop.
They are perfectly functional for everyday tasks like video calls and casual media consumption, but they won’t blow you away.
Speaker Quality
The stereo speakers are located on the bottom of the device.
- Sound Profile: They produce decent volume for personal listening but lack significant bass or richness. Audio can sound a bit tinny, especially at higher volumes.
- Clarity: For casual YouTube videos, podcasts, or background podcast, they are perfectly adequate. For a richer audio experience, especially for movies or podcast, you’ll definitely want to connect external speakers or headphones.
- Placement: The bottom-firing speakers can sometimes be muffled if the device is placed on a soft surface like a bed or lap.
Webcam Performance
The 720p HD webcam is located above the display.
- Resolution: A 720p resolution is standard for most laptops in this price range. It’s sufficient for video conferencing, but don’t expect crystal-clear, highly detailed images.
- Image Quality: In good lighting conditions, the image is generally clear and bright enough for professional video calls. However, in low-light environments, image quality can degrade, showing more noise and less detail.
- Microphone: The built-in microphones are adequate for picking up your voice during calls. They include some basic noise cancellation but aren’t designed for studio-quality audio.
- Use Cases: For daily video meetings on Google Meet or Zoom, the webcam and microphone will get the job done. If you frequently participate in important presentations or stream, an external webcam and microphone Logitech C920S Webcam and Blue Yeti Nano microphone would be a worthwhile upgrade for superior clarity and sound.
Who is the Samsung Galaxy Chromebook 2 For?
The Samsung Galaxy Chromebook 2 carves out a niche for itself as a premium-feeling Chromebook without the premium price tag of its predecessor.
It’s an excellent choice for a specific type of user who values design, display quality, and a streamlined computing experience.
Ideal User Profiles
- Students: Its portability, long battery life, and access to Google Workspace make it an ideal tool for note-taking, research, and collaborative projects. The QLED screen is a bonus for media consumption after classes.
- Casual Users and Home Use: For web browsing, email, social media, streaming videos, and light productivity, it excels. It’s also a great secondary device for families or as a dedicated media consumption tablet.
- Travelers and Commuters: Its lightweight design, sturdy build, and reliable battery life make it a fantastic companion for working or entertaining yourself on the go.
- Google Ecosystem Enthusiasts: If you’re already deeply ingrained in Google services Gmail, Drive, Photos, Docs, the seamless integration of Chrome OS will be a major selling point.
- Those Prioritizing Display Quality: The QLED screen is arguably the best in its price segment for a Chromebook, making it perfect for anyone who consumes a lot of visual content.
- Remote Workers Light Duty: For remote workers whose tasks are primarily web-based CRM, online communication tools, Google Workspace, the Core i3 model provides a very capable and secure platform.
Who It Might Not Be For
- Power Users and Professionals Needing Specific Software: If you require Windows-only applications e.g., heavy video editing suites like Adobe Premiere Pro, complex CAD software, or high-end gaming, a Chromebook, even a powerful one, is not a suitable replacement for a Windows or macOS machine. While Linux support expands capabilities, it’s not a full substitute for native desktop applications.
- Hardcore Gamers: While some Android games are available, the Galaxy Chromebook 2 is not designed for graphically demanding PC games.
- Users Needing Abundant Local Storage: If you frequently work with very large files locally or prefer to store everything on your device, the relatively limited eMMC storage might be a constraint, even with microSD expansion.
- Extreme Budget Shoppers: While much more affordable than the original, it’s still priced higher than entry-level Chromebooks. There are cheaper options available if raw cost is the absolute priority over premium features.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the main improvements of the Samsung Galaxy Chromebook 2 over the original?
The main improvements are its significantly lower price point, the move to a QLED display from OLED which offers vibrant colors and brightness while helping reduce cost, and more power-efficient Intel Core i3 and Celeron processors which lead to better battery life. It also has a more refined, less flashy design.
Does the Samsung Galaxy Chromebook 2 come with a stylus?
No, unlike the original Galaxy Chromebook, the Galaxy Chromebook 2 does not include a stylus S Pen in the box. However, it supports the Universal Stylus Initiative USI standard, meaning you can purchase any compatible USI pen separately. Xpg Mage Review
Is the Samsung Galaxy Chromebook 2 good for students?
Yes, the Samsung Galaxy Chromebook 2 is excellent for students. Its lightweight and durable design, long battery life, access to Google Workspace and Android apps for productivity and learning, and the versatile 2-in-1 form factor make it an ideal companion for schoolwork and note-taking.
Can I run Microsoft Office on the Samsung Galaxy Chromebook 2?
Yes, you can run Microsoft Office on the Samsung Galaxy Chromebook 2. You can use the web versions of Microsoft Office 365 Word, Excel, PowerPoint, etc. through the Chrome browser, or download the Android versions of the Office apps from the Google Play Store.
What is the battery life of the Samsung Galaxy Chromebook 2?
The Samsung Galaxy Chromebook 2 offers solid battery life, typically ranging from 9 to 11 hours of continuous use with mixed tasks like web browsing and video streaming, depending on the brightness settings and usage. Samsung claims up to 13 hours.
Is the display on the Samsung Galaxy Chromebook 2 good for media consumption?
Yes, the QLED display on the Samsung Galaxy Chromebook 2 is exceptional for media consumption. It offers vibrant colors, excellent contrast, and good brightness, making movies, TV shows, and photos look fantastic.
Does the Samsung Galaxy Chromebook 2 have a backlit keyboard?
Yes, the Samsung Galaxy Chromebook 2 features a backlit keyboard, which is a great feature for typing in low-light conditions.
What kind of ports does the Samsung Galaxy Chromebook 2 have?
The Samsung Galaxy Chromebook 2 has two USB-C ports, a microSD card slot, and a 3.5mm headphone/mic combo jack. It does not have traditional USB-A ports.
Can I connect an external monitor to the Samsung Galaxy Chromebook 2?
Yes, you can connect an external monitor to the Samsung Galaxy Chromebook 2 using one of its USB-C ports, which supports DisplayPort Alt Mode for video output.
Is the Samsung Galaxy Chromebook 2 good for gaming?
The Samsung Galaxy Chromebook 2 is not designed for intensive gaming. It can run most Android games from the Google Play Store well, but it won’t handle demanding PC games.
How much storage does the Samsung Galaxy Chromebook 2 have?
The Samsung Galaxy Chromebook 2 typically comes with either 64GB or 128GB of eMMC storage. This can be expanded using the microSD card slot.
Which processor is better for the Samsung Galaxy Chromebook 2, Celeron or Core i3?
For most users, the Intel Core i3 processor is significantly better for the Samsung Galaxy Chromebook 2. It offers noticeably snappier performance, better multitasking capabilities, and a smoother experience, especially if you plan to run multiple tabs or Android/Linux apps. The Celeron is only recommended for very basic use and tight budgets. Onelogin Review
Is the Samsung Galaxy Chromebook 2 a 2-in-1 convertible?
Yes, the Samsung Galaxy Chromebook 2 is a 2-in-1 convertible laptop. Its 360-degree hinge allows it to be used in laptop, tent, stand, and tablet modes.
What is the weight of the Samsung Galaxy Chromebook 2?
The Samsung Galaxy Chromebook 2 weighs approximately 1.23 kg 2.71 lbs, making it quite lightweight and portable.
Does the Samsung Galaxy Chromebook 2 support Wi-Fi 6?
Yes, the Samsung Galaxy Chromebook 2 supports Wi-Fi 6 802.11ax, providing faster and more reliable wireless connectivity.
Is the Samsung Galaxy Chromebook 2 durable?
The Samsung Galaxy Chromebook 2 features an all-aluminum chassis which gives it a premium feel and contributes to its durability, making it feel sturdy and well-built for everyday use.
Can I use Linux apps on the Samsung Galaxy Chromebook 2?
Yes, you can enable and run Linux applications via Crostini on the Samsung Galaxy Chromebook 2. This is particularly smooth on the Core i3 model with 8GB RAM.
How does the QLED display compare to OLED or IPS?
The QLED display on the Galaxy Chromebook 2 offers vibrant colors and excellent contrast that are superior to most IPS panels. While it may not have the perfect blacks of an OLED, it generally avoids the risk of burn-in associated with OLED technology and still delivers a stunning visual experience.
Is the webcam good for video conferencing?
The Samsung Galaxy Chromebook 2 has a 720p HD webcam which is perfectly functional for video conferencing and online meetings, providing adequate image quality in good lighting conditions. For professional streaming, an external webcam might be preferred.
Can I charge the Samsung Galaxy Chromebook 2 with a power bank?
Yes, as long as the power bank supports USB Power Delivery PD and provides sufficient wattage typically 45W or 65W is recommended, you can charge the Samsung Galaxy Chromebook 2 with it.
Does the Samsung Galaxy Chromebook 2 have a fan?
Yes, both the Celeron and Core i3 versions of the Samsung Galaxy Chromebook 2 are fan-cooled. The fan is generally quiet during light use but can spin up under heavier loads.
Is the trackpad good on the Samsung Galaxy Chromebook 2?
Yes, the trackpad on the Samsung Galaxy Chromebook 2 is excellent. It’s a large, smooth glass trackpad that is highly responsive and accurate, supporting multi-touch gestures effectively. Lenovo Ideapad 3 14 Review
How much RAM does the Samsung Galaxy Chromebook 2 need?
While the base model comes with 4GB, 8GB of RAM is highly recommended for the Samsung Galaxy Chromebook 2 to ensure a smoother multitasking experience, especially if you open many browser tabs or use Android/Linux apps frequently.
Can I upgrade the RAM or storage on the Samsung Galaxy Chromebook 2?
No, the RAM is soldered to the motherboard and the eMMC storage is not user-replaceable or upgradeable on the Samsung Galaxy Chromebook 2. Choose your configuration carefully.
What operating system does the Samsung Galaxy Chromebook 2 use?
The Samsung Galaxy Chromebook 2 runs on Google’s Chrome OS, a fast, secure, and cloud-centric operating system.
How long will the Samsung Galaxy Chromebook 2 receive software updates?
Samsung Chromebooks typically receive automatic software and security updates from Google for 8 years from the device’s release date.
Is the Samsung Galaxy Chromebook 2 good for creative tasks like drawing?
With its QLED touchscreen and USI pen support stylus sold separately, the Samsung Galaxy Chromebook 2 is decent for light creative tasks like digital note-taking, sketching, and marking up documents. For professional digital art, dedicated drawing tablets or more powerful Windows/macOS devices might be more suitable.
What are the main competitors of the Samsung Galaxy Chromebook 2?
Key competitors include the Lenovo Chromebook Duet 5, Acer Chromebook Spin 713, HP Chromebook x360 14c, and the ASUS Chromebook Flip CX5, among others.
Is the Samsung Galaxy Chromebook 2 good value for money?
Yes, the Samsung Galaxy Chromebook 2 is generally considered to offer good value for money, especially the Core i3 variant. It provides a premium design, an excellent QLED display, and a solid Chrome OS experience at a competitive price point compared to its predecessor and some rivals with similar features.
Can I use external accessories like a mouse and keyboard with the Samsung Galaxy Chromebook 2?
Yes, you can easily connect external accessories like a Bluetooth mouse and keyboard or USB-C wired peripherals to the Samsung Galaxy Chromebook 2, enhancing your productivity setup.
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