Acer Spin 11: A New Chromebook That Can Run Android Apps
Acer is credited for producing several advanced laptops in affordable budget, and the company once again tried to push this reputation further ahead with a new laptop. Chromebook Spin 11 is unique for the sheer fact that can run Android apps. It is the best example of what we know as the laptop-tablet hybrid or convertible. In this new brigade of hybrid options that come with flexible joints allowing the use simultaneously as tablets and regular laptops, the new Acer Chromebook Spin 11 is the latest addition.
Advanced customisable specs
Apart from the ease of use that comes with hybrid laptops and convertibles the Chromebook Spin 11 also comes loaded with an array of advanced specs and features. This convertible comes with an 11.6-inch touchscreen display which is fairly larger than most tablet screens in the market and fair enough for a laptop screen. It offers an 11.6-inch IPS touchscreen that offers good touch sensitivity for the users.
The convertible comes with two USB Type-C ports, a microSD card reader and two USB 3.0 ports. It also offers an array of customisable features and components allowing you lot of options to add power to the device. For example, for this convertible you can choose from three different processor options such as Intel Pentium quad-core processor N4200, Intel Celeron quad-core processor N3450 or an Intel Celeron dual-core processor N3350. As for random memory you can choose between 4GB and 8GB of RAM. For onboard storage you have two options such as 32GB and 64GB.
A powerful Wacom stylus
The new Acer Chromebook Spin also comes with a Wacom Stylus pen against a little extra price. The stylus can be used effectively on the touchscreen for on-screen drawing and writing activities. The stylus along with the touchscreen and small form factor makes it an ideal device for students and learners.
Running native Android apps
One of the standout aspect of the new Acer Chromebook Spin 11 is its ability to run native Android apps. In fact, Acer launched 3 new Chrome OS devices respectively as the Chromebook Spin 11, the Chromebook 11 C732 and the Chromebox CX13 and all of them will be able to run native Android apps. With the ease of downloading Android apps and running them on the device will ultimately breach the difference between a laptop and an Android mobile device.
Extensive battery life
The new Chromebook Spin 11 is equipped with a powerful battery that can last as much as 10 hours of use with a single charge. Though this claim by the company is yet to be verified with tests, the battery life of this 360-degree convertible laptop seems to be enough for an extended period of use.
Comparing with the other 2 models
As we have seen Acer Chromebook Spin 11 has been launched along with two other models, respectively as Chromebook 11 C732 and Chromebox CX13. The first of the later two models is basically an education focused convertible laptop model. Chromebook 11 C732 will be available in two LTE-enabled options respectively a high-end version with 11.6-inch IPS touchscreen and Celeron quad-core processor and an elementary model loaded with a Celeron dual-core processor and standard 11.6-inch screen.
On the other hand, Chromebox CX13 is basically a desktop Chrome OS variant which can be configured with an eighth-generation Intel processor to the highest level. It will come loaded with a USB-C 3.1 port, five USB-A ports, HDMI, Ethernet and a microSD slot. This laptop will also be able to use a vertical stand along with a mounting kit for the optional VESA monitor.
In comparison to the Chromebook Spin 11, the new Acer Chromebook 11 C732 is more equipped with lot of durability features common in expensive and sophisticated laptops from other brands. The Chromebox CX13 on the other hand, is more comparable to the advanced desktops with touchscreens.
Pricing and availability
The Chromebook Spin 11 will have a price tag of £339.99 ($349.99) and it is expected to be released in the April beginning.
Final verdict
While every laptop brand is turning to convertibles or hybrids, Chromebook Spin can stand out from the rest simply on account of its exceptional ability to run Android apps. Along with the touchscreen the convertible has breached the gap between laptops and Android mobile devices by allowing to download and run apps from Play Store.
Dhruvil is a Writer & Marketeer for Nimblechapps, joined in December 2014, based out of Sydney, Australia. He has worked briefly as a Branding and Digital Marketing Manager before moving to Australia. At Nimblechapps, he worked on Social Media Marketing, Branding, Email Marketing and Blogging. Dhruvil studies Business at University of Western Sydney, and also handles Operations for the company in Australia.