ASUS Chromebook CX15 vs Acer Chromebook Plus 516

The Acer Chromebook Plus 516 is the stronger machine for most people deciding between these two. Its 8GB of RAM and six-core Intel Core i3-1315U handle many browser tabs and heavier web apps far better than the ASUS CX15's 4GB and dual-core N50, and the 16-inch 1920x1200 screen is taller and sharper. The ASUS wins on battery life (rated up to 13 hours versus 10), weight (3.5 lb versus 3.8 lb), and MIL-STD 810H durability, and its 1,816 ratings at 4.3 show a long, steady owner record. Buy the ASUS for light web use, long days away from an outlet, and a bigger, tougher body; buy the Acer if you keep many tabs open or want the extra memory headroom.

• Choose the ASUS Chromebook CX15 if you want the lighter, longer-running laptop for basic browsing, school, and streaming, and you value its military-grade durability rating.
• Choose the Acer Chromebook Plus 516 if you multitask in the browser, want 8GB of RAM and a faster six-core processor, and prefer the taller 16-inch 1920x1200 display.