ASUS Chromebook CX15 vs Acer Chromebook Plus Spin 514

The Acer Chromebook Plus Spin 514 is the stronger machine: a 14-inch 1920x1200 touchscreen, 12GB RAM, 256GB storage, a backlit keyboard and a convertible hinge. The ASUS CX15 is a bigger, simpler 15.6-inch laptop with a 180-degree lay-flat hinge and MIL-STD 810H durability, but 4GB RAM and a 2-core N50 limit it to light browser work. Buy the Acer for multitasking, touch and portability; buy the ASUS for a large screen and a low-effort couch or classroom machine. Owner reports on the Acer include hinge and screen defects on refurbished units, so check the return window.

• Choose the ASUS Chromebook CX15 if you want a large 15.6-inch screen for browsing, video and documents and you keep few tabs open.
• Choose the Acer Chromebook Plus Spin 514 if you multitask, want touch and a backlit keyboard, or need a compact convertible for class and travel.