- Which is better for college work?
- The IdeaPad Slim 3, unless every assignment is browser-based. Windows runs Office desktop, statistics and design software that Chrome OS cannot. The Chromebook M covers Docs, Gmail and web apps with far better battery.
- Is the Chromebook M worth $180 less?
- Yes if you only need a browser. At $189 at Best Buy as of November 7, 2026 it costs about half the IdeaPad's $369 at Amazon, and it lasts far longer per charge. The savings buy a machine that cannot run Windows apps or hold much locally.
- Which lasts longer on a charge?
- The Chromebook M by a wide margin: 16 rated hours versus 2 on the IdeaPad Slim 3. Treat the IdeaPad figure as a warning that it needs an outlet most of the day.
- Can I upgrade the RAM or storage?
- Not on the IdeaPad Slim 3, whose 16 GB is soldered, though its 512 GB SSD is replaceable. The Chromebook M ships with 4 GB RAM and 64 GB storage, and Chromebooks of this class are generally not upgradeable.
- Which has the better screen?
- The Chromebook M's 1920x1200 16:10 panel is sharper and taller. The IdeaPad's 15.6-inch 1080p panel is brighter at 300 nits and adds touch, which the Chromebook lacks.
- Do either run Microsoft Office?
- The IdeaPad runs full desktop Office. The Chromebook M runs the web versions of Word, Excel and PowerPoint through Chrome, which need an internet connection for full function.
