Samsung Chromebook 4 vs 4+: The Ultimate Comparison Guide

The Samsung Chromebook 4 and 4+ are both excellent budget-friendly Chromebooks, offering a solid blend of performance and portability. But with their subtle differences, choosing the right one for your needs can be tricky. This comprehensive comparison will delve into the key features, performance, and overall value of each model, helping you decide which Samsung Chromebook is the perfect fit.

Design and Display: A Similar Aesthetic with a Key Difference

Both the Samsung Chromebook 4 and 4+ sport a sleek and modern design with a durable plastic build. The 11.6-inch display on both models features a 1366 x 768 resolution, offering decent clarity for everyday tasks. However, the Chromebook 4+ boasts a significant upgrade: a touchscreen display. This addition opens up new possibilities for navigation and interaction, making it more versatile for multimedia consumption and casual gaming.

Performance: A Slight Edge for the Chromebook 4+

The Samsung Chromebook 4 is powered by a MediaTek Kompanio 828 processor, while the Chromebook 4+ utilizes the slightly more powerful MediaTek Kompanio 828L. This difference in processing power translates to a smoother experience on the Chromebook 4+ for demanding tasks like multitasking or running multiple browser tabs. However, both models offer sufficient performance for everyday use, including web browsing, document editing, and streaming.

Storage and Memory: Ample Options for Budget-Conscious Users

Both Chromebooks offer 4GB of RAM, which is sufficient for basic tasks and web browsing. However, the Chromebook 4+ provides a larger storage option of 64GB, compared to the Chromebook 4’s 32GB. This extra storage is beneficial for users who store a lot of files locally, download large files frequently, or prefer to have a more spacious digital workspace.

Battery Life: Long-Lasting Power for Both Models

Both the Samsung Chromebook 4 and 4+ boast impressive battery life, capable of lasting up to 12 hours on a single charge. This makes them ideal for students, professionals, or anyone who needs a reliable device for extended periods without needing to worry about power outlets.

Connectivity: Essential Ports and Wireless Options

Both Chromebooks offer standard connectivity features, including Wi-Fi 5 for reliable wireless connectivity, Bluetooth 5.0 for seamless pairing with peripherals, and a headphone jack for audio output. Additionally, they both include two USB-C ports, allowing for charging and data transfer.

Key Differences: A Summary of the Pros and Cons

Samsung Chromebook 4:

• Pros:
• More affordable price point
• Durable plastic build
• Long battery life
• Cons:
• Non-touchscreen display
• Limited storage option (32GB)

Samsung Chromebook 4+:

• Pros:
• Touchscreen display
• More powerful processor
• Larger storage option (64GB)
• Cons:
• Higher price than the Chromebook 4

Which One Should You Choose?

Ultimately, the best Samsung Chromebook for you depends on your individual needs and budget. If you’re looking for a budget-friendly option with long battery life and a durable build, the Samsung Chromebook 4 is a great choice. However, if you value a touchscreen display, more storage space, and a slight performance boost, the Samsung Chromebook 4+ is the better option.

Beyond the Basics: Additional Considerations

While the core features and specifications are important, there are other factors to consider when deciding between the Samsung Chromebook 4 and 4+. Here are a few additional points to ponder:

• Operating System: Both Chromebooks run on Chrome OS, Google’s lightweight and secure operating system. This ensures a seamless experience across all devices and provides access to a vast library of Android apps.
• Keyboard and Trackpad: Both models feature comfortable keyboards and responsive trackpads, providing a smooth typing and navigation experience.
• Portability: With their compact size and lightweight design, both Chromebooks are easy to carry around, making them ideal for students or professionals on the go.

The Final Verdict: A Solid Choice for Budget-Conscious Users

The Samsung Chromebook 4 and 4+ are both excellent budget-friendly options that offer a solid blend of features, performance, and value. The choice ultimately boils down to your individual needs and priorities. If you’re looking for a simple, affordable Chromebook with long battery life, the Samsung Chromebook 4 is a great choice. However, if you value a touchscreen display, more storage space, and a slightly more powerful processor, the Samsung Chromebook 4+ is the superior option.

Information You Need to Know

Q1: Can I upgrade the storage on either Chromebook?
A: Unfortunately, both models have soldered storage, meaning you cannot upgrade them.
Q2: Which Chromebook is better for gaming?
A: While both Chromebooks can handle casual games, the Chromebook 4+ offers a slightly better gaming experience due to its more powerful processor.
Q3: Is there a significant difference in screen quality between the two models?
A: While the Chromebook 4+ offers a touchscreen experience, both models have the same resolution and display technology, making the screen quality comparable.
Q4: Which Chromebook is better for students?
A: Both Chromebooks are excellent options for students, offering long battery life, portability, and access to educational apps. The Chromebook 4+ might be slightly preferable due to its touchscreen display, which can be helpful for interactive learning.
Q5: Can I use both Chromebooks for video editing?
A: While both models can handle basic video editing, they are not ideal for professional-level video editing. For demanding video editing tasks, consider a Chromebook with more powerful hardware.