What To Know
- While the Go edges out the Chromebook 4 slightly in this regard, both devices provide ample power for a full day of use without needing to worry about constantly searching for an outlet.
- Both the Samsung Chromebook Go and Chromebook 4 run on the latest version of Chrome OS, offering a streamlined and user-friendly experience.
- While the price difference is noticeable, the Chromebook 4 offers a more powerful processor, more RAM options, and additional ports, making it a compelling choice for those seeking a bit more performance and versatility.
Choosing the right Chromebook can be a daunting task, especially when navigating the vast array of options available. If you’re looking for a budget-friendly device that offers solid performance and portability, the Samsung Chromebook Go vs. 4 comparison might be exactly what you need. Both devices boast impressive features at affordable price points, but understanding their differences is crucial to making the right choice. This comprehensive guide will delve into the key aspects of each Chromebook, helping you decide which one aligns best with your needs and preferences.
Design and Display: Sleek and Portable vs. Affordable and Functional
The Samsung Chromebook Go stands out with its sleek and compact design, weighing in at a mere 2.2 lbs. Its 14-inch display offers a vibrant 1366 x 768 resolution, ensuring crisp visuals for everyday tasks. The Chromebook 4, on the other hand, opts for a slightly larger 15.6-inch display with the same resolution. While it’s a tad heavier at 3.8 lbs, it provides a larger canvas for multitasking and media consumption. Both devices feature durable plastic construction, making them ideal for everyday use.
Performance: The Power of Choice
The Samsung Chromebook Go is powered by a MediaTek Kompanio 828 processor, which delivers smooth performance for basic tasks like web browsing, email, and document editing. The Chromebook 4, however, packs a bit more punch with its Intel Celeron N4020 processor, allowing for slightly more demanding activities like light gaming and video editing. While both devices handle everyday tasks efficiently, the Chromebook 4 offers a noticeable performance edge for more resource-intensive applications.
Storage and RAM: Balancing Capacity and Speed
The Samsung Chromebook Go comes in two storage options: 32GB and 64GB, both with 4GB of RAM. The Chromebook 4, however, offers a wider range of configurations: 32GB and 64GB storage options, paired with either 4GB or 8GB of RAM. While the Go’s 4GB RAM is sufficient for basic tasks, the Chromebook 4’s 8GB option provides a significant boost for multitasking and handling larger files.
Battery Life: All-Day Productivity
Both the Samsung Chromebook Go and Chromebook 4 boast impressive battery life, making them perfect for on-the-go productivity. The Chromebook Go promises up to 12 hours of battery life, while the Chromebook 4 offers up to 10 hours. While the Go edges out the Chromebook 4 slightly in this regard, both devices provide ample power for a full day of use without needing to worry about constantly searching for an outlet.
Connectivity and Ports: Staying Connected
Both Chromebooks offer a standard array of connectivity options, including Wi-Fi 5 and Bluetooth 5.0. The Chromebook Go features two USB-C ports, while the Chromebook 4 offers a more diverse selection with two USB-C ports, one USB-A port, and an HDMI port. This makes the Chromebook 4 more versatile for connecting to external devices, such as projectors or hard drives.
Software and Features: The Chrome OS Advantage
Both the Samsung Chromebook Go and Chromebook 4 run on the latest version of Chrome OS, offering a streamlined and user-friendly experience. With access to the Google Play Store, you can enjoy a wide range of Android apps, expanding the functionality of your device. Both Chromebooks also benefit from automatic software updates, ensuring you always have the latest security patches and features.
Price and Value: Finding the Sweet Spot
The Samsung Chromebook Go is positioned as the more affordable option, typically priced around $199. The Chromebook 4, on the other hand, sits in a slightly higher price range, starting at $249. While the price difference is noticeable, the Chromebook 4 offers a more powerful processor, more RAM options, and additional ports, making it a compelling choice for those seeking a bit more performance and versatility.
Final Verdict: Choosing the Right Chromebook for You
The decision between the Samsung Chromebook Go and Chromebook 4 ultimately boils down to your individual needs and budget. The Chromebook Go is a fantastic choice for budget-conscious users who prioritize portability and long battery life. Its sleek design and solid performance make it ideal for everyday tasks like browsing, email, and document editing.
The Chromebook 4, on the other hand, offers a more powerful processor, more RAM options, and additional ports, making it a better choice for users who need more processing power for demanding tasks or who frequently connect to external devices. If you’re willing to spend a bit more, the Chromebook 4 provides a significant upgrade in performance and versatility.
What You Need to Learn
Q: Can I play games on the Samsung Chromebook Go or Chromebook 4?
A: Both Chromebooks can play light games available on the Google Play Store. However, demanding games that require high-end graphics may not run smoothly.
Q: Which Chromebook is better for students?
A: Both Chromebooks are suitable for students, but the Chromebook 4 offers a bit more power for handling schoolwork and research.
Q: Can I use a mouse and keyboard with these Chromebooks?
A: Yes, both Chromebooks support external mice and keyboards via USB-C or Bluetooth.
Q: Are these Chromebooks good for video calls?
A: Yes, both devices have built-in webcams and microphones, making them suitable for video calls.
Q: Can I upgrade the storage on these Chromebooks?
A: The storage on these Chromebooks is typically not expandable. However, you can use external storage devices like SD cards or USB drives to increase storage capacity.
