TL;DR: These ASUS CM30 Chromebooks are on sale now for $150.
$369.99 Save $220
The most expensive computer isn’t always the best computer. If you just need a machine to stay connected and get some light work done, a good Chromebook like this ASUS CM30 is one of the best options, and this one is even on sale now for $149.99 (reg. $369).
The CM30 switches between tablet and laptop in seconds. The detachable keyboard and magnetic stand handle the physical transformation without any fuss, and the USI 2.0 garaged stylus stores directly in the device using a push-pop design so it’s always where you left it and fast-charging when you’re not using it. The 10.5-inch WUXGA touchscreen runs at 1920×1200 with 400 nits of brightness and 118% sRGB color coverage, which basically just means everything on your screen will look crisp and clear whether you’re in laptop or tablet mode. The 16:10 aspect ratio gives a little extra vertical space compared to a standard widescreen panel, which makes a real difference when reading documents or browsing long pages.
The MediaTek Kompanio 520 processor and 8GB of RAM keep Chrome OS running smoothly across multiple tabs, apps, and calls without slowdown. The 128GB eMMC storage handles apps and files without constantly managing space, and battery life is rated at up to 12 hours, covering a full workday or long travel day without needing to find an outlet.
The chassis is military-grade aluminum built to MIL-STD 810H standards, using 30% recycled materials, so it can take some real punishment. At 0.61kg in tablet mode and 1kg with the keyboard attached, it carries easily without adding much weight to a bag.
This model is refurbished and in near-mint condition, so the only real difference you may notice is the price.
Buying something like a MacBook when you just need a computer for basic productivity is like using a hydraulic press to put a nail in the wall. Sure, it would work, but it’s overkill.
Instead, get an ASUS Chromebook while they’re on sale for $149.99.
StackSocial prices subject to change.