The upgraded Acer Chromebook Plus 516 GE is among the largest display laptops with the newest AI-included options obtainable within the ChromeOS lineup.
Launched in Might, this unit replaces the first-gen Acer Chromebook 516 GE. I had my eye on that earlier mannequin — primarily due to its 16-inch viewing discipline. However I held off shopping for the non-Plus predecessor just a few months in the past, hoping for one thing higher within the Plus vary.
Final yr, Google launched the Chromebook Plus class to step up a line of extra highly effective ChromeOS laptops with AI options that weren’t obtainable within the non-Plus line. Although not a Plus designation, the unique Acer Chromebook 516 GE checked most of my most well-liked containers however lacked the construct high quality and efficiency enhance its alternative gives.
I used to be additionally within the built-in entry to Google’s Gemini AI together with Chromebook Plus perks that present entry to extra particular software program and companies. The brand new 516 GE checked these containers. The idea of utilizing a extra power-packed Chromebook for private and work chores and a lift in gaming alternatives make this refreshed laptop computer an irresistible possibility.
Definitely worth the Wait
This 16-inch-wide quad prolonged graphics array (WQXGA) mannequin is powered by the Intel Core 5 120U processor with Intel Graphics, 8GB of RAM, and 256GB PCIe Gen4 SSD storage.
(Photograph by Writer)
The GE stands for “Gaming Version” and is exclusive as a result of it gives cloud-based gaming options with first rate efficiency. Though it lacks a devoted AMD or Nvidia gaming processor, the tweaked circuitry enhances the quick supply of video games with no lag time on cloud-based gaming servers.
The wait was price it for this upgraded Chromebook laptop computer. I purchased this unit to complement my work setting with a extra versatile and succesful ChromeOS-driven laptop computer with a bigger display. Chromebooks hardly ever include screens bigger than 14 inches, so I used to be instantly drawn to the brand new launch.
For $649, the Chromebook Plus 516 GE is a strong performer, giving me a formidable improve over my different computer systems, each Linux and Chromebook varieties. The bigger laptop computer display, Chromebook Plus moniker, and enhanced efficiency are robust to seek out in different Chromebook gadgets at any worth in comparison with this new unit.
Unbeatable Configuration Pluses
The mixture of Acer {hardware} ideally balances worth with efficiency choices. Its superior picture high quality and excessive pixel density present a high-end profit. The 516 GE is quick and cozy, two critically vital traits contemplating the variety of hours I spend on the keyboard.
The Acer 516 GE Chromebook Plus is powered by a more moderen Intel Core 5 120U processor, listed as two instances sooner than the Intel Core i5-1240P within the prior mannequin. In case you are unfamiliar with Chromebooks, don’t be postpone by the put in 8GB of reminiscence. The ChromeOS — a souped-up Chrome browser with built-in instruments to let it operate as an working system, isn’t hampered in its efficiency because of any RAM pressure.
Spectacular Audio High quality
I can’t rave sufficient concerning the big audio enchancment packed into this machine. 4 upward-firing audio system, with two every vertically positioned on each side of the keyboard, carry the best-sounding audio I’ve heard from my different Chromebooks. The credit score goes to DTS Audio and Sensible Amplifier expertise.
These audio system present distortion-free sound. The audio elements get rid of undesirable sound vibrations utilizing force-canceling woofers fired in reverse instructions in good unison. You’ll not discover Dolby Atmos within the configuration, however I don’t miss it. These stereo audio system present loud, strong quantity and wonderful sound high quality.
Enhanced Show Options
The 16-inch IPS 16:10 QHD 120Hz display hits 350 nits of brightness with a 2560 x 1600 display decision. WQXGA expertise is utilized in high-end displays and screens and delivers greater pixel density with sharper photos in comparison with decrease resolutions of 2560 x 1600 pixels.
This panel gives extra display house, element, and a greater visible expertise. It’s additionally sooner, with a 120Hz refresh price that doubles the 60Hz customary on each different Chromebook.
Nevertheless, this isn’t a contact display. That, for me, is only a minor compromise. Nevertheless, extra devoted players seeking to play Android video games on this Chromebook is likely to be dissatisfied with not having touchscreen entry.
Since this laptop computer isn’t a two-in-one design, reaching throughout the clamshell simply to the touch enter on the display isn’t a part of my typical computing routine. At the least for my utilization, if the keyboard doesn’t detach from the panel or fold below it, I’ve no use for a contact display.
Superior Construct High quality
Chassis high quality, keyboard dexterity, and touchpad journey are elements in lesser-quality Chromebooks that cheapen their enchantment. The Acer 516 GE avoids all three, giving it a considerable bodily improve.
Weighing 3.7 kilos, the brand new mannequin seems to be stylish in two-tone black. My solely disappointment with the outer look is the smudge-fest on the graceful, shiny, obsidian black steel fame. Fingertip remnants don’t simply disappear.
(Photograph by Writer)
The aluminum body has no play. It feels inflexible and regular within the hand and to the fingers. The RBG backlit keyboard design can also be a strong promoting level for players and workplace staff. Quite a few colour choices and brightness ranges can be found.
(Picture courtesy of Acer)
This laptop computer has one HDMI 2.1 show connector. I would favor two, as a second HDMI port could be helpful for attaching extra equipment. It has two USB Sort-C (supporting DisplayPort and USB charging) ports, one USB Sort-A port, an Ethernet RJ-45 port, and a 3.5mm headphone/speaker jack.
The ten-hour energy from the 65-watt-hour Lithium-Ion battery isn’t an exaggeration. I examined the totally charged battery, which lasted inside 20 minutes of the acknowledged 10-hour capability earlier than operating out of juice.
I used to be happy with the front-facing, full HD digicam (1920 x 1080) with 1080p video at 60 FPS in comparison with typical Chromebook low-quality webcams. Its picture high quality, nevertheless, is not so good as the third-party mountable webcams I normally use as Chromebook video cam replacements. The temporal noise discount and blue glass lens options produce acceptable, however not premium, outcomes.
Backside Line
The Acer Chromebook Plus 516 GE may very well be top-of-the-line Chromebook Plus choices. It serves a twin objective as a really succesful cloud-based gaming pc and a feature-rich general-purpose laptop computer for enterprise and private use. Mix it with an enormous exterior monitor and mouse to create a practical desktop pc various.
This mannequin exceeded my expectations for ease of use and efficiency. Acer added key options past what was obtainable within the earlier mannequin to place the Chromebook Plus unit in a category of its personal.
Watch out should you determine to purchase this unit. Its earlier non-Plus model remains to be on sale at a lovely lowered worth. Guarantee you might be getting the upgraded mannequin by checking these three particulars:
The mannequin quantity is CBG516-2H-59S4
The construct date is 2024
Chromebook Plus branding on the quilt
Acer plans to supply at the very least a second model of this Chromebook Plus 516 GE configured with 16GB of RAM, bigger storage capability, and a selection of colours.
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