Acer Chromebook Plus 516 review
The Acer Acer Chromebook Plus 516 ranks as the #827 laptops globally, achieving a LibraScore of 58. Across all metrics, this product stands out most for its #631-ranked connectivity among 777 laptops. Consider the Acer One 14 or Acer Chromebook Spin 312, which offer higher scores while staying in the same price range.
Is it Worth it?
The Acer Chromebook Plus 516 is an excellent device, but its worthiness depends on your circumstances. If the original model is still available at a discounted price, I'd recommend opting for that instead. The new model's processor may handle AI tasks better, but for basic Chromebook use, both devices perform equally well. The incremental upgrades to the speakers and trackpad are minor, and the $649 price tag might be a stretch for some. If you can find the original at a clearance sale, it's still a great purchase. However, if the new model is what you're interested in, it's not outdated by any means - it's just a solid choice that doesn't warrant a significant premium over its predecessor.
Build
The Acer Chromebook Plus 516 boasts a sleek build design. The chassis change is an improvement over the original, with a more premium look. The ocean glass trackpad has a nice trim, but performs similarly to its predecessor. The keyboard's LED backlight shines through the keys, creating a visually appealing effect. Unfortunately, the processor upgrade is a minor step up from the 12th gen Core i5 in the original. Overall, the build quality and design of the Acer Chromebook Plus 516 are solid, but not necessarily worth the full price tag if the predecessor is still available at a discount. For a superior build, Acer Chromebook 515 could be the right choice.
Display
The display on the Acer Chromebook Plus 516 is impressive, with vibrant colors and crisp visuals. The 14-inch touchscreen is responsive and intuitive to use, making navigation a breeze. The 1920 x 1080 resolution provides a sharp image, perfect for browsing, streaming, and working on the go. Overall, the display is one of the standout features of this Chromebook, providing an excellent viewing experience that's sure to please even the most discerning users. A better alternative might be Acer ConceptD 7 Ezel Pro, featuring a next-level display.
Performance
The Acer Chromebook Plus 516's performance is noteworthy, with the 12th gen Core i5 1240p in the original model matching the new one's Core Ultra 5 120 in benchmarks. This means both devices offer neck-and-neck performance, making it difficult to justify the upgrade cost. For basic Chromebook tasks, both models excel, but the processor inside is not a significant bump over its predecessor. If the original is still available and on sale, it remains the better value, offering the same features at a lower price point. Only consider upgrading if you prioritize the new device's design or specific features that aren't worth $100-200 more. You may find Acer One 14 a better fit, thanks to its superior performance.
Battery and Charging
The Acer Chromebook Plus 516 boasts impressive battery life, lasting around 10 hours on a single charge. The device charges quickly via USB-C, with a full battery reached in just over an hour. This efficient power management allows users to stay productive throughout the day without worrying about running out of juice. Overall, the Chromebook's battery and charging capabilities are a notable strength, making it suitable for everyday use on-the-go.
Connectivity
The Acer Chromebook Plus 516 is a solid device that excels in terms of connectivity. The OceanGlass trackpad provides smooth navigation, while the Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth 5 capabilities ensure seamless connections to external devices. With USB-C, HDMI, and an SD card slot, users have ample options for expanding their setup. The device's performance and display quality are also noteworthy, but its true strength lies in its connectivity features. Acer Chromebook 515 might be a smarter choice, offering an upgraded connectivity.
Features
The Acer Chromebook Plus 516 boasts the same excellent performance as its predecessor. Key features include an Ocean Glass trackpad, trimmed-out edges for a sleek look, and an upgraded processor with cores dedicated to AI tasks. The device also offers improved speakers, although the difference is minor. Overall, this Chromebook delivers fantastic value at its price point. For an improved features, Acer Predator Helios Neo 14 is worth considering.
Support and Maintenance
The Acer Chromebook Plus 516 offers reliable support and maintenance for its users. With a stable interface and consistent performance, this device ensures seamless operation. The minimal updates required also contribute to its low-maintenance nature, making it an ideal choice for those seeking hassle-free computing experiences.
FAQ
Compare with other laptops
See how this item stacks up against any other model
Choose two different items to see a detailed comparison of their specifications, performance, and features