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Welcome back to “Reviews Inside TV”! Today, we’re diving into the ASUS Chromebook CM14, a lightweight yet sturdy machine that promises reliable performance for everyday tasks. This laptop is designed for those looking for a budget-friendly, portable device without compromising on durability or basic functionality. Let’s break it down and see if it lives up to its claims.
The ASUS Chromebook CM14 features a 14-inch HD anti-glare display, with a resolution of 1366×768. It’s powered by the MediaTek Kompanio 520 processor, which offers 8 cores running at 2.05 GHz, paired with 4GB of RAM and 64GB of eMMC storage. This is designed for a smooth, responsive experience, especially for web-based tasks, but we’ll see how it handles a bit more. The laptop also supports Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth 5.3, ensuring fast connectivity. It has a spill-resistant keyboard and a physical webcam shield for added privacy, while its antimicrobial guard inhibits bacteria growth. It’s also MIL-STD 810H military-grade certified, which means it’s built to endure some rough conditions.
After using the ASUS Chromebook CM14 for a couple of weeks, setting it up was a breeze. The initial boot-up and ChromeOS setup were smooth and quick, and navigating through apps or browsing the web was responsive enough for light usage. However, I did notice the 4GB RAM and 64GB eMMC storage might not be enough if you’re looking to run multiple heavy apps or store large files. For basic browsing, word processing, and media consumption, it does the job, but don’t expect it to replace a full-fledged laptop for power users.
One of the key selling points of this Chromebook is its build. The chassis feels solid, and the spill-resistant keyboard is a definite plus if you tend to be a little clumsy around liquids. It’s durable, and the MIL-STD 810H certification adds confidence that it can survive the occasional drop or knock. The 14-inch display is bright enough for indoor use, but the HD resolution is noticeable—don’t expect ultra-sharp visuals, especially in direct sunlight. The anti-glare coating is handy, but again, it’s not perfect.
Now, let’s talk about the webcam. The high-definition webcam does a decent job for video calls, and the face lighting adjustment feature is a nice touch for those dim-lit meetings. Privacy-conscious users will appreciate the physical webcam shield, a simple but effective feature to block out unwanted peepers.
When it comes to connectivity, the laptop covers the basics. The ports include a USB 3.2 Type-A, two Type-C ports for display and power delivery, and a microSD card reader. You won’t be running out of options anytime soon, but some might find the lack of additional ports limiting, especially if you need more than one USB-A connection for peripherals.
Pros: The Chromebook is durable, with its spill-resistant keyboard and military-grade certification. The inclusion of Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth 5.3 is great for future-proofing. The antimicrobial guard is an interesting feature, particularly for shared devices, and it holds up well for light productivity tasks.
Cons: The display resolution is low, and multitasking with more than a few tabs open might be sluggish due to the 4GB RAM. Storage is limited, so you’ll need an external drive or cloud storage for heavier files. It’s not the fastest when it comes to intensive workloads.
Value for Money: At its price point, the ASUS Chromebook CM14 is a solid option for casual users or students who need a basic, no-frills laptop for everyday tasks. If you’re after a powerful device for heavy use, this won’t cut it. But for something light and durable, it’s a fair value.
When comparing it to similar Chromebooks on the market, devices like the Lenovo Chromebook Duet or HP Chromebook 14 might offer more robust specs, but at a slightly higher price. The ASUS CM14 holds its ground with its tough build and antimicrobial features, but for better performance, you’d have to step up to a higher-end model.
In terms of build quality, the Chromebook is well-constructed and feels solid in hand. The spill-resistant keyboard and military-grade durability are certainly worth mentioning, especially for those who tend to be a bit hard on their devices. However, the limited internal storage and lower display resolution could be deal-breakers for those seeking a more versatile machine.
I didn’t have direct interactions with ASUS customer support, but based on the brand’s reputation, it’s safe to say they offer decent support for their products. Their existing customer service record generally meets expectations, and there are resources available online for troubleshooting.
There haven’t been any notable software updates yet for the ASUS CM14, and considering its basic nature, the chances of needing frequent updates are slim.
If you’re looking for a similar product with a bit more power, you might consider alternatives like the Acer Chromebook Spin 311, which offers similar build quality and performance but comes with slightly more storage and a better display for a comparable price.
To wrap things up, the ASUS Chromebook CM14 is a reliable, durable option for casual users who need a basic Chromebook for everyday tasks like browsing, word processing, and video calls. It does a good job at its intended purpose but falls short if you need more power or storage. It’s best suited for students or light users who want something tough and easy to maintain, without the need for heavy lifting.
Thanks for watching this review! If you’re considering the ASUS Chromebook CM14, the link to purchase is in the comments box below. If you already own this laptop or have any thoughts, drop them in the comments—I’d love to hear your take! Until next time, this is “Reviews Inside TV,” signing off—keep your tech simple, but your expectations high!
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