The Asus Chromebook CM14: A Budget-Friendly Chromebook with Trade-Offs
The Asus Chromebook CM14 is a tempting proposition for budget-conscious consumers seeking a simple, reliable Chromebook. Its affordable price point makes it an attractive option, particularly when it goes on sale. However, cost-cutting measures have led to some compromises that will impact user experience. This review will delve into both the strengths and weaknesses of the CM14, ultimately helping you determine if it’s the right fit for your needs.
A Solid Foundation:
The CM14 boasts a sturdy build, featuring a solid base that resists flexing during normal use. This provides a reassuring sense of durability, especially considering its budget-friendly nature. The keyboard offers a comfortable typing experience, making it suitable for extended writing sessions.
On the other hand, the trackpad feels less premium, with a slightly higher drag than ideal. While it remains functional, it’s a noticeable step down in quality compared to premium Chromebooks.
A Compromising Display:
The display is where the CM14’s limitations become most apparent. While it features a 14-inch screen with a 1920 x 1080 resolution, Asus utilizes display scaling out of the box, presenting it as a 1536 x 864 screen. While this can be adjusted back to its native resolution, the TN panel struggles with vibrant color reproduction, suffers from dim maximum brightness, and exhibits poor viewing angles.
Despite these shortcomings, the display remains functional for basic tasks. However, those who prioritize a crisp and immersive visual experience might want to consider another model.
The Power of Efficiency:
The CM14 is powered by a MediaTek platform, which shines in terms of efficiency. Battery life is impressive, with the reviewer achieving an average of 10 to 11 hours of mixed use throughout a workday. Asus asserts a maximum battery life of 15 hours, suggesting even longer endurance with optimized usage patterns.
This impressive battery performance underscores the efficient nature of the MediaTek processor, a boon for budget-conscious users who prioritize portability and prolonged usage without needing to constantly search for an outlet.
Limited Port Selection and Web Camera:
The CM14 offers a decent selection of ports, considering its budget-friendly position. You get two USB-C ports, one USB-A port, a 3.5-mm headphone jack, and a microSD card slot. The microSD slot provides an invaluable expansion option, as the base storage of 64GB can be limiting for some users.
The webcam, however, is a bit underwhelming. It captures video at 720p resolution, delivering adequate quality for video calls but falling short of higher-end webcams. A physical webcam switch is thankfully included, allowing users to block the camera for enhanced privacy, a crucial feature in today’s privacy-conscious world.
Verdict: A Budget-Friendly Option with Trade-Offs
The Asus Chromebook CM14 presents a mixed bag. It excels in certain areas, such as its sturdy build, comfortable keyboard, and impressive battery life, making it a compelling option for those seeking a portable and long-lasting Chromebook.
However, its compromises in display quality, trackpad functionality, and webcam performance limit its appeal for users seeking a premium experience. The limited storage will also be a concern for anyone who downloads large files or plans to store substantial amounts of data on the device.
Ultimately, the decision comes down to individual needs and priorities. If you’re on a tight budget and need a reliable, portable Chromebook for basic tasks such as browsing, email, and light productivity, the CM14 may be a suitable option, especially if you can find it on sale. However, if you prioritize a visually appealing display, superior trackpad performance, or ample storage, then you may want to explore other Chromebook options with a higher price point.
The Importance of Sale Prices
The CM14’s appeal hinges significantly on its price point. While it may be attractive at its suggested retail price of $299, its true value shines when it goes on sale. The reviewer notes that the CM14 can be found for as low as $180, which transforms it into an exceptional value proposition for budget-conscious consumers.
Competitive Alternatives
The reviewer also highlights the competitive landscape within the Chromebook market. Models like the Acer Chromebook Plus 514, despite having a higher starting price of $399, often experience significant price drops during sales, making them a more powerful and feature-rich alternative.
Weighing the Trade-Offs
Before making your decision, consider your specific requirements. If you’re willing to accept certain compromises in display quality, trackpad performance, and web camera capability in exchange for a solid build, comfortable keyboard, and exceptional battery life at an affordable price, then the Asus Chromebook CM14 can be a good choice, especially if you can find it on sale.
However, if these compromises are deal-breakers, you may be better off exploring other Chromebook options with a higher price point that offer a more premium experience.
Remember: The Chromebook market is dynamic, and prices fluctuate frequently. Regularly checking for sales and comparing different models will help you secure the best value for your specific needs.