ASUS 14-inch Chromebook G835LW with MediaTek Kompanio 520: specs

This ASUS Chromebook (model G835LW-U9R5080) is a lightweight 14-inch laptop that runs ChromeOS rather than Windows. It uses an 8-core MediaTek Kompanio 520 processor, a Full HD display and Wi-Fi 6, and it is aimed at web-based work, school, streaming and video calls. Here is what the specs mean.

What a Chromebook is

A Chromebook runs ChromeOS, a streamlined operating system built around the Chrome browser and web apps. It starts quickly, installs updates in the background and keeps files in cloud storage as well as on the device. The listing says it supports thousands of apps, with built-in protection and cloud backups. Many Chromebooks can also run Android apps, and ASUS mentions that this one can run some in the background.

The trade-off is that traditional Windows or Mac programs do not run natively. If your work depends on a specific desktop program, check for a web version or a ChromeOS-compatible alternative first.

Processor, memory and storage

The MediaTek Kompanio 520 is an eight-core processor designed for low power use, which suits Chromebooks. It typically handles web pages, video playback and several open tabs without trouble, which is what ASUS highlights. The laptop has 4GB of RAM, which is adequate for browsing and school tasks. People who open many tabs at once may find it limiting.

Storage is listed as 96GB, along with a bundled 32GB microSD card. Chromebooks rely on the cloud for much of their storage, so this amount is typically sufficient for documents and downloaded files. The microSD slot lets you add portable space for photos or offline files.

Display

The 14-inch screen is a Full HD (1920 x 1080) IPS display with a three-sided NanoEdge design, meaning slim bezels on the top and sides. IPS panels generally have good viewing angles and consistent colour, and Full HD is a good match for this size.

Ports, wireless and camera

The listing details 2 x USB-C, 1 x USB Type-A, 1 x microSD card reader and a headphone jack. Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth are included, along with a built-in webcam and microphone for video calls. USB-C ports typically handle charging, data and external displays, though you should check which functions each port supports.

Battery and weight

ASUS lists a battery life of up to 15 hours. Manufacturer figures are measured under specific conditions, so real-world use with a bright screen and video calls is usually shorter. The listing gives different weights, 3.19 lb in the description and 3.8 lb in the dimensions, so it is under 4 lb either way, and its body is about 0.6 inches thick.

Who it suits

It suits students, children doing schoolwork, travellers and anyone who mostly uses the web, email, documents and streaming. It is not meant for demanding games or professional editing programs.

What to check before you buy

• Your programs: confirm that the apps you need run on ChromeOS or in a browser.
• School or work rules: some schools and employers manage devices and have requirements for accounts.
• Update period: Chromebooks receive updates for a set number of years; check Google's stated end date for the exact model.
• Memory and storage: consider whether 4GB of RAM and 96GB of storage suit your habits.
• What's in the box: confirm the charger and microSD card are included.

The short version

• 14-inch Full HD IPS Chromebook running ChromeOS, under 4 lb.
• 8-core MediaTek Kompanio 520, 4GB of RAM and 96GB of storage.
• Wi-Fi 6, two USB-C ports, USB-A, microSD reader and a webcam.
• A 32GB microSD card is bundled, and ASUS lists up to 15 hours of battery life.
• Suited to web-based work, school and streaming.

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