ASUS Chromebook C424MA (Celeron N4020, 14-inch): specs and who it suits

The ASUS Chromebook C424MA-WH44F is a 14-inch laptop in silver that runs ChromeOS. It uses an Intel Celeron N4020 processor, 4GB of memory and 64GB of storage. It is aimed at everyday tasks such as browsing, email, documents, video calls and streaming, rather than demanding software.

What ChromeOS means

ChromeOS is Google's laptop operating system. It centres on the Chrome browser and web apps, and it typically starts quickly and needs little maintenance. Updates install in the background. Most Chromebooks also run Android apps and many support Linux apps, though that varies by model, so check the manufacturer's information if you need them. Windows-only programs won't run natively. If your work depends on one, a Windows laptop is the usual choice.

The processor

The Celeron N4020 is a dual-core chip running at 1.10 GHz, as the listing states. It is a low-power processor, which usually means modest heat and good battery life. The trade-off is that it handles a handful of browser tabs and light apps comfortably but slows down with many tabs, heavy web apps or video editing. For schoolwork, reading, writing and video streaming, this class of processor is typically adequate.

4GB of memory

With 4GB of RAM, ChromeOS runs smoothly for light use. Memory is the first limit you'll meet if you keep many tabs open or run Android apps at the same time. The memory in laptops like this is usually soldered to the board, so it cannot be upgraded later. Treat the amount you buy as the amount you'll have.

64GB of storage

The listing gives 64GB of storage. ChromeOS keeps most files in the cloud, which makes small storage workable, but offline files, downloaded media and Android apps take space. Many Chromebooks have a memory card slot or USB ports for extra storage, though this listing doesn't say which ports are fitted, so check the full specification.

Display and design

The listing describes a 14.0-inch Full HD screen without touch. Full HD is 1920 x 1080 pixels, which gives a sharp picture at this size, and a non-touch panel means the screen responds to the trackpad and keyboard only. The silver finish is the colour named in the listing.

Who it suits

It suits students, people who want a simple second laptop, and households that mostly work in a browser. It is less suited to gaming, large photo or video projects, or software that only runs on Windows or macOS.

What to check before you buy

• Your software: make sure the apps you need have web, Android or Linux versions.
• Ports and wireless: check the specification for USB, headphone and memory card support, and for Wi-Fi standard.
• Storage: think about how many files you'll keep offline.
• School or work rules: some organisations manage Chromebooks, so check that an account can sign in.
• Update period: ChromeOS devices receive updates for a set number of years, so check the maker's stated end date.

The short version

• ASUS Chromebook C424MA-WH44F, 14-inch Full HD, non-touch, silver.
• Intel Celeron N4020, dual-core, 1.10 GHz.
• 4GB of memory and 64GB of storage.
• Runs ChromeOS, best suited to web-based everyday work.

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