ASUS Chromebook CX1700 17.3-Inch Laptop: features, specs and who it suits

The ASUS Chromebook CX1700 is a laptop with a large 17.3-inch Full HD screen that runs Chrome OS. It is aimed at everyday computing such as browsing, documents, video calls and streaming, with a bigger display than most Chromebooks offer. This unit is described as renewed, so it is a previously used and refurbished machine. Here is what the specs mean.

A 17.3-inch Full HD screen

The display is 17.3 inches across with a Full HD resolution, which is 1920 x 1080 pixels. A screen this size gives you room to place two windows side by side, which helps with research, spreadsheets or schoolwork. The listing describes the screen as anti-glare, which typically means a matte finish that reduces reflections from windows and lamps.

The trade-off is size. The laptop measures about 15.8 x 10.7 x 0.8 inches (40 x 27 x 2 cm) and weighs around 5.3 lb (2.4 kg), so it suits a desk or a home more than a daily commute.

Processor, memory and storage

Inside is an Intel Celeron N4500, a low-power processor. Chips in this class are typically designed for light everyday tasks and efficient battery use rather than heavy video editing or demanding games. It is paired with 4GB of DDR4 memory and 128GB of eMMC flash storage.

Chrome OS is a lightweight system, so 4GB is workable for browsing with a moderate number of tabs, though very tab-heavy sessions can slow down. eMMC storage is soldered to the board and is typically slower than a laptop SSD, but it boots quickly enough for a Chromebook. Many people keep most files in cloud storage, which makes 128GB more than enough.

Chrome OS in practice

Chrome OS starts quickly, updates in the background and is built around the Chrome browser and web apps. It also runs Android apps on supported devices. The listing mentions protection against phishing and malware. Note that Chrome OS is not Windows, so desktop Windows programs won't install on it directly. Check that the software you rely on has a web or Android version.

Ports and connectivity

The CX1700 has two USB Type-C ports, two USB Type-A ports, a headset jack and a media card reader. That mix covers modern chargers and displays as well as older flash drives and cameras' memory cards. Wireless is listed as Wi-Fi 6 with Bluetooth. A 720p webcam handles video calls.

Who it suits

A large display, simple software and a modest processor describe a laptop for home, study or light office use, particularly for people who want a bigger screen than a typical 11- to 14-inch Chromebook.

What to check before you buy

• Chrome OS support: confirm that your essential apps work in a browser or as Android apps.
• Update lifespan: Chromebooks receive updates for a fixed period. Check Google's automatic update expiration date for this model.
• Renewed condition: since this is a renewed unit, check what the seller says about condition, battery and returns.
• Size and weight: make sure a 5.3 lb, 17-inch machine fits your bag and desk.
• Storage needs: 128GB suits cloud-based work, but large local libraries will fill it.
• What's in the box: confirm that the charger is included.

The short version

• A 17.3-inch Full HD Chromebook running Chrome OS.
• Intel Celeron N4500, 4GB DDR4 memory, 128GB eMMC storage.
• Two USB-C, two USB-A, headset jack, card reader, Wi-Fi 6 and a 720p webcam.
• About 5.3 lb, so it is more of a desk laptop than a travel one.
• Sold as a renewed unit, so check condition details.

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