ASUS Chromebook CX1700: 17.3-inch Chrome OS laptop specs and who it suits

The ASUS Chromebook CX1700 is a 17.3-inch laptop that runs Chrome OS rather than Windows. It pairs a large Full HD screen with an Intel Celeron N4500 processor, aimed at web browsing, streaming, schoolwork and video calls. The version described here is listed as renewed, meaning it has been previously owned or refurbished.

What Chrome OS changes

Chrome OS is built around the Chrome browser and web apps. Files and settings are typically kept in cloud storage, so your documents are available from any device with an internet connection. The listing says exactly this: your data lives in the cloud rather than filling the laptop. In general, Chromebooks start quickly and need little maintenance, but they do not run standard Windows desktop programs.

If you depend on specific Windows or Mac software, check whether it has a web version or a Chrome OS equivalent before choosing one.

Processor and memory

The Intel Celeron N4500 is a low-voltage chip. ASUS describes the design as optimising energy usage, and chips in this class are generally intended for lighter tasks: browsing, documents, video streaming and a handful of tabs. The 4GB of DDR4 memory is typical for an entry-level Chromebook. Heavy tab use or many apps open at once may feel tighter than on a machine with more memory.

Storage

Storage is 128GB of eMMC. This is flash memory soldered to the board; it is generally slower than the NVMe SSDs in more expensive laptops, but it is quiet, has no moving parts and is usually adequate for a system that keeps most files online. Since Chrome OS leans on cloud storage, 128GB goes further than it would on Windows.

A big screen for a Chromebook

The 17.3-inch Full HD (1920 x 1080) display is the main feature. A bigger panel is helpful for side-by-side windows, spreadsheets, reading and watching video. ASUS says the screen offers vibrant colours and sharp detail. The trade-off is size: the laptop measures about 15.8 x 10.7 x 0.8 inches (roughly 40 x 27 x 2 cm) and weighs 5.3 lb (about 2.4 kg), heavier than the 13- and 14-inch Chromebooks usually carried daily.

Ports and connectivity

The listing gives two USB Type-C ports, two USB Type-A ports, a headset jack and a media card reader. Wireless is Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth. A 720p webcam handles video calls and online lessons. Having both USB-C and USB-A can help if you still use older accessories.

Who it suits

It suits students, families and home users who spend most of their time online and want a large screen. It is also an option for a shared household laptop for browsing, email, streaming and online classes. It is less suited to people who need desktop applications, demanding games or heavy video editing.

What to check before you buy

• Renewed condition: check the grading, what the seller includes (charger, packaging) and the length and terms of any warranty.
• Software needs: confirm that the apps you rely on work on Chrome OS.
• Update support: Chromebooks receive updates for a fixed period set by the maker. Check the automatic update expiry date for this model on ASUS or Google's support pages.
• Size and weight: make sure you are comfortable carrying 5.3 lb regularly.
• Storage plan: consider whether 128GB is enough, or whether you will use cloud storage or an external drive.
• Account rules: some schools and workplaces manage Chromebooks; check what your institution allows.

The short version

• A 17.3-inch Full HD Chromebook running Chrome OS, listed as renewed.
• Intel Celeron N4500, 4GB DDR4 memory and 128GB eMMC storage.
• Two USB-C, two USB-A, a headset jack, a card reader, Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth.
• 720p webcam, about 5.3 lb (2.4 kg).
• Best matched to browsing, streaming, schoolwork and cloud-based work.

Bloiq is reader-supported. Some links may earn us a commission; it never affects what we write. How we make money.