ASUS Chromebook Flip CM3 (CM3200FM1A): features, specs and who it suits

The ASUS Chromebook Flip CM3 (CM3200FM1A) is a compact 12-inch convertible laptop that runs Chrome OS. Its hinge folds all the way back, so the same device works as a laptop, a tablet or a stand for shared viewing. This particular listing is for a renewed unit, so condition and included accessories are worth confirming.

What Chrome OS means for everyday use

Chrome OS is a lightweight operating system built around the web browser. ASUS says it is designed to be fast and to keep users safe and secure online. Built-in apps such as Google Docs and Google Calendar cover common writing and planning tasks, and further productivity apps can be added. In general, a Chromebook suits web-based work, video calls, streaming, and school or office tasks, but it does not run traditional Windows or Mac desktop programs.

Processor, memory and storage

The laptop uses a MediaTek Kompanio 820 (8192) processor running at 2.2 GHz, with 4GB of LPDDR4X memory. Chrome OS is light on resources, so 4GB is typically adequate for browsing and documents, though many open tabs can slow things down. Storage is 64GB of eMMC. This is flash memory soldered to the board, which is generally slower than an NVMe SSD but fine for a system that keeps most files in the cloud. The microSD card reader gives a way to add space for photos and documents.

A 3:2 touchscreen that flips

The 12-inch touchscreen has a 3:2 aspect ratio and thin NanoEdge bezels. A 3:2 screen is taller than a widescreen 16:9 panel, which typically shows more of a web page or document at once and is comfortable in portrait orientation when used as a tablet.

The 360° ErgoLift hinge gives four modes:

• Laptop mode for typing.
• Tablet mode for reading and touch.
• Tent mode for propping it up to watch or present.
• Flat mode for sharing the screen across a table.

ASUS also says the ErgoLift design lifts the keyboard slightly for a more comfortable typing angle.

Ports and size

The listing names a combo audio jack, a USB 3.2 Gen 1 Type-A port, USB 3.2 Gen 1 Type-C ports and a microSD card reader, with transfer speeds that may vary. It measures 10.6 x 8.5 x 1.0 inches (about 27 x 22 x 2.5 cm) and weighs 3.9 lb (about 1.8 kg). ASUS describes the design as ultra-portable with long-lasting battery life, though it gives no hours figure in this listing.

Who it suits

It suits students, travellers and anyone who mostly works in a browser and wants a small machine that doubles as a tablet. It is less suited to people who rely on desktop-only software or large local files.

What to check before you buy

• Your software: confirm that the apps you need run on Chrome OS or as web apps.
• Storage: 64GB is modest, so plan on cloud storage or a microSD card.
• Condition: this is a renewed unit, so check what the seller states about condition, accessories and the charger.
• Updates: check Google's stated update support period for this model.
• Accessories: a stylus or case, if you want one, would be separate unless the listing says otherwise.

The short version

• 12-inch 3:2 touchscreen with thin bezels and a 360° hinge.
• MediaTek Kompanio 820 at 2.2 GHz, 4GB LPDDR4X, 64GB eMMC.
• Runs Chrome OS with Google's built-in apps.
• USB-A, USB-C, headphone jack and microSD reader.
• 3.9 lb and compact; listed as renewed.

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