ASUS Chromebook Plus CX34 14-inch laptop: features, specs and who it suits

The ASUS Chromebook Plus CX34 (model CX3402CBA-DH386-WH) is a 14-inch laptop that runs ChromeOS on an Intel Core i3 processor. It is aimed at everyday work, study and media: documents, web apps, video calls and light photo editing. The "Plus" label means it meets Google's higher hardware bar for Chromebooks and unlocks a set of extra AI-powered features.

What the Chromebook Plus label means

ASUS says the CX34 offers double the speed, memory and storage of top-selling Chromebooks from the second half of 2022, a comparison it footnotes in its own description. In practice, Chromebook Plus models typically pair a stronger processor with at least 8GB of RAM and 256GB of storage, which is what this one lists.

The label also brings Google features. ASUS names Magic Eraser for removing distractions from photos, noise cancelation and lighting enhancement for video calls, and built-in movie creation tools.

Processor, memory and storage

The CX34 uses an Intel Core i3-1215U with six cores, a 1.2 GHz base speed and boost up to 4.4 GHz, with 10MB of cache. The "U" suffix marks a low-power laptop chip, which typically favours battery life over raw speed. ChromeOS is a light operating system, so a chip like this usually handles many browser tabs and web apps comfortably.

Memory is 8GB, and storage is 256GB of UFS. UFS is flash storage that is typically faster than the eMMC found in many older Chromebooks. Because ChromeOS leans on cloud storage, 256GB is generous for most people.

Display and design

The screen is a 14-inch Full HD (1920 x 1080) NanoEdge anti-glare display. Anti-glare coatings reduce reflections in bright rooms, and Full HD gives sharp text and room for two windows side by side. NanoEdge refers to the thin bezels around the panel.

The body measures about 12.8 x 8.4 inches (roughly 32.5 x 21.3 cm), is 0.7 inches (about 1.8 cm) thick and weighs 3.2 lb (about 1.5 kg). ASUS describes the design as lightweight and durable, and the hinge opens a full 180 degrees to lie flat, which helps when sharing a screen across a table.

Connectivity and battery

Wireless is Wi-Fi 6 with Bluetooth 5.3. Wi-Fi 6 typically gives steadier connections when many devices share a router. ASUS rates the battery at up to 10 hours; real-world time depends on brightness, workload and settings.

Who it suits

It suits students, remote workers and households that want a straightforward laptop for browsing, streaming, documents and video meetings. People who rely on Windows-only or macOS-only software should look at what runs on ChromeOS first, though web apps, Android apps and many Linux tools are supported on most models.

What to check before you buy

• Your software: confirm the programs you need have a web, Android or Linux version that works on ChromeOS.
• Ports: check the listing and manual for the number and type of USB, HDMI and card ports you need.
• Screen size and weight: 14 inches and 3.2 lb suit a bag, but check it against how you travel.
• Storage habits: 256GB is plenty for most, but large offline media libraries need a plan.
• Update support: ChromeOS devices receive updates for a fixed period; check Google's stated end date for this model.
• What's in the box: confirm the charger and any paperwork before you rely on it.

The short version

• A 14-inch Full HD anti-glare ChromeOS laptop with an Intel Core i3-1215U.
• 8GB of RAM and 256GB of UFS storage, with Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth 5.3.
• Chromebook Plus features include Magic Eraser, call noise cancelation and lighting enhancement.
• Up to 10 hours of battery life as rated by ASUS; 3.2 lb with a 180-degree hinge.

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