Retailers such as Amazon and Best Buy have launched promotions on Chromebooks during the Thanksgiving week. Over multiple years, including events like Black Friday and Prime Day, contributions to PCWorld have highlighted these as some of the year's strongest offers.
A standout promotion on the Lenovo IdeaPad 3i stands out as a strong purchase option immediately. For additional suggestions, refer to the guide on leading Chromebooks.
With years of monitoring Chromebook promotions, insights exist on optimal selections and fair pricing. The selections span renewed units, entry-level models with basic hardware, and intermediate options featuring Google's enhanced 'Chromebook Plus' lineup. Each section details top promotions with reasons for their value.
Emphasis falls on affordability, including a new segment for renewed Chromebooks that undergo inspection after returns and sell at reduced rates. Key attributes include at least 4GB of RAM, ideally 8GB, along with suitable display dimensions and clarity, favoring 1080p for reduced visual fatigue. Processor modernity matters less than in traditional laptops, though recent models are preferred. Given extended support periods—now spanning years—timeline checks occur but receive less focus than before.
This update on November 30, 2025, incorporates current promotions and costs.
This Black Friday introduces renewed, pre-owned Chromebooks from certified programs, offering 90-day return policies, similar to Amazon Renewed. Consider them for budget needs.
The Acer Chromebook Plus 515 presents a reliable intermediate Chromebook Plus model, priced slightly over entry-level thresholds. Its hardware meets all expectations without concerns.
Competing options abound. The Amazon promotion for the IdeaPad 3i with 8GB RAM delivers full value without shortcuts at an attractive rate. Proceed with purchase—though a $40 discount at Best Buy yields the 4GB version of the same device. Preference remains for the 8GB Amazon variant, yet Best Buy's move keeps 4GB viable, showcasing beneficial market rivalry that enhances shopper options.
These comparable listings favor the Asus CX15 for superior storage and a three-month Google Gemini trial, providing an advantage. However, the Acer Chromebook 315 emerges at $119, a compelling bargain that could influence choices. The limitation of 4GB RAM restricts multitasking compared to 8GB, but the impact remains manageable.
Mediatek Kompanio processors, which are ARM-based, perform seamlessly on Chrome OS. They excel with efficient power use for extended battery duration and solid efficiency gains.
Reliable intermediate or high-end Chromebooks require minimum 8GB RAM, robust processing, and at least 1080p displays. All featured models meet these standards.
Alternatives like the Lenovo Flex 5i or HP x360 suit Chromebook Plus preferences. (Guidance on Chromebook Plus necessity appears in related coverage.) The Flex 5i includes Google's Gemini Advanced, offering 2TB cloud space and access to advanced AI capabilities.
The Asus CM30 functions as a tablet rather than a traditional laptop form, but its specs impress for those open to the design.
If Chromebooks do not align with needs and a full laptop appeals, explore Black Friday laptop promotions or the general deals overview.
Additional compilations cover top PC offers across numerous categories.
Black Friday 2025 officially occurs on November 28, with Cyber Monday on December 1. Amazon's extended 'Black Week' starts November 20.
Remain vigilant during peak sales periods, as some stores inflate prices before applying Black Friday reductions.
Entry-level Chromebooks typically range around $150 or below, potentially sacrificing preferred features. Such units appear occasionally for those seeking minimal costs. (Renewed versions dip lower, included here for further savings.)
Standard recommended Chromebooks fall between $250 and $350, establishing the baseline for worthwhile picks. Seasonal events may drive even deeper cuts.
Selections continue to emphasize RAM, display quality and size, and processing power. A notable factor this year involves Chromebook longevity.
Vendors may still offer older Chromebooks with 4GB RAM, 768p resolution, and outdated chips. Budget-appropriate examples appear if they warrant inclusion. Ideally, opt for 8GB RAM, 1080p or higher displays (preferably over 13 inches), and current processors. Processing demands remain modest for Chromebooks, so CPU weight stays light.
Note that 'HD' indicates 768p, potentially straining eyesight, while 'Full HD' or 'FHD' signifies the desired 1080p standard.
Suitable processors encompass Intel Celerons, Pentiums, Core series, AMD Ryzen, and ARM options from Mediatek or Qualcomm. Each has strengths, but RAM often outweighs processing variances.
Upgrading to 8GB RAM from 4GB supports more open tabs and fluid browsing. A 1080p display ensures ergonomic viewing akin to standard laptops. Internal storage holds limited importance, though 32GB SSD minimum aids app, image, and file management.
As detailed in comparisons of laptops and Chromebooks, a key risk involves short support durations on purchases. Google now extends backing up to 10 years on new devices, easing this issue. This shift may lower costs on aging stock, under close observation.
Editorial evaluations of Chromebooks inform ongoing rankings of top models. Coverage spans budgets and serves as a shopping resource, with standout choices possibly discounted around Black Friday.
Mark has contributed to PCWorld for a decade, drawing on 30 years in tech coverage. He has produced over 3,500 pieces for the outlet, addressing processors, accessories, Windows, and more. Contributions also appear in PC Magazine, Byte, eWEEK, Popular Science, and Electronic Buyers' News, earning a Jesse H. Neal Award for news. Recently, he cleared space by donating numerous Thunderbolt docks and USB-C hubs.