Retailers including Amazon and Best Buy have launched promotions on Chromebooks during the week prior to Thanksgiving, marking the start of what some call Black Week. Over multiple years, including events like Black Friday and Prime Day, contributions to PCWorld have highlighted top Chromebook offers, which typically represent the year's strongest savings.
This holiday period may see a shift toward typical pricing patterns, as President Trump's relaxation of certain tariff measures could encourage manufacturers to discount Chromebooks more freely without significant impact on their earnings. Nevertheless, the featured promotions emphasize affordability amid current economic pressures.
To cater to cost-conscious shoppers, a selection of pre-owned and renewed Chromebook options has been incorporated as an entry-level choice, though fresh units remain the preferred suggestion. Years of monitoring these sales provide insight into worthwhile purchases and reasonable costs. Within each segment, standout deals are presented alongside reasons for their appeal. For further inspiration, explore the guide to leading Chromebooks.
This year's Black Friday coverage introduces certified pre-owned Chromebooks via Amazon's Renewed initiative, backed by a 30-day guarantee, while Walmart's Restored lineup features a 90-day return policy. Consider these alternatives for maximum savings.
For those open to the uncertainties of renewed items, the leading Asus model stands out with its contemporary dual-core chip, 8GB memory suitable for multitasking with numerous tabs, and a spacious 1080p screen. This represents exceptional value; a brand-new version would normally cost $200 at minimum, often approaching $300. The Acer 315 offers comparable features except for reduced RAM, while the Acer 515 also delivers strong savings.
That said, the Renewed selection sometimes includes outdated models with processors dating back more than ten years. Currently, the HP Chromebook x360 and Dell 3100 rank among the weaker choices—compact, somewhat sluggish, yet still usable for basic needs.
Entry-level Chromebooks inevitably involve compromises, such as the absence of 8GB RAM options in current promotions, despite that being the ideal specification.
These budget picks are quite alike, but the Asus CX15 edges ahead with expanded storage and a three-month Google Gemini trial subscription. The IdeaPad 3i provides solid value as well and could be persuasive. The main limitation is the 4GB RAM, which restricts tab usage compared to higher-memory devices, though this isn't a severe issue.
MediaTek Kompanio processors, which are ARM-based, perform reliably on Chrome OS. They excel with efficient power usage for extended battery runtime and superior overall speed.
The Lenovo 14-inch Chromebook appears at the list's close due to its pricing dipping below past sale levels, effectively stacking an additional reduction on an already discounted item, even if not promoted that way.
At present, the Asus CX14 tops the recommendations for delivering optimal balance: solid hardware specs without excessive cost. For upgrading to a Chromebook Plus model, the Lenovo Flex 5i or HP x360 prove reliable selections. (Is a Plus version necessary?) Reliable mid-tier or high-end Chromebooks feature no less than 8GB RAM, a robust processor, and at least a 1080p display—all met by these options.
Though the Asus CM30 functions as a tablet rather than a traditional laptop-style Chromebook, its capabilities impress if that format suits your needs. Earlier promotions have been pulled, resulting in fewer available choices than initially.
Higher-end Chromebooks from Google's premium tier anchor the deals' lower section, commanding steeper prices. Certain models bundle extended access to Google Gemini and related AI services. Review the details to assess suitability. The three Chromebook Plus entries here operate effectively, despite a $200 range in pricing; opting for lower-cost variants makes sense when performance holds up.
Should a Chromebook not align with your preferences and a full laptop appeal more, consult the Black Friday laptop promotions or the broader sales overview page.
Discover curated collections of top PC hardware discounts across various categories!
This year's official Black Friday falls on November 28, 2025, with Cyber Monday arriving on December 1, 2025. Amazon's Black Week commences November 20.
Merchants have initiated Chromebook price cuts in anticipation of the main event, with reductions expected to intensify closer to the date. Businesses have eagerly rolled out preliminary offers to clear stock ahead of the peak frenzy! Remain vigilant during this prelude period, when some vendors inflate then deflate prices around Black Friday.
Ongoing tariffs and supply constraints foster caution for this shopping season.
Anticipated deals position basic Chromebooks at $150 to $200, while favored models (detailed further below) should hover under $350 in the approach to Black Friday, potentially easing slightly more near the event. Sub-$100 pricing for budget units, as seen in 2024 sales, seems unlikely even during peak discounts.
Selections prioritize value over mere low cost, aiming to maximize features per dollar spent. This approach has proven rewarding in past acquisitions and guides these suggestions.
Refurbished alternatives are being tested here to expand access to even more economical picks.
Chromebook evaluations emphasize RAM, screen quality (dimensions and clarity), and processor strength above all.
Stores continue pushing older stock with 4GB RAM, 768p resolutions, and obsolete chips—steer clear where possible. Viable budget buys exist among them, but aim higher: at minimum 8GB RAM, a 1080p (1920x1080) or superior display (ideally over 13 inches), and a current-generation processor. Processor power receives moderate emphasis, given Chrome OS's lightweight demands.
A 1080p panel provides a user-friendly, expansive view akin to standard laptops. Note that standard HD typically denotes 768p, which may strain vision over time. Full HD or FHD corresponds to 1080p, and select mid-range units now include 1200p for reduced eye fatigue.
Suitable processors encompass Intel Celeron and Pentium lines, Core series, AMD Ryzen chips, plus ARM options from MediaTek and Qualcomm. Each has strengths and weaknesses, but RAM capacity often outweighs processing variances in impact. Upgrading from 4GB to 8GB enables smoother handling of multiple tabs and web activities.
Integrated storage holds limited importance, but a 32GB SSD or larger aids in keeping apps, files, images, and similar content.
As outlined in the detailed comparison of laptops and Chromebooks, a key consideration is the device's support lifespan. Newer Chromebooks now receive Google updates for as long as a decade, minimizing this risk.
PCWorld's team conducts ongoing Chromebook assessments; refer to the 2025 best Chromebooks rankings for vetted options across budgets. This resource serves as an excellent shopping overview, and several favorites may appear in sales soon.
Used devices aren't typically advised due to unknown histories, yet depreciation can yield bargains. Amazon Renewed provides 30-day coverage, and Walmart Restored offers 90 days for returns—thoroughly check condition upon receipt and return if subpar.
Certified programs occasionally conceal long-obsolete hardware. Renewed Chromebooks earn inclusion only if they represent true value, but exercise caution to avoid regrettable outdated purchases.
Mark has contributed to PCWorld for the past ten years, drawing on three decades in technology journalism. His over 3,500 PCWorld pieces span topics like PC processors, accessories, and Windows ecosystems. Previous outlets include PC Magazine, Byte, eWEEK, Popular Science, and Electronic Buyers' News, where he co-won a Jesse H. Neal Award for news coverage. Lately, he cleared space by donating numerous Thunderbolt docks and USB-C hubs from his workspace.