Acer Chromebook 314 Review: The Perfect Excuse to Try ChromeOS ? (CB314-2H / CB314-2HT)
View on Amazon in your region: amzn.to/3Sbff9k or alternate UK link: amzn.to/4b3lDZ5 (my affiliate link). Double check model/spec match this video.
** Newer 2023 model here: • Acer Chromebook 314 (2... **
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* UPDATE 02 * (February 2024) - My Acer Spin 311 with the same processor as this Acer 314, the MT8183 has updated to 64 bit ChromeOS from the original 32 bit ChromeOS since installing the v121 build of ChromeOS. I would therefore expect this Acer 314 will now be running 64 bit ChromeOS too. Video on the Spin 311 here: • Acer Chromebook Spin 3...
* UPDATE 01 * (September 2023) - Since publishing this video, Google have increased the AUE date (the date up to which the Chromebook receives ChromeOS feature and security updates) to June 2030.
In this review I'll show you the Acer CB314-2H NX.AWFEK.002 variation of the 314 Chromebook.
Model in this video: CB314-2H with the MT8183 processor. I believe the CB314-2HT will likely be or include touchscreen variations, but as usual double check the exact spec of the Chromebook you're looking at.
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Links to other videos mentioned:
* Chromebook KZhead Shorts - • Cheap Chromebook with ...
* ChromeOS update life (AUE date) - • How to Find Out When Y...
* USB C hub + accessories - • Chromebook Accessories...
* Acer Spin 311 Chromebook Review - • Acer Chromebook Spin 3...
* HP 11a Chromebook Review - • HP 11a Chromebook: Def...
* Audio sample from the video outro here - • Lenovo Flex 5i Chromeb...
#acer #chromebook #chromeos #laptop #tech #bargain #acerchromebook #acerlaptop
View on Amazon in your region: amzn.to/3Sbff9k or alternate UK link: amzn.to/4b3lDZ5 (my affiliate link). Check specs match. ** Newer 2023 model here: kzhead.info/sun/bKx_n9KkeZyJdK8/bejne.html ** ** Convertible 'Spin' 314 review here: kzhead.info/sun/jbuhg6VsiYujf2g/bejne.html ** ✨ Find/follow/support the channel: linktr.ee/mergedroid ✨ * UPDATE 02 * (February 2024) - My Acer Spin 311 with the same processor as this Acer 314, the MT8183 has updated to 64 bit ChromeOS from the original 32 bit ChromeOS since installing the v121 build of ChromeOS. I would therefore expect this Acer 314 will now be running 64 bit ChromeOS too. Video on the Spin 311 here: kzhead.info/sun/dseBaa6SiZ2Af4E/bejne.html * UPDATE 01 * (September 2023) - Since publishing this video, Google have increased the AUE date (the date up to which the Chromebook receives ChromeOS feature and security updates) to June 2030.
Should I get norton 360 for this acer chromebook 314?? Please help!
Hi - no need for AV on ChromeOS
@MergeDroid can I do things like graphic design, dropshipping and investing stocks on chrome os? That's why I wanted anti virus cause I want to do work and start a small business with my chrome os but I'm wondering if chrome os is good to do all that stuff cause I never owned a chrome os before, I mostly used windows with Norton.
@kjo1543 depends on the software you need. For ChromeOS you can use the Chrome broswer and Android apps. If you are happy to get a bit more involved you can install via the Linux terminal too. Keep in mind for O365 you can only use it via the broswer, bit the Android apps. Hope that helps.
Just the video i was looking for 👍🏼👍🏼
Glad to hear it 👍 Please do check out some of the other Chromebook content on the channel and consider a sub if you liked this one 😎
Thanks for the upload. 👍
Hope it's handy and you're enjoying your Acer 314!
These are now on sale , buying one as we speak and your video helped me make the jump, this will be a 2nd extra streaming pc and websurfing
Hi, that's great, really glad to hear the video helped. Where are you planning to purchase from and how much? Please do check out some of the other Chromebook content on the channel too.
Should I get norton 360 for this acer chromebook 314?? Please help!
No need for additional AV on ChromeOS 👍
I work from home on occasion as a recruiter all browser based work such as email and using a third party website to process candidates. I think this little Chromebook would be good for me to use since I occasionally would open it to use it.
Hi, yes if all web based and you want a simple way to separate it from any other machines you use then a Chromebook like this could be ideal 👍 Please do check out the channel for more Chromebook content like this. It'd be great to hear if you go for one.
@@MergeDroid thanks for the review and recommendation I ended up going with an asus c434 that was at a bargain price but still the Chromebook OS works great for my needs. Light use and on occasion.
Sounds good. Glad you're pleased with the Chromebook and ChromeOS 👍 Hope you might enjoy some more of the Chromebook content on the channel 😎
Insightful video. Thanks! I'm torn between (Lenovo IdeaPad 3 Chromebook 14" | MediaTek MT8 Processor | 4GB RAM | 64GB eMMC | 82KN0016UK) & (ACER 314 14" Chromebook - MediaTek MT8183C, 64 GB eMMC, Silver). Both look pretty similar specs.
Hi Adrian, thanks - glad the video is of use. One important difference that jumps out if that the Lenovo you mention looks to have a TN screen, this Acer has an IPS panel. Handy timing for this video I posted this weekend to help illustrate the difference - kzhead.infov9-QOVEC4wU
@@MergeDroid cheers! Just watched it. The Acer is €70 cheaper too so probably going to go with that. Thanks for advice.
No problem, sounds good. Please do consider the all important like for the video if it's helped and a sub if you enjoy the chanel. If you wanted one more 14 inch Chromebook for comparison you could check this out and see how pricing is for you, would be a bit of an upgrade including the touch screen - kzhead.info/sun/pdmJncehrpqed6c/bejne.html
Hi mate is this good for just using internet for streaming etc? I don’t need it to do anything else really just internet and the popular apps
It would do the job, but the MT8183 processor is going to feel a bit slower now and the newer version with the Core i3-N305 is a big leap - kzhead.info/sun/bKx_n9KkeZyJdK8/bejne.html What's your rough budget?
Hi, nice review. Do you know if this particular Chromebook model supports Linux on Chromebook (Crostini) you can check this in Settings Advanced Developpers ? Also is it really a 32 bits Chrome OS or 64 bits ? Thanks.
Hi, thanks for checking the video. To cover off your questions and give a bit of extra detail... 1.) Yes you can install Linux on this one running the MT8183. Same process as I show in my video on installing the Linux version of Minecraft on a Chromebook: kzhead.info/sun/naWvj5ute5OCYGw/bejne.html 2.) Yes, I believe all Chromebooks with the MT8183 will still be running 32 bit ChromeOS. As I don't have this Acer 314 anymore I've just double checked on my Acer Spin 311 (kzhead.info/sun/dseBaa6SiZ2Af4E/bejne.html) with the MT8183 and that's running 32 bit ChromeOS. I have seen one slightly change where the ASUS Flip CM3 with the MT8192 originally had 32 bit ChromeOS on it and then via an Android update and the next ChromeOS update it changed to 64 bit. You can see myself and others reference this in the comments here: kzhead.info/sun/pcmtk51vnHifl6s/bejne.html 3.) If you like this Acer 314 I would say perhaps compare to any deals you can get on the newer Acer 314 (Intel Core i3-N305 in my example, running 64 bit ChromeOS): kzhead.info/sun/bKx_n9KkeZyJdK8/bejne.html
@@MergeDroid Thanks for your quick answer. The 32 bits ChromeOS is a boomer for a CS student, I expect the Linux VM will also be 32 bits and it will be harder to find software for it than for a 64 bits Linux. I will definitely check the newer model.
@@gherghegeorgios7514no problem, please do check some of my other Chromebook reviews as well, I always try and cover the version of ChromeOS (in terms of 32 vs 64 bit) - vast majority as 64 bit. You might want to think about processor age in relation to the Chromebook's AUE date also - kzhead.info/sun/fsieocZ7qHOcnGw/bejne.html ....but of course most often a trade off with price too.
@@gherghegeorgios7514 2nd reply - as I was looking at my Acer Spin 311 earlier when sending my original reply, I started to update it to ChromeOS v121, it was on v120 previously. It was definitely still on 32 bit ChromeOS earlier and now shows as 64 bit ChromeOS - your question may have been very well timed! I would strongly suspect the Acer 314 with the same MT8183 processor will also update to run 64 bit ChromeOS from version 121 also. As I saw on another Chromebook this week, on the Spin 311 I've also been prompted with an upgrade to Debian 12 (Bookworm) on the Linux front (current version on it is Debian GNU/Linux 11 (bullseye). Hope this helps to know.
Which would be the BEST option for my kids they play games like minecraft, roblox and fortnite. Acer mediatek chromebook 314 or Acer chromebook CB315 128gb? Also will be using for school work and watching movies. Which one has better features? Looking for the best quality!
Hi, I'd recommend you check out the newer version of the 314 from the video I posted last week: kzhead.info/sun/bKx_n9KkeZyJdK8/bejne.html You could also consider the Spin (convertible version), again check my recent video. For the CB315 you're looking at, do you know what processor is in that one?
Any idea how many nits the display is? Did you find the screen optimally bright?
Hi, Acer don't seem to state the nits, but compared to other Chromebooks I founnd this decent and the viewing angles were good. You can get a bit of an impression at 02:04
Should I get norton 360 for this acer chromebook 314?? Please help!
No, I wouldn't have an anti virus installed on ChromeOS.
Im getting thr Acer 314 Spin 2 in 1 8gb ram 128gb storage 6000 intel celeron processor. Ordered on Friday March 22 2024. Cant wait. I got it off of Amazon for $300. This is my first chromebook.
Nice, good choice. Did you see my review of the Spin 314 - kzhead.info/sun/jbuhg6VsiYujf2g/bejne.html ?
@@MergeDroidI did
Ah yes of course, I'm replying to you over there 🙃
@@MergeDroid I just got my Acer 314 spin 2/1 Chromebook today and I'm enjoying it so far. I plan on getting an external keyboard and mouse when I have the money. Mine is touch screen but I have to get a stylus for it to work properly.
@TheGodzilla2201 that arrived quickly, I'm glad you're enjoying your Acer Spin 314 and very pleased to hear you're happy with it. Let me know if you want any ideas or links for the monitor etc.
I have one of these but one thing i dont understand when you open the chrome book why does it power on straight away
Hi - that's by design, to be efficient? Quite handy, why have the need to press another button, if you open the lid 99% of the time it's because you want your Chromebook on and ready to use. Do you not like that or does it cause some issue(?)
Im looking for a laptop to play Football Manager on and some light surfing on the net. Would this handle that ok?
Hi, how would you install / play it, is it an Android app or available via the broswer somehow, Steam or GeForceNow for example?
@@MergeDroid it's on the xbox gamepass app. Pretty much like steam
@shaunkean89 cool, so I think you'd use the Android app of Xbox Gsmd Pass. In theory this model of the 314 should be fine, you might want to compare prices for the newer models with the Celeron N4500 or Pentium Silver, and even see if the 'Spin' (convertible) version appeals kzhead.info/sun/jbuhg6VsiYujf2g/bejne.html
do you know any chrome books that’s strong enough to run valorant or genshin on decent settings? i’d love to play those games but a gaming pc is too much for me
Hi, what do they state as the min spec? What about a machine that has a Core i3 or i5 and options of up to 8gb of RAM? Something like the Lenovo Flex 5i - kzhead.info/sun/htd7aJF8nYCuip8/bejne.html
Also to add, how do you install those? In the Play Store I can see Genshin Impact, how is Valorant named? You have got options with Linux games too of course, my Chromebook gaming playlist is here: kzhead.info/channel/PLNSLoCmFMc8pCp1JX8QH02cTi1Vq2hJFY.html
Hi there,got the chromebook,but its very slow,can i put a 8 gig memory inside the laptop?
Hi, no sorry the RAM will be soldered to the board. Is it this same model with the MT8183 processor?
Whick will be the "best" option for my kids, who plays roblox and minecraft? Acer chromebook 314 (MediaTek MT8183 8-core, 8 GB RAM) or Acer chromebook 712 (Core i3-10110U, 8 GB RAM)? Will the i3 cpu have an advantage over the MediaTek MT8183?
The Core i3 10th Gen will perform better, you'll also have fans.
I'm looking at this now but the CB314-1HT-C3ET with Intel celeron n4020 with touch screen
Sounds like a fair option, you'd get updates to the AUE date of June 2027 with that one. What sort of price are you seeing?
@@MergeDroid online I'm seeing it for 169 and it has a 14-in 1080p IPS touch screen 4 GB of RAM and an Intel n4020 It has two USB-C ports onto USB-A ports so pretty good for the price
@@cobaltblue5523 At that price, if you'd consider an excellent condition refurb, it might be worth weighing up against something like the convertible HP x360 14B, my review: kzhead.info/sun/eKenppt6sJqtpHA/bejne.html XSOnly have an excellent condition refurbs for £179.99 on ebay UK if you search for item number 14050828126. See review, but a couple of highlights - it's convertible, you'd get the newer and higher spec. Intel Pentium Silver N6000 processor, and 3 extra years of Chrome OS updates.
@@MergeDroid awesome thank you for the information this one is new on best buy im shopping in United States. But yes that n6000 chip would be better and how much ram does it have ? Is it full HD 🤔 I've never bought a used Chromebook but if its good at that price that would awesome
@@cobaltblue5523 Ah yes sorry that is a UK example, but worth checking locally to see the sort of prices for that model. As you'll see in a lot of my videos I tend to buy excellent / 'grade A' condition refurbs. If you buy from a well reviewed/trusted seller I don't think you'll have an issue and they should often have a decent returns policy as a contingency. As for your queries on that HP x360 14b I reviewed, see review but yes FHD and that one has 4GB RAM, as usual you'll find different confiigs out there. Maybe one other model you might like to look into that is similar (but not convertible): kzhead.info/sun/pdmJncehrpqed6c/bejne.html
Does the keyboard light up on this?
Hi, no it doesn't have a back-lit keyboard, thus is a more basic Chromebook. I have a playlist of Chromebooks I've reviewed with back-lit keyboards here - kzhead.info/channel/PLNSLoCmFMc8rW8u50RD4fDlVMVVLDnq0J.html
Hi bud, would this be a good tool if using for just skype calls. Cheers
It would certainly do the job. I wouldn't want too much else running on it at the same time, and keep in mind the points on the webcam quality. If you like this 314 and the budget stretches a bit you could consider the newer version of the convertible Spin 314 too: kzhead.info/sun/jbuhg6VsiYujf2g/bejne.html
@@MergeDroid thank you very much for your response. In general up to £350 what would you recommend for a lap top that is just for Skype calls nothing else running. It is for chatting in sign language. Thanks again.
@treckrunner711 the Acer Spin 314 is an easy recommendation. See if you like the look of it?
@@MergeDroid I will have a look. I really appreciate your advice.
@treckrunner711 no problem. All of the Chromebooks I've reviewed will have 720p webcams, certainly good enough for the job and I think that fits well with your target budget.
Loud enough for the kods
3:21 Yeah I'd say so. Plus quiet enough for parents.....with the headphone jack and Bluetooth capabilities 🤣
Will an acer Chromebook 314 with 8gb ram, 128gb storage, and an intel n305 be good for video editing, coding and multitasking (With a camera shutter) or should i get 4gb ram and a mediatek 8183c be fine for those tasks? When i say video editing i mean light video editing on capcut text, text effects, transitions and not much more than that
The N305 machine is one I've just purchased so will be one of my first reviews in the new year. Definitely get that spec for editing, will you use something like Capcut? Also check my recent video of the HP 15a 15.5inch with the N305.
@@MergeDroid yes i will use capcut, i dont have money like that though so m getting a refurbished one
@blued2260-alibra that's how I purchased it too like a lot of these machines. £136 for a Grade A which is about 172 USD. See my video on the HP 15a for what I paid for that one.
@@MergeDroid alright
Also left a sub
hello the body is on aluminium or on plastic? thanks
Hi, 0:43 Consider a sub and ticking the bell if you want to see a video on the 2023 Acer 314 Chromebook too, I should be publishing it later today 😎
Video I mentioned on the 2023 Acer 314 is now up: kzhead.info/sun/bKx_n9KkeZyJdK8/bejne.html
looks cool but there no slot for sd card
Would something like this help you - kzhead.info/sun/g7GKnrd5bpd-i68/bejne.html ? Or consider the newer Acer 314 I just showed on the channel last week: kzhead.info/sun/bKx_n9KkeZyJdK8/bejne.html
Hi why my display short quick flick before start any help pls
Is this when you boot into ChromeOS? Does it happen once you're using the Chromebook?
Yes recently purchased online order. when I pressed power button it flick display and worked as normal
Is same happened on 1.54 when u press power button
@@Binam07 Oh yeah! I don't particularly remember noticing that, if it's happening on yours too I would assume likely normal and it's just the screen receiving power/signal for the first time.
Is this laptop good for editing videos
Not a particularly strong point of ChromeOS and this more entry level spec I'm afraid. Do you know what app you'd plan to use?
Is this good for online learning college
The question will really be if ChromeOS delivers what you need. Can you do everything you need to via the browser and Android apps? If so, then this should be good. Or is there any software you need that can't be delivered thay way? I'd say this Chromebook with a 14 inch IPS FHD screen and with a fairly decent keyboard and trackpad is also nice to work at for periods of time. You can check the channel for alternatives to consider, maybe see the Mid Size Chromebooks playlist 👍
This or the lenovo ip slim 3?
What processor are you looking at in model?
@@MergeDroid nothing in particular tbh. It just shouldn't die when having multiple browsers open or when multitasking with apps.
But the actual model of the Slim you're looking at, can you confirm the processor? Is it the same MT8183 ?
Hello! which plays roblox better this or the lenovo idea pad 3 chromebook u reviewed recently ?
Hi, thanks for checking the videos. Both of those Chromebooks will handle Roblox fine but the IdeaPad 3 with the AMD 3015ce will have the edge over the MT8183 in this Acer. The Lenovo in my review also had 8GB of RAM, but 4GB is fine too for Roblox, but would just give that machine another advantage. Hope that helps. Of the two units I reviewed the Lenovo also had a touchscreen which may be a preference. Lenovo review is here for anyone else reading this - kzhead.info/sun/pdmJncehrpqed6c/bejne.html
@@MergeDroid ohh thankyou !! one mote question do u think there would be any lag?
Thanks. You've seen it in both of my videos on those two different processors right showing Roblox run? There's always the chance if lag, but for different reasons. If you can afford it I'd say get the Lenovo Ideapad 3 with the AMD 3015ce if you really want the best experience with it (of the two Chromebooks).
@@MergeDroid okay thankyou for the help!
Glad to help. Please do update with what you go for and how you find the performance 👍
Can i extend the memory?
Hi, no sorry, I'm almost certain the RAM is soldered on this one (as with most Chromebooks I'm afraid).
@@MergeDroid how about the internal memory? In this video, i see no memory card (sd card) slot on this chromebook?
You're right, no SD card slot. If you want more space for offline media etc this is the solution I use kzhead.info60Ngcm87ju4 I've reviewed quite a few other Chromebooks that have MicroSD card slots too, please check the channel to see if any look good to you and drop me a comment on their video with any queries 👍
Is it foldable??
No, this is just the 'Acer Chromebook 314', the convertible model will have Acer's 'Spin' branding in the name. Right now I'm testing this Spin 314: kzhead.infoasQC583hwMI Full review coming soon. You should also check out my video on the HP x360 14B Chromebook if you want a 14 inch convertible: kzhead.info/sun/eKenppt6sJqtpHA/bejne.html
Do they have Microsoft office?
See kzhead.info/sun/qqqLZsqPfpSGoK8/bejne.html - but you can only use the web browser version now, the apps are no longer available for Chromebooks
Hi got this model an download stick war 3 game an it’s starting to cut of the game back to Home Screen. Not a 100% why this happening xoxoxoxoxoxoxoxo
Hi, sorry to hear than. Does it happen at the same point every time? Assume storage isn't full. Tried clearing the apps data to reset it?
Acer chromebooks are well built unlike their budget windows offerings. However they are always provode below par sound.
Which other Acer Chromebooks are you thinking of? The sound setup of the Spin 314 I tested recently was fairly decent, speakers on the keyboard deck, video on the channel.
@@MergeDroid My one is old now cb 413 and it was passable. The windows laptops (All acer were poor). This particular one seemed okay in the store and has wifi5/6 but only negative is plastic, but HP was an even better laptop soundwise, backlit keyboard. Now that we have snapdragon in the mix I'm wondering if that is the way to go for my next chromebook.
Thanks, good to have some examples for context. Re: Snapdragon, you can see my video on the Acer Spin 513, I wasn't blown away but I expect they have and are optimising for performance.
@@MergeDroid i ended up with Acer 314 and at it loudest the sound is good. Mid point and you must as well use earphones
@@nauxsi hope you like it overall? Just keep that volume cranked up I guess? Which model do you have, can you confirm the processor?
Good for gaming like Roblox??
Hi, yeah will handle that OK, see this video with the Acer Spin 311 running it with the same MediaTek MT8183 processor - kzhead.info/sun/g5SbcaqmgJmAf5E/bejne.html It is worth thinking about whether you'd want a touch screen for gaming (or not).
Hi , is it IPS?
0:14
@@MergeDroid do you recommend this Chromebook or Acer 311 11.6 inches? Which has better screen?
@@alejandro8138 They are different. The Acer Spin 311 in my video here - kzhead.info/sun/dseBaa6SiZ2Af4E/bejne.html has an 11.6 inch HD IPS touch screen. The Acer 314 is 14 inch FHD IPS non-touch. Therefore the resolution of the 314 is better, but it's non-touch. It will come down to your personal use and how much you care about touch. Also, if you plan to watch a lot of movies or be using Google Sheets for spreadsheets a lot etc you may value the larger FHD screen over the smaller HD one. Likewise if you travel a lot, maybe you prefer the smaller 311. A lot of personal preference in these choices. Check my Chromebook Buying guide video for other considerations that may help you find the right Chromebook for your needs - kzhead.info/sun/ZMqtoa6em2loY3k/bejne.html
@@MergeDroid do you recommend this kzhead.info/sun/aZ2ydLqAeoV8aIU/bejne.html ? 11.6 inches is fine for me as long as the screen is good or have IPS
@@alejandro8138 It looks OK yes. Non-touch, non-convertible, Intel Celeron N4020 rather than the MediaTek MT8183, so 1 year less of Chrome OS updates (they will end in June 2027). Overall a bit more budget but looking online sounds like an IPS HD screen. If you wanted to compare something against the 11.6 inch Acer Spin 311, try looking at the Lenovo Flex 3i - kzhead.info/sun/fs6IXbqkgp98n4E/bejne.html There is also a newer model of it - kzhead.info/sun/p8yidK6XmoCkhI0/bejne.html
i need like windows here to game in
How do you mean? 🤔
i wanna add windows 10 because crhome os suck at gaming
Have you considered... kzhead.infosvUgqbXZXIs
Bro I can’t set it up
How far do you get? Connected to WiFi? Signed in with your Google account's username and password?
Hii i think 🤔 to buy for my mum 😀it’s a good Acer? Actually she need for a porpuse only to see me via a Skype 😂 I just seen one refurbished for a 150 pound grade A 😂
Yes, a pretty nice basic option with a 14 inch screen and will be fine for videos calls 👍
Did you go for it?
I didn't enjoy the product. The USB ports are strangely very tight. The card reader app constantly crashes. The touchpad isn't very nice. Struggles. ACER and ASUS. More than 2 letters of difference. Not worth the $250-$300.
Sorry to hear that Rob. Was it definitely a 314? No card reader on this variation as shown, maybe you had one with the Intel Celeron (N4000 or N4020 perhaps?) and a card reader? Have you found a replacement Chromebook that you're happier with? I might have some inspiration on the channel for you 👍