Looking for a device for photo editing that is more affordable than a laptop?
Well, look no further. The Chromebook is very light, compact and relatively cheap considering the price of the latest laptops. Also, it comes with the ChromeOS operating system in most cases.
The ChromeOS provides Google’s Play Store access and a Lightroom Mobile application, similar to the Adobe Photoshop CC. Overall the Chromebook is a great alternative to laptops with other operating systems.
Our Picks of Chromebook for Photo Editing
1. Google Pixelbook Go – Top Performance
Google Pixelbook Go is the best option for high-performance since it can match some of the more expensive laptops on the market. This product is very light due to its lightweight design. Smooth multitasking is guaranteed with the 8th Generation Intel i5 and 8 GB of RAM. The battery life is amazing, considering the performance and thin design. It goes up to 12 hours of basic use and about 8 hours of more demanding activities.
Titan C security provides additional privacy protection for any personal data and the built-in virus protection is also included. With the quiet keyboard and built-in backlight, it is suitable for working at night. Although there are no downsides to this Chromebook, the price might be high for some users.
Specifications
| Graphics | Intel UHD Graphics |
| CPU | Intel i5 8200y |
| Hard Drive | 128 GB SSD |
| Dimensions | 0.57 x 12.25 x 8.12 inches |
| Weight | 2.33 lbs |
| Operating system | Chrome OS |
2. Acer Chromebook 714 – Style and Performance
This Chromebook combines style, durability and performance, which is a great option for college students. The aluminum chassis works great to protect every component since it is designed to absorb shock and impact. This design is also lightweight and has very high corrosion resistance. Some users might need higher performance, but the 8th Generation Intel i3 works perfectly for most heavy tasks.
The best thing about this Chromebook might be the Corning Gorilla glass touchpad. Scrolling and tapping are very smooth and it is scratch resistant. The HDR webcam delivers a high-quality detail and wide field of view, suitable for most users. Featuring dual-microphone voice processing for recognizing verbal requests is useful for a Google Assistant and any other voice recording software.
Specifications
| Graphics | Intel UHD Graphics 620 |
| CPU | Intel i3 8130U |
| Hard Drive | 64GB eMMC |
| Dimensions | 12.72 x 9.39 x 0.7 inches |
| Weight | 3.50 lbs |
| Operating system | Chrome OS |
3. HP Chromebook Snow White – Best Budge Pick
Even though this model lacks performance, it can be used for simple tasks and the most basic photo editing. With the AMD A4-9120 CPU and 4 GB RAM, the most demanding photo editing software cannot be used, although most tasks run smoothly. The HP Chromebook includes a webcam which is quite sufficient for online meetings.
Depending on the usage, the battery lasts about 8 hours. Still, intensive use will run the battery down in just 4 hours The screen can be rotated to 180 degrees due to the flexible hinge and it also comes with the FULL HD display resolution. Altogether this product provides great value for the price.
Specifications
| Graphics | Integrated |
| CPU | AMD A4-9120 |
| Hard Drive | 32GB eMMC |
| Dimensions | 8.93 x 13.27 x 0.72 inches |
| Weight | 3.00 lbs |
| Operating system | Chrome OS |
4. ASUS Chromebook Flip C434
Chromebook Flip C434 stands out for high-quality display, features and enough performance for Adobe Photoshop CC. The latest ErgoLift hinge allows for 360 degrees rotation, which is useful to acquire the perfect display position. Also, the keyboard can be adjusted to get the best angle for the laptop mode.
This Chromebook comes with the FULL HD NanoEdge touchscreen display and slim bezels. Without any question, the display quality can match almost every laptop on the market. Additionally, it also features a premium keyboard with ideal key travel and backlight. That said, the touchpad is large and supports the multi-touch gesture and palm rejection.
With 10 hours of battery life and high-quality speakers, the Chromebook C434 provides a great user experience for every activity.
Specifications
| Graphics | Intel HD Graphics 615 |
| CPU | Intel m3 8100Y |
| Hard Drive | 64GB eMMC |
| Dimensions | 12.6 x 8 x 0.6 inches |
| Weight | 3.30 lbs |
| Operating system | Chrome OS |
5. Google Pixelbook
The Google Pixelbook introduces the Pixelbook Pen, great performance and Google Assistant support.
It is only required to press the Google Assistant key to start with the process. Getting quick responses and daily managing tasks is simple and smooth. This Chromebook also comes with the Pixelbook Pen. This pen allows users to access Google Assistant faster.
Pixelbook is also known for durability since it features an aluminum body and Corning Gorilla Glass.
Performances are not the best, but the Intel 7th Gen processor is enough for multitasking and entertainment. This Chromebook can go up 10 hours of combined use and about 7 hours of heavy use. The Chrome OS updates automatically and it works great for virus protection. It is the perfect option for speed and security.
Specifications
| Graphics | Integrated HD615 |
| CPU | Intel i5-7Y57 |
| Hard Drive | 128 GB eMMC |
| Dimensions | 11.43 x 8.69 x 0.44 inches |
| Weight | 2.45 lbs |
| Operating system | Chrome OS |
6. Acer Chromebook Spin
This is a highly-rated product since it offers great performance, high-quality display and advanced versatility. The setup is simple for every user. It is only required to log into the Google Account to access every setting on this Chromebook to get the best user experience.
An external monitor is unnecessary as there is an option to cast any Chrome browser to the TV that supports Chromecast. Also, the Virtual Desks can be used for maximum efficiency. The Family Link feature is very useful for multiple users. That said, this feature includes the latest parental controls and it works great to share resources.
Another special feature is the Acer Stylus with the Wacom EMR technology. This stylus can be helpful even for professional photo editing. Considering that the battery life is also decent, the only thing that this product might lack for professional use is a more powerful GPU.
Specifications
| Graphics | Integrated |
| CPU | Intel i5-8250u |
| Hard Drive | 128 GB eMMC |
| Dimensions | 9.68 x 12.19 x 0.67 inches |
| Weight | 3.50 lbs |
| Operating system | Chrome OS |
7. Acer Chromebook R
The Acer Chromebook R provides an advanced touch experience with a wide viewing angle and a quick connection. This Chromebook features a 10-point touch screen for fast surfing, swiping, and editing any file with the tip of the finger. That said, the viewing angles are wide with true colors.
As security is important, there are multiple built-in security layers. Necessary upgrades are automatically downloaded and installed. Compared to the most expensive Chromebooks on the market, this is not the best option for performance. Still, it comes with a quick Internet connection due to the 802.11 ac and 2×2 MIMO technology.
Also, due to the dual torque hinge, it is possible to use the display, tent, tablet and standard laptop mode. Altogether, casual users will find great value from the Acer Chromebook R.
Specifications
| Graphics | Integrated Intel HD Graphics 400 |
| CPU | Intel Celeron N3060 |
| Hard Drive | 32 GB eMMC |
| Dimensions | 8.03 x 11.57 x 0.78 inches |
| Weight | 2.80 lbs |
| Operating system | Chrome OS |
8. Samsung Chromebook Plus V2
Even though the Samsung Plus V2 is a budget Chromebook, it delivers decent performance and features an ultra-lightweight design.
The Intel Celeron 3965Y might not be the best choice for professional photo editing. Still, it will work for casual users. On the other hand, the built-in pen makes a huge difference since it is convenient for sketching, editing or taking fast screenshots.
Additionally, this Chromebook also includes the 13 MP dual camera for greater picture detail and more zoom. The battery life lasts about 10 hours, although using any demanding application will drain the battery in just 4 hours. The downside to this product is definitely a lack of performance. Still, it is worth buying since it comes with many useful features.
Specifications
| Graphics | Integrated Intel HD Graphics 615 |
| CPU | Intel Celeron 3965Y |
| Hard Drive | 32 GB eMMC |
| Dimensions | 11.34 x 0.67 x 8.2 inches |
| Weight | 2.98 lbs |
| Operating system | Chrome OS |
Buyer’s Guide While Buying Chromebook for Photo Editing
Display
The display quality might be the most important factor for photo editing. The FULL HD resolution is recommended, but going for the 2k resolution will make a huge difference. In some cases, 4k resolution is the best option.
That said, the Chromebooks with 4k resolution are very expensive and the battery life will drain faster. Casual users should start with FULL HD resolution and at least 250 nits of brightness.
CPU
With so many processors on the market, choosing the one that meets the user’s requirements is the way to go. The Chromebook with Intel Celeron might be enough for the most basic tasks, but professional photo editing is impossible.
That said, the latest Intel i5 processors are quite sufficient for most users. Still, the best option for professional photo editing is the Intel i7 processor. The Intel i7 provides superior performance for a premium price.
Storage
Whether the Chromebook is used for photo editing or any other activity, the storage capacity should also be considered before buying. The minimum storage available is 32 GB.
Even though the 32GB is fine for casual use, it is not enough for larger projects. Getting a Chromebook with 128 GB storage is the best option to combine personal and professional use.
Also, those who need to get the best performance should get the SSD since it is a lot faster than a standard hard drive. The storage capacity can be upgraded with the SD card if required.
Ports
Picking a Chromebook with a huge variety of ports will make a huge difference for every user. The most basic ports to get flexibility are the USB 2.0, USB 3.0 and HDMI ports. Without any question, the higher is better.
Chromebook with versatile connectivity will provide a great user experience for photo editors. Upgrading connectivity is possible, although the USB port hub is required. Buying the USB port hub is a lot cheaper than buying a new Chromebook.
FAQ
Can a Chromebook be used for photo editing?
Yes, Chromebooks can be used for photo editing, but their performance may vary depending on the model and specifications. Chromebooks are generally less powerful than traditional laptops, but they can still handle basic photo editing tasks.
What are the minimum specifications required for a Chromebook for photo editing?
The minimum specifications required for a Chromebook for photo editing are an Intel Core i3 processor, 4GB RAM, and 32GB storage. However, if you plan to work on larger projects, it is recommended to get a Chromebook with an Intel Core i5 or i7 processor, 8GB or 16GB RAM, and 128GB storage.
What is the best Chromebook for photo editing?
The best Chromebook for photo editing depends on your needs and budget. The Google Pixelbook Go is the top-performing Chromebook with a lightweight design and long battery life. The Acer Chromebook 714 is a stylish and durable option with a Corning Gorilla glass touchpad. The HP Chromebook Snow White is the best budget option with basic specifications suitable for simple tasks.
Can a Chromebook run Adobe Photoshop?
Yes, some Chromebooks can run Adobe Photoshop, but they need to meet the software’s minimum system requirements. Adobe Photoshop runs on Chromebooks with an Intel Core i5 or i7 processor, 8GB or 16GB RAM, and 128GB or more storage.
What display resolution is recommended for a Chromebook for photo editing?
The recommended display resolution for a Chromebook for photo editing is at least Full HD (1920 x 1080). However, higher resolutions such as 2K or 4K are better for a more detailed and clear image. A higher resolution may also drain the battery life faster and increase the cost.
Is it necessary to have a stylus for photo editing on a Chromebook?
No, it is not necessary to have a stylus for photo editing on a Chromebook. However, a stylus can make photo editing tasks more precise and comfortable. Some Chromebooks come with a built-in stylus or have an option to purchase one separately.
How long does the battery life last on a Chromebook for photo editing?
The battery life on a Chromebook for photo editing varies depending on the model and usage. Generally, Chromebooks have a battery life of around 8-10 hours, but heavy usage such as running photo editing software can drain the battery faster. It is recommended to get a Chromebook with a long battery life if you plan to work on photo editing tasks for an extended period.
Conclusion
Reading this article will provide users with enough information to get the best Chromebook for a specific activity. Even though the Chromebook might not be the best option for professional photo editing, it is sufficient for smaller projects.
When looking for a particular Chromebook, getting the highest performance and latest features is important to get the best user experience. That said, the products presented in this article will work fine for professional and casual users.
