ASUS Chromebook CR12 CR1204C Information

The ASUS Chromebook CR12 CR1204C is a compact and practical device designed for students and educators who need reliable access to digital tools. With a 12-inch display offering Full HD resolution, it provides clear visuals for online learning, note-taking, and basic productivity tasks. The inclusion of Android support allows users to run a wide range of mobile apps directly on the Chromebook, while Linux applications can be installed for more advanced computing needs such as coding or system administration. This makes the CR1204C an ideal choice for educational settings where versatility and functionality are key.

Equipped with 4 GB of RAM and a dual-core Intel Celeron N100 processor, the device handles everyday tasks efficiently without requiring high-end specifications. Its built-in storage of 32 GB eMMC ensures that users have enough space for essential files, apps, and ChromeOS operations. The CR1204C also features multiple connectivity ports including HDMI, USB Type-C with video output support, and USB A 3.0, allowing for easy integration with other devices and peripherals. With long-term support until June 1^st of 2033, it offers a stable platform for users who need consistent performance over several years.

System Specifications

The ASUS Chromebook CR12 CR1204C is an x86_64 based Chromebook powered by a Intel Celeron N100 clocked at 1.0 GHz with 4 GB of RAM. As far as built-in storage, the ASUS Chromebook CR12 CR1204C has 32 GB eMMC of local disk space. The ASUS Chromebook CR12 CR1204C runs code built for the x86_64 architecture. This device is designed for the educational market and was built to withstand the rigors of a classroom environment. It features a spill-resistant keyboard and a rubberized body to protect it from drops.

Performance Expectations

This ASUS Chromebook CR12 CR1204C is designed for everyday use with a focus on simplicity and reliability, making it an excellent choice for students and educators who need a dependable tool for learning and collaboration. With 4 GB of RAM and a dual-core Intel Celeron N100 processor, the device handles web browsing smoothly and can manage multiple tabs without significant lag. It also supports Android applications, allowing users to take advantage of a wide range of mobile apps directly on their Chromebook. For those who need more advanced computing capabilities, Linux support is available, enabling the installation of various productivity tools and utilities right out of the box.

The 12-inch display with a resolution of 1920x1080 ensures clear visuals for both work and entertainment, whether you're watching videos or working on documents. The built-in ports, including HDMI and USB Type-C with video output support, make it easy to connect external monitors or peripherals when needed. Since the device lacks a touchscreen, users should expect a traditional keyboard and trackpad experience, which is still efficient for most tasks. Overall, this Chromebook provides a solid foundation for basic computing needs while maintaining ease of use and accessibility for its target demographic.

CPU Performance Expectations

The Intel Celeron N100 processor paired with 4 GB of RAM delivers a balanced performance for everyday tasks, making this device well-suited for students and educators who need reliable access to web-based tools and applications. Web browsing remains smooth and responsive, even when multiple tabs are open, while media playback such as videos or music streams without noticeable lag. The CPU's efficiency ensures that basic productivity tasks like document editing, spreadsheet manipulation, and email management are handled with ease. For users who primarily rely on ChromeOS apps and Android applications, the N100 provides a solid foundation for daily use without requiring advanced hardware capabilities.

When it comes to more demanding tasks, such as running multiple browser tabs alongside light video conferencing or streaming, the Celeron N100 still holds its own. While it may not be ideal for resource-heavy software like professional-grade photo editing tools or complex coding environments, it is well-equipped for most common educational and office workflows. The combination of a modern processor and sufficient RAM ensures that users can navigate ChromeOS with ease, making this device a practical choice for those who prioritize affordability and long-term support over high-end performance.

Storage Performance Expectations

The ASUS Chromebook CR12 CR1204C utilizes eMMC storage, which is a type of non-volatile memory that offers reliable performance for everyday tasks. While eMMC storage is generally slower than SSDs in terms of read and write speeds, it still provides sufficient performance for most common activities such as web browsing, document editing, and media playback. Users should be mindful of their storage usage, as the device's 32 GB capacity may quickly fill up with large files or applications. To maintain optimal performance, it is recommended to keep at least 60% of the storage free by regularly managing downloads, clearing caches, and uninstalling unused apps. This will help ensure that the device continues to operate smoothly over time without experiencing significant slowdowns due to storage constraints. For users who require faster data access or more space, external USB drives can be used as a supplementary solution.

Display Performance Expectations

The ASUS Chromebook CR12 CR1204C features a 12-inch display with a resolution of 1920x1080, offering crisp and clear visuals that are well-suited for everyday tasks such as browsing the web, watching videos, and working on documents. This resolution provides sufficient detail for most modern applications without requiring high-end graphics processing power. For users engaged in video editing or software development, the display delivers accurate color representation and a smooth viewing experience, though it may not support advanced features like high refresh rates or wide color gamut coverage. The built-in GPU support ensures that basic graphical tasks are handled efficiently, making it ideal for light multimedia use and general productivity. While the device does not include a touchscreen, its traditional display setup is reliable and functional for users who prefer a standard laptop-style interface.

For those working with demanding software or multitasking across multiple windows, the 1920x1080 resolution ensures that content remains legible and organized without excessive scaling. The display performance aligns well with its role as an educational device, providing clarity for students and teachers alike. While it may not be suitable for professional-grade video editing or high-end graphic design workflows, it serves as a practical tool for learning and basic creative tasks. The overall visual experience is consistent with its mid-range positioning, offering a balance between performance and cost-effectiveness without compromising on essential display capabilities. This makes the device a solid choice for users looking for an affordable yet reliable computing solution.

Android Performance Expectations

This device is well-suited for everyday Android tasks, offering a smooth experience with its 4 GB RAM and 32 GB eMMC storage. While it can handle basic apps such as messaging, social media, and light productivity tools like Google Docs or Sheets, users who require more storage for offline media or larger applications may find the limited space restrictive. The absence of a touchscreen could also limit the usability of certain apps that are optimized for touch input, particularly those designed for Android tablets. For casual gaming, the device should manage most mobile games without significant lag, though more demanding titles might struggle with performance due to the lower-end processor and storage constraints.

For media consumption, such as streaming videos or listening to music, this device performs adequately, especially when connected to external speakers or headphones. However, users who plan to store a large library of offline content may need to rely on cloud-based solutions rather than local storage. The dual USB ports provide flexibility for connecting accessories like Bluetooth mice or keyboards, which can enhance the user experience for productivity tasks. Overall, this device is a solid choice for basic Android use in an educational setting, but it’s best suited for users who prioritize affordability and simplicity over high-performance capabilities.

Linux Performance Expectations

This device offers a solid foundation for running Linux applications thanks to its x86_64 architecture and support for Linux GPU acceleration. With 4 GB of RAM, it can handle basic development tasks such as coding in popular languages like Python or JavaScript, along with lightweight text editing and terminal-based workflows. While more demanding software may experience performance limitations due to the lower memory capacity, the inclusion of a dedicated GPU ensures smoother operation for graphics-intensive applications. The 32 GB eMMC storage provides enough space for essential development tools and project files, though users should be mindful of storage constraints when working with larger projects or datasets.

For video editing tasks, this device can manage entry-level workloads using lightweight software such as DaVinci Resolve or Shotcut, especially when focusing on simpler edits and basic color grading. The Intel Celeron N100 processor provides adequate performance for background processes and multitasking, though complex rendering or high-resolution workflows may require more powerful hardware. Users should expect a balanced experience with Linux applications that do not push the system to its limits, making it suitable for educational and productivity-focused use cases without overextending the device’s capabilities.

Gaming Performance Expectations

Web-Based Gaming Experience/Web-Game Streaming Services

The ASUS Chromebook CR12 CR1204C offers a solid foundation for casual web browsing and light productivity tasks, thanks to its Intel Celeron N100 processor and 4 GB of RAM. While it may not be the most powerful device on the market, it is well-suited for users who primarily rely on cloud-based applications and modern web services. The combination of a 1920x1080 display and support for Android and Linux applications makes this Chromebook a versatile option for students or educators looking to streamline their workflow without compromising on essential features.

When it comes to gaming, the device is capable of handling basic web-based games with reasonable performance, though more demanding titles may experience lag or reduced frame rates. The integrated GPU provides adequate support for graphic-intensive content, but users should expect some limitations when running high-end browser-based experiences. For a smoother experience, opting for simpler games or those optimized for lower system requirements will ensure that the device can deliver a satisfactory level of performance and visual quality without overextending its hardware capabilities.

Linux Gaming Experience

The ASUS Chromebook CR12 CR1204C offers a solid foundation for Linux applications, making it a versatile choice for users looking to run more advanced software on ChromeOS. With 4 GB of RAM and an Intel Celeron N100 processor, this device can handle basic tasks such as document editing, web browsing, and media playback with ease. The integrated GPU support ensures that graphics-intensive Linux applications can run smoothly without requiring additional hardware, which is particularly beneficial for users who need to perform light graphic design or video processing. However, the 32 GB eMMC storage may be a limiting factor for those who require more space for large projects or extensive software installations.

For gaming on Linux, this device provides a functional but limited experience. While it can run a variety of lightweight applications and basic games, performance will depend heavily on the specific software being used. The CPU and GPU capabilities are sufficient for casual use, but users should expect some limitations when running more demanding titles. It's important to note that the storage capacity may also affect load times and overall responsiveness. As such, it's recommended that users consult the system requirements of individual Linux applications or games to ensure compatibility with this device. The Chromebook’s design makes it a great option for those who want to explore Linux without the complexity of a traditional desktop environment.

Steam-Based Gaming Experience

This device is well-suited for casual gaming through Steam, especially when using Linux applications. The Intel Celeron N100 processor and 4 GB of RAM provide a decent foundation for running lightweight games, though more demanding titles may struggle with performance. With 32 GB of eMMC storage, there's enough space to install most Steam-based games, but users should be mindful of the limited capacity when managing game files or additional software. The Linux GPU support ensures that many graphics-intensive applications can run smoothly, making this device a viable option for those who prefer the flexibility of open-source solutions.

Graphics quality on this device is moderate, and while it can handle older or less demanding titles, modern games may require more resources than are available. Users should always check individual game system requirements to ensure compatibility. The overall user experience is functional and reliable, with the ChromeOS environment providing a stable platform for gaming through Linux applications. However, for those looking for high-end performance or the latest graphical capabilities, this device may fall short in comparison to more powerful alternatives.

Usage Scenarios

ChromeOS devices are versatile and can be used for a variety of tasks. The sections below provide an overview of the experience you can expect when using the ASUS Chromebook CR12 CR1204C in different scenarios. Your experience may vary based on the specific configuration of your device, the applications you use, and your individual usage patterns.

Media Consumption Experience

The ASUS Chromebook CR12 CR1204C offers a solid media consumption experience thanks to its 1920x1080 display, which provides clear visuals for streaming videos and watching movies. With a screen resolution that balances detail with performance, this device is well-suited for everyday entertainment use without overwhelming the system resources. Its 32 GB eMMC storage is sufficient for storing offline media such as movies, music, and photos, making it ideal for users who prefer to watch content without relying on an internet connection. While the device's hardware may not be designed for high-end video editing or 4K playback, it handles standard-definition and full HD content smoothly.

Audio quality remains consistent with its overall performance, offering clear sound for music and voiceovers. The absence of a touchscreen does not significantly impact the media experience, as most streaming and playback tasks can be managed efficiently through the built-in keyboard and trackpad. The device's support for Android applications also allows users to access a variety of video apps that may offer additional features or customization options. Overall, this Chromebook provides a reliable platform for consuming digital content in both online and offline environments.

ChromeOS Work Experience

The ASUS Chromebook CR12 CR1204C offers a reliable and efficient work experience tailored for everyday productivity tasks. With its Intel Celeron N100 processor, this device provides sufficient power to handle basic office applications such as document editing, spreadsheet management, and email clients without significant lag. The 4 GB of RAM ensures that lightweight web-based tools like Google Docs or Microsoft Office Online run smoothly, making it ideal for users who primarily rely on cloud-based workflows. Its 1920x1080 resolution display delivers crisp visuals during video calls and web browsing, enhancing the overall user experience in a professional setting.

The built-in support for Android applications adds versatility to this device, allowing users to access a wide range of productivity tools and utilities without the need for additional software installation. The inclusion of Linux applications further expands its capabilities, enabling advanced users to run specific development or scripting tasks directly on ChromeOS. This makes it suitable for students, educators, and small business owners who require a balance between simplicity and functionality. However, while it can handle standard workloads, more intensive multitasking or resource-heavy applications may show performance limitations due to the lower RAM and storage capacity. Overall, this device is well-suited for users who prioritize ease of use and affordability over high-end performance.

ChromeOS Education Experience

The ASUS Chromebook CR12 CR1204C is well-suited for students who need a reliable, affordable device to support their learning journey. With 4 GB of RAM and a 32 GB eMMC storage, it handles basic web browsing, document editing, and video conferencing with ease, making it ideal for everyday educational tasks such as accessing online courses, participating in virtual classrooms, and managing schoolwork. The 1920x1080 resolution ensures clear visuals during lessons or when viewing digital textbooks, while the Intel Celeron N100 processor provides enough power to run modern web applications without lagging performance. This device is particularly useful for students who need a lightweight, portable solution that can keep up with classroom activities and homework assignments.

The Chromebook's support for Android and Linux applications opens up additional possibilities for educational use. Students can install a variety of apps directly from the Google Play Store or run Linux-based tools for more advanced tasks such as coding or data analysis. The dual USB ports, including HDMI output, allow for easy connectivity to external displays or projectors during presentations, making it versatile for both in-class and remote learning environments. While it lacks a touchscreen, the device's physical keyboard is comfortable for extended typing sessions, which is especially beneficial for students who spend time writing essays or working on research projects. Overall, this Chromebook offers a balanced mix of performance and features that support a wide range of educational needs without compromising on affordability or ease of use.

General Productivity Experience

The ASUS Chromebook CR12 CR1204C is a solid choice for users looking for a reliable and functional Chromebook tailored for educational environments. With a 12-inch display offering a resolution of 1920x1080, it provides a clear and crisp viewing experience that’s ideal for web browsing, document editing, and online collaboration. The device's performance is well-suited for lightweight tasks such as managing spreadsheets, video conferencing, and streaming content, all while maintaining smooth operation thanks to the Intel Celeron N100 processor and 4 GB of RAM. For students or educators who need a balance between affordability and capability, this Chromebook delivers a practical solution without compromising on essential features.

The CR1204C also offers a range of connectivity options that enhance its versatility in both classroom and home settings. The dual USB Type-C ports with video output support allow for easy connection to external monitors or peripherals, while the USB A 3.0 port provides compatibility with older devices. Additionally, the built-in cellular capabilities via 4G/LTE/WCDMA make it a great option for users who need constant internet access on the go. With Android and Linux applications supported out of the box, this device caters to a wide array of needs, from basic productivity tasks to more advanced software requirements, making it an adaptable tool for various learning scenarios.

Developer Experience

Please note that this section is focused on the developer experience using a stock ChromeOS environment, this should not be confused with the ChromeOS Developer Mode which does allow for additional customizations and development tools at the cost of security and stability.

The ASUS Chromebook CR12 CR1204C is a solid choice for developers looking for an affordable and reliable platform to work on code, manage projects, and run development tools. With 4 GB of RAM and an Intel Celeron N100 processor, it can handle lightweight development tasks such as editing text files, running basic servers, and using version control systems like Git. While more intensive tasks may require some patience, the device’s x86_64 architecture ensures compatibility with a wide range of Linux applications, including essential tools like Python, Node.js, and Visual Studio Code. Developers can take advantage of ChromeOS's seamless integration with cloud-based IDEs such as GitHub Codespaces or Google Cloud Shell, which provide powerful environments without demanding high local resources.

For those who prefer to work locally, the 32 GB eMMC storage offers enough space for essential development files and tools, though users should be mindful of storage limits. The 1920x1080 display provides clear visibility for code and documentation, making it easier to focus on writing and debugging. While the device lacks a touchscreen, its dual USB Type-C ports with video output support allow for easy connectivity to external monitors or peripherals, enhancing productivity during longer development sessions. With Linux support enabled, developers can install and run a variety of command-line tools and scripts without needing to rely on cloud-based solutions alone.

The Chromebook’s long-term support until June 1^st of 2033 ensures that it will remain functional for several years, which is particularly beneficial for educational institutions or students who may not want to frequently upgrade their hardware. While the device isn’t designed for high-performance computing tasks like compiling large codebases or running virtual machines, it still provides a capable environment for basic development workflows and learning new programming languages. Its combination of affordability, reliability, and built-in Linux support makes it an excellent entry-level option for developers who need a lightweight yet functional machine to get their work done.

Pricing and Availability

eBay

eBay is one of the largest marketplaces for both new and used ChromeOS. You can check to see if this Chromebook is available for sale on eBay by clicking here.

Accessories

The ASUS Chromebook CR12 CR1204C is a versatile and powerful Chromebook, offering a seamless blend of performance, design, and flexibility. To unlock its full potential and enhance your user experience, a wide range of accessories can complement this premium device. Whether you're looking to improve productivity, boost creativity, or protect your investment, there’s something for everyone.

In this section, you'll find a curated list of accessories that are fully compatible with the ASUS Chromebook CR12 CR1204C. From must-have peripherals like docking stations, webcams, and chargers to additional enhancements like keyboards, mice and external monitors, we’ve got you covered. Each recommendation has been carefully selected to ensure compatibility, quality, and the best possible experience for your ASUS Chromebook CR12 CR1204C.

USB Docking Stations

The ASUS Chromebook CR12 CR1204C can be connected to a USB Docking Station to expand the number of ports available to you. This is especially useful if you need to connect multiple peripherals to your device such as a keyboard, mouse, external hard drive, printer, or other devices. We have compiled a list of USB Docking Stations that are compatible with your Chromebook on our USB Docking Station Accessories Page along with links to purchase the USB Docking Stations.

Universal DisplayLink Docking Stations

Universal Docking Stations powered by DisplayLink Technology allow you to power external displays over a standard USB 2.0 or USB 3.0 Port. These docking stations are excellent for those who wish to focus on productivity but these Universal Docking Stations do have several limitations that may be a problem for some users such as the inability to view High-bandwidth Digital Content Protection (HDCP) such as content from streaming media or Android Applications with security policies that previent screenshots/screen mirroring (banking applications and password managers). Additionally, these limitations may prevent some work related applications from functioning if your company uses any security policies that block screen mirroring or screenshots of company applications.

Although the ASUS Chromebook CR12 CR1204C will work with Universal DisplayLink Docking Stations, it is recommended to use a USB-C Docking Station with Video Output Support for the best experience. USB-C Docking Stations do not suffer from the same limitations as DisplayLink Docking Stations and will allow you to access secure applications that are restricted on DisplayLink.

USB-C Chargers/Power Supplies

The ASUS Chromebook CR12 CR1204C can be charged with a USB Type-C charger using the USB Power Delivery Standard (USB-PD). You can purchase a compatible charger at most electronic retailers. We have created a list of chargers that we have tested to ensure they will work with your device. You may view this list via our Accessories Page, along with links to the product page if you wish to purchase the charger.

USB Battery Banks

The ASUS Chromebook CR12 CR1204C can be powered via an external USB Type-C Battery Bank if you need to use your device for extended periods of time when not near a reliable power source. USB Battery Banks are also ideal for those who use their ChromeOS Device while traveling or even in an emergency situation such as a severe storm, which may have power outages. Not all USB Battery Banks are capable of providing enough power to charge your Chromebook. We have compiled a list USB Battery Banks that can run your ASUS Chromebook CR12 CR1204C on our USB Battery Bank Accessories Page along with links to purchase the USB Battery Banks.

Webcams

The ASUS Chromebook CR12 CR1204C should work with most consumer and professional grade webcams on the market. The list below shows several of the most popular webcams that will work for your Chromebook however you can access the ChromeOS Guide Accessory Database for a full list of devices that we have verified will work with ChromeOS.