Acer Chromebook 11 (CB311-8HT) Information

The Acer Chromebook 11 (CB311-8HT) is a reliable and affordable option for everyday computing needs. With a 11.6-inch display offering 1366x768 resolution, it provides clear visuals for web browsing, video streaming, and basic productivity tasks. The device runs on an Intel Celeron N3350 processor, paired with 4 GB of RAM and 32 GB of internal storage, making it suitable for lightweight applications and multitasking. Its touchscreen feature enhances usability for users who prefer direct interaction with content, especially when using Android apps or navigating the ChromeOS interface. The inclusion of a MicroSD card slot allows for easy expansion of storage capacity, which is ideal for those who need additional space for files or media.

The Chromebook 11 (CB311-8HT) also supports Linux applications and Android apps, giving users more flexibility in how they use the device. This makes it a versatile choice for students, remote workers, and casual users looking for an entry-level ChromeOS machine that can handle basic tasks efficiently. The USB Type-C port with video output support adds convenience for connecting peripherals or external displays. While it is an older model, it still offers a solid balance between performance and affordability, making it a good option for those seeking a budget-friendly device that meets most everyday computing requirements.

System Specifications

The Acer Chromebook 11 (CB311-8HT) is an x86_64 based Chromebook powered by a Intel Celeron N3350 clocked at 1.1 GHz with 4 GB of RAM. As far as built-in storage, the Acer Chromebook 11 (CB311-8HT) has 32 GB of local disk space. The Acer Chromebook 11 (CB311-8HT) runs code built for the x86_64 architecture.

Performance Expectations

The Acer Chromebook 11 (CB311-8HT) offers a smooth user experience for everyday tasks, making it an ideal choice for students and casual users. Its 4 GB of RAM is sufficient to handle lightweight web browsing, streaming media, and basic productivity applications without significant lag. The device’s x86_64 architecture ensures compatibility with a wide range of Android apps and Linux applications, expanding its versatility beyond traditional ChromeOS use cases. With a touchscreen interface, users can take advantage of touch-friendly apps and gestures, enhancing the overall interaction with content such as note-taking or quick navigation through web pages.

For media consumption, this device delivers an enjoyable experience thanks to its 1366x768 resolution and responsive display. Watching videos or reading articles becomes effortless, especially when paired with the built-in speakers that provide clear audio output. While it may not be the best option for intensive multitasking or running resource-heavy software, it performs well for general use scenarios such as online learning, email management, and light document editing. The inclusion of Linux support further broadens its capabilities, allowing users to run a variety of command-line tools and development environments without needing additional hardware. Overall, this device strikes a balance between performance and affordability, making it a reliable companion for everyday computing needs.

CPU Performance Expectations

The Intel Celeron N3350 processor in this device provides a balanced approach to performance, making it suitable for everyday tasks such as web browsing, email, and light document editing. While it may not handle resource-heavy applications with ease, its efficiency ensures smooth navigation through most ChromeOS-based workflows. For users who primarily rely on cloud storage and online tools, the CPU's capabilities are more than sufficient to maintain a responsive experience. When paired with 4 GB of RAM, the system can comfortably manage multiple browser tabs and basic productivity software without significant lag.

For media consumption, the processor delivers adequate performance for streaming videos and music, though it may not support the highest resolution formats without some delay. Watching standard-definition content or using video conferencing tools should feel natural and fluid. While more demanding tasks like video editing or running complex simulations will be challenging, the CPU is well-suited for its intended use cases—making it a reliable choice for casual users and students who need a simple yet functional device for daily computing needs.

Storage Performance Expectations

The Acer Chromebook 11 (CB311-8HT) utilizes eMMC storage, which is a type of non-volatile memory commonly used in mobile and embedded devices due to its cost-effectiveness and reliability. While eMMC offers sufficient performance for everyday tasks such as web browsing, document editing, and media playback, it may not match the speed of newer SSD technologies. Users should be mindful of their storage usage, ensuring that at least 60% of the available space remains free to maintain optimal performance. This is particularly important when running Linux applications or managing a large number of files, as eMMC can experience performance degradation if the drive becomes too full. For most casual users, the 32 GB internal storage should be adequate for basic ChromeOS operations and essential apps, though additional external storage via MicroSD can help expand capacity without compromising system performance.

Display Performance Expectations

The Acer Chromebook 11 (CB311-8HT) features a 11.6-inch display with a resolution of 1366x768, providing a clear and readable experience for everyday tasks such as web browsing, document editing, and streaming media. While the screen size is well-suited for portability and productivity, it may not offer the highest level of detail or color accuracy compared to more recent models. For users engaged in video editing or graphic design workloads, this resolution should suffice for basic tasks but may fall short when handling high-resolution content or detailed image manipulation. The touchscreen functionality enhances interactivity with Android applications, making it easier to navigate and use touch-based features on the go.

The device’s GPU support allows for smooth performance with modern web applications and light multimedia tasks, including video playback and simple graphic design tools. However, more intensive software development or complex video editing may require additional resources that this hardware is not designed to handle. The touchscreen capability also provides an intuitive interface for users who prefer touch input, especially when working with Android apps or navigating through the ChromeOS environment. Overall, the display and GPU performance are adequate for general use but may limit the device’s suitability for more demanding creative workflows.

Android Performance Expectations

The Acer Chromebook 11 (CB311-8HT) offers a balanced Android experience with its 4 GB of RAM and 32 GB of storage, making it suitable for everyday tasks like streaming videos, using social media apps, and managing email. While it may not be the best choice for users who plan to store large amounts of offline media or games due to limited internal storage, it can still handle most Android applications smoothly for casual use. The touchscreen interface enhances interaction with many Android apps, especially those designed for touch input, making it a good option for users who prefer a more interactive experience.

For productivity tasks such as document editing and note-taking, the device performs adequately, though some users may find that more complex applications run slightly slower compared to newer models. The built-in MicroSD card slot allows for additional storage expansion, which can be useful for those who need more space for apps or media files. Overall, this device is well-suited for light Android use and remains a practical choice for basic mobile needs without requiring high-end hardware.

Linux Performance Expectations

The Acer Chromebook 11 (CB311-8HT) is equipped with Linux support, making it a versatile option for users who need to run a variety of applications beyond the standard ChromeOS environment. With an Intel Celeron N3350 processor and 4 GB of RAM, this device can handle basic Linux tasks such as text editing, command-line operations, and lightweight development tools. However, more resource-intensive workloads like video editing or compiling complex software may experience performance limitations due to the lower memory capacity and older CPU architecture. Users should expect smoother operation with simpler scripts and applications that do not require heavy processing power.

For those engaged in software development, this device can serve as a functional platform for learning and experimenting with Linux environments, especially when paired with cloud-based tools or lightweight IDEs. While it may not be ideal for high-performance tasks, its ability to run Linux applications natively makes it suitable for users who need access to open-source utilities and command-line interfaces without the overhead of a full desktop environment. The combination of x86_64 architecture and integrated GPU support ensures that most basic development workflows can proceed efficiently, though more demanding projects might require additional hardware or cloud resources.

Gaming Performance Expectations

Web-Based Gaming Experience/Web-Game Streaming Services

Web-based gaming on this device can be a mixed experience depending on the game and your internet connection. The Intel Celeron N3350 processor provides adequate performance for casual games, but more demanding titles may struggle with frame rates or lag, especially when running in high-resolution settings. With 4 GB of RAM, lightweight web-based games should run smoothly, though users might notice some slowdowns during intensive sessions. Graphics quality is generally acceptable for most browser-based games, though advanced visuals or complex animations could be less refined.

For a better experience, ensure you're using a stable internet connection and consider lowering in-game settings if performance issues arise. While this device can handle basic web-based gaming without major hiccups, it may not be the best choice for more demanding titles that require higher processing power or advanced graphics capabilities. Overall, it's suitable for casual gamers looking to play browser-based games on the go.

Linux Gaming Experience

The Acer Chromebook 11 (CB311-8HT) offers a modest yet functional Linux gaming experience, making it suitable for casual and lightweight applications. With an Intel Celeron N3350 processor and 4 GB of RAM, the device can run basic games and development tools with acceptable performance. The integrated GPU support allows for decent graphical rendering, though more demanding titles may struggle to maintain smooth frame rates. Users should expect some limitations in terms of multitasking and resource-heavy applications, but for simple entertainment or educational purposes, this device holds up reasonably well.

Graphics quality is generally adequate for older 2D games and basic simulation software, thanks to the Linux GPU support built into ChromeOS. However, users looking for high-end gaming or modern 3D titles will find that the hardware constraints of this model limit its capabilities significantly. It's important to note that each game has different system requirements, so potential users should always check individual game specifications before assuming compatibility. While not ideal for intensive gaming sessions, the device remains a viable option for those seeking a budget-friendly platform for Linux-based software and light entertainment.

Steam-Based Gaming Experience

This device can run Linux applications, which allows users to access a broader range of software options beyond what is available through the ChromeOS App Store. However, it's important to note that performance may vary depending on the specific application and its system requirements. With 4 GB of RAM and an Intel Celeron N3350 processor, this device should be able to handle basic Linux tasks such as text editing, command-line operations, and light multimedia playback. For more demanding applications, users might find that the hardware limitations could lead to slower performance or potential instability.

Graphics quality and overall user experience with Linux applications on this device will depend largely on the specific application being used. The Intel Celeron N3350 processor includes integrated graphics that should suffice for simple tasks but may struggle with more complex graphical operations. Users looking to run resource-intensive software might find that this device is not suitable for such tasks. It's always recommended to check the system requirements for individual Linux applications to determine if the device can handle them effectively.

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 Acer Chromebook 11 (CB311-8HT) 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 Acer Chromebook 11 (CB311-8HT) offers a balanced approach to media consumption, making it suitable for everyday use. With its 1366x768 resolution, the display provides clear visuals for videos and streaming content, though it may not deliver the sharpness of higher-end models. The device’s internal storage allows for offline media playback, which is ideal for users who prefer to watch movies or music without an internet connection. Audio quality is supported through its headphone jack, offering a decent listening experience for casual use.

For video and streaming services, the Chromebook 11 (CB311-8HT) performs well with standard-definition content and many popular platforms. While it may struggle slightly with higher-resolution videos due to its age and hardware limitations, it remains functional for most common tasks. The built-in touchscreen enhances interaction with media apps, making navigation smoother. However, users should be aware that the device’s performance with newer video formats or encryption standards may not match more recent models, so it's best suited for everyday streaming rather than high-end multimedia editing or playback.

ChromeOS Work Experience

The Acer Chromebook 11 (CB311-8HT) offers a solid foundation for everyday work tasks, particularly when it comes to document editing and web-based applications. With a 1366x768 resolution display, it provides clear visuals that are well-suited for reading emails, browsing the internet, and working with basic productivity tools like Google Docs or Sheets. The Intel Celeron N3350 processor ensures smooth performance for most common tasks, while the 4 GB of RAM allows lightweight applications to run without significant lag. For users who rely heavily on cloud services, this device is a reliable companion, as it seamlessly integrates with platforms like Google Workspace and Microsoft 365.

The Chromebook’s touchscreen functionality enhances usability in collaborative environments, making it easier to navigate through documents or present ideas during meetings. However, while the display supports touch input, it's best suited for casual use rather than intensive creative work. The built-in MicroSD card slot provides a convenient way to expand storage, which is useful for backing up files or transferring data between devices. For users who need to run Linux applications alongside ChromeOS, the device’s support for Linux applications is a valuable feature, allowing them to handle more complex tasks without leaving the Chrome ecosystem. Still, it's important to note that this model is approaching its end of life and may not receive future updates beyond June 15^th of 2027.

ChromeOS Education Experience

The Acer Chromebook 11 (CB311-8HT) is a versatile tool for students looking to stay productive in an educational setting. With its 4 GB of RAM, this device can handle basic web browsing, document editing, and video conferencing with ease. The 1366x768 resolution provides clear visuals for online classes and learning management systems, making it simple to follow along during virtual lessons. Its built-in touchscreen makes interacting with educational apps more intuitive, allowing students to take notes or highlight key points directly on the screen. For those who need additional storage, the MicroSD card slot offers a convenient way to expand capacity without sacrificing performance.

This device is well-suited for everyday school tasks such as writing essays, creating presentations, and accessing online textbooks. The Intel Celeron N3350 processor ensures smooth multitasking, while the 32 GB of internal storage provides enough space for essential files and apps. Students can rely on the USB ports to connect peripherals like a mouse or keyboard for more comfortable use during long study sessions. With Android support, they have access to a wide range of educational applications that enhance learning experiences beyond traditional textbooks. However, it’s important to note that this device is considered an older model, and while it still functions well, its performance may not match newer Chromebooks in more demanding scenarios.

General Productivity Experience

The Acer Chromebook 11 (CB311-8HT) offers a solid foundation for everyday productivity tasks with its 11.6-inch display and 1366x768 resolution, making it ideal for browsing the web, editing documents, and managing emails. Its 4 GB of RAM ensures that lightweight modern applications run smoothly, though users may notice some performance limitations when multitasking with more demanding software. The touchscreen feature enhances usability for those who prefer interactive navigation, especially when using Android apps or navigating through touch-friendly interfaces. With a range of ports including USB A 3.0 and a USB Type-C port with video output support, the device remains versatile for connecting peripherals and external displays.

For users focused on productivity, the Chromebook’s built-in Linux support opens up additional capabilities without requiring a desktop environment. This allows for running native Linux applications directly on the device, expanding its utility for developers or those needing specialized software. The 32 GB of internal storage provides sufficient space for essential files and apps, though users with larger data needs may find it beneficial to utilize external MicroSD storage. Overall, the Chromebook 11 (CB311-8HT) strikes a balance between affordability and functionality, making it a reliable choice for students, remote workers, or anyone looking for a straightforward computing solution.

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 Acer Chromebook 11 (CB311-8HT) offers a solid foundation for developers looking to work on lightweight tasks such as code editing, version control, and running local servers. With 4 GB of RAM and an Intel Celeron N3350 processor, the device can handle basic development workflows, especially when paired with cloud-based tools like GitHub or Google Cloud Platform. While it may not be ideal for resource-heavy projects like compiling large codebases or running full-featured IDEs locally, its x86_64 architecture and support for Linux applications make it a viable option for those who prefer to use command-line interfaces or lightweight editors like VS Code. The 1366x768 resolution provides enough clarity for most coding tasks, though developers working with high-resolution displays may find the screen slightly limiting.

For developers relying on Linux support, the device delivers a reliable environment for running tools such as Git, Node.js, Python, and more. The inclusion of Linux GPU support ensures that graphical applications and development environments can run smoothly without performance bottlenecks. However, it's important to note that the 32 GB internal storage may pose challenges for those who need to store large projects or maintain multiple development environments. While external storage via MicroSD is available, it’s not recommended for running Linux applications due to compatibility limitations. The touchscreen and USB Type-C port add flexibility, allowing developers to connect peripherals or use touch-based workflows when needed. Overall, the device strikes a balance between affordability and functionality for basic software development tasks.

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 Acer Chromebook 11 (CB311-8HT) 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 Acer Chromebook 11 (CB311-8HT). 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 Acer Chromebook 11 (CB311-8HT).

MicroSD Cards

The Acer Chromebook 11 (CB311-8HT) has a MicroSD Card Slot that allows you to expand the storage capacity of your device. This is especially useful if you need to store large files such as videos, photos, or documents. We have compiled a list of MicroSD Cards that are compatible with your device on our Accessories Pahe along with links to purchase the MicroSD Cards.

USB Docking Stations

The Acer Chromebook 11 (CB311-8HT) 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 Acer Chromebook 11 (CB311-8HT) 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 Acer Chromebook 11 (CB311-8HT) 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 Acer Chromebook 11 (CB311-8HT) 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 Acer Chromebook 11 (CB311-8HT) on our USB Battery Bank Accessories Page along with links to purchase the USB Battery Banks.

Webcams

The Acer Chromebook 11 (CB311-8HT) 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.