Acer Chromebook 311 (C733U) Information

The Acer Chromebook 311 (C733U) is a versatile and affordable Chromebook designed for everyday use. With a 11.6-inch display offering 1366x768 resolution, it provides a clear and functional workspace for browsing the web, streaming media, and managing daily tasks. The device runs on an Intel Celeron N4020 processor with 4 GB of RAM, making it suitable for lightweight productivity work and modern web applications. Its 32 GB eMMC storage ensures enough space for essential files, apps, and ChromeOS operations without the need for additional external drives. At a price point of $315, this model offers good value for users looking for a reliable entry-level Chromebook.

The Acer Chromebook 311 (C733U) supports both Android applications and Linux applications, expanding its versatility for various use cases. It includes a range of ports such as USB A 3.0, USB Type-C with video output support, and a MicroSD card slot for adding external storage. The device also features USB Power Delivery, allowing it to charge other compatible devices. While it does not include a touchscreen, its robust connectivity options and support for Linux applications make it an excellent choice for users who prioritize functionality over touch interaction. With updates available until June 1^st of 2029, this Chromebook remains a practical option for those seeking a balance between performance and affordability.

System Specifications

The Acer Chromebook 311 (C733U) is an x86_64 based Chromebook powered by a Intel Celeron N4020 clocked at 1.1 GHz with 4 GB of RAM. As far as built-in storage, the Acer Chromebook 311 (C733U) has 32 GB eMMC of local disk space. The Acer Chromebook 311 (C733U) runs code built for the x86_64 architecture.

Performance Expectations

The Acer Chromebook 311 (C733U) is a solid choice for everyday tasks, offering a smooth and reliable experience for web browsing, streaming media, and light productivity work. With its Intel Celeron N4020 processor and 4 GB of RAM, the device handles modern web applications with ease, though users should expect some performance limitations when running more resource-intensive programs or multitasking extensively. The 32 GB eMMC storage provides enough space for essential files, apps, and ChromeOS operations, making it ideal for casual use without requiring additional external storage. For most users, this device will feel responsive and efficient during typical workloads like email management, document editing, and video calls.

The 11.6-inch screen with a resolution of 1366x768 offers clear visuals for browsing, watching videos, and reading content, though it may not be the best option for high-resolution media or detailed graphic work. The inclusion of Android support means users can access a wide range of mobile apps directly on their Chromebook, expanding its versatility for both personal and basic business tasks. While the device lacks a touchscreen, its physical keyboard and responsive trackpad provide an adequate input experience for those who prefer traditional navigation methods. Overall, this model strikes a balance between affordability and functionality, making it well-suited for students, remote workers, or anyone looking for a no-frills Chromebook that can keep up with daily digital needs.

CPU Performance Expectations

The Intel Celeron N4020 processor in this device provides a balanced approach to performance, making it well-suited for everyday tasks such as web browsing, streaming media, and light productivity work. With 4 GB of RAM, it can handle multiple tabs and basic applications without significant lag, though more demanding multitasking may feel slightly sluggish. For users who primarily use Chrome apps, email clients, and document editors, the CPU delivers a smooth experience that aligns with its role as a mid-tier Chromebook. It is particularly effective for tasks that rely on consistent performance rather than raw power, such as online learning or casual video watching.

For media consumption, the processor ensures that streaming platforms run smoothly without frequent buffering, especially when paired with a stable internet connection. While it may not excel at resource-heavy tasks like video editing or gaming, its efficiency in handling common workflows makes it a reliable choice for users who prioritize simplicity and ease of use over high-end specifications. Overall, the CPU strikes a good balance between performance and affordability, offering a solid foundation for basic computing needs without unnecessary complexity.

Storage Performance Expectations

The Acer Chromebook 311 (C733U) utilizes eMMC storage, which is a type of non-volatile memory that offers reliable performance for everyday tasks such as browsing the web, managing files, and running basic applications. While eMMC storage is generally slower than SSDs, it still provides adequate speed for most ChromeOS workloads, especially when paired with the device's 4 GB RAM. Users can expect smooth performance for typical use cases like email, document editing, and streaming media, but heavy file operations or large application installations may take longer compared to devices with faster storage options. To maintain optimal performance, it’s recommended to keep at least 60% of the internal storage free by regularly deleting unnecessary files and managing downloads. This helps prevent slowdowns that can occur when eMMC storage becomes fragmented or runs low on available space. Overall, the storage configuration strikes a balance between cost-effectiveness and usability for users who prioritize affordability over extreme speed.

Display Performance Expectations

The Acer Chromebook 311 (C733U) features a 11.6-inch display with a resolution of 1366x768, making it well-suited for everyday tasks such as browsing, streaming, and light productivity work. While the screen size and resolution are adequate for most users, it may not be ideal for more demanding visual tasks like professional video editing or high-resolution graphic design. The display performance is supported by a dedicated GPU that allows for smooth rendering of web-based applications and Android apps, which can help with multitasking and running modern software development environments without significant lag. For users who primarily rely on cloud-based tools or lightweight applications, the display should provide a satisfactory experience without requiring additional hardware upgrades.

The device's GPU is capable of handling basic multimedia tasks such as watching HD videos or using web-based design platforms, though it may struggle with more intensive graphical workloads that require higher processing power. The resolution offers a clear and readable experience for most content, making it suitable for both casual and semi-professional use cases. While the display does not support advanced color accuracy or high refresh rates, its performance is sufficient for everyday computing needs. For tasks such as coding or document editing, the screen size and resolution should be adequate, though users who require more precise visual controls may find the experience limiting. Overall, the display meets the expectations of a mid-tier Chromebook designed for general-purpose use.

Android Performance Expectations

The Acer Chromebook 311 (C733U) is well-suited for everyday Android tasks thanks to its 4 GB of RAM and 32 GB eMMC storage. Users can expect smooth performance when running lightweight apps like messaging, social media, and basic productivity tools. For media consumption, the device handles video streaming and music playback without issues, though it may struggle with high-resolution content or multitasking on multiple tabs simultaneously. Gaming on this device is limited to simpler titles that don't demand a lot of system resources, making it ideal for casual players looking for short sessions rather than extended gameplay. The absence of a touchscreen could affect the experience for apps designed with touch in mind, but the physical keyboard and trackpad provide an adequate alternative for most users.

For productivity purposes, the Chromebook 311 (C733U) can manage office applications and document editing efficiently, especially when paired with cloud storage. However, users who need to store large files or run more resource-intensive apps may find the 32 GB storage capacity limiting. The device is best suited for those who rely on online services and don't require extensive local data storage. While it can handle basic Android functions like browsing and app usage, it's important to keep in mind that more demanding tasks might lead to slower performance or potential lag. Overall, the Acer Chromebook 311 (C733U) offers a reliable option for users who prioritize simplicity and affordability over advanced capabilities.

Linux Performance Expectations

The Acer Chromebook 311 (C733U) is equipped with Linux support that makes it a viable option for users who need to run Linux applications alongside ChromeOS. With a 4 GB RAM configuration and an Intel Celeron N4020 processor, this device can handle basic software development tasks such as coding in Python or using lightweight text editors. While more resource-intensive applications like full-featured IDEs may require additional memory, the system should still provide a functional environment for everyday use. The inclusion of Linux GPU support ensures that graphics-accelerated applications will run smoothly, making it suitable for users who need to work with visual tools or perform light video editing.

For video editing, the device’s hardware is capable of running basic non-linear editing software, though performance may be limited when working with high-resolution footage. Users should expect some lag when handling larger files or multiple layers in their projects. The 32 GB eMMC storage provides enough space for most Linux applications and essential development tools, but users who require more storage will need to rely on cloud-based solutions or external drives. Overall, the Acer Chromebook 311 (C733U) offers a balanced approach to Linux performance, making it an excellent choice for those looking to leverage both ChromeOS and Linux capabilities without needing high-end hardware.

Gaming Performance Expectations

Web-Based Gaming Experience/Web-Game Streaming Services

The Acer Chromebook 311 (C733U) offers a solid foundation for web-based gaming and cloud-based entertainment, thanks to its Intel Celeron N4020 processor and integrated GPU. While it may not be the most powerful device on the market, it is capable of running a wide range of casual games and streaming platforms with acceptable performance. The 4 GB of RAM ensures that lightweight titles and browser-based experiences run smoothly, though more demanding games might experience some lag or lower frame rates. For users who prioritize cloud gaming over local processing power, this device provides a reliable platform to access high-quality content without the need for additional hardware.

Graphics quality is generally satisfactory for most web-based games and streaming services, especially when relying on the GPU support available through ChromeOS and Android applications. The 1366x768 resolution delivers clear visuals, making it suitable for both casual play and everyday use. While it may struggle with more intensive titles or high-resolution streams, the device remains a practical choice for those who primarily engage in browser-based gaming or streaming. Its balanced performance makes it an ideal option for users looking to enjoy digital entertainment without compromising on affordability or ease of use.

Linux Gaming Experience

The Acer Chromebook 311 (C733U) offers a solid foundation for running Linux applications, making it a versatile option for users looking to expand their productivity tools and workflows. With a 4 GB RAM configuration and an Intel Celeron N4020 processor, the device is capable of handling basic Linux tasks such as office suites, code editors, and terminal-based utilities without significant performance hiccups. The integrated GPU support ensures that graphical applications can run smoothly, though users should be aware that more demanding software may require additional system resources or optimization.

Graphics quality on this device is adequate for most everyday use cases, particularly when running Linux applications that do not rely heavily on advanced rendering capabilities. The 32 GB eMMC storage provides enough space for the operating system and essential programs, but users should manage their files carefully to avoid running into capacity issues. For a more robust experience, it’s recommended to check the specific system requirements of any Linux application or game before installation. Overall, this device strikes a balance between performance and affordability, making it a practical choice for those who need reliable Linux support on the go.

Steam-Based Gaming Experience

The Acer Chromebook 311 (C733U) offers a solid foundation for casual gaming through its Intel Celeron N4020 processor and integrated GPU, which together provide enough power to run lightweight Steam-based games. With 4 GB of RAM and 32 GB of eMMC storage, the device can handle basic titles that don't demand high-end hardware, though performance may be limited when running more demanding titles or multitasking with multiple applications open. The lack of dedicated GPU support means graphics quality will be lower than on a traditional gaming PC, but for users looking to enjoy simple games like puzzle and strategy titles, the experience should still be satisfying.

While the device lacks the power to run high-end Steam games smoothly, it can serve as an entry point for gamers who want to explore casual or indie titles without investing in more expensive hardware. Users should always check the system requirements for individual games, as performance will vary depending on the title's specifications. The Chromebook’s Linux support allows for some flexibility, but it is not optimized for gaming and may require additional setup. For a more immersive Steam experience, users are encouraged to consider devices with higher-end components and dedicated graphics capabilities.

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 311 (C733U) 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 311 (C733U) offers a solid foundation for casual streaming and media playback. With its 11.6-inch screen featuring a resolution of 1366x768, it delivers clear visuals that are well-suited for watching videos, listening to music, and browsing content without strain on the eyes. The device’s internal storage, while modest at 32 GB eMMC, is sufficient for storing a reasonable amount of media files or downloading apps and content directly from the internet. For users who prefer to keep their favorite shows or movies offline, this capacity provides a practical solution without requiring additional hardware.

Audio quality on this Chromebook remains functional, though it’s not designed for audiophiles. The built-in speakers offer decent volume and clarity for everyday use, making it suitable for casual listening or video calls. While the lack of a touchscreen might limit interaction with media apps that rely on touch gestures, the device still supports Android applications, which can enhance the overall experience by offering access to popular streaming services and multimedia tools. For those who prioritize content consumption over advanced features, this Chromebook strikes a balance between affordability and usability.

ChromeOS Work Experience

The Acer Chromebook 311 (C733U) offers a solid foundation for everyday work tasks, making it a reliable choice for users who need to stay productive on the go. With a 11.6-inch display and a resolution of 1366x768, it provides enough clarity for most office applications such as document editing, email management, and video conferencing. The Intel Celeron N4020 processor ensures smooth performance for web-based tools and lightweight productivity software, while the 4 GB of RAM supports multitasking without significant lag. For users who rely on cloud storage and collaboration platforms, this device is well-suited to handle the demands of modern workflows with ease.

The Chromebook’s support for Android applications expands its utility in a work environment, allowing access to a wide range of productivity apps and utilities that integrate seamlessly with Google Workspace tools. Its built-in Linux support enables users to run more advanced command-line tasks or development environments without needing additional software layers, which is particularly useful for certain coding or data analysis workflows. The device also includes USB ports and a MicroSD card slot, providing flexibility for connecting peripherals or expanding storage as needed. However, it’s important to note that the Chromebook lacks a touchscreen, which may impact usability for users who prefer touch-based interactions with their devices. Overall, this model strikes a balance between affordability and functionality, making it an excellent option for basic office tasks and remote work scenarios.

ChromeOS Education Experience

The Acer Chromebook 311 (C733U) offers a reliable and user-friendly experience for students, making it an excellent choice for educational settings. With its Intel Celeron N4020 processor and 4 GB of RAM, this device can smoothly handle everyday tasks such as web browsing, document editing, and video conferencing. It is well-suited for accessing learning management systems (LMS) and participating in virtual classrooms, which are essential components of modern education. The 1366x768 resolution on an 11.6-inch display provides clear visuals for reading text and watching instructional videos, while the built-in speakers and microphone support seamless communication during online classes.

This device also supports Android applications and Linux applications, expanding its versatility in educational environments. Teachers can leverage a wide range of apps for lesson planning, grading, and student engagement, all within the ChromeOS ecosystem. The inclusion of Linux support allows for more advanced computing tasks that may be necessary for certain courses or projects. Additionally, the availability of multiple ports, including USB A 3.0 and USB Type-C with video output, ensures compatibility with various peripherals such as projectors or external storage devices. These features combine to create a practical tool for both students and educators, supporting a comprehensive approach to learning in a digital classroom.

General Productivity Experience

The Acer Chromebook 311 (C733U) offers a solid productivity experience with its 11.6-inch display and 1366x768 resolution, making it ideal for everyday tasks such as web browsing, document editing, and email management. Its 4 GB of RAM ensures that lightweight modern applications run smoothly, while the Intel Celeron N4020 processor provides enough power to handle multitasking without significant performance hiccups. The device's compact form factor makes it easy to carry around, and its USB ports offer convenient connectivity options for peripherals or external storage needs. Whether you're working on a school project or managing your personal schedule, the Chromebook 311 (C733U) delivers a reliable and straightforward experience.

For users who need more than just basic web browsing, the built-in support for Android applications and Linux applications adds versatility to the device's capabilities. The ability to run Linux applications opens up options for developers or power users looking for specific tools without needing a full desktop operating system. This makes the Chromebook 311 (C733U) suitable for a range of workflows, from coding small scripts to running productivity software that isn't traditionally available on ChromeOS. The combination of these features ensures that the device remains functional and useful for both casual and more demanding use cases.

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 311 (C733U) offers a solid foundation for developers looking to work on lightweight tasks such as code editing and version control systems. With its x86_64 architecture, the Intel Celeron N4020 processor provides adequate performance for running Linux applications like git, node.js, and Python, which are essential tools in many development workflows. The 4 GB of RAM is sufficient for handling basic coding tasks and running multiple browser tabs without significant slowdowns, though more complex projects may require additional resources. Developers can leverage the built-in support for Linux to run command-line interfaces and terminal-based applications seamlessly within ChromeOS.

For those who rely on cloud-based development environments, the Chromebook’s connectivity and portability make it an ideal companion. The USB Type-C and USB A ports allow easy access to external peripherals like keyboards or mice, while the 1366x768 resolution ensures that code editors and IDEs are displayed clearly without excessive scaling. While the device lacks a touchscreen, its physical keyboard and trackpad provide a comfortable experience for extended coding sessions. The internal storage, though limited to 32 GB eMMC, is adequate for installing essential development tools and storing project files, making it a practical choice for developers who prioritize portability over high-capacity storage.

Pricing and Availability

Amazon

The Acer Chromebook 311 (C733U) currently on sale on Amazon.com for $315.00.

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 311 (C733U) 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 311 (C733U). 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 311 (C733U).

MicroSD Cards

The Acer Chromebook 311 (C733U) 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 311 (C733U) 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 311 (C733U) 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 311 (C733U) 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 311 (C733U) 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 311 (C733U) on our USB Battery Bank Accessories Page along with links to purchase the USB Battery Banks.

Webcams

The Acer Chromebook 311 (C733U) 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.