Acer Chromebook 311 (CB311-9HT) Information

Acer Chromebook 311 (CB311-9HT) is a compact and affordable Chromebook designed for everyday use. With a 11.6-inch display offering 1366x768 resolution, it provides clear visuals for browsing, streaming, and basic productivity tasks. The device is powered by an Intel Celeron N4020 processor and comes with 4 GB of RAM, making it suitable for lightweight web applications and multitasking. Its 32 GB eMMC storage ensures enough space for essential files, apps, and ChromeOS operations without the need for external drives.

Priced at $315, this model offers good value for users looking for a reliable entry-level Chromebook. It supports both Android and Linux applications, expanding its versatility for various tasks. The inclusion of USB ports, a MicroSD card slot, and video output capabilities makes it adaptable for different workflows. While it lacks a touchscreen, the device’s design focuses on simplicity and portability, making it ideal for students, remote workers, or anyone seeking an efficient and budget-friendly computing solution.

System Specifications

The Acer Chromebook 311 (CB311-9HT) 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 (CB311-9HT) has 32 GB eMMC of local disk space. The Acer Chromebook 311 (CB311-9HT) runs code built for the x86_64 architecture.

Performance Expectations

The Acer Chromebook 311 (CB311-9HT) delivers a balanced approach to everyday computing, making it an ideal choice for users who need reliable performance without breaking the bank. With its 4 GB of RAM and x86_64 architecture, this device handles modern web browsing smoothly, allowing users to multitask between tabs and run basic productivity applications with ease. Whether you're checking emails, managing spreadsheets, or streaming videos, the system responds quickly and efficiently, offering a seamless experience for casual use. The 32 GB eMMC storage provides sufficient space for essential files, apps, and media, though users looking to expand their storage options can take advantage of the MicroSD card slot.

For those who rely on Android applications, this device is well-suited with full support for a wide range of apps from the Google Play Store. The inclusion of Linux support opens up additional possibilities for developers or power users who want to run native Linux applications without needing a separate operating system. While it doesn't include a touchscreen, the Chromebook’s physical keyboard and responsive trackpad make it easy to navigate through tasks efficiently. Combined with its long battery life and lightweight design, this device is perfect for students, remote workers, and anyone in search of an affordable yet capable computing solution.

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 and media playback. With 4 GB of RAM, it handles multiple tabs and light multitasking with ease, though heavier applications may require more resources. For users who primarily use Chrome-based apps and basic productivity tools like Google Docs or Sheets, the CPU delivers a smooth experience without noticeable lag. It is also capable of running Android applications smoothly, which makes it ideal for streaming media and using mobile-first apps on a larger screen.

When it comes to more demanding tasks such as video editing or complex spreadsheet calculations, this device may struggle slightly due to its modest processing power. However, for most common workloads like email management, light research, and casual browsing, the CPU performs admirably. The combination of the Celeron N4020 with 4 GB RAM ensures that the system remains responsive even when handling several background processes simultaneously, making it a reliable choice for users who prioritize simplicity and ease of use over high-end performance.

Storage Performance Expectations

The Acer Chromebook 311 (CB311-9HT) uses eMMC storage, which is a type of non-volatile memory that retains data even when the device is powered off. While eMMC offers reliable performance for everyday tasks like browsing, document editing, and media playback, it may show slower read/write speeds compared to modern SSDs, especially as the available free space decreases. Users should aim to keep at least 60% of storage free to maintain optimal performance, as heavy usage can lead to slight degradation over time. This device is well-suited for basic computing needs and light multitasking, making it a practical choice for students or casual users looking for an affordable Chromebook experience. Overall, the eMMC storage provides a balance between cost-effectiveness and reliability without compromising on essential functions.

Display Performance Expectations

The Acer Chromebook 311 (CB311-9HT) features a 11.6-inch display with a resolution of 1366x768, offering a clear and readable experience for everyday tasks such as web browsing, document editing, and media playback. While not the highest resolution available on modern Chromebooks, this display is well-suited for its target market, providing adequate detail for most applications without significant performance overhead. The screen size strikes a balance between portability and usability, making it ideal for students, casual users, and those seeking a lightweight computing solution.

For more demanding tasks like video editing or software development, the display may not deliver the same level of clarity or color accuracy as higher-end models, but it still handles these workloads reasonably well. The resolution supports full HD content playback smoothly, and the aspect ratio is optimized for both vertical and horizontal use cases. While the device lacks a touchscreen, its physical keyboard and trackpad provide an efficient input method for users who prefer traditional navigation. Overall, this display performs reliably for its intended purpose, ensuring a comfortable user experience without unnecessary complexity.

Android Performance Expectations

The Acer Chromebook 311 (CB311-9HT) offers a balanced approach to Android performance, making it suitable for everyday tasks such as streaming media and casual gaming. With 4 GB of RAM and 32 GB of eMMC storage, the device can handle most Android applications smoothly, especially those that aren't resource-heavy. However, users who plan to store large amounts of offline content or play more demanding games may find the limited internal storage a constraint. The lack of a touchscreen could also be a drawback for apps optimized for touch interactions, though many Android applications function well with on-screen navigation.

For productivity and media consumption, the device performs reasonably well. Basic tasks like video playback, social media browsing, and light document editing should work without significant issues. While it may not support high-end gaming or complex multimedia editing, it is adequate for users who primarily use Android apps for entertainment and simple workflows. The presence of a MicroSD card slot allows for additional storage, which can help mitigate some of the limitations imposed by the fixed 32 GB eMMC storage. Overall, this device provides a functional experience for Android-centric activities without requiring advanced hardware capabilities.

Linux Performance Expectations

The Acer Chromebook 311 (CB311-9HT) is equipped with Linux support, making it a versatile option for users who need to run native Linux applications. With an Intel Celeron N4020 processor and 4 GB of RAM, this device can handle basic development tasks such as text editing, command-line operations, and lightweight scripting. While more resource-intensive tasks like compiling complex software or running advanced IDEs may feel a bit sluggish, the combination of x86_64 architecture and integrated GPU support ensures that most Linux applications will run smoothly without requiring significant optimization. The 32 GB eMMC storage provides enough space for essential tools and development environments, though users should be mindful of available space when installing multiple applications.

For video editing, the device can manage light workflows with standard codecs and short projects, but it may struggle with high-resolution footage or complex effects that demand more processing power. The Linux GPU support allows for some level of acceleration, which helps in rendering tasks more efficiently than pure software-based solutions. However, users looking to perform professional-grade video editing should consider a more powerful machine. Overall, the Acer Chromebook 311 (CB311-9HT) is suitable for casual use and basic productivity tasks on Linux, offering a balance between performance and affordability for everyday computing needs.

Gaming Performance Expectations

Web-Based Gaming Experience/Web-Game Streaming Services

The Acer Chromebook 311 (CB311-9HT) offers a balanced approach to web-based and cloud gaming, making it suitable for casual gamers and users who prioritize accessibility over high-end performance. With an Intel Celeron N4020 processor and 4 GB of RAM, this device can handle most modern web games with acceptable frame rates, though more demanding titles may experience lag or reduced graphical fidelity. The integrated GPU provides enough power to render basic textures and animations smoothly, ensuring a responsive experience for users who enjoy browser-based games or streaming platforms. While it won't rival dedicated gaming laptops, the Chromebook's ability to run cloud-based services like Google Stadia (now discontinued) ensures that users can access a wide range of titles without needing high-end hardware.

For those seeking a more immersive experience, this device supports Android applications, which means many mobile games are available through the Play Store. However, performance may vary depending on the game's optimization for ChromeOS and the device's limited RAM. The 32 GB eMMC storage is sufficient for most gaming needs, though users should be mindful of space constraints when installing multiple titles or large game files. Overall, the Acer Chromebook 311 (CB311-9HT) delivers a reliable and functional experience for web-based and cloud gaming, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious gamers who value convenience and ease of use.

Linux Gaming Experience

The Acer Chromebook 311 (CB311-9HT) offers a solid foundation for Linux gaming, though its performance will depend on the specific game and system requirements. With an Intel Celeron N4020 processor and 4 GB of RAM, this device can handle lightweight to mid-tier games that are optimized for lower-end hardware. The integrated graphics, supported by Linux GPU capabilities, provide a reasonable level of graphical fidelity for titles that don't demand high-end visuals. However, users should be aware that the 32 GB eMMC storage may limit the ability to install large game files or maintain multiple applications simultaneously.

For a smoother experience, it's essential to prioritize games with lower system requirements and ensure that Linux applications are properly configured for optimal performance. The x86_64 architecture ensures compatibility with a wide range of Linux-based software, making this device a viable option for those looking to explore gaming on ChromeOS without the need for additional hardware. As always, users should consult the specific game's system requirements to determine if their device is capable of running it.

Steam-Based Gaming Experience

The Acer Chromebook 311 (CB311-9HT) offers a basic yet functional platform for gaming through its Linux support and x86_64 architecture, allowing users to run Steam-based games with some limitations. While the Intel Celeron N4020 processor provides adequate performance for lightweight tasks, it may struggle with more demanding titles that require higher-end hardware. The 4 GB of RAM ensures smooth multitasking for many applications, but heavy gaming sessions could lead to reduced frame rates or lag due to resource constraints. With a 32 GB eMMC storage setup, users can install Linux applications and games, though the limited space may restrict the number of titles they can run simultaneously. The device's ability to handle basic gaming scenarios makes it suitable for casual players looking for an entry-level Chromebook experience.

For those seeking a more immersive Steam-based gaming experience, the Acer Chromebook 311 (CB311-9HT) may not be ideal due to its modest specifications. While Linux applications can run natively without requiring a desktop environment, the performance will depend heavily on the game's system requirements and how well they align with the device's capabilities. Users should always check individual game requirements before attempting to install titles, as some games may demand more than what this device can provide. The overall user experience for gaming is likely to be satisfactory for simpler or older titles but less so for newer, graphically intensive releases that push the limits of its hardware.

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 (CB311-9HT) 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 (CB311-9HT) offers a solid foundation for media consumption, thanks to its 11.6-inch display with a resolution of 1366x768. While not the highest in the market, this screen size and resolution provide a comfortable viewing experience for videos, movies, and online streaming content. The device’s internal storage, though modest at 32 GB eMMC, is sufficient for storing a reasonable amount of media files, especially when using cloud-based services or streaming platforms directly from the internet. For users who prefer to download and watch content offline, this capacity can be adequate for a basic library of movies or music.

Audio quality on this device is decent, with clear sound output through its built-in speakers, making it suitable for casual listening and video playback. While it may not rival dedicated audio equipment, the Chromebook’s balanced approach ensures that everyday media tasks are handled smoothly. The lack of a touchscreen doesn’t significantly impact media consumption, as most content can be accessed and navigated easily with the physical keyboard and trackpad. For those who rely heavily on touch-based interactions, this device might feel slightly less intuitive, but it remains functional for streaming and entertainment purposes.

ChromeOS Work Experience

The Acer Chromebook 311 (CB311-9HT) is well-suited for everyday work tasks, offering a balance of performance and affordability. With an Intel Celeron N4020 processor and 4 GB of RAM, it handles web browsing, document editing, and video conferencing with ease. The 1366x768 resolution display provides clear visuals, making it ideal for streaming meetings or reviewing spreadsheets on the go. Its support for Android applications means users can access a wide range of productivity tools without leaving the ChromeOS ecosystem. For those who need more advanced computing power, the device also supports Linux applications, allowing for greater customization and flexibility in handling specific workloads.

The 32 GB eMMC storage is sufficient for most basic office tasks, though users should be mindful of file management to avoid running out of space. The inclusion of USB ports and a MicroSD card slot adds convenience for connecting external devices or expanding storage capacity. While the device lacks a touchscreen, its physical keyboard and responsive trackpad make it comfortable for extended typing sessions. With ChromeOS updates available until June 1^st of 2029, this model remains a viable option for users who need reliable performance without breaking the bank. However, it's important to note that devices past their AUE date may experience reduced functionality over time, so it’s best suited for casual or light professional use rather than heavy workloads.

ChromeOS Education Experience

The Acer Chromebook 311 (CB311-9HT) offers a solid foundation for students looking to engage with digital learning tools. With its Intel Celeron N4020 processor, this device delivers enough performance to handle web browsing, document editing, and video conferencing without lagging. The 4 GB of RAM ensures that lightweight educational applications such as Google Classroom or Microsoft Teams operate smoothly, while the 32 GB eMMC storage provides sufficient space for essential files and learning resources. The 11.6-inch display with a resolution of 1366x768 offers clear visuals for reading and watching instructional videos, making it ideal for online classes and digital textbooks.

For students who rely on Android applications for their coursework, the Chromebook 311 (CB311-9HT) is well-suited. It supports a wide range of educational apps, including interactive learning platforms and productivity tools, all of which run seamlessly thanks to its Android compatibility. The inclusion of Linux support allows for more advanced computing tasks, such as coding or running specific software required by certain courses. While the device lacks a touchscreen, its physical keyboard and responsive trackpad make it easy to navigate educational content. Additionally, the availability of USB ports and a MicroSD card slot provides flexibility for expanding storage and connecting peripherals, which can be useful for managing large files or accessing external resources during study sessions.

General Productivity Experience

The Acer Chromebook 311 (CB311-9HT) offers a balanced productivity experience with its 11.6-inch display and 1366x768 resolution, making it ideal for tasks such as web browsing, document editing, and multitasking. The device’s performance is supported by the Intel Celeron N4020 processor and 4 GB of RAM, which allows lightweight modern applications to run smoothly while still handling more demanding workloads with ease. Whether you're managing emails, working on spreadsheets, or streaming content, the Chromebook provides a reliable platform for everyday use. Its compact form factor makes it easy to carry around, perfect for students and professionals who need a portable solution without sacrificing functionality.

The 32 GB eMMC storage is sufficient for most basic tasks, though users should be mindful of their file management to avoid running out of space. The Chromebook also supports Android applications, expanding its versatility for entertainment, communication, and productivity tools. With the ability to connect external peripherals via USB ports and a MicroSD card slot, it offers flexibility in how you use your device. While not equipped with a touchscreen, the physical keyboard and responsive trackpad provide an efficient input method for those who prefer traditional navigation. This makes the Chromebook a solid choice for users looking for a dependable and straightforward computing experience.

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 (CB311-9HT) offers a solid foundation for developers looking to work on lightweight tasks, thanks to its x86_64 architecture and support for Linux applications. With 4 GB of RAM, it can handle basic code editing, version control systems like Git, and even local development servers for small projects. The Intel Celeron N4020 processor provides enough power to run essential tools such as Python scripts or Node.js environments without significant lag, though more complex tasks may require cloud-based solutions. Developers who rely on Linux applications will find that popular utilities like VS Code, Git, and command-line tools operate smoothly within the ChromeOS environment, making it a viable option for those working primarily in the cloud or using lightweight development workflows.

For developers focusing on web technologies or scripting, the 1366x768 resolution screen is sufficient to view code and debug output without strain. While the device lacks a touchscreen, its USB ports and MicroSD card slot allow for easy connectivity with external peripherals if needed. The 32 GB eMMC storage provides enough space for essential development files and local tools, though larger projects may benefit from cloud-based storage or external drives. With Linux support enabled, users can run a wide range of open-source tools directly on the device, making it an attractive choice for those who prefer to avoid the overhead of full desktop environments. However, more resource-intensive tasks like compiling large codebases or running virtual machines may require a more powerful machine or reliance on remote development environments.

Pricing and Availability

Amazon

The Acer Chromebook 311 (CB311-9HT) 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 (CB311-9HT) 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 (CB311-9HT). 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 (CB311-9HT).

MicroSD Cards

The Acer Chromebook 311 (CB311-9HT) 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 (CB311-9HT) 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 (CB311-9HT) 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 (CB311-9HT) 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 (CB311-9HT) 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 (CB311-9HT) on our USB Battery Bank Accessories Page along with links to purchase the USB Battery Banks.

Webcams

The Acer Chromebook 311 (CB311-9HT) 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.