Acer Chromebook 315 (CB315-1H) Information

Acer Chromebook 315 (CB315-1H) is a budget-friendly Chromebook designed for everyday computing tasks. With a 15.6-inch Full HD display, it provides clear visuals for browsing the web, watching videos, and working on documents. The device features an Intel Celeron N3350 processor and 4 GB of RAM, making it suitable for lightweight applications and multitasking. It also includes support for Android apps and Linux applications, offering users a versatile range of options for productivity and entertainment.

Priced at around $184, this Chromebook is ideal for students or casual users who need a reliable device without breaking the bank. The optional touchscreen adds flexibility for those who prefer touch-based interactions, while the multiple ports allow for easy connectivity to peripherals. Although it's an older model, it still offers decent performance for basic tasks and can be a good choice for users looking for an affordable entry into ChromeOS.

System Specifications

The Acer Chromebook 315 (CB315-1H) 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 315 (CB315-1H) has 32 GB eMMC or 64 GB eMMC of local disk space. The Acer Chromebook 315 (CB315-1H) runs code built for the x86_64 architecture.

Performance Expectations

The Acer Chromebook 315 (CB315-1H) offers a reliable and straightforward computing experience, making it well-suited for everyday tasks such as web browsing, streaming media, and light productivity work. With its 1920x1080 resolution display and 15.6-inch screen, users can comfortably view content without straining their eyes, while the built-in speakers provide clear audio for videos and music. The device is powered by an Intel Celeron N3350 processor paired with 4 GB of RAM, which allows it to handle basic multitasking and modern web applications smoothly. While it may not be the fastest machine on the market, its performance is adequate for most casual users who prioritize portability and ease of use over high-end processing power.

For those looking to run Android apps alongside ChromeOS, this device supports a wide range of mobile applications through the Google Play Store. The inclusion of Linux support also opens up possibilities for more advanced users who want to install and run Linux-based tools directly on their Chromebook without needing additional software layers. However, it's important to note that Linux applications are installed on internal storage only, so external drives or microSD cards won’t be used for this purpose. The optional touchscreen can enhance the experience when using Android apps or navigating through the ChromeOS interface, though not all models come with one, which may affect usability depending on the version purchased.

CPU Performance Expectations

The Intel Celeron N3350 processor in this device provides a solid foundation for everyday tasks such as web browsing and media playback. It is capable of handling multiple tabs and streaming services smoothly, making it ideal for users who primarily use their Chromebook for communication, online learning, or casual entertainment. For productivity applications like Google Docs or Sheets, the CPU performs adequately, though more complex tasks may take longer to complete compared to newer models. Users should expect a responsive experience when multitasking with lightweight web apps and basic office software.

When paired with 4 GB of RAM, the processor ensures that common activities such as email management, social media navigation, and video conferencing run without major hiccups. However, it may struggle slightly with more demanding applications or when running multiple programs simultaneously. For users who rely on ChromeOS for simple workloads and browsing, this device delivers a reliable performance that aligns well with its low-end classification. The CPU’s efficiency also helps in keeping power consumption manageable, which is beneficial for extended use without frequent charging.

Storage Performance Expectations

The Acer Chromebook 315 (CB315-1H) features eMMC storage, which is a type of non-volatile memory that offers reliable performance for everyday tasks such as browsing, streaming, and document editing. While eMMC storage is generally slower than SSDs, it still provides sufficient speed for most common activities on this device. Users should be mindful of managing their storage space to ensure optimal performance, as the storage may degrade over time if the available free space falls below 60%. Keeping at least 20% of the internal storage free can help maintain smooth operation and prevent potential slowdowns due to fragmentation or excessive data caching. This device is well-suited for users who prioritize portability and affordability without requiring high-performance storage capabilities, making it ideal for basic computing needs in a compact form factor.

Display Performance Expectations

The Acer Chromebook 315 (CB315-1H) features a 15.6-inch display with a resolution of 1920x1080, making it suitable for everyday tasks like browsing, streaming, and document editing. While the display is adequate for most modern workloads, users engaging in video editing or graphic design may notice some limitations due to the device's integrated graphics and lack of advanced GPU support. The screen performs well under typical usage conditions, offering clear text and vibrant colors that are easy on the eyes during extended sessions. For software development, the resolution provides enough space for multiple windows and code editors, though more complex tasks may require a higher-resolution monitor for optimal productivity. Overall, the display strikes a balance between performance and usability for its target market.

The device's GPU support enables basic video playback and light multimedia processing, but it is not designed for intensive graphic rendering or high-end gaming. Users working with applications that demand significant graphical power, such as professional video editing software or 3D modeling tools, may find the display experience less than ideal without an external monitor. However, for casual use and general productivity tasks, the screen delivers a smooth and reliable performance. The optional touchscreen can enhance the user experience by allowing for more interactive engagement with content, particularly when using Android applications or navigating through web-based interfaces. For users who prioritize visual clarity and responsiveness, this device offers a solid foundation for daily computing needs.

Android Performance Expectations

The Acer Chromebook 315 (CB315-1H) is designed with Android support in mind, making it a versatile option for users who want to run mobile apps alongside their web-based tasks. With 4 GB of RAM and either 32 or 64 GB of eMMC storage, the device can handle basic Android applications such as messaging, social media, and light productivity tools like Google Docs and Sheets. However, users looking to store large amounts of offline media or games may find the limited internal storage a constraint, especially since Android apps often require significant space for data and cache.

For everyday use, the Chromebook 315 (CB315-1H) performs reasonably well with Android applications that are not too demanding. The Intel Celeron N3350 processor provides sufficient power for tasks like streaming video, browsing social media, or using basic productivity apps. While it may struggle with more resource-intensive games or multimedia editing software, it is suitable for casual use and light entertainment. If a touchscreen is available on your model, it can enhance the experience of Android apps that are optimized for touch input, such as some educational tools and casual games. For users who prefer a traditional interface, the device still offers a smooth experience with its built-in keyboard and USB ports.

Linux Performance Expectations

The Acer Chromebook 315 (CB315-1H) offers a solid foundation for running Linux applications thanks to its x86_64 architecture and support for Linux. With 4 GB of RAM, it can handle basic development tasks such as coding in languages like Python or JavaScript, along with lightweight text editors and terminal-based tools. While more resource-intensive tasks like compiling large codebases or using advanced IDEs may feel sluggish, the device is still capable of supporting a wide range of Linux applications for everyday use. The inclusion of GPU support for Linux means that graphical tools and some development environments can operate smoothly, making it a viable option for users who need to run Linux alongside ChromeOS.

For video editing, the system's performance will depend on the specific software used. Lighter applications like Shotcut or OpenShot may function adequately, especially with shorter projects, but more complex workflows involving high-resolution footage or advanced effects could push the hardware to its limits. The 32 GB eMMC storage provides enough space for most Linux-based tools and project files, though users should be mindful of available space when working on larger projects. Overall, this device is well-suited for basic productivity and learning purposes but may struggle with more demanding creative tasks without additional resources or optimization.

Gaming Performance Expectations

Web-Based Gaming Experience/Web-Game Streaming Services

The Acer Chromebook 315 (CB315-1H) offers a balanced approach to web-based and cloud-based gaming, making it a solid choice for casual players looking for an affordable option. With its Intel Celeron N3350 processor and 4 GB of RAM, the device can handle most modern browser games with acceptable performance. While it may not be able to run the most demanding titles at high settings, it provides a smooth experience for lighter games such as puzzle or strategy titles. The integrated GPU supports basic graphics rendering, which is sufficient for many web-based experiences without requiring additional hardware.

For cloud gaming, the Chromebook’s reliance on internet connectivity ensures that performance is largely dependent on your network speed rather than the device's internal specs. This means users can enjoy a wide range of games through platforms like Google Stadia or other browser-based services, provided they have a stable connection. The 1920x1080 screen resolution offers clear visuals, enhancing the overall gaming experience without overwhelming the system. While it may not be ideal for high-end gaming, the Chromebook 315 (CB315-1H) remains a practical choice for those who prefer to play games through the cloud or simpler web-based titles.

Linux Gaming Experience

The Acer Chromebook 315 (CB315-1H) offers a modest yet functional platform for Linux gaming, though its performance will be limited by its hardware configuration. With an Intel Celeron N3350 processor and 4 GB of RAM, the device can handle lightweight games and basic emulation tasks, but more demanding titles may struggle to run smoothly. The integrated GPU provides reasonable support for graphical applications, though it lacks dedicated video memory, which could impact frame rates and visual quality in more intensive scenarios. Users should expect a balanced experience with simpler or older Linux-based games that don't require high-end graphics capabilities.

Graphics quality on this device will be adequate for casual play, but complex textures and advanced rendering features may not render as well as on more powerful systems. The 32 GB eMMC storage is sufficient for most basic gaming setups, though users should ensure they have enough space for game files and any additional software requirements. While the Chromebook's Linux support allows for a variety of applications, performance will ultimately depend on the specific game's system requirements. It’s important to note that this device is not designed for high-end gaming and may require optimization or lower graphical settings to achieve a playable experience. Users should always check individual game specifications before attempting to run them on this hardware.

Steam-Based Gaming Experience

The Acer Chromebook 315 (CB315-1H) offers a modest yet functional platform for Steam-based gaming, though its performance will be limited by its hardware specifications. With an Intel Celeron N3350 processor and 4 GB of RAM, the device can handle lightweight games or older titles that do not require high-end processing power. However, modern games with demanding graphics or complex gameplay mechanics may struggle to run smoothly due to the lack of a dedicated GPU and limited memory resources. The integrated Intel HD Graphics 500 provides basic support for visual rendering, but it is not optimized for gaming environments, which often rely on more powerful graphics processors.

Graphics quality on this device will be noticeably lower compared to dedicated gaming hardware, with textures appearing less detailed and frame rates fluctuating during intense gameplay sessions. Users should expect a more casual gaming experience, suitable for indie titles or retro games that prioritize simplicity over graphical fidelity. While the 32 GB eMMC storage is sufficient for installing a few Steam games, it may not accommodate large libraries or high-resolution assets without performance trade-offs. For the best experience, players should consult individual game requirements and ensure their system meets the minimum specifications to avoid compatibility issues.

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 315 (CB315-1H) 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 315 (CB315-1H) offers a solid media consumption experience, particularly for users who prioritize simplicity and affordability. With its 1920x1080 resolution display, it delivers clear visuals that are well-suited for watching videos, streaming content, and browsing the web. While it may not handle the most demanding 4K or HDR content with ease, it performs admirably for standard-definition and high-definition media playback. The device's internal storage, whether 32 GB or 64 GB eMMC, provides enough space for offline media files, making it a practical choice for users who prefer to store movies, music, or other digital content locally.

For audio, the Chromebook 315 (CB315-1H) delivers decent sound quality through its built-in speakers, though it lacks advanced audio processing capabilities. Users looking for an enhanced listening experience may want to connect external speakers or headphones via the headphone/microphone jack. The device's performance with streaming services is generally smooth, especially when using Wi-Fi connections, and it supports popular platforms without requiring additional hardware. However, as an older model, it may occasionally struggle with newer video formats or encryption standards, which could lead to minor playback issues if not properly optimized. Overall, the Chromebook 315 (CB315-1H) remains a reliable option for casual media use and everyday browsing.

ChromeOS Work Experience

The Acer Chromebook 315 (CB315-1H) offers a solid foundation for everyday productivity tasks, especially in a work or office setting. With its Intel Celeron N3350 processor and 4 GB of RAM, it handles basic web browsing, document editing, and video conferencing with ease. The 1920x1080 display provides clear visuals for most applications, making it suitable for meetings and presentations. While it may struggle with more demanding software or multitasking, the device remains a reliable option for users who primarily rely on cloud-based tools and web applications. Its support for Android and Linux applications further enhances its versatility, allowing you to run a variety of productivity apps directly on the ChromeOS platform.

For users looking to maximize performance, the built-in USB ports and MicroSD card slot offer convenient options for expanding storage or connecting peripherals such as external drives or printers. The optional touchscreen adds an extra layer of flexibility, especially when using Android apps that benefit from touch interaction. However, it's important to note that this device is classified as a low-end model and has reached its end-of-life support date in 2027. If you're considering using it for work purposes today, it's worth evaluating whether the hardware can sustain your current workload without performance limitations. While still functional, older models may require additional attention to ensure they remain secure and compatible with modern cloud services and remote desktop solutions.

ChromeOS Education Experience

The Acer Chromebook 315 (CB315-1H) is a reliable choice for students looking to access educational tools and resources efficiently. With its 4 GB of RAM, it can handle basic web browsing, document editing, and video conferencing with ease, making it suitable for everyday school tasks. The 1920x1080 display provides clear visuals during online classes and when reviewing digital textbooks or presentations, ensuring that students can focus on their work without distractions. Its support for Android applications means a wide range of educational apps are available, from interactive learning platforms to productivity tools that help with note-taking and organization.

For educators and students alike, the Chromebook's ability to run Linux applications is a significant advantage in an educational setting. This allows for more advanced tasks such as coding or running specific software required for certain courses without the need for additional hardware. The optional touchscreen can also enhance the learning experience by enabling interactive lessons and note-taking directly on the screen. However, it’s important to note that the device's performance may be limited when handling multiple resource-heavy applications simultaneously, which could affect its usability during more demanding tasks such as complex data analysis or video editing. Overall, this Chromebook offers a solid foundation for learning environments while balancing affordability with functional capabilities.

General Productivity Experience

The Acer Chromebook 315 (CB315-1H) offers a solid foundation for everyday productivity tasks with its 15.6-inch display and Full HD resolution, making it ideal for web browsing, document editing, and streaming media. The 1920x1080 screen provides clear visuals that are easy on the eyes, especially during long work sessions or when multitasking between multiple windows. Combined with a 4 GB RAM configuration, this device handles lightweight applications smoothly, allowing users to switch between tabs and open several browser windows without significant lag. The optional touchscreen adds versatility for those who prefer touch-based navigation, enhancing interaction with Android apps and making it easier to annotate documents or take notes on the go.

For users focused on productivity, the 32 GB or 64 GB eMMC storage ensures enough space for essential files, web browsing data, and basic applications. While external storage via MicroSD is available, it’s important to note that Linux applications are installed directly to internal storage, which means they won’t be accessible through external drives. The inclusion of both USB Type-C and USB A ports provides flexibility for connecting peripherals like keyboards, mice, or external monitors, further expanding the device's utility in a home or office environment. Overall, this Chromebook strikes a balance between affordability and functionality, making it a practical choice for students, remote workers, or anyone seeking a reliable machine for daily tasks.

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 315 (CB315-1H) offers a solid foundation for developers looking to work on lightweight tasks, especially those who rely heavily on cloud-based tools and Linux applications. With an x86_64 architecture and support for Linux, this device can run popular development tools like Git, Node.js, Python, and Visual Studio Code without significant performance hiccups. While it lacks the raw power of more modern machines, its 4 GB of RAM and 32 or 64 GB eMMC storage are sufficient for running local servers, editing code, and managing version control systems with ease. The 1920x1080 resolution screen provides a clear display for working on projects, making it suitable for both coding and testing basic web applications.

For developers who prefer to stay within the ChromeOS ecosystem, this device is well-suited for tasks that don’t require heavy local processing. Cloud-based development environments like Google Colab or GitHub Codespaces can be accessed seamlessly through the browser, allowing for a smooth workflow without the need for extensive local resources. The presence of multiple USB ports and a MicroSD card slot adds flexibility for connecting peripherals or expanding storage, though it’s important to note that Linux applications cannot be installed on external drives. While it may not be ideal for complex compiling tasks or large-scale data processing, its combination of Linux support and cloud integration makes it a practical choice for developers who prioritize portability and ease of use over raw performance.

Pricing and Availability

Amazon

The Acer Chromebook 315 (CB315-1H) currently on sale on Amazon.com for $184.00.

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 315 (CB315-1H) 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 315 (CB315-1H). 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 315 (CB315-1H).

MicroSD Cards

The Acer Chromebook 315 (CB315-1H) 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 315 (CB315-1H) 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 315 (CB315-1H) 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 315 (CB315-1H) 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 315 (CB315-1H) 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 315 (CB315-1H) on our USB Battery Bank Accessories Page along with links to purchase the USB Battery Banks.

Webcams

The Acer Chromebook 315 (CB315-1H) 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.