Acer Chromebook 514 (CB514-2H) Information

The Acer Chromebook 514 (CB514-2H) is a compact and affordable Chromebook designed for everyday use, offering a balance of performance and portability. With a 14-inch Full HD display, it provides clear visuals for browsing, streaming, and productivity tasks, while the MediaTek Kompanio 828 processor ensures smooth multitasking and efficient handling of modern web applications. The device comes with 4 GB of RAM and 32 GB eMMC storage, making it suitable for users who prioritize affordability without compromising on essential features. Priced at $363.15, it’s an attractive option for students or casual users looking for a reliable Chromebook that supports both Android and Linux applications.

The optional touchscreen adds versatility, allowing for more interactive use with Android apps and touch-based navigation. Its USB Power Delivery feature ensures convenient charging, while the long-term support until August 1^st of 2031 makes it a durable choice for those seeking a stable computing experience. Whether you’re managing schoolwork, staying connected, or exploring creative tools, this Chromebook delivers practical performance at an accessible price point.

System Specifications

The Acer Chromebook 514 (CB514-2H) is an arm based Chromebook powered by a MediaTek Kompanio 828 clocked at 2.6 GHz with 4 GB of RAM. As far as built-in storage, the Acer Chromebook 514 (CB514-2H) has 32 GB eMMC of local disk space. The Acer Chromebook 514 (CB514-2H) runs code built for the arm architecture.

Performance Expectations

This device is well-suited for everyday tasks such as web browsing, streaming media, and light productivity work. With a 14-inch display offering Full HD resolution, it provides a clear and immersive viewing experience for videos, documents, and online content. The optional touchscreen adds flexibility for users who prefer touch-based navigation, especially when using Android applications or interacting with the ChromeOS interface. While it may not be ideal for resource-heavy tasks like video editing or gaming, it handles typical web browsing and document editing smoothly thanks to its 4 GB of RAM and efficient ARM architecture.

For users looking to run Linux applications alongside ChromeOS, this device offers solid support that enables a range of productivity tools and development environments. The inclusion of GPU acceleration for Linux apps ensures smoother performance when running graphical software or compiling code. Whether you're managing your email, working on spreadsheets, or browsing the web, the combination of its storage capacity and processing power makes it a reliable choice for casual and moderate use cases. Its ARM-based processor also contributes to longer battery life, making it a good option for students and professionals who need a lightweight yet capable computing device.

CPU Performance Expectations

The MediaTek Kompanio 828 processor in this device delivers a balanced performance for everyday tasks, making it well-suited for web browsing, streaming media, and basic productivity work. With 4 GB of RAM, it handles multiple tabs and light multitasking efficiently, though more demanding applications may see some lag. Users can expect smooth navigation through popular websites and apps, with quick load times for most content. For those who primarily use ChromeOS for communication, note-taking, and casual browsing, this CPU provides a reliable foundation without unnecessary overhead.

When it comes to media consumption, the processor ensures that video playback remains stable and consistent, even when running multiple background processes. Streaming platforms will run smoothly, though users should avoid opening too many tabs or applications simultaneously if they notice any slowdowns. For productivity tasks like document editing or spreadsheet work, the CPU performs adequately for light use, but heavier workflows may require a more powerful machine. Overall, this processor is ideal for users who prioritize simplicity and affordability over high-end performance.

Storage Performance Expectations

The Acer Chromebook 514 (CB514-2H) comes equipped with 32 GB of eMMC storage, which provides a reliable and durable solution for everyday use. While eMMC is generally slower than SSDs, it still offers sufficient performance for typical tasks such as web browsing, document editing, and media playback. Users should be mindful of their storage habits to maintain optimal performance; keeping at least 60% of the drive free can help prevent slowdowns and ensure smooth operation over time. This device is well-suited for users who prioritize affordability and simplicity without sacrificing core functionality. For those requiring more advanced storage capabilities or faster read/write speeds, additional external storage options like USB flash drives can be used to supplement internal space. Overall, the eMMC storage strikes a balance between cost-effectiveness and practicality for most ChromeOS users.

Display Performance Expectations

The Acer Chromebook 514 (CB514-2H) features a 14-inch display with a resolution of 1920x1080, providing clear and detailed visuals for everyday tasks. While not the highest resolution available on modern Chromebooks, this display is well-suited for web browsing, video streaming, and document editing. The screen offers a balanced brightness level that performs adequately in most lighting conditions, though it may struggle in very bright environments without additional adjustments. For users who rely heavily on visual clarity, such as those working with images or videos, the resolution should suffice for basic editing tasks, though more advanced work might benefit from higher-end displays. The display’s color accuracy and contrast are standard for a device of this class, making it reliable for general use.

The GPU support included in this device enables smooth performance for most modern web applications and light multimedia tasks. While it may not handle intensive graphic design or video rendering with the same efficiency as more powerful models, it is adequate for everyday computing needs such as watching HD videos, using productivity software, and browsing the internet. The inclusion of Linux GPU support further enhances its versatility for developers and users who require more advanced graphical capabilities in a virtualized environment. Overall, this display and graphics setup should provide a satisfactory experience for most users without requiring additional hardware upgrades.

Android Performance Expectations

The Acer Chromebook 514 (CB514-2H) offers a solid foundation for Android applications, thanks to its 4 GB of RAM and 32 GB eMMC storage. While it may struggle with resource-heavy apps or multitasking, it can handle basic tasks like streaming video, browsing social media, and using productivity tools such as Google Docs or Sheets without significant lag. The optional touchscreen enhances the experience for users who prefer touch-based navigation, especially when interacting with Android apps designed for mobile use. However, those relying on a keyboard and mouse may find the device equally capable for everyday tasks.

For casual gaming, the Chromebook 514 (CB514-2H) can run lightweight games smoothly, provided they don’t demand too much processing power. The MediaTek Kompanio 828 processor provides adequate performance for simple mobile games and basic Android apps, but more demanding titles may experience slowdowns or require a stable internet connection for online play. Media consumption remains a strong suit, with the 1920x1080 resolution offering clear visuals for videos and photos. Users who prioritize storage for offline content should be mindful of the 32 GB limit, as it can quickly fill up with large apps or media files. Overall, this device strikes a balance between functionality and affordability for Android-centric use cases.

Linux Performance Expectations

The Acer Chromebook 514 (CB514-2H) supports Linux applications through its built-in capabilities, making it a viable option for users who need command-line tools or specific software that isn't available on the ChromeOS platform. With a MediaTek Kompanio 828 processor and 4 GB of RAM, this device can handle basic development tasks such as coding in Python or using lightweight text editors. While more intensive operations like compiling large codebases may feel sluggish due to the limited memory, it is still capable of running essential Linux-based workflows for everyday use. The inclusion of Linux GPU support also allows for smoother performance when working with graphics-related applications or tools that require hardware acceleration.

For video editing, the device's 32 GB eMMC storage and ARM architecture provide a solid foundation for handling smaller projects, especially if they are not too resource-heavy. Users should expect some limitations when dealing with high-resolution footage or complex timelines, as the system may struggle to keep up with real-time rendering. However, it can still serve as a reliable tool for basic editing tasks or as a secondary machine for simpler workflows. Overall, this device offers a balanced approach for users who need Linux support without requiring top-tier hardware specifications.

Gaming Performance Expectations

Web-Based Gaming Experience/Web-Game Streaming Services

The Acer Chromebook 514 (CB514-2H) offers a solid foundation for web-based gaming and cloud-based entertainment, thanks to its MediaTek Kompanio 828 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 services with acceptable performance. The 4 GB of RAM ensures that lightweight applications and browser tabs can run smoothly, though more demanding games or multitasking scenarios might show some limitations. For users looking to enjoy online gaming or stream content without heavy local processing, the Chromebook's reliance on cloud-based platforms makes it a practical choice.

Graphics quality in web-based games is generally acceptable for this device, with the integrated GPU handling most modern titles at lower settings. However, complex 3D environments or high-resolution textures may not render as smoothly as they would on more powerful hardware. The 1920x1080 resolution provides a clear and sharp display, enhancing the overall gaming experience. For those who prioritize performance over graphics, the Chromebook's balance of affordability and reliability makes it an excellent option for casual players and streamers alike.

Linux Gaming Experience

The Acer Chromebook 514 (CB514-2H) offers a solid foundation for running Linux applications, which can be beneficial for users looking to expand their software options beyond the standard ChromeOS ecosystem. With support for Linux applications and GPU acceleration, this device can handle basic tasks like web browsing, document editing, and media playback with ease. However, due to its 4 GB of RAM and 32 GB eMMC storage, performance may be limited when running more resource-intensive Linux programs or multitasking with several open applications at once.

For users who rely on Linux for productivity or development work, the MediaTek Kompanio 828 processor provides a decent level of performance, though it is not designed for high-end gaming or complex computations. The device's ability to run Linux applications natively without requiring a desktop environment makes it a practical choice for those seeking additional functionality. That said, users should be aware that the limited storage and memory may restrict the number of applications they can install or run simultaneously. It’s important to check individual game or software requirements before attempting to use this device for more demanding tasks.

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 514 (CB514-2H) 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 514 (CB514-2H) offers a solid foundation for streaming media content, making it suitable for everyday entertainment. With a 1920x1080 resolution display, users can enjoy clear and detailed visuals when watching videos or browsing through online content. The device’s ability to support Android applications ensures access to popular streaming services without the need for additional hardware. While the internal storage of 32 GB eMMC is sufficient for offline media files, it may limit the number of high-definition movies or music libraries that can be stored directly on the device. For a more extensive collection, users might consider using external USB drives for supplementary storage.

Audio quality remains consistent with most modern ChromeOS devices, providing clear and immersive sound when playing music or watching videos. The optional touchscreen feature enhances the user experience by allowing for easier navigation through media libraries or streaming platforms. However, it’s important to note that older devices may encounter challenges with newer video formats or encryption standards, which could result in playback issues without a more powerful processor. For most casual users, the device should handle typical media consumption tasks smoothly and efficiently.

ChromeOS Work Experience

The Acer Chromebook 514 (CB514-2H) delivers a solid work experience for everyday tasks, making it a reliable choice for users who need a lightweight and efficient device. Its MediaTek Kompanio 828 processor ensures smooth performance for web-based applications, document editing, and video conferencing, while the 4 GB of RAM provides enough memory to handle multiple browser tabs and basic productivity software without lagging. The 1920x1080 display offers clear visuals that are well-suited for both work and casual use, though it may not be ideal for high-end graphic design or video editing. For users who rely on cloud services and remote desktop access, the ChromeOS ecosystem ensures seamless integration with popular platforms like Google Workspace, Microsoft 365, and others, making it a great option for staying productive on the go.

The device’s long-term support until August 1^st of 2031 means that users can expect continued security updates and compatibility with modern web applications, which is crucial in a work environment. The inclusion of Android and Linux support opens up additional versatility, allowing users to run a wide range of productivity tools and custom software without the need for a desktop operating system. However, it’s important to note that enterprise-enrolled devices may have some features or capabilities restricted by administrators, so users should be aware of potential limitations if they are part of an organization with managed ChromeOS policies. For general office use, this device strikes a good balance between performance and affordability, offering a dependable solution for everyday work tasks without unnecessary complexity.

ChromeOS Education Experience

The Acer Chromebook 514 (CB514-2H) offers a reliable and affordable solution for students looking to engage with digital learning tools. With a 14-inch display that supports Full HD resolution, it provides clear visuals during video lectures, online discussions, and interactive lessons. The built-in MediaTek Kompanio 828 processor ensures smooth performance for common educational tasks like web browsing, document editing, and streaming, while the 4 GB of RAM helps maintain responsiveness when multitasking or running multiple apps simultaneously. Students can easily access learning management systems (LMS) such as Google Classroom or Microsoft Teams without experiencing significant lag, making it a practical choice for daily classroom use.

For educators and students alike, this device supports Android applications, which means a wide range of educational tools, including interactive whiteboards, language learning apps, and collaboration platforms, are readily available. The optional touchscreen feature enhances the user experience by allowing for more intuitive navigation through digital textbooks, quizzes, and presentations. Furthermore, Linux support enables advanced users to run specific productivity software or development environments that may not be natively available on ChromeOS. This flexibility can be particularly beneficial in project-based learning scenarios where students need to perform more complex tasks or work with specialized tools. The 32 GB eMMC storage is sufficient for most educational needs, though it's important to note that the device does not support external storage options such as MicroSD cards.

General Productivity Experience

The Acer Chromebook 514 (CB514-2H) offers a reliable productivity experience with its 14-inch display and 1920x1080 resolution, making it ideal for tasks like web browsing, document editing, and multitasking. The 4 GB of RAM ensures smooth performance for lightweight modern applications, allowing users to keep multiple tabs open without significant lag. Combined with the MediaTek Kompanio 828 processor, this device handles everyday workloads efficiently, providing a balance between power and efficiency. Whether you're working on school projects, managing emails, or streaming content, the Chromebook delivers a seamless experience that prioritizes usability over high-end performance.

The optional touchscreen adds an extra layer of flexibility for users who prefer touch-based navigation, especially when interacting with Android applications or using the device in a more casual setting. The 32 GB eMMC storage is sufficient for most basic tasks and ensures quick access to frequently used files and apps. While it may not be suitable for heavy multimedia editing or resource-intensive software, it excels at handling typical productivity workflows, making it an excellent choice for students, remote workers, and anyone looking for a dependable Chromebook that gets the job done without unnecessary complexity.

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 514 (CB514-2H) offers a solid foundation for developers looking to work within the ChromeOS ecosystem, particularly those who rely on Linux applications. With 4 GB of RAM and an ARM-based processor, it can handle lightweight code editing and version control tasks like Git with ease. While more resource-intensive processes such as compiling large projects or running local servers may feel a bit sluggish, the device is still capable of supporting essential development workflows. The inclusion of Linux support means tools like Python, Node.js, and VS Code are fully functional, allowing for a seamless transition between traditional desktop environments and ChromeOS.

For developers who prefer cloud-based solutions, the Chromebook’s performance remains consistent with modern web technologies, making it an excellent platform for accessing online IDEs and collaborative coding platforms. The 1920x1080 resolution provides sufficient clarity for most development tasks, though some may find the lack of a higher refresh rate limiting when working with dynamic interfaces or debugging visual applications. The optional touchscreen can enhance productivity for those who use touch-based workflows, especially with Android apps that complement development activities. Overall, this device strikes a balance between affordability and usability, making it a practical choice for developers seeking a lightweight yet capable ChromeOS machine.

Pricing and Availability

Amazon

The Acer Chromebook 514 (CB514-2H) currently on sale on Amazon.com for $363.15.

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 514 (CB514-2H) 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 514 (CB514-2H). 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 514 (CB514-2H).

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.

USB-C Chargers/Power Supplies

The Acer Chromebook 514 (CB514-2H) 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 514 (CB514-2H) 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 514 (CB514-2H) on our USB Battery Bank Accessories Page along with links to purchase the USB Battery Banks.

Webcams

The Acer Chromebook 514 (CB514-2H) 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.