Google Chromebook Pixel Information

The Google Chromebook Pixel, released in January 30^th of 2013, is a premium Chromebook that combines a high-resolution display with powerful performance for productivity and media consumption. Its 12.85-inch screen offers a 2560x1700 resolution, making it ideal for tasks such as video editing, web browsing, and document creation. The device features an Intel Core-i5 3427U processor paired with 4 GB of RAM, providing smooth performance for everyday computing needs while supporting Android applications for added versatility. With a touchscreen interface, users can interact with the Chrome OS in a more intuitive way, enhancing the overall user experience.

The Chromebook Pixel also includes built-in storage options of either 32 GB or 64 GB eMMC, along with a Full SD card slot for expanding external storage capacity. It offers connectivity through multiple ports, including USB 2.0 and DisplayPort, allowing users to connect peripherals and external displays as needed. However, it is important to note that this device is no longer supported by ChromeOS and will not receive security updates or new features after its AUE date of June 1^st of 2018. Users should be aware that the device may struggle with modern web standards and websites that require more recent technologies. For those looking for a reliable, older model with a high-quality display, the Chromebook Pixel remains a notable choice for basic computing tasks.

System Specifications

The Google Chromebook Pixel is an x86_64 based Chromebook powered by a Intel Core-i5 3427U clocked at 1.8 GHz with 4 GB of RAM. As far as built-in storage, the Google Chromebook Pixel has 32 GB eMMC or 64 GB eMMC of local disk space. The Google Chromebook Pixel runs code built for the x86_64 architecture.

Performance Expectations

The Google Chromebook Pixel offers a smooth and responsive experience for everyday tasks such as web browsing, email management, and document editing. Its 4 GB of RAM is sufficient for handling multiple tabs and light productivity applications without significant lag, making it ideal for users who primarily rely on cloud-based services or basic office software. The high-resolution display enhances the visual clarity of content, providing an immersive experience when watching videos or reading documents. For media consumption, the device performs well, delivering crisp visuals and decent audio quality through its built-in speakers.

With a touchscreen interface, this device allows for intuitive navigation and interaction with Android applications, which are supported natively. While it lacks Linux support, users can still benefit from a wide range of apps available on the Google Play Store. The 2560x1700 resolution ensures that content appears sharp and detailed, making it suitable for both casual use and more demanding tasks like light photo editing or streaming high-definition video. Overall, this device strikes a balance between performance and usability, offering a reliable experience for those looking to stay connected and productive on the go.

CPU Performance Expectations

The Intel Core-i5 3427U processor in this device provides a solid foundation for everyday tasks, offering enough power to handle web browsing, email, and basic productivity applications with ease. Its dual-core architecture paired with 4 GB of RAM ensures smooth performance for lightweight multitasking, such as opening multiple tabs or working on simple spreadsheets. For users who primarily rely on ChromeOS for communication, note-taking, and casual web surfing, this CPU delivers a reliable experience without significant lag or delays.

When it comes to media consumption, the processor is more than capable of streaming high-definition video content smoothly, though it may not excel at rendering ultra-high-resolution formats or complex multimedia editing. The combination of the CPU and RAM allows for a responsive browsing experience, making it suitable for everyday use in environments where modern web standards are not a critical requirement. While it may struggle with resource-heavy applications like advanced graphic design software or video encoding tools, its performance remains adequate for most common tasks users expect from a Chromebook.

Storage Performance Expectations

The Google Chromebook Pixel utilizes eMMC storage, which provides reliable performance for everyday tasks such as launching applications, browsing the web, and managing files. While eMMC is generally slower than SSDs, it still offers sufficient speed for most users, especially when paired with the device's 4 GB of RAM. Users should keep at least 60% of their storage free to help maintain optimal performance, as eMMC can experience degradation over time if heavily used without proper maintenance. This makes it ideal for light to moderate use but may not be suitable for intensive data-heavy operations or frequent large file transfers. For best results, ensure regular cleanup and organization of files to prevent slowdowns. The storage is integrated into the device, so external options like FullSD can help expand capacity without affecting internal performance.

Display Performance Expectations

The Google Chromebook Pixel features a high-resolution display with a 12.85-inch screen that offers a resolution of 2560x1700, delivering sharp and detailed visuals. This makes it well-suited for tasks like video editing and software development where clarity is essential. The touchscreen interface enhances the user experience by allowing direct interaction with content, which is particularly useful when working with Android applications or navigating through web-based tools. While the display itself does not include advanced features such as high refresh rates or color calibration options, its resolution ensures that text and images appear crisp and clear, even during extended use sessions.

For users engaged in creative work or coding, the Pixel’s touchscreen can be a valuable asset for quick navigation and interaction without needing to rely on a mouse. The display performance is adequate for most modern web-based applications and light multimedia tasks, though it may not match the responsiveness or color accuracy of newer high-end displays. Overall, the screen provides a reliable and functional experience that supports a wide range of daily activities while maintaining a balance between clarity and usability.

Android Performance Expectations

The Google Chromebook Pixel is a versatile device that offers a smooth experience for Android applications due to its 4 GB of RAM and 32 or 64 GB eMMC storage. While it may not be ideal for users who require large amounts of local storage for offline media or games, it handles everyday tasks such as productivity apps, messaging, and basic entertainment with ease. The touchscreen makes interacting with Android applications more intuitive, especially for users who prefer touch-based navigation over traditional on-screen buttons.

For casual gaming, the Pixel can manage a variety of lightweight titles without significant lag, though performance may vary depending on the app's complexity. Its 2560x1700 resolution provides a clear and detailed display, enhancing the visual experience for media consumption such as watching videos or browsing content. While it lacks advanced hardware features found in newer devices, its Android support allows for a wide range of applications to run smoothly, making it a practical choice for users who primarily use their device for entertainment and basic productivity tasks.

Gaming Performance Expectations

Web-Based Gaming Experience/Web-Game Streaming Services

The Google Chromebook Pixel offers a unique blend of performance and design that makes it well-suited for web-based gaming, though its capabilities are limited by its hardware specifications. With an Intel Core-i5 3427U processor and 4 GB of RAM, this device can handle basic to mid-tier browser games with acceptable frame rates, especially when running on platforms like Google Stadia or other cloud-based services that offload processing to remote servers. While it may struggle with more demanding titles that require advanced graphics capabilities or high-performance computing, the Pixel's touchscreen and high-resolution display provide a smooth and immersive experience for casual gaming and streaming.

For users who prioritize visual quality over raw performance, the 2560x1700 resolution and responsive touch input make this device a strong contender for cloud-based gaming. However, it’s important to note that the Chromebook Pixel lacks dedicated GPU support for Linux applications or advanced graphics rendering, which means some complex web games might experience lag or lower graphical fidelity. Overall, this device remains a viable option for those looking to enjoy a range of online experiences without the need for high-end 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 Google Chromebook Pixel 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 Google Chromebook Pixel offers a refined media consumption experience thanks to its high-resolution display. With a 12.85-inch screen that delivers 2560x1700 resolution, it provides crisp visuals for watching videos and streaming content. The device’s internal storage options—ranging from 32 GB to 64 GB eMMC—are sufficient for holding a moderate collection of offline media files, though users with larger libraries may find the capacity limiting. For those who prefer to store media externally, the FullSD slot allows for additional storage space, making it easier to manage large video files or high-quality audio tracks without compromising performance.

Audio quality is another strong point, supported by the built-in headphone/microphone combo jack and a well-tuned speaker system that delivers clear sound. While not as immersive as dedicated audio equipment, the Pixel’s speakers are adequate for casual listening and video playback. The touchscreen interface also enhances the media experience, allowing for easy navigation through content libraries or streaming platforms. However, due to its age, users may occasionally encounter compatibility issues with newer video formats or encryption standards, which could affect seamless playback of certain content. Overall, the Chromebook Pixel remains a capable device for everyday media use, especially when paired with external storage and cloud-based services.

ChromeOS Work Experience

The Google Chromebook Pixel is a powerful tool for users who rely heavily on web-based productivity tools and cloud storage. Its 2560x1700 resolution display delivers crisp visuals, making it ideal for tasks such as document editing, video conferencing, and accessing remote desktops. With 4 GB of RAM, the device can handle lightweight modern applications with ease, though more resource-intensive software may see performance limitations. The Intel Core-i5 3427U processor ensures smooth multitasking, which is essential when working across multiple browser tabs or using web-based office suites. This makes it a solid choice for users who primarily rely on Chrome and cloud services to manage their workflow.

The Pixel’s touchscreen interface adds an extra layer of usability, especially for those who prefer interacting with Android applications directly on the display. While it lacks Linux support, its Android capabilities are well-suited for productivity tasks, including accessing various web-based tools and apps that integrate seamlessly with Google Workspace. The 32 or 64 GB eMMC storage provides enough space for essential files and applications, though users may want to consider external storage solutions if they need additional capacity. However, it’s important to note that this device is no longer supported by ChromeOS and will not receive security updates, which makes it unsuitable for use in enterprise or work environments where data protection is critical. Users should be cautious about the potential risks associated with outdated software and ensure any sensitive tasks are handled through secure, up-to-date platforms.

ChromeOS Education Experience

The Google Chromebook Pixel offers a compelling educational experience with its powerful Intel Core-i5 3427U processor and 4 GB of RAM, making it well-suited for handling web-based learning tools and productivity software. Students can easily navigate through online learning management systems, participate in virtual classrooms, and collaborate on group projects without significant lag or performance issues. The high-resolution 12.85-inch display delivers crisp visuals during video lectures and presentations, ensuring that students remain engaged with content. Its touchscreen interface enhances interactivity for educational apps, making it a versatile tool for both individual study and classroom activities.

The device's 32 GB or 64 GB eMMC storage provides ample space for storing digital textbooks, research materials, and project files, while the FullSD slot allows for additional external storage if needed. This makes it ideal for students who need to manage large amounts of data without relying on cloud services. The inclusion of a DisplayPort video output also enables seamless integration with classroom projectors or shared screens during group work. However, due to its age and lack of ongoing support, users should be aware that the device may struggle with modern web standards and certain educational software updates. For those who still find value in its capabilities, the Chromebook Pixel remains a capable tool for basic learning tasks and digital collaboration.

General Productivity Experience

The Google Chromebook Pixel offers a premium productivity experience with its high-resolution 12.85-inch display that delivers sharp visuals and vibrant colors, making it ideal for web browsing, document editing, and multimedia consumption. Its 2560x1700 resolution ensures text remains crisp and clear, even when working on detailed spreadsheets or reading lengthy articles. The touchscreen functionality enhances interaction with Android apps and makes navigating the ChromeOS interface more intuitive, especially when handling multiple tasks simultaneously. Whether you're drafting emails, managing calendars, or collaborating in real-time with cloud-based tools, the Pixel’s performance remains stable thanks to its 4 GB of RAM and Intel Core-i5 processor, which handles modern web applications with ease.

The device excels in multitasking scenarios, allowing users to split the screen between different apps and workspaces without lag. The inclusion of two USB 2.0 ports and a DisplayPort video output provides flexibility for connecting peripherals or external displays when needed. The FullSD slot adds convenient storage options for additional files, though it’s important to note that Linux applications are installed on internal storage only. Despite its age, the Chromebook Pixel maintains a smooth user experience for everyday tasks, making it a reliable choice for those who value both performance and portability in a ChromeOS device.

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 Google Chromebook Pixel offers a unique experience for developers looking to work on lightweight tasks without the need for full desktop environments. While it lacks Linux support, its 4 GB of RAM and x86-64 architecture provide a solid foundation for running cloud-based development tools and web-based IDEs like CodeSandbox or Replit. Developers can efficiently edit code using lightweight editors such as Visual Studio Code in the browser, manage version control with Git through command-line interfaces, and run local servers for testing purposes. The 12.85-inch display with a resolution of 2560x1700 ensures that code is readable and easy to work with, making it suitable for tasks such as writing scripts or debugging applications in a browser-based environment.

Despite its age and lack of modern updates, the Chromebook Pixel remains functional for developers who prefer cloud-first workflows. Its touchscreen interface adds convenience for quick navigation and interaction with development tools, while the inclusion of USB 2.0 ports allows for connecting peripherals like external keyboards or mice. Although it does not support Linux applications, users can still leverage browser-based tools such as GitHub’s web interface for version control, online Python interpreters, and cloud-hosted databases. For developers who rely on local development environments, this device may be limited but can serve as a reliable tool for those who prioritize simplicity and portability over advanced local capabilities.

Pricing and Availability

eBay

eBay is one of the largest marketplaces for both new and used ChromeOS. You can check to see if this Chromebook is available for sale on eBay by clicking here.

Accessories

The Google Chromebook Pixel 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 Google Chromebook Pixel. 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 Google Chromebook Pixel.

FullSD Cards

The Google Chromebook Pixel has a FullSD 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 FullSD Cards that are compatible with your device on our Accessories Pahe along with links to purchase the FullSD Cards.

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.

Webcams

The Google Chromebook Pixel 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.