SMART Chromebox G3 Information

The SMART Chromebox G3 is a compact, powerful device designed for educational environments and digital signage applications. With 4 GB of RAM and an Intel Celeron 3865U processor, it provides sufficient performance to run modern web-based tools and Android apps smoothly. Its 128 GB internal storage ensures enough space for essential files, while its x86_64 architecture supports a wide range of applications without the need for additional hardware. The device is built with a focus on reliability and ease of use, making it an ideal choice for schools, classrooms, and public displays.

As a Chromebox, the SMART Chromebox G3 offers a straightforward setup process and seamless integration with Google's ecosystem. It supports Android apps, allowing users to access a variety of educational software and productivity tools directly from the ChromeOS environment. With no touchscreen included but featuring a robust form factor, it is well-suited for environments where durability and performance are key priorities. The device will continue to receive updates until June 1^st of 2028, ensuring ongoing support for its intended use cases.

System Specifications

The SMART Chromebox G3 is an x86_64 based Chromebox powered by a Intel Celeron 3865U clocked at 1.8 GHz with 4 GB of RAM. As far as built-in storage, the SMART Chromebox G3 has 128 GB of local disk space. The SMART Chromebox G3 runs code built for the x86_64 architecture. This device is designed for the educational market and was built to withstand the rigors of a classroom environment. It features a spill-resistant keyboard and a rubberized body to protect it from drops.

Performance Expectations

The SMART Chromebox G3 is well-suited for basic web browsing, media playback, and light productivity tasks thanks to its 4 GB of RAM and x86_64 architecture. Users can expect smooth navigation through multiple tabs and seamless streaming of videos or music without significant lag. For educational environments, this device provides a reliable platform for students to access online learning resources, participate in virtual classrooms, and complete assignments with ease. While it may not handle more resource-intensive applications like video editing or gaming, it remains an efficient tool for everyday use cases such as document creation, email management, and collaborative work through cloud services.

With its 128 GB internal storage, the Chromebox G3 offers ample space for storing files, apps, and user data without requiring external drives. The inclusion of Android support means users can access a wide range of mobile applications directly on the device, enhancing its versatility in both classroom and office settings. Despite being an older model, the Chromebox G3 continues to deliver consistent performance for tasks that don't demand high computational power. Its focus on simplicity and reliability makes it an excellent choice for those seeking a straightforward, no-frills computing experience tailored for educational and digital signage applications.

CPU Performance Expectations

The Intel Celeron 3865U processor in this device provides a balanced approach to everyday computing tasks, offering enough power to handle web browsing, streaming media, and basic productivity applications without significant lag. Users can expect smooth navigation through multiple tabs, quick loading of websites, and seamless playback of videos, making it well-suited for educational environments where content consumption is frequent. While the CPU may not be the most powerful on the market, its efficiency ensures that common workflows remain responsive and reliable, even when running several background processes at once.

For productivity tasks such as document editing or spreadsheet management, the processor works efficiently with the 4 GB of RAM to keep applications running smoothly without noticeable delays. Tasks like formatting text, inserting images, or sorting data should be handled with ease, though more intensive operations may take slightly longer compared to higher-end devices. The combination of the Celeron processor and available memory is ideal for users who prioritize affordability and simplicity over high-performance computing, making it a solid choice for lightweight workloads and classroom settings where the focus remains on content creation rather than complex data processing.

Storage Performance Expectations

The SMART Chromebox G3 utilizes eMMC storage, which is a type of internal solid-state memory commonly found in compact and embedded systems. While eMMC offers reliable performance for everyday tasks such as launching web browsers, running lightweight applications, and storing user files, it may not match the speed of more advanced SSDs used in newer devices. In real-world usage scenarios, this storage type should handle typical workloads smoothly, including managing multiple tabs, streaming media, and accessing local documents. Users should ensure that at least 60% of the available disk space remains free to maintain optimal performance and prevent slowdowns due to fragmentation or excessive file caching. For users who frequently store large files or use resource-intensive applications, it's advisable to manage storage carefully or consider external solutions for additional capacity. Overall, the eMMC storage in this device is designed to support a wide range of common tasks without significant issues.

Android Performance Expectations

The SMART Chromebox G3 is a compact and efficient computing solution designed for environments where stability and performance are key. With 4 GB of RAM, it can handle everyday Android applications with ease, making it suitable for tasks like document editing, email management, and streaming media. The 128 GB internal storage provides ample space for apps and data, though users who require more room for offline content or large files may find it limiting. Since the device does not support external storage expansion, all media and applications must be managed within its built-in capacity.

For Android use, this device is well-suited for productivity tasks such as managing schedules, creating presentations, and handling basic design work with apps like Google Docs, Sheets, and Slides. It can also run a variety of lightweight Android games without significant lag, though more resource-intensive titles may struggle to perform smoothly due to its modest hardware specifications. Media consumption is another strong suit, with the ability to stream videos and music from popular platforms without noticeable delays or buffering issues. While it lacks a touchscreen, users who primarily rely on keyboard and mouse input will still find it functional for most Android-based activities.

Gaming Performance Expectations

Web-Based Gaming Experience/Web-Game Streaming Services

The SMART Chromebox G3 offers a reliable platform for web-based gaming thanks to its Intel Celeron 3865U processor and 4 GB of RAM, making it capable of running most modern browser games smoothly. While it may not handle the most demanding titles with high graphical fidelity, it provides a decent experience for casual gamers who prioritize accessibility over raw performance. The device's integrated graphics, though modest, are sufficient to render basic 3D environments and support popular web-based platforms without significant lag or crashes.

For users looking to enjoy cloud gaming services, the Chromebox G3 remains a viable option due to its Android support and stable ChromeOS environment. Its 128 GB of internal storage ensures enough space for game files and browser cache, while the lack of external storage options means players should rely on cloud-based solutions or USB drives for additional data. Overall, this device strikes a balance between affordability and usability, making it an attractive choice for those who want to play games without investing in 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 SMART Chromebox G3 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 SMART Chromebox G3 offers a straightforward approach to digital signage and educational environments, making it an ideal choice for users who prioritize reliability over advanced multimedia capabilities. With its 128 GB of internal storage, this device can handle basic media files and streaming tasks without requiring additional external drives. While the screen resolution may not be the highest available, the Chromebox's performance is sufficient to play standard-definition videos smoothly, especially when using cloud-based streaming services. The absence of a touchscreen means users will need to rely on physical buttons or remote controls for interaction, which can be more practical in public or classroom settings.

For audio playback, the device delivers clear and consistent sound quality, making it suitable for background music or simple voiceovers. Since there is no built-in microphone, the Chromebox isn't designed for recording high-quality audio, but its speakers are adequate for most casual use cases. The lack of Linux support means users can’t run complex media applications or customize the environment extensively, which keeps things simple and focused on core functionality. Overall, this device strikes a balance between usability and performance for tasks like video playback, streaming, and basic multimedia management in educational and digital signage scenarios.

ChromeOS Work Experience

The SMART Chromebox G3 is a compact and efficient solution for office environments that prioritizes reliability and ease of use. With its Intel Celeron 3865U processor, this device delivers adequate performance for common work tasks such as document editing, video conferencing, and web-based applications. The 4 GB of RAM ensures smooth multitasking when working with multiple browser tabs or running lightweight productivity software, making it a solid choice for users who primarily rely on cloud services and basic office tools. Its built-in storage capacity of 128 GB provides sufficient space for essential files and applications without the need for external drives, which simplifies setup and reduces clutter in the workspace.

For businesses looking to maintain a streamlined digital signage or educational environment, this device offers a reliable platform that supports Android applications, allowing users to access a wide range of work-related tools directly from the ChromeOS interface. The absence of Linux support means it is better suited for tasks that do not require advanced customization or specific software environments, making it ideal for standard office workflows and routine administrative duties. While it may not be the best option for resource-intensive applications, its straightforward design and consistent performance make it a dependable choice for teams with moderate computing needs. Additionally, since this device is still within its update window, users can expect ongoing security patches and feature improvements, ensuring long-term stability in a work setting.

ChromeOS Education Experience

The SMART Chromebox G3 is a compact and powerful solution for educational environments, offering a reliable platform for students and educators to engage with digital learning tools. With 4 GB of RAM and an Intel Celeron 3865U processor, it handles everyday tasks such as web browsing, document editing, and video conferencing with ease. Its 128 GB internal storage provides ample space for educational apps, learning management systems, and student files, making it a practical choice for classroom settings where multiple users may share the device. The ChromeOS environment is designed to be intuitive, allowing students to quickly access resources and collaborate on projects without the complexity of traditional operating systems.

For educators, this device supports seamless integration with online platforms such as Google Classroom, Microsoft Teams, and other learning management systems, which are essential for managing coursework and communication. Its Android support enables a wide range of educational applications to be used directly on the Chromebox, enhancing its versatility in a classroom or lab setting. While it does not support Linux applications, this limitation is offset by its ability to run most modern web-based tools and apps efficiently. The absence of a touchscreen may affect certain interactive learning experiences, but for tasks such as document editing and virtual meetings, the Chromebox delivers a smooth and distraction-free user experience. Overall, it remains a solid option for schools looking for an affordable and functional device that supports digital education without requiring advanced technical features.

General Productivity Experience

The SMART Chromebox G3 is a compact and efficient desktop solution designed for users who need reliable performance without the bulk of traditional computing hardware. Its 128 GB storage provides ample space for operating system files, applications, and user data, while the Intel Celeron 3865U processor ensures smooth handling of everyday tasks such as web browsing, document editing, and media playback. With 4 GB of RAM, this device is well-suited for running lightweight modern web applications and multitasking across multiple tabs without significant performance degradation. The Chromebox’s form factor makes it an ideal choice for spaces where a full desktop setup isn’t practical, offering a streamlined yet powerful option for educational environments or digital signage setups.

For productivity-focused tasks like document editing and spreadsheet work, the SMART Chromebox G3 delivers consistent performance thanks to its optimized architecture and Android support. Users can leverage a wide range of web-based tools and applications that run seamlessly on ChromeOS, making it an excellent choice for students, educators, and small business owners who rely on cloud-based workflows. While it does not support Linux applications, the built-in Android compatibility opens up access to a variety of mobile apps that can enhance productivity further. The device’s ability to handle multiple windows and tabs efficiently supports seamless multitasking, making it a versatile option for users who need a reliable 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 SMART Chromebox G3 offers a solid foundation for developers looking to work in a cloud-centric environment, especially given its support for Android applications and access to modern web-based development tools. While it lacks Linux support, the device can still be an effective platform for those who rely heavily on browser-based IDEs like CodeSandbox or Replit. With 4 GB of RAM, this Chromebox is capable of handling lightweight coding tasks such as editing HTML, CSS, and JavaScript files, but may struggle with more resource-intensive projects that require a local development environment. The x86_64 architecture ensures compatibility with most web-based tools, making it an ideal choice for developers who prefer to keep their workflows in the browser.

For those working on smaller-scale applications or using cloud-native development practices, the 128 GB of internal storage provides ample space to store project files and temporary data. The Chromebox’s performance is adequate for tasks like running local servers with lightweight frameworks such as Node.js or Python, though more complex builds may experience delays due to limited resources. Developers should consider leveraging cloud-based services for heavy lifting, as the device can seamlessly integrate with platforms like GitHub and Google Cloud. While it's not suitable for full-stack development that requires Linux support, its ease of use and familiar interface make it a viable option for those who prioritize simplicity over raw power.

Overall, the SMART Chromebox G3 is best suited for developers who rely on cloud-based tools or work primarily with web technologies. Its streamlined design and focus on accessibility make it an excellent choice for educational settings where students need to quickly set up development environments without dealing with the complexities of system configuration. While it may not be ideal for advanced coding tasks that demand more robust hardware, its reliability and straightforward performance ensure a smooth experience for many common development workflows.

Pricing and Availability

eBay

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

Accessories

The SMART Chromebox G3 is a versatile and powerful Chromebox, 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 SMART Chromebox G3. 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 SMART Chromebox G3.

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 SMART Chromebox G3 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 Chromebox however you can access the ChromeOS Guide Accessory Database for a full list of devices that we have verified will work with ChromeOS.