Samsung Chromebook Information

The Samsung Chromebook, released in October 14^th of 2012, is a budget-friendly option designed for basic web browsing and light productivity tasks. With 2 GB of RAM and 16 GB eMMC storage, it provides enough capacity for everyday use, though modern applications may struggle to run smoothly on this older hardware. The device features an arm-based processor, which ensures reasonable performance for its time but limits support for more advanced computing needs like Android or Linux applications. Its 11.6-inch screen with a resolution of 1366x768 offers a clear display suitable for online learning and communication.

Priced at around $65.02 today, the Samsung Chromebook is an entry-level device that caters to users looking for simplicity and affordability. However, it no longer receives updates after July 31^st of 2018, which means it may have difficulty with modern websites and security threats. While it lacks a touchscreen and cellular connectivity, its compact design and long battery life make it a viable option for basic tasks, though it is best suited for users who prioritize cost over cutting-edge performance.

System Specifications

The Samsung Chromebook is an arm based Chromebook powered by a Exynos 5 Dual 5250 clocked at 1.7 GHz with 2 GB of RAM. As far as built-in storage, the Samsung Chromebook has 16 GB eMMC of local disk space. The Samsung Chromebook runs code built for the arm architecture.

Performance Expectations

This older Samsung Chromebook offers a basic yet functional experience for light web browsing and media consumption. With its 1366x768 resolution display, it provides clear visuals for everyday tasks such as checking email, streaming videos, or reading articles. The device is well-suited for users who primarily use the Chrome browser and don’t require advanced multitasking capabilities. While it may feel a bit sluggish when handling multiple tabs or resource-heavy websites, it remains reliable for basic online activities.

For productivity, this device can manage simple document editing and spreadsheet work, especially with cloud-based tools like Google Docs or Sheets. However, more complex applications such as video editing or running local software will likely encounter performance limitations due to its 2 GB of RAM and older processor. The lack of Android or Linux support means users won’t have access to a wide range of apps or customization options. Overall, it’s a decent choice for casual use but may struggle with more demanding tasks over time.

CPU Performance Expectations

The Samsung Chromebook features an Exynos 5 Dual 5250 processor paired with 2 GB of RAM, delivering a balanced performance for basic tasks. This combination is well-suited for web browsing, streaming media, and light productivity work such as document editing or spreadsheet management. While it may struggle with more demanding applications like video editing or multitasking-heavy workflows, the device handles everyday use smoothly, especially when paired with ChromeOS’s efficient resource management. For users primarily focused on online activities, this setup ensures a reliable experience without unnecessary complexity.

For media consumption, the processor and memory work together to support high-definition video playback and quick navigation through web pages. It can also manage multiple tabs efficiently, though heavy use may lead to occasional lag. Overall, it provides a stable foundation for users who rely on cloud-based tools and do not require advanced local processing capabilities. The performance is adequate for its intended role as a consumer-focused Chromebook, making it ideal for students or casual users looking for an affordable entry into the ChromeOS ecosystem.

Storage Performance Expectations

The Samsung Chromebook features 16 GB of eMMC storage, which is a type of non-volatile memory that offers reliable performance for everyday tasks. While eMMC is generally slower than SSDs, it still provides sufficient speed for basic operations such as launching applications, browsing the web, and storing files. Users should be mindful of their storage usage to maintain optimal performance; keeping at least 60% of the drive free can help prevent slowdowns caused by fragmentation or excessive file caching. For tasks that require frequent read/write access, such as working with large documents or media files, users may notice a slight delay compared to devices with faster storage options. However, for general use cases like email, web browsing, and light productivity work, the eMMC storage should suffice without significant performance issues. Regularly managing files and deleting unnecessary data can also help ensure smooth operation over time.

Display Performance Expectations

The Samsung Chromebook features an 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 this resolution is sufficient for basic use cases, users engaging in more demanding visual workloads like video editing or graphic design may find the screen limitations when working with high-resolution content. The display performs well for its era, but it lacks the higher pixel density and color accuracy that modern displays offer, which could affect the overall user experience for those requiring precise visual output.

For software development and other productivity tasks, the display provides adequate visibility for code editing and text work, though users may notice some scaling issues when working with multiple windows or applications. The lack of a touchscreen means interaction is limited to keyboard and mouse inputs, which is standard for this device class. While it does not support advanced GPU acceleration for graphic-intensive applications, it remains functional for general computing needs. Overall, the display strikes a balance between usability and affordability, making it suitable for casual users who prioritize cost over cutting-edge visual performance.

Android Performance Expectations

The Samsung Chromebook from 2012 offers a basic Android experience that is functional for simple tasks but limited in more demanding scenarios. With only 16 GB of eMMC storage, this device may struggle with apps that require significant space, especially those designed for multimedia or gaming. While it can run many standard Android applications, users looking to store large amounts of offline media or install resource-heavy games may find the storage capacity insufficient. The lack of a touchscreen also limits the usability of apps optimized for touch interaction, making navigation less intuitive compared to newer models.

For everyday tasks such as email, messaging, and basic productivity tools, the device performs adequately. However, more complex applications like video editing software or high-end mobile games may not run smoothly due to the older hardware and limited memory. The 2 GB of RAM ensures that lightweight apps can operate without significant lag, but multitasking could become sluggish if multiple apps are used simultaneously. Overall, this device is best suited for users who require a basic Android experience without advanced features or high-performance capabilities.

Gaming Performance Expectations

Web-Based Gaming Experience/Web-Game Streaming Services

Web-based gaming on this device will likely be limited due to its older hardware specifications. The Exynos 5 Dual processor and 2 GB of RAM may struggle with more demanding games, especially those that require higher processing power or smooth frame rates. While basic HTML5 games should run without issues, more complex titles could experience lag or low performance, particularly when running in full-screen mode. Graphics quality will also be affected by the limited GPU capabilities, making it difficult to achieve high-resolution visuals or advanced graphical effects. Overall, this device is better suited for casual gaming experiences rather than intensive or competitive gameplay. Users looking for a more immersive web-based gaming experience may find this device lacking in performance and visual fidelity.

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 Samsung Chromebook 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 Samsung Chromebook offers a straightforward approach to media consumption, delivering a balance of performance and usability for everyday tasks. Its 1366x768 resolution provides clear visuals for streaming videos and watching movies, though it may not match the sharpness of newer devices with higher screen resolutions. The built-in storage, while limited to 16 GB eMMC, is sufficient for holding a modest collection of offline media files or apps, making it ideal for users who prefer to store content locally rather than rely on constant internet access. For video playback, the device can handle standard-definition content smoothly without noticeable lag, though high-definition streaming may require a stable and fast internet connection.

Audio quality remains consistent with most ChromeOS devices, offering clear sound through the built-in speakers, which is adequate for casual listening or watching videos. While it lacks advanced audio features such as surround sound or noise cancellation, the device provides a reliable experience for basic media use. The absence of a touchscreen does not significantly impact the overall media consumption experience, as all interactions can be managed efficiently with the keyboard and mouse. For users who prioritize simplicity and affordability over cutting-edge multimedia capabilities, this device serves as a functional option for everyday entertainment needs.

ChromeOS Work Experience

The Samsung Chromebook offers a basic yet functional work experience, particularly suited for users who rely on cloud-based productivity tools and web applications. With 2 GB of RAM and a dual-core Exynos processor, it can handle simple tasks like document editing, email management, and light web browsing with ease. However, modern workplace applications such as video conferencing or running complex web apps may feel sluggish due to limited resources. The 1366x768 resolution provides a clear display for most standard work scenarios, though it may struggle with high-definition content or detailed graphics. Users should expect some performance limitations when working with resource-heavy software or multitasking across multiple browser tabs.

This device is best suited for users who primarily use Chrome-based tools and rely on cloud storage for file management. While it can access remote desktops and connect to enterprise services, the lack of Android or Linux support means it cannot run native productivity applications beyond what’s available through the Chrome Web Store. The absence of a touchscreen and limited port options may also affect its versatility in certain work environments. For tasks that require more power or advanced features, users should consider newer models with improved hardware specifications. However, for basic office use and light computing needs, it remains a functional option for those who prioritize affordability over cutting-edge performance.

ChromeOS Education Experience

The Samsung Chromebook offers a reliable entry point for students seeking an affordable computing solution tailored for educational tasks. With its 1366x768 resolution display, users can comfortably view web pages, participate in online classes, and interact with learning management systems without strain on the eyes. The device’s performance is well-suited for basic productivity work such as document editing, spreadsheet handling, and video conferencing—essential functions for many students. While its 2 GB of RAM may feel limiting when multitasking or running modern web applications, it remains adequate for most classroom activities that don’t demand high levels of system resources.

For educational use, the Chromebook’s lightweight design and long battery life make it an ideal companion for on-the-go learning. Students can easily access digital textbooks, submit assignments through cloud-based platforms, and collaborate with peers using real-time tools like Google Workspace for Education. However, its lack of Android or Linux support means certain specialized applications may not be available, which could pose challenges for more advanced coursework that requires specific software. Additionally, the absence of a touchscreen might limit interactive experiences in some educational apps, though this isn’t a major issue for most standard learning tasks. Overall, it provides a solid foundation for students who prioritize simplicity and affordability over high-end performance.

General Productivity Experience

The Samsung Chromebook offers a straightforward approach to productivity with its 11.6-inch display and 1366x768 resolution, making it ideal for web browsing, document editing, and basic multitasking. While the screen size is adequate for most tasks, it may feel cramped when working on multiple windows or detailed spreadsheets. The device’s performance is sufficient for everyday use, though users should expect some lag when running modern web applications due to its 2 GB of RAM. For light workloads such as email management and simple document editing, the Chromebook handles these tasks smoothly, making it a solid choice for casual users looking for an entry-level computing experience.

With a focus on simplicity and ease of use, this device is well-suited for students or professionals who primarily rely on cloud-based tools and web applications. Its lack of advanced features like Android support or Linux capabilities means it's best suited for basic productivity needs rather than more complex workflows. While the display is functional and bright enough for most environments, users looking for a higher-resolution screen or more powerful hardware may find this device limiting. Overall, it provides a reliable platform for everyday tasks without requiring high-end specifications.

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 Samsung Chromebook offers a unique experience for developers looking to work in a cloud-based environment without requiring full Linux support. While it lacks native Android and Linux capabilities, its lightweight design allows for seamless integration with online code editors such as Google Colab or Cloud9. This makes it ideal for writing and testing scripts, managing version control systems like Git through web interfaces, and collaborating on projects via platforms like GitHub. Its 1366x768 resolution provides a clear workspace for coding tasks, and the ARM architecture ensures efficient performance for basic development workflows that don't demand heavy local computation.

For developers who rely on cloud-based tools, this device functions as an excellent lightweight workstation. It supports running web-based IDEs like CodeSandbox or Replit directly in the browser, eliminating the need for extensive local resources. While it cannot run full-featured desktop applications or complex development environments locally, its simplicity and low resource requirements make it a practical choice for those who prioritize accessibility over raw processing power. The absence of external storage options means all work must be saved in cloud services, which aligns well with modern development practices that emphasize remote collaboration and data synchronization.

Pricing and Availability

Amazon

The Samsung Chromebook currently on sale on Amazon.com for $65.02. Since this is a discontinued Chromebook, it is not likely that it will be restocked on Amazon. If you still wish to purchase this model, you will need to look at the used market.

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 Samsung Chromebook 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 Samsung Chromebook. 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 Samsung Chromebook.

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 Samsung Chromebook 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.