Samsung Chromebox Series 3 Information

The Samsung Chromebox Series 3 is a compact, powerful desktop alternative designed for commercial environments. With its Intel Celeron B840 processor and 4 GB of RAM, it delivers reliable performance for basic computing tasks, making it ideal for offices or small businesses looking for an affordable entry-level solution. The device features 16 GB of internal eMMC storage, which provides sufficient space for essential files and applications while maintaining a streamlined build.

Built with a focus on connectivity, the Chromebox Series 3 includes multiple USB 3.0 ports, HDMI and DisplayPort outputs, and an Ethernet port, allowing users to easily connect peripherals and display devices. Its form factor makes it a versatile addition to any workspace without taking up much physical space. However, due to its age and lack of ongoing support, it is now considered a discontinued model and may not be suitable for modern workloads or security-sensitive environments. Users should consider its limitations before deploying it in critical applications.

System Specifications

The Samsung Chromebox Series 3 is an x86_64 based Chromebox powered by a Intel Celeron B840 clocked at 1.9 GHz with 4 GB of RAM. As far as built-in storage, the Samsung Chromebox Series 3 has 16 GB eMMC of local disk space. The Samsung Chromebox Series 3 runs code built for the x86_64 architecture.

Performance Expectations

The Samsung Chromebox Series 3 is a compact and powerful desktop solution designed for commercial environments where reliability and efficiency are key. With its Intel Celeron B840 processor, this device offers enough computing power to handle everyday tasks such as web browsing, document editing, and media playback with ease. Users can expect smooth performance when working with multiple tabs or running basic productivity applications, making it suitable for office settings where consistent uptime is essential. Its 4 GB of RAM ensures that lightweight modern applications run without significant lag, though more demanding software may experience some slowdowns.

For users looking to set up a secondary workstation or integrate this device into a networked environment, the Chromebox Series 3 delivers robust connectivity options. The multiple USB 3.0 ports and HDMI output allow for seamless integration with peripherals and displays, while the Ethernet port ensures stable network performance. Despite its age, the device remains capable of running most standard web-based tools and applications without major issues. This makes it an ideal choice for businesses seeking a cost-effective and dependable computing solution that can support common workflows efficiently.

CPU Performance Expectations

The Samsung Chromebox Series 3 is equipped with an Intel Celeron B840 processor, which delivers adequate performance for basic computing tasks. While it may feel a bit sluggish when handling more demanding applications, it remains suitable for everyday use such as web browsing, email management, and simple office productivity tools. The 4 GB of RAM ensures that lightweight modern web applications can run smoothly, though users might notice some lag when multitasking or running multiple browser tabs simultaneously. For general internet usage and document editing, the device holds up well, making it a reliable choice for commercial environments where performance requirements are modest.

When it comes to media consumption, the Chromebox Series 3 can handle standard-definition video streaming without significant issues, though high-resolution content may experience some buffering or reduced quality. The processor is also capable of running basic productivity software such as Google Docs and Sheets with reasonable efficiency. While more complex tasks like photo editing or video rendering will be beyond its capabilities, it remains a solid option for users who primarily rely on web-based tools and cloud storage. Overall, the CPU performance strikes a balance between affordability and usability, making it a practical choice for straightforward computing needs.

Storage Performance Expectations

The Samsung Chromebox Series 3 uses eMMC storage, which is a type of non-volatile memory that offers reliable performance for everyday tasks such as browsing the web, managing files, and running basic applications. While eMMC storage is generally slower than SSDs, it provides sufficient speed for most common operations on this device. Users should be mindful of free disk space, as maintaining at least 60% of available storage can help ensure smooth performance over time. With only 16 GB of storage, the device is best suited for lightweight use cases and may require careful management of installed apps and files to avoid slowdowns. For users who need more capacity or faster access times, external storage solutions such as USB flash drives or network-attached storage can be used to supplement internal space without affecting the core performance of the eMMC drive.

Android Performance Expectations

The Samsung Chromebox Series 3 is a compact desktop device that offers a solid foundation for running Android applications, though its performance will be limited by its hardware specifications. With 4 GB of RAM and 16 GB of eMMC storage, it can handle basic tasks such as browsing the web, using productivity apps like Google Docs, and playing lightweight games. However, users looking to store large amounts of media or run more demanding applications may find the storage capacity insufficient for their needs. The device's lack of a touchscreen means that some Android apps designed for touch interaction might not function optimally, which could affect the user experience for certain types of content consumption.

For casual use, such as watching videos or listening to music, the Chromebox Series 3 should suffice, especially with its multiple USB ports allowing for easy connectivity to external devices. It can also serve as a secondary device for running Android apps that require minimal system resources. However, more intensive tasks like gaming or video editing will likely be challenging due to the limited processing power and storage available. Overall, the Chromebox Series 3 is best suited for users who need a simple, affordable solution for basic Android functionality without high-performance requirements.

Gaming Performance Expectations

Web-Based Gaming Experience/Web-Game Streaming Services

The Samsung Chromebox Series 3 offers a basic yet functional experience for web-based gaming, though its performance is limited by its older hardware. With an Intel Celeron B840 processor and only 4 GB of RAM, this device can handle simple browser games and lightweight titles without significant lag. However, more demanding games may struggle to run smoothly due to the lack of a dedicated GPU and modest CPU power. The overall user experience is satisfactory for casual play but not ideal for high-end gaming or complex simulations.

Graphics quality on this device is generally acceptable for basic web-based games, though it may appear less detailed compared to newer hardware. While the Chromebox Series 3 can support some modern browser-based titles, users should expect a slower frame rate and potential delays in response time. For those looking to enjoy a more immersive gaming experience, upgrading to a more recent model with better processing capabilities would be recommended. The device's simplicity and affordability make it suitable for light entertainment and basic interactive experiences.

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 Chromebox Series 3 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 Chromebox Series 3 offers a straightforward approach to media consumption, making it suitable for users who prioritize simplicity over advanced features. With its built-in storage capacity of 16 GB eMMC, this device can handle basic video playback and streaming services without requiring external storage, though the limited space may restrict the number of high-definition files that can be stored locally. The display quality is adequate for standard definition content, and while it may not support the latest video formats or encryption standards due to its age, it remains functional for everyday use such as watching movies or listening to music.

For streaming services, this device provides a reliable experience for basic audio and video playback, though performance can vary depending on the service’s requirements. The lack of Android or Linux support means users cannot access certain applications directly, but built-in ChromeOS capabilities ensure compatibility with most popular platforms. Audio quality is satisfactory for casual listening, and while the device doesn’t offer advanced sound customization options, it delivers clear and consistent playback for typical media consumption scenarios. Overall, this device remains a viable option for users seeking an uncomplicated setup for basic entertainment needs.

ChromeOS Work Experience

The Samsung Chromebox Series 3 offers a compact and efficient solution for office environments where space is limited but performance remains critical. With an Intel Celeron B840 processor and 4 GB of RAM, it handles basic productivity tasks such as document editing, email management, and web browsing with ease. While it may struggle with more demanding applications or multitasking-heavy workflows, its simplicity makes it a reliable choice for users who primarily rely on cloud-based tools and lightweight software. The device’s ability to connect to multiple displays via HDMI and DisplayPort ports enhances collaboration in meeting rooms or shared workspaces, making it an ideal companion for small teams or remote setups.

Despite its age, the Chromebox Series 3 still provides a straightforward user experience with minimal setup requirements. Its built-in storage of 16 GB eMMC is sufficient for essential files and applications, though users should consider cloud storage solutions for larger data needs. The absence of Android or Linux support means it's best suited for basic web-based workflows rather than more advanced development tasks. For environments that prioritize security and stability, the lack of ongoing updates since May 31^st of 2017 is a significant limitation. While it can still run modern websites and applications to some extent, its outdated ChromeOS version may pose risks in terms of compatibility and security, especially for enterprise users who rely on up-to-date systems for sensitive workloads.

ChromeOS Education Experience

The Samsung Chromebox Series 3 offers a solid foundation for educational environments, particularly when used in settings where performance demands are moderate. With a 4 GB RAM configuration and an Intel Celeron B840 processor, this device is capable of handling basic web browsing, document editing, and video conferencing with reasonable efficiency. Students can expect smooth navigation through learning management systems (LMS) and participation in virtual classrooms without significant lag or performance issues. While it may not be the most powerful ChromeOS device available today, its reliability and ease of use make it a practical choice for schools and training centers looking for a cost-effective solution.

The 16 GB eMMC storage provides ample space for essential educational software, browser extensions, and student files, although users should be mindful of storage limitations when managing multiple applications or large datasets. The device's dual DisplayPort outputs allow for seamless integration with projectors or secondary monitors, enhancing collaboration during group activities or presentations. However, the lack of Android support means that certain modern educational apps may not be available, limiting some interactive learning tools. Overall, this Chromebox delivers a dependable user experience, making it suitable for students and educators who prioritize stability over cutting-edge performance.

General Productivity Experience

The Samsung Chromebox Series 3 offers a solid foundation for basic productivity tasks, making it suitable for users who need a reliable system for web browsing and document editing. With its 16 GB eMMC storage and 4 GB of RAM, this device is capable of handling lightweight applications and multiple tabs without significant performance issues. The Intel Celeron B840 processor ensures smooth operation for everyday tasks such as email management, online meetings, and basic spreadsheet work. While it may not be the fastest machine on the market, its simplicity and affordability make it an attractive option for commercial environments where efficiency is key.

For multitasking, the Chromebox Series 3 provides a straightforward experience with ample ports to connect external monitors, keyboards, and other peripherals. The dual DisplayPort outputs allow for expanded workspace setups, making it ideal for users who need more screen real estate. However, due to its limited resources, the device may struggle with resource-heavy applications or modern web experiences that require more processing power. Overall, it remains a functional choice for basic office work, particularly in settings where cost-effective solutions are preferred over high-end performance.

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 Chromebox Series 3 offers a solid foundation for developers looking to work in a cloud-first environment. With 4 GB of RAM, it can handle lightweight code editing and basic development tasks such as writing scripts or managing version control systems like Git. While compiling large projects may be slow due to the limited memory and modest Intel Celeron B840 processor, this device is well-suited for running local servers or using cloud-based IDEs like Cloud9 or CodeSandbox. The lack of Linux support means developers cannot run native Linux tools such as Node.js or Python without relying on virtualization or cloud platforms, which may add latency to the workflow.

For those focused on web development or scripting, the Chromebox Series 3 can still serve as a reliable tool for managing projects and testing basic applications. Its dual DisplayPort outputs allow for multi-monitor setups, making it easier to spread out code files and browser windows during development. However, users should expect performance limitations when working with resource-heavy tools or running multiple virtual machines simultaneously. The 16 GB eMMC storage is sufficient for small-scale projects but may feel cramped for developers who need more space for libraries or large datasets. Overall, this device provides a functional platform for cloud-based workflows and simple development tasks, though it lacks the power to support complex local environments.

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 Samsung Chromebox Series 3 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 Samsung Chromebox Series 3. 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 Chromebox Series 3.

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 Chromebox Series 3 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.