HP Refreshes Chromebook 14 Models With Improved Displays, Performance

The new Chromebook 14 G4 and Chromebook 14 include optional Full HD displays as well as Intel Celeron processors that promise better performance.

The Chromebook 14 G4 can be configured with an Intel Celeron N2940 1.83GHz processor or an Intel Celeron N2840 2.16GHz CPU, up to 4GB of DDR3L-1600 SDRAM memory, and 16GB to 32GB of eMMC 2 flash storage. The machine comes with integrated Intel HD graphics, HD audio and dual speakers. It also includes WiFi and Bluetooth 4.0 connectivity and Google’s Chrome OS operating system.

Both machines can be configured with an extra-cost 14-inch Full HD SVA WLED In-Plane Switching anti-glare display (1,920 by 1,080), or with a standard 14-inch HD SVA WLED display (1,366 by 768). The G4 is also fitted with an HD Webcam, a multiformat digital media reader, one USB 3.0 port, two USB 2.0 ports, one HDMI port and a three-cell, 37WHr Li-ion battery. The machines start at 3.78 pounds and can be purchased in a dark Ash Silver color. The HP Chromebook 14 G4 is expected to be available in the United States later in October starting at $279.

Built for SMBs and school users, the Chromebook 14 G4 comes with console-based management tools that include multilayered security for employees or students and administrators, as well as enhanced virtualization and VPN capabilities for secure and seamless management of multiple devices, according to HP. The G4 also is the first Chromebook to be verified for use with Citrix Receiver 1.8 for Chrome virtualization tools.

The regular Chromebook 14 model comes with an Intel Celeron N2840 dual-core 2.16GHz processor, 2GB of DDR3L SDRAM memory, integrated Intel HD graphics and 16GB of eMMC flash storage.

The Chromebook 14 also comes with a front-facing HP TrueVision HD Webcam with an integrated digital microphone and integrated WiFi and Bluetooth connectivity. A multiformat digital media card reader is built in as well, as are HD audio and stereo speakers, one USB 3.0 port, two USB 2.0 ports and one HDMI port. The standard Chromebook 14 weighs 3.74 pounds.

The HP Chromebook 14 is expected to be available in the United States on Nov. 8, starting at $249.99 for the standard display model. Machines with the Full HD display start at $279.99. The devices will come in Turbo Silver or Sky Blue colors.

Chromebook 14 users can attach an optional $35 Google Chromecast dongle to their machines to stream Hulu or Netflix video content right on their devices or they can choose to mirror it onto a larger display such as an HD television using the Chromecast.