A Chromebook is typically ideal as an access point to the Web — and your cloud storage — with the added benefit of a somewhat larger screen and a keyboard. Its use for getting a lot of work done however, is generally rather limited.
Enter a new offering from Dell and Google. It’s the Dell Chromebook 13 and is the first such device working on this operating system that’s being pitched at professionals.
The first thing to perhaps jump out with this Dell Chromebook is its price, frankly. Starting at $399 and going up to $899, it’s certainly more expensive than your average Chromebook. But for that price, you’re getting an upgrade on that average Chromebook, too.
Some of the key features include Core i3 and i5 processors, up to 8GB of system memory, up to 12 hours of battery life on a full charge, a 13.3-inch full HD IPS display, a 720p HD video webcam and dual array microphones.
While the Dell 13 has noteworthy specs, where it shines is in the manageability, security and desktop virtualization solutions businesses rely on. It is supported with Dell’s unique IP from Dell KACE, which provides inventory management and service desk support.
The virtualization comes from the Dell SonicWALL Mobile Connect (VPN) app. And the security is Dell Secure Mobile Access appliance or next-generation firewall for delivering company resources, access reporting and tracking.
It also comes with optional security features and desktop virtualization software to securely access Windows applications on the Dell 13. The platform uses the Google cloud-based management console to centrally update and track systems as well as simplify deployments from tens to thousands of Chromebooks.
As a work-ready device, Chromebook is starting to penetrate organizations that are looking to simplify their IT with all-in-one devices that are portable, powerful, secure and flexible.
Google just announced Netflix and Starbucks are the latest enterprises to adopt Chromebooks, and if the company duplicates the same success it had in the education segment, it won’t be long before you see them everywhere.
When the first Chromebooks from Acer and Samsung started shipping in 2011, there wasn’t a clear cut segment in the market place for this device.
Fast forward to 2015, and Gartner forecasts sales will grow 27 percent, year-on-year, to an estimated 7.3 million in 2015. The growth of this platform is particularly impressive in the education segment, growing from the anemic 1 percent in 2012 to leading the market at 39 percent by 2014, all at the expense of former juggernauts Apple and Microsoft.
This time around, the devices are going after the enterprise segment with the Dell 13 Chromebook.
As Isabelle Durand, principal analyst at Gartner, said:
“Chromebooks will become a valid device choice for employees as enterprises seek to provide simple, secure, low-cost and easy-to-manage access to new Web applications and legacy systems, unless a specific application forces a Windows decision.”
The Dell Chromebook 13 will be available beginning September 17 in the U.S. and Canada.
Image: Dell
Aira Bongco
When it comes to laptops, I always love Dell. They can last for years. I have tried other brands and nothing can last as much as Dell. So durable.
Michael Guta
Hi Aira,
Dell is definitely a workhorse, it won’t let you down.
Keith Llewellyn
I have been using a Samsung Chromebook for 3 years, its brilliant. I recently bought an iPad and macbook Air but much prefer the Chromebook. It’s so easy to use and updates are continually improving the UI.
Michael Guta
Hi Keith,
I think the concept of the Chromebook is the future of computing. Once cloud technology and wireless broadband becomes ubiquitous, storing anything on your device will be an option; but having an iPad and a MacBook Air is always great.
Charlie
I’m currently using a Toshiba Chromebook 2 and I love this thing. Screen is amazing with 1080p IPS display. The only let down is the baytrail processor. I planning to upgrade to this Dell Chromebook 13 with an core I3 or so. I hope the screen is beautiful.
Michael Guta
Hi Charlie,
The Dell Chromebook 13 features a 13.3-inch IPS display with a full-HD resolution of 1920 x 1080. And if you don’t mind the added weight you can opt for a touch panel protected by industry standard Gorilla Glass.
Having the option of the i5 is great also.
Phil Stephens
I am (non-typically) typing this on a Linux PC, but my Chromebox is playing music beside me. I Love ChromeOS and Chromebooks, and look forward to a Chromebook that can match by Chromebox.
For me 4Gb/32Gb/Core i3 will be great, but a Core i5 will be better, if battery life is OK. Price is not my biggest concern.
My favourite device is the (original, USB charging) HP Chromebook 11. it IS slow, but it is good enough, has a great screen, and will run forever via a USB power bank. It is lighter than a Macbook Air, is cheap, and with a polycarbonate shell is tough. It goes everywhere with me.
I have multiple Windows and Linux PCs and laptops, but my Chromebooks get 95% of my time.
I would love a Pixel, but it is too big and heavy. Weight and size is important to me.
Michael Guta
Hi Phil,
You point out the concern most power users have with computers that are not particularly concerned with price. And I think the first company that makes a very lightweight device with great battery life that can harness the full capability of the cloud without having to worry about security will probably get your money, and mine for that matter.
I think Chromebook is on that path, and the Dell 13 is the genesis of that evolution.