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Just when we thought the Chromebook release cycle was quieting down for a bit, a brand-new, unannounced Lenovo Chromebook Plus has broken cover, appearing basically out of nowhere on Best Buy’s website – and it’s already available for purchase! While the official model name is still a bit unclear (Best Buy simply lists it as “Lenovo Chromebook Plus 2-in-1”), this device looks like a fantastic blend of Lenovo’s affordable Flex series and its premium new Chromebook Plus lineup.
Familiar looks, upgraded internals
At first glance, this new convertible Chromebook looks strikingly similar to the excellent Lenovo Chromebook Plus 14 – just in a different color. It shares a similar overall design language but comes in the familiar “Cosmic Blue” color we’ve seen on popular models like the Flex 3i and Slim 3 Chromebooks. This suggests it might be positioned as a spiritual successor to the popular Flex series, but now armed with proper Chromebook Plus internals and positioned to be a more entry level version of Lenovo’s latest, most popular Chromebook.
One particular design cue really stands out on this one: the ribbed underside. Just like the Lenovo Chromebook Plus 14, this device looks to be shipping with the same ridged bottom plate as both the Chromebook Plus 14 and the beloved Pixelbook Go. It makes me think that – with Chromebooks, anyway – we might be leaving the era of “Flex” and “Slim” labels from Lenovo and simplifying things down a bit to a few clearly defined devices.
Lenovo Chromebook Plus 2-in-1 Specs
Looking at the official spec sheet, this new Lenovo ticks all the right boxes for a capable and versatile Chromebook Plus experience:
- Processor: Intel Core 3 N355
- RAM: 8GB LPDDR5-4800
- Storage: 128GB UFS 2.2
- Display: 14-inch FHD+ (1920×1200) IPS Touchscreen with 300 nits brightness and Gorilla Glass
- Form Factor: 2-in-1 Convertible (Pen support is available, but the pen is sold separately)
- Keyboard: Backlit
- Trackpad: Large, glass-like Mylar surface
- Camera: 5.0MP with a physical privacy shutter
- Security: Fingerprint reader
- Ports: Excellent selection including 2x USB-C (10Gbps, PD, DP 1.4), 2x USB-A (5Gbps), HDMI 1.4b, microSD card reader, and headphone/mic jack
- Connectivity: Wi-Fi 6E + Bluetooth 5.3
- Build: Aluminum top cover, PC-ABS bottom
- AUE: June 2031
This is a really solid spec sheet for a device likely aimed at the mid-range of the Chromebook Plus spectrum. You’re getting the essential Plus upgrades like the better processor, ample RAM/storage, high-res camera, and a quality 1080p+ IPS touchscreen, along with premium extras like a fingerprint scanner and backlit keyboard.
Priced at $579 over on Best Buy’s site, this new Core 3-N355 powered Chromebook Plus seems perfectly positioned to be a more budget-friendly alternative for users who want the Chromebook Plus experience and Lenovo’s excellent build quality in a convertible form factor, but don’t necessarily need the absolute top-tier performance or OLED screen of its more expensive sibling.
We’ve already reached out to Lenovo about a review unit and I’m definitely excited to get my hands on this one for a full review; but based on the specs and Lenovo’s track record, this surprise arrival looks like it could be a real winner.
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