Finally been given the go to get some Chromebooks. Need to make a good impression.

[TwistedHelixis]

The primary school I help out at has been using G Suite for the staff for about 4 / 5 years and I have just been given the nod to get Chromebooks for Year 6 (finally). If that goes well I can slowly roll them out for the entire school.

 

So I need something that doesn't look cheap (Yes they do go on looks at this school) but also doesn't cost the earth and leaves a good impression.

 

Main things I need,

decent quality screen,

good sensitive touch screen,

Android app store,

screen size between 11 and 13 inches.

decent amount of time to end of Google support,

 

They don't need to be big and chunky as they currently have nice looking consumer laptops and very thin tablets that survive very well with the pupils.

 

Found the following so far but would really love some input / advice :0)

 

Lenovo Chromebook C340

https://www.johnlewis.com/lenovo-chromebook-c340-11-1ta000buk-chromebook-intel-celeron-4g-ram-32gb-emmc-11-6-inch-platinum-grey/p4339263

 

Lenovo IdeaPad Duet (Not sure the plastic hinge would last in a school)

https://www.lenovo.com/gb/en/laptops/lenovo/student-chromebooks/Lenovo-CT-X636/p/ZZICZCTCT1X

 

LENOVO IdeaPad Flex 3i

https://www.currys.co.uk/gbuk/computing/laptops/laptops/lenovo-ideapad-flex-3i-11-6-2-in-1-chromebook-intel-celeron-64-gb-emmc-blue-10207513-pdt.html

 

DELL Chromebook 11 3100 2in1

https://www.dell.com/en-uk/work/shop/cty/pdp/spd/chromebook-11-3100-2-in-1-laptop/n011chb3100112n1emea#features_section

 

ACER Spin 311 11.6

https://www.currys.co.uk/gbuk/computing/laptops/laptops/acer-spin-311-11-6-2-in-1-chromebook-intel-celeron-64-gb-emmc-silver-10203802-pdt.html

 

HP x360

https://www.currys.co.uk/gbuk/computing/laptops/laptops/hp-x360-12-2-in-1-chromebook-intel-celeron-64-gb-emmc-silver-10200681-pdt.html

 

ACER 314 Touch 14"

https://www.currys.co.uk/gbuk/computing/laptops/laptops/acer-314-touch-14-chromebook-intel-celeron-64-gb-emmc-silver-10203217-pdt.html

[localzuk]

My recommendation is for the Acer Spin or the Dell. The build quality on both is great. The only thing that set them apart when we bought was price - Acer were a little cheaper. So, we have 600 of the Acer 311's and another 189 on the way.

 

One thing to note - the channel is sold out pretty much entirely. My order of Chromebooks, from July, is not due here until October. And I've been told that any orders placed now would likely be December or even January before they arrive.

[VeryPC]

Hey @TwistedHelixis

 

We've been selling a whole load of Chromebooks recently and I know a man who's got access to some wonderful stock and he's full of knowledge too! Keep an eye out on your inbox as I'm going to get our very own Colin to drop you a line!

 

- Ryan

[VeryPC_Colin_M]

Hi there I'm always happy to help @TwistedHelixis

 

Your choice right now will depend on when you need them.

 

Do feel free to get in touch for advice on availability and specs.

 

Best, Col

[yac2016]

Asus Chromebooks are a great option for primary schools.

[paulkerton]

Whichever you get, I really recommend getting a Chromebook with a 360 hinge if they have a touch screen. I once walked into a class filled using 1:1 Chromebooks, and out of the 30 devices, 10 of them were using them in tent, 10 of them using them as a tablet, and 10 of them were using them as a traditional clamshell.

 

It just showed me how different learning styles can be accomodated with a device with a 360 hinge.

Also, don't rule out the Lenovo Chromebook 10e. I have the Duet (consumer version, basically) and I really adore it. Not super powerful, but really useful.

[Ditto]

One thing I think is worth mentioning in addition, is look carefully at your charging station requirements. There are some super expensive solutions and others that are better value for money, but you will need something that works with your schools requirements - and consider how things will pan out over the next 5 years. Cost won't be insignificant, so take some time to get it right. On the Chromebooks themselves, look at repair options and costs. You're likely to have some 'incidents'. Some schools would buy 5-10% extras to cover this, but again you need to factor in a sum that is right for your school.