The Chromebook 11-3120 combines the functionality of a portable typewriter and a browsing machine. The laptop has good input devices and can boast with a robust casing. This is essential since the laptop has been designed for use in schools. The very good battery life also emphasizes this. One battery charge is enough for a day at school or university. The matte screen will not win any awards. Although the brightness is acceptable for the price range, its contrast could be higher.
Case & Connectivity
Dell's Chromebook is completely composed of black-gray plastic. The surfaces are roughened. Dell targets schools/universities with its Chromebook, and thus the laptop has to be quite enduring. Three sides of the lid and the base unit are enclosed in a rubber frame that protects the device against bumps. Dell states that the laptop has been tested in compliance with US military standards. Whether these standards have also been met is not confirmed, although the low price suggests that it was not possible to fulfill these standards.
The base unit exhibits the usual shortcomings that we know from other laptops: The casing can be dented slightly on the keyboard's right and left. Overall, the base unit could be more stable for our taste. The hinges keep the lid firmly in position and do not rock. They also allow opening the lid by 180 degrees.
Input Devices
Dell's Chromebook is equipped with an unlit chiclet keyboard. The flat, roughened keys have a short drop and pleasant resistance. The keyboard does not yield while typing on it. Overall, the keyboard conveys a pleasing typing experience and is suitable for prolonged typing sessions. A ClickPad is has been installed as a mouse replacement. It has a surface area of approximately 10 x 5.7 cm (~4 x 2.2 in). The smooth surface facilitates gliding with the fingers. The pad features a short drop and clear pressure point.