Updated July 2026. As an Amazon Associate and affiliate partner, UrbanLaptop may earn a commission from qualifying purchases made through links on this page, at no extra cost to you. See our affiliate disclosure.
For students, the Chromebook-vs-Windows decision usually comes down to price and software needs. Here’s how a typical Chromebook compares to a similarly priced Windows laptop.
| Asus Chromebook Plus CX34 | Acer Aspire Go 15 (Windows) | |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $399.99 | $499 MSRP (often on sale ~$429) |
| OS | ChromeOS | Windows 11 |
| CPU | Intel Core i5 | Intel Core i3-N355 |
| RAM/Storage | Varies by config | 16GB DDR5 / 512GB SSD |
| Battery Life | ~13 hours | ~8-10 hours |
| Software | Web apps, Android apps, Google Workspace | Full Windows software, including desktop-only programs some schools require |
Check Asus Chromebook Plus CX34 price on Amazon →
Check Acer Aspire Go 15 price on Amazon →
Which Should You Buy?
If your school uses Google Classroom and Google Docs, a Chromebook is simpler, cheaper to maintain, and has better battery life. If you need to run specific Windows-only software — certain engineering, CAD, or specialized coursework tools — a budget Windows laptop like the Acer Aspire Go 15 is the safer choice despite the shorter battery life. Check with your school or program before buying to confirm software requirements.
FAQ
Can students do everything on a Chromebook?
For most K-12 and general college coursework built around Google Docs, web research, and online submission portals, yes. Students in engineering, CAD, or certain science programs may need specific Windows-only software instead.
Do Chromebooks work with Microsoft Office?
Yes, via the web versions of Word, Excel, and PowerPoint (Office 365), which work fine in ChromeOS’s browser. The full desktop Office suite, however, requires Windows or macOS.
Related guides: Best Chromebooks · Best Laptops for College Students · Best Laptops Under $500