Choosing the right Chromebook can feel overwhelming. For months, I struggled with a slow, outdated laptop, hindering my productivity and causing endless frustration. I knew I needed a reliable, portable device for work and leisure, but finding the perfect fit proved challenging. The ASUS Chromebook Plus CX3402CBA eventually solved my problems, and this review shares my extensive experience.
The market is flooded with Chromebooks, each promising speed, portability, and seamless integration with Google services. However, the ideal Chromebook depends entirely on your needs and usage. If you’re a power user demanding high-end processing for complex tasks like video editing or gaming, a Chromebook might not be your best bet. Instead, you should consider a Windows laptop or a MacBook with more robust specifications. Chromebooks are perfect for students, casual users, and those who primarily browse the web, use Google Workspace applications, and stream media. Before purchasing, consider your budget, the storage space you require (Chromebooks usually offer limited internal storage), and the features that are most important to you, such as a touchscreen or a backlit keyboard. The operating system’s limitations should also be considered – if you need software only available for Windows or MacOS, a Chromebook will not be suitable. Lastly, think about the screen size and resolution; this can significantly impact the overall user experience.
- Powered by Intel's six-core i3-1215U Processor
- 8GB LPDDR5 RAM, paired with 128GB SSD
- Google Chrome Operating System. Compatible with Google Chrome applications.
- 14.0" 60Hz Full HD (1920x1080) LED Screen
Introducing the ASUS Chromebook Plus CX3402CBA
The ASUS Chromebook Plus CX3402CBA is a 14-inch Full HD Chromebook boasting an Intel Core i3-1215U processor, 8GB of LPDDR5 RAM, and 128GB of UFS storage. It promises speed, portability, and all-day battery life, making it an ideal choice for both work and leisure. Compared to earlier ASUS Chromebooks and other competitors in its price range, the CX3402CBA stands out with its powerful processor and substantial RAM, offering significantly improved performance. It’s designed for everyday users who need a reliable and efficient device for browsing, streaming, and light productivity tasks, making it a great alternative to a more expensive Windows laptop. However, it’s not ideal for intensive gaming or professional video editing.
- Pros: Excellent battery life, lightweight and portable design, fast performance, vibrant display, backlit keyboard.
- Cons: Limited storage space (128GB), only one USB-A port, no dedicated graphics card (integrated graphics only).
Exploring the Features and Benefits of the ASUS Chromebook Plus CX3402CBA
Performance and Processing Power
Powered by the Intel Core i3-1215U processor, the ASUS Chromebook Plus CX3402CBA effortlessly handles multitasking and demanding applications. I’ve regularly run multiple browser tabs, streamed videos, and edited documents simultaneously without experiencing any lag or slowdown. The 8GB of LPDDR5 RAM ensures smooth operation, even when dealing with numerous open programs. This performance boost significantly improves productivity compared to my previous, much slower device. The speed difference is immediately noticeable, whether you’re browsing, editing or streaming. The quick boot times (seconds rather than minutes!) are a welcome change as well.
Display and Design
The 14-inch Full HD display is crisp and vibrant, making it a pleasure to use for extended periods. The colours are accurate and the resolution sharp, which enhances media consumption and improves readability. The three-sided NanoEdge design maximizes screen real estate, minimizing bezels for a more immersive viewing experience. The chassis is surprisingly robust, feeling solid and durable, despite its lightweight and slim profile. The 180° lay-flat hinge is a practical addition, allowing for easy sharing and collaboration. The design is stylish and modern, making it suitable for both professional and personal use.
Battery Life and Connectivity
One of the most impressive aspects of the ASUS Chromebook Plus CX3402CBA is its exceptional battery life. I regularly achieve over 10 hours of use on a single charge – easily enough for a full day of work or study. This long battery life provides unprecedented freedom and flexibility, especially while travelling or working away from a power outlet. The integrated WiFi 6 ensures fast and reliable internet connectivity, perfect for streaming, video calls, and online work. The keyboard is comfortable to use, and the backlit keys make typing in low-light conditions easier. I particularly appreciate the inclusion of the useful dedicated keys.
Software and User Experience
Running Chrome OS, this Chromebook seamlessly integrates with the Google ecosystem. Access to the Google Play Store is a major advantage, providing a wide variety of apps to extend its functionality beyond the standard Chrome browser. The operating system is intuitive and easy to navigate, with a clean and minimalist interface that helps productivity and minimizes distractions. The quick access to all your Google accounts and apps is a true benefit of using a Chromebook.
Storage and Expansion
While the 128GB of UFS storage is sufficient for many users, it is its most significant drawback. The limited storage can fill up quickly if you store many files or download numerous large applications. While you can store files in Google Drive, which is integrated into the system, it is still a limitation of this device and a point worth considering. This is a significant area for improvement that would make this a nearly perfect Chromebook.
User Experiences: Real-World Perspectives
My experience with the ASUS Chromebook Plus CX3402CBA aligns with many positive online reviews. Many users highlight its portability, excellent battery life, and smooth performance. Others have praised its ease of use and simple setup process. A few users have expressed concern about the limited storage capacity; a point I also agree with.
Final Verdict: A Powerful and Portable Chromebook
The ASUS Chromebook Plus CX3402CBA has completely transformed my workflow. Its speed, portability, and impressive battery life have significantly improved my productivity. While the limited storage is a notable drawback, its overall performance, stylish design, and ease of use make it an excellent choice for students, casual users, and anyone needing a reliable and efficient device for everyday computing tasks. To address the storage concerns, it’s recommended that users fully utilise cloud storage such as Google Drive. For a reliable, portable, and easy-to-use Chromebook, this is a worthy investment. To see if this is the right choice for you, click here to check out the ASUS Chromebook Plus CX3402CBA .
Last update on 2025-11-16 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API