Performance and Processor

At the heart of any laptop is its processor, and in the case of the HP Chromebook 14, it’s equipped with the Intel Celeron N4120. This quad-core chip operates at a base speed of 1.1 GHz but can turbo boost up to 2.6 GHz. 

For most users, this means smooth performance when handling common tasks like editing documents, browsing the internet, or streaming videos. It’s a reliable processor for general productivity, although it’s not designed for heavy multitasking or intensive applications.

Lenovo’s Chromebook, meanwhile, is powered by the slightly newer Intel Celeron N4500. While similar in core count, the N4500 is optimized for better power efficiency and slightly improved responsiveness. This makes the Lenovo Chromebook well-suited for users who might keep multiple tabs and apps open simultaneously or engage in more sustained usage without sacrificing performance.

Memory and Storage

One of the standout differences between these two Chromebooks is RAM. The HP Chromebook 14 comes with 4GB of DDR4 RAM, which is the minimum recommended for Chrome OS users to enjoy smooth multitasking and decent app performance. While it is adequate for everyday tasks, users who often switch between multiple apps or tabs might notice some slowdown.

Lenovo addresses this limitation by offering 8GB of RAM in its IdeaPad 3i Chromebook, doubling the memory capacity of the HP model. This translates to smoother multitasking, better handling of heavier web applications, and overall faster responsiveness, especially for power users or students who rely on multiple Chrome extensions and apps at once.

Both laptops feature 64GB of eMMC storage, which is typical for Chromebooks and sufficient for storing documents, photos, and offline files. HP also offers models with up to 128GB, providing additional space for users who need it. However, given Chrome OS’s cloud-based nature, local storage is often secondary to cloud storage options.

Display and Visual Experience

Display quality can significantly impact your overall experience, especially if you spend hours in front of your laptop. The HP Chromebook 14 offers a 14-inch screen with a resolution of 1366 x 768 pixels.

 While this resolution is adequate for basic use, it’s not particularly sharp by modern standards. The Intel UHD Graphics 600 handles multimedia tasks smoothly but isn’t designed for graphic-intensive applications or high-end gaming.

Conversely, the Lenovo IdeaPad 3i Chromebook boasts a larger 15.6-inch Full HD (1920 x 1080) display. This screen delivers crisp, vibrant visuals with sharp details, making it ideal for streaming movies, editing documents, and even light photo editing.

 The larger screen size combined with a higher resolution significantly enhances the user experience, particularly for users who multitask or work with multiple windows side by side.

Connectivity and Ports

When it comes to staying connected, both Chromebooks offer a healthy set of options. The HP Chromebook 14 features WiFi 5 (802.11ac) and Bluetooth connectivity, along with one USB 3.1 Type-C port and two USB 3.0 Type-A ports. It also includes a headphone jack for audio output. This selection covers most users’ needs for peripherals and external devices.

The Lenovo Chromebook similarly supports WiFi 5 and Bluetooth but comes with USB 3.2 Gen 1 and USB-C 3.2 Gen 1 ports. These ports provide faster data transfer rates and greater versatility when connecting modern accessories such as external drives, docking stations, or multiple monitors. For users who value faster connectivity options, Lenovo has a slight edge here.

Additional Features and Usability

Lenovo enhances its Chromebook with several extra features that may appeal to specific users. The inclusion of a 720p HD webcam ensures clearer video calls, a crucial consideration for students and remote workers. 

The device also offers up to 10 hours of battery life, allowing for full-day use without frequent recharging. Additionally, the physical laptop lock slot provides enhanced security, particularly useful for users who work or study in public places.

HP’s Chromebook doesn’t highlight specific battery life figures or camera specs in the provided data, but HP laptops typically offer competitive battery longevity. However, the absence of a higher-resolution webcam could be a drawback for users who depend heavily on video conferencing.

Price and User Feedback

Both the HP and Lenovo Chromebooks are priced very closely—around $186 to $187—making them highly accessible for budget-conscious buyers. This price parity means your decision will likely rest more on features and personal preferences than on cost.

HP’s Chromebook enjoys widespread popularity with over 6,900 Amazon reviews averaging 4.2 stars, indicating strong overall satisfaction and reliability. Lenovo’s Chromebook, with a slightly higher rating of 4.3 stars from 750 reviewers, garners praise for its display and performance enhancements, though it has fewer reviews.

Conclusion

In summary, if you prioritize a sharper, larger display, better multitasking with 8GB RAM, and enhanced video calling capabilities, the Lenovo IdeaPad 3i Chromebook is the more compelling option. Its improved processor efficiency, superior screen, and additional features justify the marginal price difference.

However, if you’re looking for a compact, reliable Chromebook for general tasks such as web browsing, document editing, and streaming, the HP Chromebook 14 remains a strong, proven choice. Its solid performance, competitive price, and positive user feedback make it ideal for students or casual users who want a straightforward Chrome OS experience.

Both devices represent excellent value for their price and demonstrate how far budget Chromebooks have come in offering capable computing solutions. Your choice ultimately depends on which features align best with your personal needs.