Finding an entry-level Chromebook that balances functionality, durability, and affordability can be a daunting task, especially given the vast range of products on the market. The HP Chromebook 14a-na0226nr is a laptop that seems to tick many of the right boxes, particularly for individuals in need of a device for basic computing tasks that's currently available at a killer price point.
This 2022 model is designed for everyday use, offering a host of features including a 14" HD display, Intel Celeron N4120 processor, 4 GB of RAM, 64 GB eMMC storage, and a suite of connectivity options that's got customers raving about it 24/7. Moreover, its sleek mineral silver finish adds a touch of elegance to its design.
This technical review will delve into the specifics of the HP Chromebook 14a-na0226nr to assess its overall quality and value, helping you figure out if this is the right Chromebook for you.
| Specs | Details |
|---|---|
| Name | HP Chromebook 14a-na0226nr |
| Processor | Intel Celeron N4120 (Total Cores: 4, Total Threads: 4, Base Frequency: 1.1 GHz, Max Turbo Frequency: 2.6 GHz, Cache: 4 MB) |
| Graphics Card | Intel UHD Graphics 600 |
| Display | 14" diagonal HD, anti-glare micro-edge WLED-backlit (1366 x 768) |
| Memory | 4GB RAM |
| Storage | 64GB eMMC |
| Cooling System | N/A |
| Keyboard | Full-size island-style keyboard |
| Connectivity | 2x SuperSpeed USB Type-C 5Gbps signaling rate (USB Power Delivery, DisplayPort 1.2); 1x SuperSpeed USB Type-A 5Gbps signaling rate; 1x headphone/microphone combo |
| Webcam | HP Wide Vision HD Camera with integrated dual array digital microphone |
| Battery | Up to 14 hours battery life |
Who's this Chromebook for?
The HP Chromebook 14a-na0226nr is an excellent choice for users looking for an affordable, reliable, and easy-to-use laptop for everyday tasks. This makes it an ideal option for students who need a lightweight device for note-taking, research, and coursework, or for professionals who require a dependable machine for email, document creation, and web-based work.
Its simple setup and user-friendly interface also make it a great pick for less tech-savvy users or older individuals wanting to keep in touch with family, browse the web, or engage in light digital activities.Moreover, its long battery life and portability make it a good choice for those constantly on the move. Digital nomads, remote workers, and individuals frequently traveling will find the HP Chromebook 14a-na0226nr highly suitable for their needs. With the Chromebook's impressive battery life and lightweight design, users can work or play anywhere without being tethered to a power outlet - unlike the recently reviewed ASUS VivoBook Go 14 Flip J1400KA-DS02T -. Its simplicity, functionality, and affordability make it a worthwhile choice for a wide range of users.
Design, Display, and Keyboard
The 14a-na0226nr features a minimalist yet sophisticated design, donning a sleek mineral silver color that imbues it with a modern aesthetic appeal. Its compact and thin form factor contributes to its portability, making it an ideal companion for those constantly on the move.
The Chromebook comes with a 14-inch HD (1366 x 768) display that offers satisfactory image quality for an entry-level laptop. We would've loved to see a Full HD display here instead of HD but we also acknowledge that this does have a massive impact on battery life. An alternative to this would be the Lenovo IdeaPad Flex 5i 82M7004HUX, for example, though it also boasts a heftier price tag.
The micro-edge, anti-glare screen makes for comfortable viewing, even in bright conditions, ensuring users can work or enjoy multimedia content without straining their eyes.
A standout feature is the device's multi-touch touchpad, which supports four-finger gestures, enabling easy navigation and control with just a simple touch.
The laptop features a full-size Ash Gray keyboard, which complements the mineral silver chassis. The keys have been reported to provide decent feedback according to numerous customer reviews and that's something we have also experienced, making typing a comfortable experience for extended periods. Overall, the design of the HP Chromebook 14a-na0226nr does an impressive job of combining form and function.
Performance
The HP Chromebook 14a-na0226nr is powered by the Intel Celeron N4120 processor. This is a quad-core CPU, designed by Intel under the codename "Gemini Lake Refresh," that operates at a base frequency of 1.10 GHz. This may not sound impressive, but it can achieve bursts of up to 2.60 GHz under certain conditions.
For most standard tasks such as web browsing, video streaming, and office productivity, this CPU will be more than sufficient. The 4 MB cache memory helps to speed up data access and thus improve overall system performance. Additionally, its Thermal Design Power (TDP) of just 6W translates to efficient power usage and heat management.
As for memory and storage, the 14a-na0226nr comes with 4 GB of RAM. While this may not be a lot when compared to mid-range laptops, it is adequate for the lightweight Chrome OS and its usual tasks. In fact, Chrome OS is specifically designed to be lean and efficient, making the most out of limited resources. This is why a Chromebook with these specifications can still provide a smooth user experience.
It's not going to be as smooth in terms of performance as the Acer Aspire 3 A314-23P-R3QA, but it gets the job done for most people looking to perform basic tasks.
Complementing the RAM is 64 GB of eMMC storage. While eMMC storage is not as fast as SSDs found in more expensive laptops, it provides a decent level of performance for a device at this price point.
It’s worth noting that the storage size could be a limiting factor for users who plan to install a lot of apps or store a lot of files locally. However, since Chromebooks are designed to integrate seamlessly with Google's cloud services, most files can be stored online on Google Drive, mitigating the need for large amounts of local storage.
It's important to consider that while these specs might not allow for gaming or running resource-intensive applications like video editing software, the HP Chromebook 14a-na0226nr was not designed with these tasks in mind. Its performance metrics cater primarily to the typical use case of a Chromebook, which generally includes internet browsing, use of web apps, streaming videos, and working on documents in Google Docs or other similar services.
Customer reviews support this. One user mentioned having three Chrome browsers open across two screens, with 3-5 tabs running on each, and not experiencing any performance issues. So, for those looking for a device for everyday tasks, light work, and study purposes, this Chromebook can very well meet those needs while providing good value for money considering its super competitive price.
However, those who require a device for more resource-intensive tasks may want to consider other options, such as the HP 15-dy5399nr with its slightly higher price point but far superior specs.
In conclusion, the performance of the HP Chromebook 14a-na0226nr, given its price point and the tasks it was designed for, is quite satisfactory. The Intel Celeron N4120 processor, coupled with 4 GB of RAM and 64 GB eMMC storage, allows for smooth operation of the lightweight Chrome OS, making it a good choice for those who primarily need a laptop for general everyday use, light work, or study purposes.
Graphics
The integrated Intel UHD Graphics 600 in the HP Chromebook 14a-na0226nr is a basic graphics card that allows for decent video playback and simple game play.
The 4K-ready capability is a definite plus, allowing users to smoothly stream high-resolution content, thus enhancing the overall multimedia experience. While you won't be able to run demanding video games or perform intense graphical tasks, the graphics performance is more than adequate for an entry-level laptop aimed at general use.
What are Customers Saying?
The general consensus about the 14a-na0226nr from customer reviews is overwhelmingly positive, with most users praising its ease of use, affordability, and performance.
Users appreciate its simplicity in setup and operation, noting that the Chrome OS and its user interface is easy to understand, even for people who aren't tech-savvy. A number of reviewers are impressed with its quick start-up time, responsiveness, and smooth navigation, attributing this to the seamless integration between the Chromebook and Google's suite of applications.
Affordability is another factor that has been highlighted repeatedly. Many users perceive the HP Chromebook 14a-na0226nr to offer great value for the price point. The capabilities and performance of the device seem to far exceed what some users expected for a laptop of its price, making it an attractive choice for those on a budget.
Performance-wise, the consensus is that the Chromebook performs well for everyday tasks, web browsing, streaming, and light work duties. Customers note that despite the modest specifications compared to high-end laptops, the Chromebook handles multiple tasks simultaneously with ease, including running multiple tabs on different browsers without any noticeable lag. This suggests that for its intended use cases - internet browsing, working on documents, and other light tasks - the HP Chromebook 14a-na0226nr performs admirably.
The lightweight and portable design of this Chromebook also receives positive remarks. Users find it easy to carry around, making it a suitable choice for those who need to work or study on the go. The long battery life is often cited as a major plus, enabling users to use the device for extended periods without worrying about recharging.
The overall sentiment among customers is that the HP Chromebook 14a-na0226nr is a reliable, efficient, and affordable device that delivers solid performance for its intended tasks. These aspects, coupled with its ease of use and portability, make it a popular choice among users looking for a budget-friendly, everyday laptop.
Connectivity, Webcam, and Battery Life
The HP 14a-na0226nr is equipped with robust connectivity options. The 802.11a/b/g/n/ac (2x2) Wi-Fi and Bluetooth combo ensure stable and high-speed connections for browsing, streaming, and data transfer. Additionally, this Chromebook is fitted with a modest webcam that is serviceable for video calls or online meetings.
It also features a couple of USB Type-C ports, a single USB Type-A port and an audio jack. As you'd expect on a budget laptop, there's no ethernet port nor HDMI ports to be heard off but that's of.
One of the standout features of this laptop is its long battery life. Specifically, battery life is insane on this Chromebook, reaching roughly 12 hours under a mixed usage scenario. What's more interesting is that you can charge the battery all the way up to 50% of its capacity in just 45 minutes. Seriously impressive stuff over here.
Special Features
The 14a-na0226nr runs on Chrome OS, Google's lightweight and secure operating system. This platform is designed to be intuitive and user-friendly, making it an excellent choice for those who prioritize ease of use. Additionally, with Chrome OS, you have access to a vast array of apps from the Google Play Store, further enhancing the device's functionality.
This Chromebook also stands out for its commitment to sustainability, as evidenced by its ENERGY STAR certification and EPEAT Silver registration. These recognitions underline HP's commitment to environmental responsibility and global citizenship, making this laptop a good choice for eco-conscious consumers.
Conclusion: Should You Buy It?
In summary, the HP 14a-na0226nr reviewed here today offers solid performance, a user-friendly operating system, and a sleek design at an affordable price point.
It's an excellent choice for students, remote workers, or anyone in need of a reliable laptop for general use. Based on the customer reviews, the laptop is appreciated for its ease of use, lightweight design, and cost-effectiveness.
While it may not handle high-end gaming or intense graphical tasks, it excels in offering a smooth and responsive computing experience for everyday tasks. If you're on the hunt for a budget-friendly, durable, and functional laptop, the HP 14a-na0226nr is a pretty safe bet.