Toshiba has announced a new version of its highly rated Chromebook 2 laptop.
The refreshed Chrome OS device has been fitted with the Intel Broadwell chipset.
The fifth-generation Intel Core i3 or i5 chips will boost the battery life from just over 6 hours to 8.5 hours, according to the Japanese manufacturer.
The chips and the addition of a backlit keyboard aside, there’s not a lot that’s new about the updated Chromebook 2.
The refresh will be priced in the same ballpark too. It’ll be $329 (about £249) for the Core i5 model, while the Core i5 version is $429 (around £280).
The Chromebook also brings a HDMI out and two USB ports while donning the same plastic chassis.
See also: Best laptops, ultrabooks and hybrids
The price tag will surely appeal to those seeking to jump aboard the Chrome OS. While there are options with higher spec points, longer battery life and a greater focus on premium design, those options also cost twice as much.
In our review posted in February 2015, the Chromebook 2 came in for high praise, with our reviewer proclaiming: “If you want a Chromebook, the Toshiba
Chromebook 2 is the one we recommend. It has a great screen, looks good
and delivers in every way that matters.”
Have you thought about ditching Windows or Mac OS X for Google’s Chrome OS? Share your thoughts below.
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Editorial independence
Editorial independence means being able to give an unbiased verdict about a product or company, with the avoidance of conflicts of interest. To ensure this is possible, every member of the editorial staff follows a clear code of conduct.
Professional conduct
We also expect our journalists to follow clear ethical standards in their work. Our staff members must strive for honesty and accuracy in everything they do. We follow the IPSO Editors’ code of practice to underpin these standards.
