Lenovo C330 Chromebook | A Compact Writing Device | Review Philippines
The moment I had battery issues with my Acer Aspire laptop, I knew I had to look for another device that I can use for my freelancing work in case it completely crashes. Since most of the work I do is related to writing and social media management, there was no need to get an expensive laptop, just a good one that does the job.Thanks to some hours of Google browsing, I learned about Chromebooks and eventually decided to get myself one.
I got the Lenovo C330 unit in Blizzard White from Villman, a recognized provider of quality computers in the Philippines. Keep reading if you want to learn more about this product.
What is a Chromebook?
A Chromebook is a device that runs on Google’s Chrome OS software (which is faster and more secure). It’s a cheaper alternative to a laptop and is designed to benefit Google users the most. It works best when connected to the internet, but you can still work offline if you have the Google Docs Offline extension.
The Lenovo C330 Chromebook
Chromebooks are generally the same in terms of function, but I went for the Lenovo-manufactured one because of my good experience with their entry-level phone in the past (it’s also a trusted brand). To add, it has a simple yet sleek and stylish design, which I love, not to mention that I also found the convertible feature cool and convenient.
Product Specs
Dimensions (in mm): 215.00 x 292.00 x 20.00 Product Weight: 1.2 kg Display Size: 11.6 inches Display Resolution: 1920x1080 pixels RAM: 4GB SSD: 64GB Ports: USB Type-C (for charging), HDMI, USB 3.0, and SD Memory Card Reader
Web Camera: HD 720P
Battery: 45Wh
CPU: MediaTek MT8173c
Setting Up the Lenovo C330 Unit
It only takes five minutes to finish setting up the Lenovo C330 Chromebook; all you have to do is sign in to your Google account, and you’re all set (your email password is the same one you’ll be using to get to the homepage). If you don’t have a Google account, you’re going to have to make one. Getting started is uncomplicated and straightforward, I started working on Google Docs right away after signing in, and it was a breeze. I was able to personalize my device in just a short amount of time as well (changed the wallpaper, screen saver, cursor, theme, and user icon).
Camera
This is a photo I took at night (with a small ring light) using my Chromebook, for your reference.
What’s Great About using a Chromebook?
The battery life is awesome, I can use my Chromebook for up to nine hours without charging (if you do a lot of writing work outside or travel often, this is definitely for you);
You can literally work anywhere without the hassle because it’s compact and lightweight;
There are many ways to use it; you can fold it to make it into a tablet, use as a laptop, or put it on tent mode;
It’s way less expensive than a laptop. I got mine for only 14,495.00 PhP, that’s around 310 USD;
The touch screen feature allows you to have a seamless browsing experience (it makes it easier for you to enjoy tablet mode too);
You get free 100GB extra storage for one year when you get a Chromebook (others would charge a lot for that space).After that, payment is only 89 PhP/month, if you wish to continue. As for the files you have uploaded during that time, they will still remain in the cloud.
As for the cons, read below:
The trackpad is quite hard, so I’d recommend that you use a Bluetooth mouse for ease of use;
There are some software that are not compatible with Chromebooks, so if there are specific ones that you need for the kind of work that you do, this might not be for you;
If you want to edit high-quality photos and videos, you’re better off with a laptop, unless you’re okay with cloud-based photo and video editors;
It works best online, so you basically need the internet all the time to make the most out of your Chromebook (you can work offline though, as mentioned earlier);
Local storage is limited; you’re going to have to use an SD card or a hard drive while working if you’re not comfortable with uploading your files to the cloud.
Generally, I personally find the Lenovo C330 Chromebook value for money. The features may be limited, but again, it does the job (if your work doesn't require the use of sophisticated software). I won’t suggest using it as your main device though, I think it’s more of a writing and surfing gadget.
I guess that would be all for today. Thank you for reading!
Disclaimer: I’m not an expert when it comes to computer gadgets, just a consumer sharing my honest thoughts about the product.
