Review Of The Acer C720-3605 Chromebook

Acer-cromebook3picts
Last summer (2014) I picked up a Asus C720-2802 Chromebook and posted a review on TechNewsRadio.com.

I recently updated to a newer version (same form factor) -- the Acer C720-3605.  I had originally ordered the Acer C720-3404  (which is the Canadian version), but ended up with the U.S. version: C720-3605.  They appear at least on the specification pages on Acer to be exactly the same other than model number (PDF spec analysis). I might have missed something so if there is a difference then please let me know.

The main reasons for upgrading:

  1. Improved Performance (faster processor with dual-core)
  2. Additional RAM (4-GB vs. 2-GBs)
  3. Better HDMI output (for hooking up to a large monitor @ my home desk).
  4. More Local Storage (32-GBs vs. 16-GBs -- excellent for watching more digital content)
  5. Needed a another computer @home for my daughter to use

Here are some stats using Octane 2.0 test:

OctaneTestBetween2AcerModels

While I wasn't having any real performance issues with the 2802-series, I've found that I can experience the difference in browsing and streaming media with the 3605-series.  The hardware updates are definitely an improvement in real world usage from my perspective.

All-in-all I have been very happy with Chrome OS and these two Chromebooks (the old one is now my daughter's main system).  For me the key selling points: great battery (more than 8 hours); excellent small form factor; responsive & comfortable keyboard; integration with Google services; and the simple OS updates & patches.

I look forward to using it again as my main note taking system for DEFCON 23.

 You can order your own via this Amazon Acer C720-3605 link or this Amazon Acer C720-3404 link.  Prices seem to be all over the board so make sure you are comfortable with ordering the right model number at the right price.


Review - Logitech Wireless Combo Mk520 With Keyboard and Mouse

Keyboard

I recently picked up a Logitech Wireless Combo Mk520 With Keyboard and Mouse to use full time with my Acer Chromebook when I'm using it in desktop computer mode.  

When I am in this mode I usually use the setup with a SAMSUNG T24C550 monitor as the primary monitor and the Acer's laptop monitor as my 2nd monitor off to the right-hand side.

I like this setup because it enables wireless access to both the keyboard and the mouse using one USB port.  Previously I had a dedicated wireless mouse and then a bluetooth keyboard. However the bluetooth keyboard wasn't completely full-size, would periodically drop off connectivity, and was better suited to short-term typing like like periodic emails responses on my Nexus 7.

The only draw back with the Mk520 is that the Function (F) keys are not ideally setup to match the icons on them.

The keyboard uses the basic standard keyboard layout on most Chromebooks. So ESC is ESC (Escape) and:

  • F1: Go to the previous page in your browser history
  • F2: Go to the next page in your browser history
  • F3: Reload your current page.
  • F4: Open your page in full-screen mode
  • F5: Switch to your next window
  • F6: Decrease screen brightness
  • F7: Increase screen brightness
  • F8: Mute
  • F9: Decrease system volume
  • F10: Increase system volume

At the very top of the keyboard is a media control area (3 keys): back, play/stop, forward. Those don't seem to work with videos.  But the sound control area (3 keys): mute, decrease sound, and increase sound do work.  And the WINDOWS button is a dedicated SEARCH button; the STAR button brings up the BOOKMARKS page list; and the CALCULATOR button goes into FULL SCREEN MODE.

Over all the keyboard feel when typing is very good, and I like the pressure the keys have. In addition, I like the ability to tilt up the keyboard and to have it stand-up at 90-degrees for using your desk area for writing if needed.  I would recommend the keyboard if someone is looking for the same feature set.