Main points
- Its detachable keyboard provides the flexibility to use it as a traditional laptop or a tablet.
- If you prioritize premium design, a larger display, and a longer battery life, the CM3 is the better choice.
- However, if you’re looking for a more budget-friendly option with a lightweight and compact design, the Duet is a solid choice.
The world of 2-in-1 Chromebooks is constantly evolving, with new devices emerging that offer an unparalleled blend of portability, versatility, and affordability. Among the latest contenders are the ASUS Chromebook Detachable CM3 and the Lenovo Duet. Both devices promise a seamless computing experience, but which one reigns supreme? This in-depth comparison will delve into the key features, performance, and design aspects of both Chromebooks to help you make an informed decision.
Design and Build Quality
ASUS Chromebook Detachable CM3:
The CM3 boasts a sleek and sophisticated design with a premium aluminum chassis. Its detachable keyboard provides the flexibility to use it as a traditional laptop or a tablet. The hinge is sturdy and allows for smooth transitions between modes.
Lenovo Duet:
The Duet, on the other hand, features a more casual and lightweight design. Its polycarbonate shell is durable but not as premium as the CM3’s aluminum construction. The keyboard is also detachable, but the hinge mechanism feels less refined.
Display
ASUS Chromebook Detachable CM3:
The CM3 sports a 10.5-inch IPS LCD display with a resolution of 1920 x 1200 pixels. It offers vibrant colors, wide viewing angles, and good brightness levels.
Lenovo Duet:
The Duet has a slightly larger 10.1-inch IPS LCD display with a resolution of 1920 x 1200 pixels. While the colors and viewing angles are comparable to the CM3, the brightness levels are slightly lower.
Keyboard and Touchpad
ASUS Chromebook Detachable CM3:
The CM3’s detachable keyboard features well-spaced keys with decent travel. The touchpad is responsive and supports multi-touch gestures.
Lenovo Duet:
The Duet’s detachable keyboard offers a similar typing experience, but the keys are slightly smaller. The touchpad is also responsive but feels a bit cramped due to the smaller overall size of the device.
Performance and Storage
ASUS Chromebook Detachable CM3:
The CM3 is powered by a MediaTek MT8183 processor, which provides adequate performance for basic tasks and light multitasking. It comes with 4GB or 8GB of RAM and 64GB or 128GB of eMMC storage.
Lenovo Duet:
The Duet is equipped with a Qualcomm Snapdragon 7c Gen 2 processor, which offers slightly better performance than the CM3. It also has 4GB or 8GB of RAM and 64GB or 128GB of eMMC storage.
Battery Life
ASUS Chromebook Detachable CM3:
The CM3 boasts a 5000mAh battery that promises up to 12 hours of battery life. However, real-world usage may vary depending on factors such as screen brightness and workload.
Lenovo Duet:
The Duet has a slightly smaller 3500mAh battery, which provides up to 10 hours of battery life. Again, real-world usage may vary.
Connectivity and Features
Both the ASUS Chromebook Detachable CM3 and the Lenovo Duet offer a range of connectivity options, including Wi-Fi 5, Bluetooth 5.0, and a USB-C port. However, the CM3 has an additional microSD card slot for expandable storage.
Price and Availability
The ASUS Chromebook Detachable CM3 is priced starting at $399, while the Lenovo Duet is priced starting at $279. Both devices are widely available from major retailers and online stores.
Verdict: Which Chromebook is Right for You?
Ultimately, the choice between the ASUS Chromebook Detachable CM3 and the Lenovo Duet depends on your specific needs and preferences. If you prioritize premium design, a larger display, and a longer battery life, the CM3 is the better choice. However, if you’re looking for a more budget-friendly option with a lightweight and compact design, the Duet is a solid choice.
Answers to Your Most Common Questions
Q: Which Chromebook has a better processor?
A: The Lenovo Duet has a slightly better processor than the ASUS Chromebook Detachable CM3.
Q: Which Chromebook has a longer battery life?
A: The ASUS Chromebook Detachable CM3 has a longer battery life than the Lenovo Duet.
Q: Which Chromebook has a more premium design?
A: The ASUS Chromebook Detachable CM3 has a more premium design than the Lenovo Duet.
Q: Which Chromebook is more affordable?
A: The Lenovo Duet is more affordable than the ASUS Chromebook Detachable CM3.
Q: Which Chromebook is lighter and more portable?
A: The Lenovo Duet is lighter and more portable than the ASUS Chromebook Detachable CM3.