I recently tested the greatest low-cost Chromebook I have seen, and I am really impressed with one feature in particular.

 

Although you will have to give up some portability for that expansive view, the Asus Chromebook CX1505 is a low-cost device that still manages to feature a full-size keyboard and an excellent display. Although it works admirably given the specifications, it is insufficient for intensive multitasking, and the absence of ports may put off even more customers. However, you will not find a more generous Chromebook product than the CX1505 at this price.

Despite its low price, the Asus Chromebook CX1505's specifications and features aim to dispel the notion that it is a crippled computer unsuited for contemporary uses.

It may seem sleek, but upon closer examination, it is not as light or thin as it first appears. Its mobility credentials are slightly tarnished by the ultra-wide display and the large underneath support bar.

Additionally, the build quality is not as good as that of the top Chromebook designs. There is some flexing to the plastic chassis, but it is still within acceptable parameters.

However, the display's thin bezel is a nice addition that makes the most of its already ample width. Additionally, the keyboard seems like it was constructed to a better standard, which is fortunate because you will be using it frequently.

The CX1505's ports are all on the left side, which could be a little awkward for anyone who want to connect a lot of peripherals. The fact that there are only four and that only two of them are USB (one type-A and one type-C connection) is more of an issue.

Additionally, you will not always have access to the Type-C because it needs to be used for charging. The remaining physical connectivity choices are completed with a 3.5mm combo audio connector and an HDMI 1.4 port, which are at least logically arranged.

Performance-wise, the CX1505 performs admirably. While it is merely unable to stream 4K content, it can manage the productivity and entertainment chores well. However, it can manage some light gaming at low graphics settings, but with games that are not very demanding.

That big display is more amazing. The Full HD resolution is still sharp enough for its size, and the width is helpful for both productivity and leisure. Additionally, it is quite colorful and bright, making it enjoyable to watch in any situation.

The trackpad is disappointing, even though the CX1505 is excellent for typing on. When making tiny, sluggish movements, it jerks and is imprecise, and its clicks are unpleasant.

The CX1505's battery lasted seven hours during our movie playback test, which is a good amount of time. Many of its competitors, though, can surpass this number—some by a significant amount.

Once upon a time, a Chromebook this inexpensive would not have been worth your time because it did not have the power or functionality necessary for even the most basic of uses. However, at this price, the CX1505's impressive performance, if not exceptional, and its large, high-quality display make it a strong contender for one of the best low-cost Chromebooks available today.

Review of the Asus Chromebook CX1505: Cost and availability

The starting price is $159.99, £249.99, or AU$499

Now available in a variety of colors

The market's low-cost end

The CX1505 comes in a variety of colors, including pink and green, and retails for $159.99, £249.99, or AU$499 right now. 64GB or 128GB of storage and 4GB or 8GB of RAM are available configuration options. There is also an Intel Core variant.

Even in the Chromebook market, this is a fantastic price. It is significantly less expensive than the Asus Chromebook CM14, which is among the greatest low-cost Chromebooks in our opinion. Though it is not as portable, the CX1505 runs better and has a bigger display, which improves productivity and entertainment.

A great option if you are looking for a Chromebook with high performance is the HP Chromebook Plus 15.6-inch. This easily handles a wide range of tasks, including more demanding ones like gaming and multitasking; it is no surprise that we believe it to be the best Chromebook for students. However, its keyboard is not as nice as the CX1505's.

With more processing speed and faster memory for a somewhat higher investment, the Dell Chromebook 3120 is a great choice if you want to stay closer to the lower end of the market and want something more portable but still powerful.

Review of the Asus Chromebook CX1505: Specifications

Asus Chromebook CX1505
Price	Starting from $159.99 / £249.99 / AU$499
CPU	Intel Celeron N4500 Processor 1.1 GHz (2 cores)
Graphics	Integrated, Intel UHD Graphics
RAM	4GB LPDDR4X
Screen	15.6-inch, 1920 x 1080, 16:9, Anti-glare display, 300nits
Storage	64GB eMMC
Ports	1x USB-A, 1x USB-C, 1x HDMI 1.4, 1x 3.5mm combo audio
Wireless	Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax) (Dual band) 2*2, Bluetooth 5.4
Camera	720p with privacy shutter
Weight	3.51lbs (1.59kg)
Dimensions	14.15 x 9.14 x 0.79in (360 x 232 x 20mm)

Review of the ASUS Chromebook CX1505: Design 

Stylish and lively appearances 

Reduced portability 

No ports 

The vivid hues of the CX1505 give it a clean, minimalist look, and I thought the light green finish of my review device was quite attractive and went well with the overall design. Its smooth, flat planes and rounded corners make it more appealing. Although it is a fairly small item, its sleekness is somewhat ruined by the noticeable support bar that runs underneath. In addition to being heavier than you might anticipate, the CX1505's portability is significantly hampered by its unusual width. Furthermore, the build quality is not very good either. Although the somewhat textured plastics have an intriguing appearance and feel, they are not the strongest and can break easily with heavy flexing. When the lid hinge is in place, it feels solid, but once it is in place, it is obvious that it is loose. Although it is not bothersome, this is obvious and not particularly ominous for its durability. On the plus side, the keys feature a faint graining that makes them feel tactile to use, and the bezel surrounding the display is pleasantly small, maximizing the already ample real estate. Additionally, they operate solidly and smoothly with minimal play or ambiguous input. The CX15 will let you down if you are searching for a Chromebook with lots of connectivity possibilities. Despite its size, it only has four connectors on the left side (five on the Intel Core variant because of its additional USB-C port). It has a combo audio jack, one USB-C port (which can also be used for charging), one USB-A port, and one HDMI 1.4 port. The audio jack at the very front and the power port at the end always make me pleased, so at least they are logically arranged.