Acer's $349 Chromebook 514 has USB-C charging, Gorilla Glass trackpad

This marks a nice step up from the entry level.

Acer is expanding its Chromebook range with a new model, the Chromebook 514. The new model keeps things inexpensive while adding some nice-to-have hardware features that will separate it from the plastic bargain machines so often associated with the Chromebook name.

There isn't anything particularly revolutionary in terms of the Chromebook 514's overall design, but Acer is focusing on the fact that this is a 14-inch screen with small bezels that allow for a smaller footprint. Based on the renderings, it doesn't look much larger than the current 13-inch Chromebook R13. The display is a 1080p IPS panel, which will get the job done, and there's a touch screen option — but this isn't a "convertible" type laptop with an extra-rotating screen.

Acer quotes a very impressive 12-hour battery life figure for the Chromebook 514, though those numbers can vary widely based on what you're actually doing. But being able to get well into the double digits if you are careful is good no matter how you slice it.

This looks like a nice budget option with some create comforts from a higher-end models.

Because this is a slightly nicer device, Acer is throwing in some creature comforts. You'll see a backlit keyboard standard, plus a Gorilla Glass-covered trackpad that should dramatically improve point accuracy and feel. Funnily enough, Acer isn't emphasizing any of the other specs, and isn't providing a base processor, memory and storage spec for the Chromebook 514; it's saying that these specs will range widely from region to region. (For a point of reference for what to expect, Acer's current 15-inch Chromebook 15 has either a duel-core Intel Celeron N3350 or quad-core Pentium N4200, with 4GB of RAM and 32GB of storage, at a similar price.)

In an impressively forward-thinking move, Acer is offering USB-C on the Chromebook 514, with one port on each side. The left port is used for charging, but either one can pick up data duties as well. They come in addition to a pair of standard USB-A ports — what a concept.

In typical Acer fashion, the new Chromebook 514 is still affordable — pricing starts at $349 in the U.S. and €349 in Europe, though the company didn't detail the pricing range for additional higher-end versions. The Chromebook 514 is likely to come in various different configurations of memory and storage for different regions, so keep an eye out for what models eventually hit your local area.

Press release:

Acer seals its #1 position in the EMEA Chromebook market and US Retail Market with the launch of a new best-in-class Chromebook

IFA, BERLIN (August 29, 2018) – Acer seals its leadership position in the Chromebook market by revealing details at IFA today of the availability of its new Acer Chromebook 514. Aimed at tech lovers, young professionals and college students, Acer's continued focus on the growing market for Chromebooks, gaming and ultra-portable PCs is proving to be a successful business strategy.

The combination of a metallic chassis, backlit keyboard, Corning Gorilla Glass touchpad, USB Type-C and a 12-hour battery life gives the Acer Chromebook 514 a superior look and feel narrow bezel allows for a 14-inch screen in a smaller footprint and the optional touch screen makes it easy to navigate and control videos on the Full HD IPS display

Stylish Yet Tough and Designed To Be Seen

Continuing a strong track record in bringing to market design, award-winning Chromebooks, the new Acer Chromebook 514 encapsulates strength, durability and stylish good looks in a strong, lightweight aluminium chassis meaning less likely to be bent, warped or dented. The 6mm narrow bezel and wide viewing angle of the Full HD 14-inch IPS screen allow users to enjoy the full majesty of films, videos and TV shows. An optional touch screen makes it easy to navigate and control videos on the 1920x1080 resolution display with 2,073,600 pixels display.

Polished Performance and Easy Productivity

Fast boot times, ease of use, tough security and a 12 hour battery life are some of the advantages of Chrome OS. The fast boot time, simplified interface, integrated malware and efficient use of power means users can enjoy hassle-free computing and staying productive all day, without the need of the power adapter. With Chrome OS, users can still use their favorite software as traditional office productivity programs.

Tougher, Smoother Touch

Tapping, swiping, scrolling and zooming are smoother than ever. The Corning Gorilla touchpad provides a slicker feel than a regular plastic touchpad with the ability to withstand scratches and pits so it will continue to look as slick as the day it was bought. Greater Camera Clarity and Keyboard Comfort

The HDR webcam provides crystal clear clarity and sharpness details whilst the 'day or night' backlit keyboard not only looks cool, but also allow users to type comfortably in dimly lit environments.

Port Practicality

One connector is used for ultra-quick data transfer, video streaming, and battery charging. The reversible USB 3.1 Type-C ports are easy to attach to and with a transfer rate up to 5GB/sec, are 10 times faster than USB 2.0.

Pricing & Availability

The Acer Chromebook 514 will be available in North America in October, starting at $349.99; and in EMEA in the approved Chrome OS territories starting at €349.

Exact specifications, prices, and availability will vary by region. To find out about availability, product specifications and prices in specific markets, please contact your nearest Acer office or retailer via www.acer.com.