Asus Chromebook Plus CX34 vs Acer Chromebook Plus 514: Comparison
Hey there! I've spent four weeks rotating between the ASUS Chromebook Plus CX34 and Acer Chromebook Plus 514, putting each through daily work tasks, streaming marathons, and countless video calls to determine which delivers better value. Both Chromebooks promise enhanced Google AI features and impressive battery life, but the nuanced differences between them reveal distinct strengths for different users.
From processor performance during heavy multitasking to real-world charging speeds, I've tested these machines in scenarios you'll actually encounter. The results clarified my recommendation. In this comparison, I'll reveal which Chromebook makes the smarter investment and help you decide whether premium build quality or maximum storage capacity matters more for your workflow. Let's get started!
ASUS Chromebook Plus CX34 vs Acer Chromebook Plus 514: Quick Overview
Here's the bottom line: The ASUS Chromebook Plus CX34 and Acer Chromebook Plus 514 represent compelling choices in the Chromebook Plus category but prioritize different strengths. The ASUS CX34 delivers powerful Intel Core i5-1335U performance (10-core processor), superior build quality with MIL-STD-810H certification, unique 180° lay-flat hinge, premium antimicrobial keyboard coating, brighter touchscreen display at 250 nits, faster WiFi 6E connectivity, and 2TB cloud storage inclusion at $549. The Acer 514 counters with exceptional value through massive 512GB local storage (4x more than ASUS), lighter weight at 3.42 lbs, longer battery life reaching 12+ hours, superior port selection including microSD card reader, larger OceanGlass touchpad made from recycled materials, and aggressive pricing starting at $399 (often on sale for $249).
For most buyers, I'd recommend the Acer Chromebook Plus 514. Its unbeatable storage capacity, exceptional battery endurance, and remarkable price make it the obvious choice for students, remote workers, and budget-conscious professionals. However, grab the ASUS Chromebook Plus CX34 if you need maximum processing power for demanding multitasking, prefer military-grade durability for frequent travel, value the unique lay-flat hinge for presentations, or work in environments where antimicrobial protection matters.
Table of Contents:
- Chromebook Plus CX34 vs 514: Full Comparison
- ASUS CX34 vs Acer 514: Design & Build
- Acer 514 vs ASUS CX34: Owner Reviews
- ASUS CX34 and Acer 514 Alternatives
ASUS CX34 vs Acer 514: Full Comparison
| Specification | ASUS Chromebook Plus CX34 | Acer Chromebook Plus 514 |
| Image |
 |
 |
| Processor | Intel Core i5-1335U (10 cores, 12 threads, up to 4.6GHz) | Intel Core i3-N305 (8 cores, up to 3.8GHz) |
| RAM | 8GB LPDDR5 4800MHz (soldered) | 8GB LPDDR5 (soldered) |
| Storage | 128GB UFS + 128GB SD Card (256GB total) | 128GB / 256GB / 512GB SSD |
| Display Size | 14.0 inches | 14.0 inches |
| Display Type | FHD IPS Touchscreen | FHD IPS Touchscreen |
| Resolution | 1920 x 1080 (FHD) | 1920 x 1080 (FHD) |
| Brightness | 250 nits | 220 nits (measured ~210) |
| Screen-to-Body Ratio | 80% | ~78% |
| Build Material | Plastic with aluminum reinforcement | Plastic with aluminum lid |
| Dimensions | 12.76 x 8.66 x 0.78 inches | 12.44 x 8.94 x 0.72 inches |
| Weight | 3.17 lbs (1.44 kg) | 3.42 lbs (1.55 kg) |
| Durability | MIL-STD-810H certified | MIL-STD-810H certified |
| Webcam | 1080p FHD with privacy shutter | 1080p FHD with AI enhancements |
| Microphones | Dual array | Triple array with AI noise cancellation |
| Speakers | Stereo | Dual upward-firing with DTS Audio |
| Battery Capacity | 50Wh | 53Wh |
| Battery Life (claimed) | Up to 10 hours | Up to 12 hours |
| Battery Life (tested) | 8-9 hours mixed use | 10-12 hours mixed use |
| Charging | USB-C Power Delivery, 45W charger | USB-C fast charging (50% in 30 min) |
| Keyboard | Backlit, 1.4mm travel, antimicrobial coating | Optional backlit, 1.5mm travel |
| Touchpad | 5.7-inch standard | OceanGlass (recycled ocean plastic), 4.0 x 3.0 inches |
| Special Hinge | 180° lay-flat | Standard hinge |
| Left Ports | 2x USB 3.2 Gen 1 Type-C (DisplayPort + Power Delivery), 1x USB 3.2 Gen 1 Type-A, 1x 3.5mm audio jack | 2x USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-C (10Gbps, DisplayPort + PD), 1x USB 3.2 Gen 1 Type-A, 1x 3.5mm audio jack |
| Right Ports | 1x USB 3.2 Gen 1 Type-A, 1x HDMI 1.4 | 1x USB 3.2 Gen 1 Type-A, 1x HDMI 1.4, 1x MicroSD card reader |
| Wireless | WiFi 6E (802.11ax), Bluetooth 5.3 | WiFi 6E (802.11ax), Bluetooth 5.1 |
| Cloud Storage | 2TB Google One (12 months) | 2TB Google One (12 months) |
| AI Features | Gemini Advanced, Magic Eraser, Help Me Write, Video call enhancements | Gemini Advanced, Magic Eraser, Help Me Write, Video call enhancements |
| OS Updates | Until June 2032 (8+ years) | Until June 2032 (8+ years) |
| Available Colors | White, Gray | Steel Gray, Pure Silver |
| Price (MSRP) | $549 | $399 |
The performance gap reveals itself immediately in demanding scenarios. The ASUS CX34's Intel Core i5-1335U processor with 10 cores demolishes the Acer 514's 8-core Core i3-N305 in multitasking. During testing with 50+ Chrome tabs, multiple Google Docs, and YouTube streaming simultaneously, the ASUS maintained smooth responsiveness while the Acer occasionally stuttered. Benchmark scores confirm this: the CX34 achieved 282 on Jetstream 2 versus the 514's 235. For everyday browsing and light productivity, both perform excellently. Power users who juggle video calls, spreadsheets, and research tabs simultaneously will appreciate the ASUS advantage.
Storage strategy creates the starkest contrast. The Acer's 512GB SSD configuration (available for just $249-349 during sales) provides genuine local storage freedom. I downloaded entire Netflix seasons, stored massive photo libraries, and maintained offline Google Drive files without worry. The ASUS's split storage approach (128GB UFS internal + 128GB SD card) feels constrained by comparison. The included SD card works fine for media storage but introduces slight performance penalties. ASUS includes 2TB cloud storage to compensate, which helps tremendously for Google Workspace users but requires reliable internet connectivity.
Display quality favors the ASUS slightly. Both feature 14-inch 1920x1080 IPS touchscreens, but the ASUS's 250-nit brightness outshines the Acer's 220-nit panel in outdoor scenarios. I comfortably used the ASUS on a sunny café patio at 75% brightness, while the Acer demanded maximum brightness with occasional glare struggles. The ASUS also achieves an impressive 80% screen-to-body ratio thanks to thinner bezels. However, the difference rarely bothered me during normal indoor use. Both displays reproduce colors accurately for ChromeOS work.
Battery life strongly favors the Acer. The 53Wh battery combined with the more efficient Core i3 processor consistently delivered 10-12 hours of mixed usage (web browsing, document editing, video streaming) versus the ASUS's 8-9 hours. The Acer survived full workdays without charging, while the ASUS required midday top-ups during intensive use. The Acer's fast charging capability (50% in 30 minutes) partially mitigates the ASUS's shorter runtime. For students attending back-to-back classes or remote workers away from outlets, the Acer's endurance advantage matters significantly.
Port selection gives the Acer a practical edge. The microSD card reader enables quick photo transfers from cameras or expanding storage cheaply. The ASUS includes more USB-A ports total, but the Acer's USB-C ports support faster 10Gbps data transfers versus the ASUS's standard 5Gbps. Both include HDMI for external displays, dual USB-C for charging and peripherals, and headphone jacks. The ASUS's WiFi 6E performed identically to the Acer's in my testing, both delivering stable connections on modern routers.
ASUS CX34 vs Acer 514: Design & Build
These Chromebooks demonstrate distinct design philosophies: ASUS prioritizes innovative features and durability, while Acer emphasizes sustainability and practical portability.
ASUS Chromebook Plus CX34 Design:
Acer Chromebook Plus 514 Design:
The ASUS CX34 measures 12.76 x 8.66 x 0.78 inches and weighs 3.17 pounds. The predominantly white plastic chassis (also available in gray) features subtle texture that resists fingerprints admirably. The standout feature remains the 180° lay-flat hinge - a genuine differentiator allowing the laptop to open completely flat for presentations or collaborative work. I frequently used this feature when sharing documents with colleagues across a conference table. The MIL-STD-810H certification provides confidence for travel, surviving several accidental bumps in my backpack without issue. The keyboard's antimicrobial coating (ASUS Antimicrobial Guard) reduces bacterial growth by 99% over 24 hours, appreciated during flu season.
The Acer 514 adopts dimensions of 12.44 x 8.94 x 0.72 inches at 3.42 pounds. The two-tone design pairs an aluminum lid (available in Steel Gray or Pure Silver) with plastic internals sporting metallic sheen. While heavier than the ASUS, the weight feels well-distributed. The eco-conscious OceanGlass touchpad, crafted from recycled ocean-bound plastic, delivers surprisingly glass-like smoothness while supporting environmental sustainability. The touchpad's generous 4.0 x 3.0-inch surface accommodates multitouch gestures comfortably. Both machines feel solid despite plastic construction, passing my flex tests without excessive give in the keyboard deck or lid.
Both Chromebooks feature excellent keyboards with 1.4-1.5mm key travel. The ASUS offers standard backlighting, while the Acer's backlighting comes as an optional feature depending on configuration. Typing comfort proved equal during extended writing sessions. The ASUS keyboard's slightly smaller keycaps required brief adjustment for my larger hands, but typing accuracy matched the Acer after acclimation. Neither laptop wobbles when typing on flat surfaces, a common budget laptop annoyance thankfully absent here.
ASUS CX34 or Acer 514: Owner Reviews
Let's examine authentic experiences from users who've integrated these Chromebooks into their daily workflows:
ASUS Chromebook Plus CX34 Owner Reviews:
Praises: "The Core i5 processor handles everything I throw at it - dozens of tabs, Google Meet calls with screen sharing, and Spotify simultaneously without lag. The 180-degree hinge is brilliant for presentations. I can lay the laptop flat, and clients can view documents from across the table without awkward screen angling. The antimicrobial keyboard gives peace of mind during cold season."
"Build quality feels premium for a Chromebook. The MIL-STD certification isn't marketing fluff - I dropped it from my desk (about 2.5 feet) and it survived without a scratch. The white finish looks clean and professional in client meetings. Battery life gets me through 8-hour workdays with 15-20% remaining. The 2TB cloud storage has been perfect for my Google Drive workflow."
***
Drawbacks: "The split storage configuration frustrates me. The included SD card works okay for photos but feels slower than proper internal storage. Removing it to transfer files elsewhere risks losing it. I wish ASUS had just included 256GB internal storage instead of this hybrid approach. Also, $549 feels steep when the Acer offers similar specs for much less."
"The display brightness is adequate but not impressive. My colleague's MacBook Air screen looks noticeably brighter and more vibrant side-by-side. Battery life is just okay - I need midday charging during heavy Zoom days. The touchpad is functional but smaller than I'd prefer. Multitouch gestures occasionally misinterpret my intentions."
Acer Chromebook Plus 514 Owner Reviews:
Praises: "Incredible value for $249 on sale at Costco. The 512GB storage is a game-changer - I downloaded my entire Spotify library and Netflix shows for a cross-country flight without worrying about space. Battery life easily lasts 11-12 hours of typical use. The keyboard feels great for extended typing sessions. Best budget laptop I've purchased."
"Perfect student Chromebook. The battery lasts through all my classes without charging. The microSD slot lets me quickly transfer photos from my camera for editing. Build quality is solid - no creaking or flexing despite the plastic construction. The OceanGlass touchpad feels surprisingly premium. Google AI features are genuinely useful for essay writing and research."
***
Drawbacks: "The Core i3 processor struggles slightly with heavy multitasking. When I have 40+ tabs open plus video streaming, I notice occasional lag. Display brightness is disappointing in outdoor settings - I can barely see the screen on sunny days. The speakers sound tinny at high volume. Should have included better audio for the price."
"Build quality is acceptable but not premium. The plastic construction shows fingerprints easily and feels less substantial than friends' ASUS Chromebooks. The touchpad is smooth but small for my preferences. No backlight on my keyboard configuration makes nighttime use difficult. The heavier weight becomes noticeable during long carries across campus."
Chromebook Plus CX34 and Chromebook Plus 514 Alternatives
If neither Chromebook perfectly aligns with your priorities, consider these compelling alternatives:
- Samsung Galaxy Chromebook Plus: Stunning OLED display, Intel Core 3 processor, ultra-thin design at $699.
- Lenovo Chromebook Duet 5: 2-in-1 detachable design, OLED screen, versatile tablet mode at $449.
The Samsung Galaxy Chromebook Plus elevates the category with its gorgeous 15.6-inch OLED display delivering perfect blacks and vibrant colors. The ultra-thin 11.8mm profile and 2.58-pound weight make it the most portable Chromebook Plus option. Color-accurate display benefits content creators and photo editors. Main tradeoffs include significantly higher $699 price, shorter battery life versus the Acer, and reduced port selection. Perfect for users prioritizing premium aesthetics and display quality above budget constraints.
The Lenovo Chromebook Duet 5 offers unique 2-in-1 versatility through its detachable keyboard design. The 13.3-inch OLED touchscreen works beautifully in tablet mode for media consumption or digital note-taking. Included kickstand and keyboard eliminate accessory costs. Lighter weight and smaller footprint suit frequent travelers. Main downsides are lower-powered MediaTek processor unsuitable for heavy multitasking, reduced port selection with only USB-C connections, and smaller 64GB base storage. Ideal for users wanting tablet flexibility with laptop productivity.
Should You Buy the ASUS CX34 or Acer 514?
After four weeks thoroughly testing the ASUS Chromebook Plus CX34 and Acer Chromebook Plus 514, the value proposition becomes remarkably clear for different user profiles.
Choose the Acer Chromebook Plus 514 if smart spending drives your decision. The frequent sales dropping prices to $249-349 deliver extraordinary value - you're getting capable Chromebook Plus features for budget Chromebook prices. The massive 512GB storage eliminates constant storage anxiety plaguing typical Chromebooks. The 10-12 hour battery life supports full workdays or school days without outlet hunting. The microSD reader and superior port speeds add practical convenience. For students, remote workers, casual users, and anyone prioritizing battery endurance with generous storage, the Acer represents the obvious choice.
Choose the ASUS Chromebook Plus CX34 if performance and durability justify premium pricing. The Core i5 processor with 10 cores handles demanding multitasking scenarios the Acer struggles with. The unique 180° lay-flat hinge enables presentation and collaboration scenarios impossible on standard laptops. The MIL-STD-810H certification and antimicrobial keyboard coating provide reassurance for frequent travelers or healthcare/education environments. The brighter display performs better in challenging lighting. The 2TB cloud storage benefits users deeply integrated into Google Workspace. Power users, business professionals, presenters, and those needing maximum processing headroom should choose the ASUS.
For the majority of users, the Acer Chromebook Plus 514 represents exceptional value that's difficult to beat - especially at sale prices. The ASUS commands its premium through specific advantages that matter tremendously to certain users but less to others. Both deliver excellent Chromebook Plus experiences with 8+ years of updates, full Google AI integration, and solid build quality.
Go Deeper:
Meet James, our go-to tech guru and seasoned reviewer. His sharp attention to detail and love for gadgets drive his deep dives into the newest tech waves. James's insightful analysis and real zest for breakthroughs have earned him a solid reputation in the tech world.
