Google's new $280 Chromebook is great if you're broke and need a computer

Meet the HP Chromebook 11

The Chromebook 11
(Image credit: Google)

Today, Google announced the latest version of its Chromebook, a cheap, functional machine that does most everything you need it to.

If you're not familiar with Chromebooks, just imagine a laptop that runs a Chrome browser and not much else. The big plus is that a Chromebook costs just a fraction of what a normal laptop does (the beautiful but expensive Chromebook Pixel notwithstanding), and unlike tablets, the Chromebook is arguably better for getting work done thanks to the keyboard and the Chrome browser's ability to run multiple tabs and windows simultaneously.

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Chris Gayomali is the science and technology editor for TheWeek.com. Previously, he was a tech reporter at TIME. His work has also appeared in Men's Journal, Esquire, and The Atlantic, among other places. Follow him on Twitter and Facebook.