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Samsung Chromebook 3 (11.6", 4GB RAM, 16GB eMMC) $236.75 + Delivery (Free with Prime) @ Amazon Global via Amazon AU

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I've been looking for a cheap, decent quality, reliable chromebook and settled on this. After seeing Amazon drop their price ~$50, I thought I'd make my first post here.

Samsung Chromebook 3 (XE500C13-K04US) $236.75 + 31.05 delivery (I signed up for another Prime Trial for free delivery)

  • 11.6" 1366x768 LED
  • 4GB DDR3 RAM
  • 1.6 GHz Intel Celeron N3060
  • 1x USB3.0, 1x USB2.0, HDMI, MicroSD slot, Headphone jack
  • 1.15 kg

Reviews talk up its bright, accurate screen, strong performance and 9.5 hr battery life.

Laptop Mag - Best Value 2019

Price History

Let me know how I've screwed up my first post and I'll fix it.

Don't forget cashback!

Price History at C CamelCamelCamel.

Related Stores

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Amazon AU
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Amazon Global Store

closed Comments

  • +7

    Just a tip - This Chromebook may not support Andriod apps in the stable OS channel - go beta if cannot access.
    (I'm still waiting for my acer 730e to get it - boo, hiss @ g00gle).

  • +9

    Good first post OP!

  • Is this fairly decent value for money?

    • +3

      It certainly is.

    • +1

      Most likely outperform most new windows laptops below $300-$500+-, unless you can snare one with upper level Pentium or entry level i3 and at least 6gb-8gb ram. Software is another story though, personal choice to suit your own needs.

  • +1

    Nice first post OP. love reading post for affordable laptops/chromebooks/tablets/phones etc.

    I have been a member since May 2013 and you have one more post than me lol.

    I do my best to help out with comments though, we all have our strengths and weaknesses I suppose.

    • +4

      Isn't that called ozstalking

      • +5

        I'm watching you.

  • +1

    Chromebooks are amazing. Never lag. No viruses ever. Fast and light with amazing battery.

    • +1

      will be interesting with google stadia.

      • Not launching in Australia at launch and I don't see it happening in the foreseeable future either.

    • It can still get virus just erased after reboot

    • +10

      No viruses ever

      This is like worse than Mac user ignorance LMAO.

    • +1

      I've got a bit of lag on mine. But mine is a sub-$400 Chromebook. I'm really interested in the AMD ones that are coming out.

      But there's little resale value for Chromebooks here. Can't imagine selling mine off for more than $100.

    • +5

      If you're the family tech support I can't recommend them enough.

  • -1

    Get what you pay for, screens not usable https://youtu.be/IsNyjE5CXjs

    • +3

      That review is from a slightly older model, probably same screen though. Both of these reviews talk about how good this models screen is compared to others in its class.

  • +3

    would it be worth buying just to watch movies on or take uni notes? Or is the screen etc just too weak?

    • +4

      Oh hell yeah. As long as it's indoor, it's fine.

      I have a 1k xiaomi laptop and even that is unusable in sunlight, so good luck getting that solved in this price range.

    • Tablet might be better resolution

    • Thanks!

    • id recommend a tablet instead

    • +3

      Definitely worth it. My battery lasts 8 hours easily. I never bring my charger with me.

      If you need MS Office, you can get the Android version on there. Good enough for simple documents.

      Watching videos, streaming, light Android gaming… Chrome OS is definitely ready for prime time.

    • -1

      720p resolution

  • +2

    The YouTube review of screen was shot in outdoor and not indoor. My suggestion would be to check this out at indoor and probably it may not be as bad as portrayed in the video.

  • +6

    Just need to aware Google will end its support to this model on Jun 2021.
    https://support.google.com/chrome/a/answer/6220366?hl=en

    • what does that mean ?

      • +30

        On June 1st 2021 at 0001hrs an alarm will sound on your Chromecast and 10 seconds later its CPU will create a controlled detonation incinerating the device.

        • +5

          Part of me wants to buy it in the hope the detonation happens

        • +1

          Great. I'll buy it for my mother in law.

      • +1

        copied from link above. Google make it very clear.
        "Auto Update policy
        Overview
        Chrome devices receive automatic updates regularly that enhance both the device itself and the software on the device. Chrome device updates are designed to be simple for the user and, therefore, include updates to the device, Chrome operating system, browser and firmware. However, end-to-end updates for all our devices to ensure the highest levels of security requires dependencies on many third-party hardware and software providers so we cannot indefinitely ensure that older Chrome devices will receive updates to enable new OS and browser features.

        General policy
        Each device has an Auto Update Expiration (AUE) date listed; this means that before this date, devices will receive new software updates from Google.

        Google provides each new hardware platform with 6.5 years of Auto Update support. Multiple devices can share the same hardware platform. The 6.5 years starts when the first device on the platform is released(1). Manufacturers are advised to choose the newest platforms to ensure that they produce devices that have the longest Auto Update support available.

        Google will provide advanced notice of a model’s AUE date on this page, giving buyers time to make purchase decisions. Devices that are due to have an AUE date within 90 days will be highlighted in bold. Please check the Auto Update Expiration date when making a purchasing decision.

        Chrome device models that have not reached their AUE date will continue to receive OS updates and function with the business and education management service.

        When a device reaches AUE, it means that automatic software updates from Google will no longer be provided.

        Enrolled Chrome devices that have reached their AUE date will no longer receive technical support from Google.

        Business and education customers using devices that have passed their AUE date should not expect that they can manage their devices as expected using the Google Admin console or leverage new management features released.

        The End of Sale date is controlled by the manufacturer of the device model and has no relation to model’s AUE date."

    • This is the only reason I don't want a chromebook. It's stupid that Google can't just make one unified OS for their tablet and chromebook platform, and just support them the same way microsoft does.

      Is there custom rom for these?

      Edit: just read the link. Just realised that they still have fragmentation issues even with pc parts. Nvm.

      • That's normal for Google look at Android phones.

        But it's more down to vendor to manage updates unlike apple

        • Yeah, and I don't like that about phones too, so thank goodness for the custom rom community.

    • +5

      You may be able to install CloudReady on the unit after that date https://www.neverware.com/freedownload

    • But how long has these laptop been out for?

      Google provides each new hardware platform with 6.5 years of Auto Update support

      • del

      • It doesn't really matter how long this laptop has been out for. Google's policy states that multiple devices can share the same hardware platform and that the 6.5 years support starts when the first device using that hardware platform is released.

        • So Samsung has reused the platform. Not Google's fault

  • Seeing as this is from Amazon US through Prime, does it have any warranty?

  • Would this be a good laptop for writing? (I assume it doesn't come with Microsoft Word though?)

    • +1

      Basically Chrome browser only, unless you can get the Word Android app working on it… And you have O365.

      • There is word for Chrome. Have you not used Chrome books?

    • +1

      Was thinking this but tbh a google doc might just be better if you'd be like me and switching between machines

      • That's a great idea! You can set it up for offline as well right?

        • -1

          Depends, Chrome books are very internet focused.

    • If all you're doing with it is to write, then it'll is more than enough.

    • Office 365 or google apps

  • Could use this as dedicated machine for emails and internet banking?

    • Definitely, as long as the bank doesn't require a specific browser…

    • Yes it comes with chrome browser

  • Im assuming it would come with a US charger? Would have to factor a new charger into the cost. Hmm, very tempted

    • +1

      Most notebook chargers are dual voltage, so you can just use a travel adaptor with the US charger.

  • available memory for user roughly 5 gigs

  • good post, thanks OP
    exactly what I am looking for!
    Have been looking for a decent chromebook for my sister for her school work :)

  • Might be a stupid question for some. I'll ask anyway….

    Is it possible to charge one of these things by USB?

    • +1

      Not this model, no

  • +6

    FYI all, I just got a Dell Chromebook 3189 2-in-1 from the outlet which has the same specs as this Chromebook. I like travelling with Chromebooks because they're a beater-type machine which are pretty robust and also cheaply replaceable should they be lost or damaged. I also like the fact that everything on the unit is safe in case of theft or loss - yes, a new owner can powerwash the machine and use it for themselves, but machines are replaceable, my data isn't.

    My Dell runs Android apps well - similar to this Samsung. The Dell, coming from the outlet, has 1 year NBD on site warranty which was amazing considering it was included in the $270 ish purchase price.

    I've found it a little slower than the Acer CB3-111 that I purchased in an earlier Ozbargain deal. That machine has an N2840 w/2gb ram which on specs should be slower, but has more teh snappy than the Dell. The usability of the touchscreen and different physical configurations (touchscreen tablet, tent, laptop) of the Dell and it's ability to run Android apps won me over in the end. I can use Kayo and Foxtel Go (via Android) on the Dell and they working 100% ok. The Acer CB3 is also due to be EOLed by Google this year so at least the Dell would give me until May 2022 to choose another Chromebook model for beyond that date. I was looking at a Chromebook Plus v2 M3 but wanted to see how the Chromebook was as a touch device/tablet prior to dropping $700+ for a Chromebook. Netflix and Plex run well in the browser.

    I've installed MS Word Android App as well as using the one in the Browser - I found the one in the browser is more responsive, plus autohiding the dock thingy gives it more usable space. The screen resolution is enough to type Uni assignments on.

    I had an extra 16gb MicroSD card which was excess from a previous OZB Amazon deal (the Strontium three pack deal) which I keep in the machine for scratch storage. Obviously this is easily removable and not encrypted like the internal storage but good to have just in case.

    Hope that all helps.

    • Very helpful! My only question is how did you managed to get a 3189 for $270. Do you have a link to this deal?

      • +1

        They come up on Dell Outlet from time to time - none at the moment but keep on checking

        https://www.dell.com/en-au/outlet/SystemsStockRoomDetails?~c…

        • Bugger. Thank's for the link either way, I'll keep an eye out. Clearly the better option with 2-in-1 functionality and the other points you mentioned. Just shame there's no deal running at the moment. I might see see if any other models show any promise too.

    • If you using Google admin you can remotely disable the machine if stolen

      • +1

        I'm not about to start a school or company to be able to wipe my Chromebook. The free gsuite account I have doesn't have the functionality either. :(

  • I’m looking for something similar to this laptop but suitable for travel (I.e. small and light). Can anyone recommend something better than this for a similar price point or is this what I should go for?
    Thanks!

    • +2

      11" is about as small as laptops get apart from the occasional 10". If this isn't small enouth you probably need a tablet.

    • +1

      I have an old Acer Chromebook CB3-111 that has a similar size and weight and I think it's suitable for travel. Depends what you mean by small and light and what you'll use it for.

    • +1

      This is as light as they get unless you go for a MacBook 12

  • I dont really know much about chromebooks, other than the whole OS runs on chrome browser like thing and that you can download apps.

    Just wondering, if its possible to run note+++, pythons or other beginners level programming programs? Should I treat chromebook like linux? or is it completely different?
    anyone know? any advice/ help would be much appreciated.

    I dont plan on playing any games.
    I plan to watch netflix, youtube and do some python/note+++ stuffs.

    • +1

      Some Chromebooks are able to run (containerised) Linux applications - check out Crostini - https://www.reddit.com/r/Crostini/comments/b1uey1/recommende…

      (you'd want a Chromebook with more than 16gb storage like this deal, though)

    • +1

      It's like Android heaps of apps available for chromium or you can install Android apps as well

  • +1

    I've recently started using CloudReady on a 3 or 4 year old HP Envy X2 I had sitting around and didn't use much anymore due to only being 4gb RAM and not able to be upgraded to 8gb for Win 10, works great and a good way to trial using a Chromebook.

    OK you don't any probably never will get Android apps with CloudReady. but I haven't actually found I needed Android apps.

    I'm a tech addict so I may buy an actual Chromebook one day but really this does all I could want from Chromebook at this stage. I use CloudReady on a USB drive and have just set the Envy X2 to boot from the USB drive first, so if the USB isn't inserted it still boots to Windows 10.

    My Envy X2 has detachable backlit BlueTooth keyboard (that one with the grey material on the back), pen input, Core M 5Y10c processor, touchscreen (so it's a ChromePad too) and Beats speakers. Not bad for using as a Chromebook.

  • Could someone explain the difference between a Chromebook and something like a Galaxy S4 tablet + keyboard?

    I've always used laptops that run Windows so have no experience with Chromebooks and their utility, but the price of them seem attractive.

    I mainly use my current laptop (XPS 13) for work with some moderate graphic requirements.

    • Chrome laptop VS Android tablet

  • +1

    I set up about 1200 Chrome books a couple years ago for an education company. They are good for security. With Google admin controls to remotely erase data, lock machine with message where to return (no way around that locking).

    Apps there is many chromium based apps and ability for Android but I would go chromium base over Android unless you have a touchscreen.

    We set up google apps as the primarily app suite for Word, Excel based type apps. Google drive is good for keeping your data synced remotely. There is chromium version of Word, Excel etc. Based on office 365 just like in Android and iPhone. You don't have memory to install Windows based office and even windows is moving away from the old way of office.

    They are good for anyone that just needs a laptop for basic requirements suitable for education departments.

  • Are there any similarly priced touch screen models?

    • See comments above.

  • Does anyone know if I'll be able to claim TRS refund on this product?
    How does it work with Amazon Global?

  • +2

    Tourist Refund Scheme requires total purchase transaction of at least $300.

    • Yep, forgot about it.
      But generally assuming you're purchasing on Amazon AU something that sold from Global Amazon and assuming it costs more than $300. Would you be eligible to claim TRS?

  • Is there a big difference between Chrome Web Store and Google Play Store on a Chromebook?

  • +3

    I believe the answer is yes, CheckMateWin, if you go thru Amazon AU, even if the goods are coming from US. You are are being charged GST, and Amazon can supply a correct tax invoice.

  • Is that the same ? seems a bit cheaper…

    • That is the exact same item, but you're viewing it on the US site so it's in US$ instead of AU$. Change amazon.com in the address to amazon.com.au and it will come up as the same price as in the deal.

  • +1

    Can’t it run fortnite in 4K

    • +1

      No, can only run it in 4.

  • Best low end chromebook in the market.

  • Thanks OP, bought one to try out ChromeOS and provide something (relatively) indestructible for the kids

    • if they only use chrome, it could be great for them. You can have multiple accounts too.

      If it were me, i'd have a google account for each kid, so homework etc can always be picked up on a different device.

      Keep in mind there is no word, just google docs.

  • i LOVE my old chromebook, lightweight, battery is stunning, impossible(?) to get viruses.

    BUT the OS is limited. If you want to know if you can use chrome OS, then open up chrome on your other computer and never quit. If you can, then all good. If you need it for something else… then proceed with caution. There are work arounds for some things, but it's not straight forward.

  • So am I being daft. I click the link and it shows me a price of $435.

  • -1

    anyone copped one of these willing to let it go for $280?

    • "copped one"??? is't copping usually a bad/negative thing?

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