HP Chromebook 11 G6 Ee review exploring performance, design, and value for everyday tasks

Description

Compact Design and Portability

I’ve been using the HP Chromebook 11 G6 Ee for a while, and its lightweight design really stands out. Weighing just 2.7 pounds and measuring 8.18 x 8.1 x 0.7 inches, this compact device is incredibly easy to carry around. Whether I’m moving between rooms at home or tossing it into my bag for a coffee shop session, it doesn’t feel like a burden. The 11.6-inch screen strikes a good balance between portability and usability, especially for someone like me who doesn’t need a massive display but still wants a decent viewing experience.

The black finish gives it a professional look, though it’s not particularly flashy. For a refurbished laptop, I’d say the build quality is solid, and it doesn’t feel cheap or flimsy in hand. However, the bezels around the screen are a bit thick for my taste, which makes it look slightly dated compared to sleeker alternatives.

Performance and Everyday Usability

Running on an Intel Celeron processor with a clock speed of 1.1 GHz, this Chromebook delivers adequate performance for everyday tasks. I’ve used it primarily for browsing, streaming, and light work like editing documents on Google Docs. The 4 GB of DDR3 RAM ensures multitasking is possible, though it’s not a powerhouse by any means. When I had multiple tabs open, including YouTube and a couple of Google Sheets, there was a noticeable slowdown. For someone with heavier demands, this might be frustrating.

The Chrome OS operating system is snappy and straightforward to use. It boots up in seconds, which is a big plus when I’m in a hurry. It’s also seamless to sync with my Google account—something I’ve come to expect with Chromebooks. However, the 16 GB of internal storage feels painfully limited. I had to rely on cloud storage almost immediately, as downloading just a few files filled it up fast.

Battery Life That Lasts

One of the key benefits of this Chromebook is its 11-hour battery life. I’ve tested it while working on the go, and it easily lasted through a full day of moderate use. Streaming a couple of episodes on Netflix hardly made a dent in the battery. For students or anyone who’s constantly on the move, this is a lifesaver. I didn’t find myself reaching for the charger as often as I would with other laptops, which is a huge convenience.

• Long-lasting battery for all-day use.
• No need to carry a charger everywhere.
• Efficient power management for light tasks.

Display: Adequate but Not Exceptional

The 1366 x 768 resolution on the 11.6-inch screen is decent for basic tasks like reading emails or watching videos at 720p. Colors are reasonably vibrant, though the display doesn’t get particularly bright. If you plan on using it outdoors or in a room with a lot of natural light, the glossy screen can be difficult to view due to reflections.

The lack of a Full HD resolution might bother some users, especially if you’re used to sharper displays. I found it suitable for casual viewing, but if you’re into photo editing or need precise details, this screen won’t cut it.

Connectivity and Ports

I was pleasantly surprised by the 802.11abg wireless support, which provided a stable and reliable connection. Streaming and browsing were smooth, even when multiple devices were connected to the same network. The Chromebook also includes 1 USB 3.0 port, which is great for fast data transfers, and a couple of USB 2.0 ports for peripherals. The lack of an HDMI port is a bit of a downside, as I couldn’t connect it directly to my external monitor for a larger display.

The inclusion of an SD card slot is a bonus, especially considering the limited internal storage. I’ve used it to expand storage temporarily, but it’s not a perfect solution for everyone.

Positives

• Lightweight and portable, ideal for travel or school.
• Quick boot times thanks to Chrome OS.
• Excellent battery life lasting up to 11 hours.
• Affordable option for basic tasks and students.
• Good build quality for a refurbished product.

Limitations

• Limited internal storage at 16 GB, making external storage a necessity.
• Low screen resolution and thick bezels, giving it an outdated appearance.
• Performance slows down with too many tabs or apps open.
• No HDMI port, restricting connectivity to external displays.

Market Rivals

When comparing this Chromebook to other budget-friendly laptops, the Acer Chromebook 311 and Lenovo Chromebook Duet come to mind. The Acer model offers similar specs but often includes a slightly larger screen, which can be beneficial for extended use. However, it doesn’t match the battery life of the HP Chromebook 11 G6 Ee. The Lenovo Duet, on the other hand, stands out with its tablet mode and detachable keyboard, making it a more versatile option for those who prefer flexibility.

Where this Chromebook excels is in its durability and practical design, making it a better choice for students or professionals who prioritize portability. The limited storage and somewhat dated display, however, might push users toward the Lenovo model, especially if they value a more modern aesthetic.

Price Performance

In terms of price to quality ratio, this Chromebook does a good job of delivering value for its cost. It’s a budget-friendly option for those who need a reliable secondary device or a simple machine for light tasks. While the specs are far from cutting-edge, the refurbished quality ensures you’re getting something that works well without breaking the bank. If your primary needs involve word processing, browsing, and streaming, this device is worth considering. However, for more intensive tasks or future-proofing, investing in a slightly pricier alternative might be a better long-term move.

Additional information