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This isn't the Chromebook for everyone, but it offers enough to be a compelling option for those who need ultimate portability.

The quick take

The Chromebook Flip is pushing the envelope of what we consider a "standard" Chromebook, with extreme portability, good components and the option to convert into a pseudo-tablet. At 10.1 inches and less than two pounds it's easily the smallest Chromebook we've used, and that has positives but also makes it tough to work with when compared to a "full-sized" laptop. The internals offer solid performance while also keeping battery life long and heat to a minimum despite not having fans, and the LED backlit display looks great while also packing good multitouch capability.

The Good

• Insanely portable
• Brilliant screen with touch
• Solid build for the price
• Good performance

The Bad

• Keyboard and trackpad are cramped
• Not really suited for lap use
• Tablet mode can be awkward
• Speakers are easily covered

ASUS Chromebook Flip Full Review

Browsing online or stepping into a store looking for a Chromebook, it's hard not to get a little bored wading through swaths of unambiguous cheap plastic laptops. They all kind of look the same, feel the same, perform the same and have nearly identical features. For all but the most discerning of Chromebook buyers, simply throwing a dart at a wall full of Chromebook pictures would probably give you a good choice should you buy it. But if you're paying enough attention you can get one that's ahead of the rest.

ASUS launched the Chromebook Flip hoping to be one of those standout options, differentiating itself from the pack with higher-end materials, a new convertible form factor and a nice screen. An aluminum chassis stands out, and the nice touchscreen is easy on the eyes and folds back into a few different modes to expand your Chromebook experience. The whole package comes in under two pounds but retains full functionality, which is a tough feat.

It sounds like ASUS has worked up a winning combination with the Chromebook Flip — we'll show you if the hype translates into a great Chromebook.

About this review

We're writing this review after a week using a production model of the Chromebook Flip, running on the stable channel of Chrome OS and kept up to date throughout the review. We have the C100PA-DB02 model, which has 16GB of storage and 4GB of RAM.