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Acer Chromebook Spin 511 R752T in review - The 2-in-1 laptop for the classroom

The Acer Chromebook Spin is one of the digital devices that Austria's school-age children will get starting in fall 2021. The laptop is inexpensive and offers a balanced performance. The most pressing question that arises in the test is: Can a laptop with Chrome OS replace a computer with Windows?

In the summer of 2021, the calls for tenders for digital terminals for Austria's school children ran. The four categories of the competition are Android tablet, Chromebook laptop, iOS tablet and Windows laptop. In the category Chromebook, the Acer Chromebook Spin 511 R752T-C26N tested by us was able to win. The slim convertible convinces with a low weight, silent operation and good system performance. According to the 25% rule, the private contribution for the laptop is only 84.27 Euros (~$95). This makes the Acer Chromebook the most affordable option for learners at Austria's schools. The schools themselves decide which device type from the tender categories they use.

For use in schools, the Chromebooks can be centrally managed using Google Workspace for Education. The Agency for Education and Internationalization provides a guide for device management. Compared to the Windows laptops for schools, of which we already have the Lenovo ThinkBook 14 tested, a laptop with Chrome OS offers some advantages and disadvantages. The hardware adapted to the operating system can work much more efficiently and Google's operating system also has an advantage in terms of security. However, Chromebooks are heavily dependent on the Google Play Store when it comes to software selection, and offline operation is not as unrestricted as under Microsoft's operating system.

Our test database also includes tests for the iPad 10.2 and the Samsung Galaxy Tab S6 Lite can be found. These are tender winners in the iOS and Android tablet categories.

Acer Chromebook Spin 511 R752T-C26N (Chromebook Spin Series)
Processor
Intel Celeron N4120 4 x 1.1 GHz, Gemini Lake Refresh
Graphics adapter
Memory
7.7 GB 
Display
11.60 inch 16:9, 1366 x 768 pixel 135 PPI, yes, IPS-Grade, glossy: yes, 60 Hz
Connections
4 USB 3.1 Gen2, USB-C Power Delivery (PD), 1 DisplayPort, 1 Kensington Lock, Audio Connections: 3.5 mm Headset, Card Reader: micro SD, Sensors: Accelerometer, Gyroscop, Gravity sensor
Networking
Intel Wireless-AC 9560 (a/b/g/n = Wi-Fi 4/ac = Wi-Fi 5/)
Size
height x width x depth (in mm): 20 x 296 x 205 ( = 0.79 x 11.65 x 8.07 in)
Battery
41 Wh Lithium-Ion
Operating System
Google Chrome OS
Camera
Webcam: 0.9 MP
Additional features
Speakers: Stereo, Keyboard Light: no, 48 Months Warranty, fanless
Weight
1.18 kg ( = 41.62 oz / 2.6 pounds), Power Supply: 330 g ( = 11.64 oz / 0.73 pounds)
Price
337.08 Euro
Note: The manufacturer may use components from different suppliers including display panels, drives or memory sticks with similar specifications.

 

Possible competitors in comparison

Rating
Date
Model
Weight
Height
Size
Resolution
Best Price
80.3 %
11/2021
Acer Chromebook Spin 511 R752T-C26N
Celeron N4120, UHD Graphics 600
1.2 kg20 mm11.60"1366x768
83.6 %
09/2021
Asus Chromebook Flip CX5 CX5500FEA
i7-1165G7, Iris Xe G7 96EUs
2 kg18.5 mm15.60"1920x1080
80.7 %
12/2020
Acer Chromebook 15 CB315-3HT-P297
Pentium N5030, UHD Graphics 605
1.9 kg20.3 mm15.60"1920x1080
86.2 %
04/2021
Acer Chromebook Spin 713 CP713-2W-560V
i5-10210U, UHD Graphics 620
1.4 kg16.8 mm13.50"2256x1504
81.5 %
06/2019
HP Chromebook 14 G5
Celeron N3350, HD Graphics 500
1.5 kg18.3 mm14.00"1920x1080
83.6 %
Lenovo ThinkBook 14 G2 ITL 20VDS02G00
i3-1115G4, UHD Graphics Xe G4 48EUs
1.5 kg17.9 mm14.00"1920x1080
83.1 %
06/2020
Samsung Galaxy Tab S6 Lite
Exynos 9611, Mali-G72 MP3
467 g7 mm10.40"2000x1200
88 %
10/2020
Apple iPad 10.2 2020
A12 Bionic, A12 Bionic GPU
495 g7.5 mm10.20"2160x1620

Case - Can the plastic withstand the stresses of everyday school life?

The Acer Chromebook Spin 511 is a relatively simple convertible. A very wide display bezel and a lot of plastic determine the exterior. However, the 2-in-1 laptop does not look cheap. Good workmanship and high stability determine the overall impression of the digital end device for Austria's school-age children. In practice, the 1.2 kg (~2.65 lb) laptop should be able to withstand the stresses of everyday school life. The display is protected by the Antimicrobial Corning Gorilla Glass. This resistant glass is supposed to prevent the growth of germs with silver ions. This is certainly a good feature, especially in the hectic school routine.

The pinstripe surface of the case lid, a gray border running around the base, and the painted hinges break up the black plastic dominated surface of the Chromebook. The chrome logo on the lid also provides a small splash of color. All in all, the casing's looks and quality are high.

The Acer Chromebook does not weigh much in the school bag. With a thickness of only 2 cm (~0.8 in) and a weight of 1180 g (~2.6 lb), the convertible is in the same range as most school books. The power supply adds another 330 grams (~11.6 oz) to the school bag.

Size Comparison

357 mm / 14.1 inch 240 mm / 9.45 inch 18.5 mm / 0.728 inch 2 kg4.3 lbs337 mm / 13.3 inch 226 mm / 8.9 inch 18.3 mm / 0.72 inch 1.5 kg3.4 lbs301 mm / 11.9 inch 235 mm / 9.25 inch 16.8 mm / 0.661 inch 1.4 kg3.02 lbs296 mm / 11.7 inch 205 mm / 8.07 inch 20 mm / 0.787 inch 1.2 kg2.6 lbs297 mm / 11.7 inch 210 mm / 8.27 inch 1 mm / 0.03937 inch 5.7 g0.01257 lbs

Equipment - Full port selection only with USB-C adapters

Two USB 3.2 Type-A and two Type-C ports as well as a card reader are offered by Acer's Chromebook Spin. The 2-in-1 laptop does not need more, since screens can also be connected via the right USB-C port with a corresponding adapter. Both USB-C ports can be used for charging. All ports are easily accessible on both sides of the device without getting in each other's way.

Volume control, USB 3.2 Type-A, USB 3.2 Type-C with PowerDelivery and Display Port, Kensington lock slot
Volume control, USB 3.2 Type-A, USB 3.2 Type-C with PowerDelivery and Display Port, Kensington lock slot
Power button, power LED, USB 3.2 Type-C with PowerDelivery, USB 3.2 Type-A, microSD card reader, 3.5 mm headset jack
Power button, power LED, USB 3.2 Type-C with PowerDelivery, USB 3.2 Type-A, microSD card reader, 3.5 mm headset jack

SDCardreader

The microSD card reader in the Acer Spin is quite slow. Unfortunately, the card reader is the only way to expand the Chromebook's storage. In return, microSD cards can be fully inserted into the laptop and are securely locked. It is almost difficult to get an inserted microSD card out of the slot again.

SD Card Reader
average JPG Copy Test (av. of 3 runs)
Average of class Convertible
  (17.7 - 177.7, n=37, last 2 years)
73.9 MB/s +124%
Lenovo ThinkBook 14 G2 ITL 20VDS02G00
  (AV Pro V60)
72.3 (69.86min - 73.5max) MB/s +119%
Acer Chromebook Spin 713 CP713-2W-560V
  (Toshiba Exceria Pro M501 microSDXC 64GB)
57 MB/s +73%
Acer Chromebook Spin 511 R752T-C26N
  (AV Pro SD microSD 128 GB V60)
33 MB/s
maximum AS SSD Seq Read Test (1GB)
Average of class Convertible
  (22.6 - 263, n=35, last 2 years)
94.9 MB/s
Lenovo ThinkBook 14 G2 ITL 20VDS02G00
  (AV Pro V60)
86.9 MB/s

Communication

An Intel Wireless AC 9560 module connects the Acer Chromebook to other devices and the Internet via Wi-Fi 5 and Bluetooth 5.1. Thus, the 2-in-1 laptop is not state-of-the-art, but the network speed should be sufficient even for 4K streaming. The tested Windows laptop for Austrian schools also relies on this module, and was able to achieve transfer speeds of up to 688 Mbps.

Webcam

The image quality of the 0.9 MP webcam installed in the center of the display bezel is only acceptable in balanced lighting. Outside of a very limited area, the webcam's image is either very noisy or heavily overexposed, although other cameras image the object well in the same lighting conditions.

High color deviations and low sharpness also tarnish the camera's image. The test image shows washed-out edges in all areas. This makes it almost impossible to photograph homework.

ColorChecker
32.5 ∆E
30.3 ∆E
29.9 ∆E
34.1 ∆E
34.1 ∆E
28.2 ∆E
32.5 ∆E
31.5 ∆E
25.2 ∆E
31.6 ∆E
24 ∆E
25.8 ∆E
26.3 ∆E
27.2 ∆E
28.3 ∆E
17.8 ∆E
28.7 ∆E
33.8 ∆E
2.3 ∆E
11.8 ∆E
22.8 ∆E
29.5 ∆E
35 ∆E
25.5 ∆E
ColorChecker Acer Chromebook Spin 511 R752T-C26N: 27.04 ∆E min: 2.33 - max: 35.03 ∆E

Accessories

In the present configuration, the test device does not come with any accessories other than the power supply and paper documentation. Austria's school users have to do without the digital pen that is included in other configurations of the Chromebook Spin 511. Since the digital device will probably have to run on battery power most of the time in schools, the purchase of a powerbank with USB-C and PowerDelivery could be worthwhile because even very small amounts of energy are sufficient for the economical 2-in-1 laptop to run.

Maintenance

Even though the Chromebook can be opened easily, hardly any component inside can be replaced. Only the WLAN module can be replaced. Replacing the battery would be possible in principle, but it would require more effort because it was fixed with glue and tape in many places.

Warranty

In accordance with the award guidelines for digital terminal equipment, the two-year manufacturer's warranty is extended by an additional two years, bringing the warranty period to four years. The information page of the OeAD also recommends taking out electronics insurance against loss and theft and regularly backing up data.

Input devices - The keyboard is loud, fortunately the Chromebook has a touchscreen

Keyboard

The 15 × 15 mm keys with a key drop of a good 2 mm have a quite strong haptic feedback. Thus, the Acer Chromebook seems well suited for learning to type. Only the keyboard noise might tempt you to use the large on-screen keyboard in the long run. However, the on-screen keyboard is also more suitable for beginners in unfavorable lighting conditions, since the physical keyboard does not have a backlight. The keyboard layout is almost the same as a standard keyboard, only the caps lock key has been replaced with a quick search key.

Touchpad

The built-in touchpad scores with a pleasantly smooth surface and high precision. All gestures that Chorme OS offers are recognized by the ClickPad without any problems.

Touchscreen

The 10-finger multi-touchscreen of the student laptop works satisfactorily without major latencies or perceptible deviations. The smooth, anti-microbial Corning Gorilla Glass accepts comparatively few fingerprints and is easy to clean.

Display - The Acer Chromebook clearly loses points here

Neither the 11.6-inch screen nor the resolution of 1366 × 768 pixels of the Acer Chromebook Spin 511 can convince. However, the 2-in-1 laptop offers a very high contrast ratio of 2645:1. Texts are thus well readable and the screen can also convince when playing movies. The average display brightness of only 271 cd/m² might seem a bit low at first glance, but it is not particularly annoying due to the high contrast.

Neither halos nor other annoying illumination defects are perceptible on the screen. Thus, the screen is good in summary, even though we unfortunately had to notice that the screen brightness is regulated via PWM. The flickering is at 1000 Hz and should thus only cause problems for the fewest people.

291
cd/m²
286
cd/m²
256
cd/m²
280
cd/m²
291
cd/m²
266
cd/m²
261
cd/m²
263
cd/m²
246
cd/m²
Distribution of brightness
tested with X-Rite i1Pro 2
Maximum: 291 cd/m² (Nits) Average: 271.1 cd/m² Minimum: 14 cd/m²
Brightness Distribution: 85 %
Center on Battery: 291 cd/m²
Contrast: 2645:1 (Black: 0.11 cd/m²)
ΔE Color 8.14 | 0.5-29.43 Ø5
ΔE Greyscale 5.84 | 0.57-98 Ø5.3
Gamma: 2.5
Acer Chromebook Spin 511 R752T-C26N
IPS-Grade, 1366x768, 11.60
Asus Chromebook Flip CX5 CX5500FEA
IPS, 1920x1080, 15.60
Lenovo ThinkBook 14 G2 ITL 20VDS02G00
AU Optronics B140HAN04.E, a-Si IPS LED, 1920x1080, 14.00
Samsung Galaxy Tab S6 Lite
TFT, 2000x1200, 10.40
Apple iPad 10.2 2020
IPS, 2160x1620, 10.20
Display
Display P3 Coverage
37.2
sRGB Coverage
55.5
AdobeRGB 1998 Coverage
38.4
Response Times
-3%
-23%
2686%
4%
Response Time Grey 50% / Grey 80% *
33 ?(15, 18)
35 ?(16, 19)
-6%
45.9 ?(21.2, 24.7)
-39%
45.2 ?(21.2, 24)
-37%
39.2 ?(18.8, 20.4)
-19%
Response Time Black / White *
27 ?(14, 13)
27 ?(15, 12)
-0%
29 ?(15.7, 13.3)
-7%
27.2 ?(14, 13.2)
-1%
20 ?(7.6, 12.4)
26%
PWM Frequency
1000 ?(90)
81970 ?(16)
8097%
Screen
5%
-15%
3%
-12%
Brightness middle
291
282
-3%
386
33%
503
73%
477
64%
Brightness
271
259
-4%
348
28%
477
76%
452
67%
Brightness Distribution
85
84
-1%
83
-2%
91
7%
86
1%
Black Level *
0.11
0.15
-36%
0.29
-164%
0.29
-164%
0.5
-355%
Contrast
2645
1880
-29%
1331
-50%
1734
-34%
954
-64%
Colorchecker dE 2000 *
8.14
5.55
32%
6.3
23%
4.4
46%
2.2
73%
Colorchecker dE 2000 max. *
19.9
7.46
63%
18.3
8%
10.4
48%
5
75%
Greyscale dE 2000 *
5.84
4.97
15%
5.4
8%
7.5
-28%
3.3
43%
Gamma
2.5 88%
2.41 91%
2.55 86%
2.19 100%
2.23 99%
CCT
6761 96%
6473 100%
5894 110%
7700 84%
7019 93%
Colorchecker dE 2000 calibrated *
4.1
Total Average (Program / Settings)
1% / 3%
-19% / -16%
1345% / 735%
-4% / -9%

* ... smaller is better

The average color deviation of ΔΕ 5.84 is in a range where single colors are not displayed that correctly. However, the color representation does not have to be perfect for a laptop that is primarily used with applications like word processing programs and similar office applications. Only in art classes could the screen's color representation be found annoying.

Despite the screen's low brightness in combination with a highly reflective display surface, texts are well legible in outdoor use. Sometimes the reflections on the display glass can be tiring. Reading is easier with an appropriate alignment of the screen.

Display Response Times

Display response times show how fast the screen is able to change from one color to the next. Slow response times can lead to afterimages and can cause moving objects to appear blurry (ghosting). Gamers of fast-paced 3D titles should pay special attention to fast response times.
       Response Time Black to White
27 ms ... rise ↗ and fall ↘ combined↗ 14 ms rise
↘ 13 ms fall
The screen shows relatively slow response rates in our tests and may be too slow for gamers.
In comparison, all tested devices range from 0.1 (minimum) to 240 (maximum) ms. » 63 % of all devices are better.
This means that the measured response time is worse than the average of all tested devices (21.6 ms).
       Response Time 50% Grey to 80% Grey
33 ms ... rise ↗ and fall ↘ combined↗ 15 ms rise
↘ 18 ms fall
The screen shows slow response rates in our tests and will be unsatisfactory for gamers.
In comparison, all tested devices range from 0.2 (minimum) to 636 (maximum) ms. » 38 % of all devices are better.
This means that the measured response time is similar to the average of all tested devices (33.9 ms).

Screen Flickering / PWM (Pulse-Width Modulation)

To dim the screen, some notebooks will simply cycle the backlight on and off in rapid succession - a method called Pulse Width Modulation (PWM) . This cycling frequency should ideally be undetectable to the human eye. If said frequency is too low, users with sensitive eyes may experience strain or headaches or even notice the flickering altogether.
Screen flickering / PWM detected 1000 Hz ≤ 90 % brightness setting

The display backlight flickers at 1000 Hz (worst case, e.g., utilizing PWM) Flickering detected at a brightness setting of 90 % and below. There should be no flickering or PWM above this brightness setting.

The frequency of 1000 Hz is quite high, so most users sensitive to PWM should not notice any flickering.

In comparison: 53 % of all tested devices do not use PWM to dim the display. If PWM was detected, an average of 18080 (minimum: 5 - maximum: 3846000) Hz was measured.

The viewing angle analysis reveals that the perceived screen brightness is strongly dependent on the viewing angle, while the color representation remains constant. However, this could also have a positive influence in the classroom. Bench neighbors are thus not distracted by extraneous screen content.

Performance - Sufficient for everyday life at school

Chrome OS is very frugal as an operating system and only requires little system performance. Usually, 4 GB of working memory and a moderately fast dual-core processor are enough for smooth work. Acer's Chromebook Spin 511 uses a SoC with four cores and 8 GB of working memory. Thus, the system performance is sufficient for office applications and other apps. Even most 3D apps from the Google Play Store should run on the convertible. Since the 2-in-1 laptop only costs 337.02 Euros (~$378), the hardware selection is reasonable.

Processor

The Intel Celeron N4120 is a very affordable processor from 2019 with an integrated Intel UHD Graphics 600. Despite passive cooling, the inexpensive processor was able to run steadily at around 2.5 GHz in the test.

The processor thus achieved moderate scores in our benchmarks. The Chromebook's computing power is sufficient for office and Internet applications. Probably not much more is demanded from the digital device in school. Chromebooks are generally very fast when it comes to boot and shutdown times. It only takes 4 seconds from pressing the power button to the login screen of the Acer Chromebook Spin.

The integrated Intel UHD Graphics 600 does not prove to be particularly powerful in the test. Comparing the results of the 3D benchmarks with mid-range smartphones, the graphics performance is significantly lower. But again, the clamshell computer is not purchased as a device for gaming.

Geekbench 5.5 / Multi-Core
Average of class Convertible
  (663 - 14016, n=68, last 2 years)
7974 Points +411%
Acer Chromebook Spin 713 CP713-2W-560V
Intel Core i5-10210U
3314 Points +112%
Apple iPad 10.2 2020
Apple A12 Bionic
2772 Points +78%
Lenovo ThinkBook 14 G2 ITL 20VDS02G00
Intel Core i3-1115G4
2500 Points +60%
Acer Chromebook Spin 511 R752T-C26N
Intel Celeron N4120
1561 Points
Average Intel Celeron N4120
  (1505 - 1561, n=3)
1525 Points -2%
Samsung Galaxy Tab S6 Lite
Samsung Exynos 9611
1207 Points -23%
Geekbench 5.5 / Single-Core
Average of class Convertible
  (319 - 1981, n=68, last 2 years)
1577 Points +251%
Lenovo ThinkBook 14 G2 ITL 20VDS02G00
Intel Core i3-1115G4
1275 Points +184%
Apple iPad 10.2 2020
Apple A12 Bionic
1116 Points +149%
Acer Chromebook Spin 713 CP713-2W-560V
Intel Core i5-10210U
949 Points +111%
Acer Chromebook Spin 511 R752T-C26N
Intel Celeron N4120
449 Points
Average Intel Celeron N4120
  (438 - 449, n=3)
442 Points -2%
Samsung Galaxy Tab S6 Lite
Samsung Exynos 9611
345 Points -23%
PCMark for Android / Work 3.0
Average of class Convertible
  (9775 - 11617, n=2, last 2 years)
10696 Points +19%
Acer Chromebook Spin 511 R752T-C26N
Intel Celeron N4120
8969 Points
Average Intel Celeron N4120
 
8969 Points 0%
PCMark for Android / Storage 2.0
Acer Chromebook Spin 511 R752T-C26N
Intel Celeron N4120
28061 Points
Average Intel Celeron N4120
 
28061 Points 0%
Average of class Convertible
  (9895 - 24872, n=2, last 2 years)
17384 Points -38%
3DMark / Sling Shot OpenGL ES 3.0 Physics
Acer Chromebook Spin 713 CP713-2W-560V
Intel Core i5-10210U
5418 Points +106%
Apple iPad 10.2 2020
Apple A12 Bionic
3040 Points +16%
Acer Chromebook Spin 511 R752T-C26N
Intel Celeron N4120
2632 Points
Average Intel Celeron N4120
 
2632 Points 0%
Samsung Galaxy Tab S6 Lite
Samsung Exynos 9611
2199 Points -16%
HP Chromebook 14 G5
Intel Celeron N3350
1184 Points -55%
3DMark / Sling Shot OpenGL ES 3.0 Graphics
Apple iPad 10.2 2020
Apple A12 Bionic
10023 Points +278%
Acer Chromebook Spin 713 CP713-2W-560V
Intel Core i5-10210U
5948 Points +125%
Acer Chromebook Spin 511 R752T-C26N
Intel Celeron N4120
2649 Points
Average Intel Celeron N4120
 
2649 Points 0%
HP Chromebook 14 G5
Intel Celeron N3350
2516 Points -5%
Samsung Galaxy Tab S6 Lite
Samsung Exynos 9611
2048 Points -23%
3DMark / Sling Shot OpenGL ES 3.0
Apple iPad 10.2 2020
Apple A12 Bionic
6636 Points +151%
Acer Chromebook Spin 713 CP713-2W-560V
Intel Core i5-10210U
5821 Points +120%
Acer Chromebook Spin 511 R752T-C26N
Intel Celeron N4120
2645 Points
Average Intel Celeron N4120
 
2645 Points 0%
Samsung Galaxy Tab S6 Lite
Samsung Exynos 9611
2088 Points -21%
HP Chromebook 14 G5
Intel Celeron N3350
2013 Points -24%
GFXBench / Aztec Ruins Normal Tier Onscreen
Average of class Convertible
  (12 - 77.8, n=3, last 2 years)
49.9 fps +177%
Apple iPad 10.2 2020
Apple A12 Bionic
37.01 fps +106%
HP Chromebook x360 14 G1
Intel Core i5-8350U
25 fps +39%
Acer Chromebook Spin 511 R752T-C26N
Intel Celeron N4120
18 fps
Average Intel Celeron N4120
 
18 fps 0%
HP Chromebook 14 G5
Intel Celeron N3350
10 fps -44%
Samsung Galaxy Tab S6 Lite
Samsung Exynos 9611
9.7 fps -46%
GFXBench / Aztec Ruins Normal Tier Offscreen
Average of class Convertible
  (11 - 193.7, n=3, last 2 years)
96.2 fps +775%
Apple iPad 10.2 2020
Apple A12 Bionic
62.4 fps +467%
HP Chromebook x360 14 G1
Intel Core i5-8350U
26 fps +136%
Acer Chromebook Spin 511 R752T-C26N
Intel Celeron N4120
11 fps
Average Intel Celeron N4120
 
11 fps 0%
Samsung Galaxy Tab S6 Lite
Samsung Exynos 9611
10 fps -9%
HP Chromebook 14 G5
Intel Celeron N3350
9.7 fps -12%
GFXBench / Car Chase Onscreen
Average of class Convertible
  (11 - 66.3, n=3, last 2 years)
45.8 fps +403%
Apple iPad 10.2 2020
Apple A12 Bionic
31.72 fps +249%
HP Chromebook x360 14 G1
Intel Core i5-8350U
25 fps +175%
Samsung Galaxy Tab S6 Lite
Samsung Exynos 9611
9.6 fps +5%
Acer Chromebook Spin 511 R752T-C26N
Intel Celeron N4120
9.1 fps
Average Intel Celeron N4120
 
9.1 fps 0%
HP Chromebook 14 G5
Intel Celeron N3350
8.8 fps -3%
GFXBench / Car Chase Offscreen
Average of class Convertible
  (10 - 155.8, n=3, last 2 years)
85.3 fps +827%
Apple iPad 10.2 2020
Apple A12 Bionic
51.3 fps +458%
HP Chromebook x360 14 G1
Intel Core i5-8350U
24 fps +161%
Samsung Galaxy Tab S6 Lite
Samsung Exynos 9611
10 fps +9%
Acer Chromebook Spin 511 R752T-C26N
Intel Celeron N4120
9.2 fps
Average Intel Celeron N4120
 
9.2 fps 0%
HP Chromebook 14 G5
Intel Celeron N3350
8.4 fps -9%
WebXPRT 3 / Overall
Average of class Convertible
  (84.2 - 366, n=64, last 2 years)
264 Points +149%
HP Chromebook x360 14 G1
Intel Core i5-8350U
203 Points +92%
Lenovo ThinkBook 14 G2 ITL 20VDS02G00
Intel Core i3-1115G4
203 Points +92%
Acer Chromebook Spin 713 CP713-2W-560V
Intel Core i5-10210U
190 Points +79%
Apple iPad 10.2 2020
Apple A12 Bionic
166 Points +57%
Acer Chromebook Spin 511 R752T-C26N
Intel Celeron N4120
106 Points
Average Intel Celeron N4120
  (85 - 106, n=4)
90.9 Points -14%
HP Chromebook 14 G5
Intel Celeron N3350
68 Points -36%
Samsung Galaxy Tab S6 Lite
Samsung Exynos 9611
54 Points -49%
Octane V2 / Total Score
Average of class Convertible
  (23395 - 92146, n=17, last 2 years)
76235 Points +311%
Acer Chromebook Spin 713 CP713-2W-560V
Intel Core i5-10210U
41604 Points +124%
Apple iPad 10.2 2020
Apple A12 Bionic
41443 Points +124%
HP Chromebook x360 14 G1
Intel Core i5-8350U
38722 Points +109%
Acer Chromebook Spin 511 R752T-C26N
Intel Celeron N4120
18537 Points
Average Intel Celeron N4120
  (16865 - 18537, n=2)
17701 Points -5%
HP Chromebook 14 G5
Intel Celeron N3350
11461 Points -38%
Samsung Galaxy Tab S6 Lite
Samsung Exynos 9611
9415 Points -49%
Mozilla Kraken 1.1 / Total
Samsung Galaxy Tab S6 Lite
Samsung Exynos 9611
4872 ms * -129%
HP Chromebook 14 G5
Intel Celeron N3350
3201 ms * -51%
Average Intel Celeron N4120
  (2125 - 2415, n=4)
2308 ms * -9%
Acer Chromebook Spin 511 R752T-C26N
Intel Celeron N4120
2125 ms *
Acer Chromebook Spin 713 CP713-2W-560V
Intel Core i5-10210U
1067 ms * +50%
HP Chromebook x360 14 G1
Intel Core i5-8350U
1017 ms * +52%
Lenovo ThinkBook 14 G2 ITL 20VDS02G00
Intel Core i3-1115G4
757 ms * +64%
Average of class Convertible
  (472 - 3989, n=66, last 2 years)
719 ms * +66%
Apple iPad 10.2 2020
Apple A12 Bionic
653 ms * +69%

* ... smaller is better

Chrome OS - Is Google's operating system suitable for schools?

Matlab on Chrome OS
Matlab on Chrome OS
Linux environment under Chrome OS
Linux environment under Chrome OS

Google's operating system for laptops has outgrown its teething troubles of poor compatibility and online constraints. It even offers some advantages over Windows for use in the school environment. Basically, the system security of Chrome OS is higher because there are hardly any computer viruses that attack the operating system. Google's operating system works very resource-efficiently, so it also runs on comparatively weak hardware that consumes little energy. The user interface is sufficiently similar to that of Android and Windows to quickly find one's way around. The Chromebooks also have a wide range of apps available via the Google Playstore. Whether the forced integration of the Google account has to be seen as an advantage or disadvantage has become obsolete with Microsoft's current strategy of requiring registered user accounts. Both Microsoft and Google collect and work with user data almost without restrictions. Both companies are based in the U.S., which could in principle result in a problem with the General Data Protection Regulation.

In everyday use, there is hardly anything that Windows can do, but Chrome OS cannot. Many counterparts to Windows applications can also be found in the Playstore. Matlab could be mentioned as an example. A version of the program for solving mathematical problems can also be found in the Playstore, which has the same range of functions as on Windows. For computer science lessons, a Linux environment can be started under Chrome OS, which also runs corresponding programs and provides IDEs for developing your own programs.

For the school's IT officer, managing ChromeOS devices via Google Workspace for Education is about as time-consuming as managing   Windows, Android and iOS devices. However, the latter three can all be managed using Microsoft Intune, resulting in a greater variety of devices with just one management software. However, the mobile device management (MDM) of the Chrome devices can intervene more extensively in the system than Microsoft Intune. Should system errors creep in due to careless behavior on the part of the young owners, Chromebooks can be reset faster and easier than Windows laptops. Since most data is not stored locally, a reset and restore is almost automatic on a Chromebook. The effort to reset a Windows computer is much higher.

Another question that arises is hardware compatibility with devices available at school or at home. Microscope cameras, interactive whiteboards, printers, scanners and so on are important tools. In case of emergency, the hardware manufacturer should be consulted beforehand. In principle, most cameras connected via USB run without problems, since Chrome OS also has the corresponding drivers. For network printers, it depends on whether the printer supports protocols like IPP, IPPS or AppSocket. The same applies to scanners. The connection of Chromebooks with interactive whiteboards, i.e. digital boards, on the other hand, is only possible to a limited extent in most cases. Only a few manufacturers deliver the corresponding software for devices without Windows. However, if the interactive whiteboard has a video input, it can be connected via USB-C adapter and at least serve as a screen for the Acer Chromebook Spin.

Emissions - Silent in the Classroom

Noise emissions and temperature

Due to the purely passive cooling, the Chromebook is completely silent. Nevertheless, the computer core maintains its performance and hardly heats up the computer's case. In the long-term test with PCMark for Android, consistently good scores were achieved over hours. The surface temperatures did not reach unpleasant levels.

Thus, there are no surface temperatures that are perceived as unpleasant even in the one-hour stress test with high workloads. The palm rests remain cool and the keys do not get uncomfortably hot either.

Max. Load
 39.2 °C
103 F
42.6 °C
109 F
30.1 °C
86 F
 
 36.8 °C
98 F
33.5 °C
92 F
30.1 °C
86 F
 
 25.2 °C
77 F
26.5 °C
80 F
23.7 °C
75 F
 
Maximum: 42.6 °C = 109 F
Average: 32 °C = 90 F
27.7 °C
82 F
43.2 °C
110 F
42.8 °C
109 F
24.8 °C
77 F
33.4 °C
92 F
33 °C
91 F
24.9 °C
77 F
25.4 °C
78 F
26.3 °C
79 F
Maximum: 43.2 °C = 110 F
Average: 31.3 °C = 88 F
Power Supply (max.)  28.1 °C = 83 F | Room Temperature 22.8 °C = 73 F | FIRT 550-Pocket
(±) The average temperature for the upper side under maximal load is 32 °C / 90 F, compared to the average of 30.2 °C / 86 F for the devices in the class Convertible.
(±) The maximum temperature on the upper side is 42.6 °C / 109 F, compared to the average of 35.3 °C / 96 F, ranging from 19.6 to 55.7 °C for the class Convertible.
(±) The bottom heats up to a maximum of 43.2 °C / 110 F, compared to the average of 36.7 °C / 98 F
(+) In idle usage, the average temperature for the upper side is 22.6 °C / 73 F, compared to the device average of 30.2 °C / 86 F.
(+) The palmrests and touchpad are cooler than skin temperature with a maximum of 26.5 °C / 79.7 F and are therefore cool to the touch.
(±) The average temperature of the palmrest area of similar devices was 28.1 °C / 82.6 F (+1.6 °C / 2.9 F).
Idle
Idle
Idle
Idle
Last
Last
Last
Last

Speaker

The small speakers are not quite convincing when playing music or movies. The bass is lacking. Only low volumes result in an even frequency distribution. Speech is rendered well by the speakers. The other party was well understandable in video calls. Considering the laptop's price range, the sound quality corresponds to the purchase price.

dB(A) 0102030405060708090Deep BassMiddle BassHigh BassLower RangeMidsHigher MidsLower HighsMid HighsUpper HighsSuper Highs2029.128.529.12536.432.736.43140.436.940.44033.735.233.75037.43337.46330.22730.28022.421.622.410020.518.720.512521.419.121.416028.416.328.420034.815.734.825046.513.946.53155514.45540060.511.860.550063.411.363.46306511.26580072.710.972.7100077.111.577.1125070.112.170.1160066.211.966.2200070.21370.2250065.613.565.631506413.664400069.513.369.5500072.713.372.7630069.613.669.6800067.113.767.11000073.51473.51250077.413.677.41600068.412.368.4SPL82.825.182.8N540.654median 66.2median 13.5median 66.2Delta9.11.89.135.335.132.931.831.83236.535.132.428.93328.936.328.848.32761.52752.924.860.92462.822.763.32269.521.267.82174.82075.919.472.718.97117.770.117.86917.671.817.668.117.671.417.673.717.670.417.571.617.671.617.669.617.459.717.583.630.662.51.5median 69.6median 17.84.72.4hearing rangehide median Pink NoiseAcer Chromebook Spin 511 R752T-C26NApple MacBook 12 (Early 2016) 1.1 GHz
Frequency diagram (checkboxes can be checked and unchecked to compare devices)
Acer Chromebook Spin 511 R752T-C26N audio analysis

(±) | speaker loudness is average but good (77.4 dB)
Bass 100 - 315 Hz
(-) | nearly no bass - on average 31.8% lower than median
(±) | linearity of bass is average (11.5% delta to prev. frequency)
Mids 400 - 2000 Hz
(+) | balanced mids - only 4.4% away from median
(±) | linearity of mids is average (8.8% delta to prev. frequency)
Highs 2 - 16 kHz
(+) | balanced highs - only 3.4% away from median
(±) | linearity of highs is average (7.2% delta to prev. frequency)
Overall 100 - 16.000 Hz
(±) | linearity of overall sound is average (22.2% difference to median)
Compared to same class
» 61% of all tested devices in this class were better, 7% similar, 32% worse
» The best had a delta of 6%, average was 21%, worst was 57%
Compared to all devices tested
» 59% of all tested devices were better, 7% similar, 34% worse
» The best had a delta of 4%, average was 25%, worst was 134%

Apple MacBook 12 (Early 2016) 1.1 GHz audio analysis

(+) | speakers can play relatively loud (83.6 dB)
Bass 100 - 315 Hz
(±) | reduced bass - on average 11.3% lower than median
(±) | linearity of bass is average (14.2% delta to prev. frequency)
Mids 400 - 2000 Hz
(+) | balanced mids - only 2.4% away from median
(+) | mids are linear (5.5% delta to prev. frequency)
Highs 2 - 16 kHz
(+) | balanced highs - only 2% away from median
(+) | highs are linear (4.5% delta to prev. frequency)
Overall 100 - 16.000 Hz
(+) | overall sound is linear (10.2% difference to median)
Compared to same class
» 5% of all tested devices in this class were better, 2% similar, 93% worse
» The best had a delta of 5%, average was 19%, worst was 53%
Compared to all devices tested
» 3% of all tested devices were better, 1% similar, 96% worse
» The best had a delta of 4%, average was 25%, worst was 134%

Power management - 41 Wh are enough for a school day

Energy consumption

The Chromebook for Austria's school-age children is extremely energy-efficient. Compared to the Lenovo Thinkpad, which is to be used as a Windows laptop, the Chromebook does not even need half as much energy as the Windows computer in all scenarios except for the switched-off state. The Chromebook fulfills its purpose just as well as the Windows laptop. In terms of sustainability, the Acer Spin 511 is clearly superior to the Lenovo laptop.

The frugal Intel processor shows good efficiency in energy consumption here. The measurements in the stress test revealed short-term load peaks of a maximum of 19.5 watts. In normal operation, the laptop probably needs less than 7 watts.

Power Consumption
Off / Standbydarklight 0.4 / 0.3 Watt
Idledarkmidlight 1.9 / 4.1 / 4.2 Watt
Load midlight 7.8 / 15.7 Watt
 color bar
Key: min: dark, med: mid, max: light        Metrahit Energy
Currently we use the Metrahit Energy, a professional single phase power quality and energy measurement digital multimeter, for our measurements. Find out more about it here. All of our test methods can be found here.
Acer Chromebook Spin 511 R752T-C26N
Celeron N4120, UHD Graphics 600, , IPS-Grade, 1366x768, 11.60
Acer Chromebook Spin 713 CP713-2W-560V
i5-10210U, UHD Graphics 620, SK hynix BC501 HFM128GDJTNG-831, IPS, 2256x1504, 13.50
HP Chromebook 14 G5
Celeron N3350, HD Graphics 500, 32 GB eMMC Flash, IPS, 1920x1080, 14.00
HP Chromebook x360 14 G1
i5-8350U, UHD Graphics 620, 64 GB eMMC Flash, IPS, 1920x1200, 14.00
Lenovo ThinkBook 14 G2 ITL 20VDS02G00
i3-1115G4, UHD Graphics Xe G4 48EUs, Samsung PM991A MZALQ256HBJD, a-Si IPS LED, 1920x1080, 14.00
Samsung Galaxy Tab S6 Lite
Exynos 9611, Mali-G72 MP3, 64 GB UFS 2.0 Flash, TFT, 2000x1200, 10.40
Apple iPad 10.2 2020
A12 Bionic, A12 Bionic GPU, 128 GB NVMe, IPS, 2160x1620, 10.20
Average Intel UHD Graphics 600
 
Average of class Convertible
 
Power Consumption
-97%
-61%
-72%
-227%
17%
-22%
-56%
-248%
Idle Minimum *
1.9
2.7
-42%
3.1
-63%
1
47%
6.3
-232%
1.21
36%
2.12
-12%
3.47 ?(1.9 - 7.1, n=27)
-83%
5.44 ?(1.6 - 16.6, n=61, last 2 years)
-186%
Idle Average *
4.1
5.5
-34%
6.2
-51%
5.7
-39%
9.5
-132%
4.24
-3%
6.43
-57%
5.61 ?(1.9 - 9.6, n=27)
-37%
8.23 ?(3.8 - 20.7, n=61, last 2 years)
-101%
Idle Maximum *
4.2
6.7
-60%
8.7
-107%
6.1
-45%
10.4
-148%
4.34
-3%
6.69
-59%
6.6 ?(2.9 - 10.4, n=27)
-57%
10.5 ?(4.7 - 29.9, n=61, last 2 years)
-150%
Load Average *
7.8
25
-221%
14
-79%
23
-195%
32.7
-319%
6.99
10%
8.17
-5%
13.6 ?(7.8 - 19.1, n=27)
-74%
46.1 ?(7.6 - 101.3, n=61, last 2 years)
-491%
Load Maximum *
15.7
36
-129%
16.1
-3%
36
-129%
63.3
-303%
8.79
44%
11.84
25%
20.2 ?(9.5 - 27.8, n=27)
-29%
65 ?(10.5 - 155.7, n=61, last 2 years)
-314%

* ... smaller is better

Power consumption in Stress test

012345678910111213141516171819Tooltip

Battery life

In schools, there is not yet a supply of power outlets at every seat. For safety reasons, the use of extension cords is also prohibited. Thus, the battery probably has to supply the laptop with power over long stretches in normal cases, since only in the science and IT rooms can a sufficient supply of power outlets be expected.

In the Wi-Fi web surfing test with full brightness, the computer at least achieves a runtime of seven and a half hours. This test should reflect the requirements in everyday school life relatively well. Thus, at least the brand-new laptop can survive the school day with 7 to 8 lessons.

It is difficult to estimate how the battery life will change over the planned service life of four years. Battery life is usually defined as the number of charging cycles that a battery can achieve without its performance in watt hours falling below 80% of the specified value. Typical values here are 800 to 2200 charge cycles. With around 185 school days per year, one would think that the battery should easily last over four years with 800 charge cycles. However, the battery, in order to last six to seven hours, usually has to be discharged from 100% to below 20%. A charge cycle does not mean charging from (almost) empty to full, but only in certain ranges (0% to 20%; 20% to 90%; 90% to 100%). Thus, it is possible that up to three charging cycles are "consumed" per day. In the worst case, the battery is thus no longer able to last the school day after approx. 1.5 school years. ((800 [charging cycles] /3 [charging cycles/day])/185 [days/school year] = 1.44 [school years]).

However, the test showed that the energy-saving Chromebook can also be powered by a USB power bank. Students could thus carry an "emergency ration" of energy for the school day. A powerbank that supplies 5 V and 2.4 A is already enough to charge the Acer Spin at least very slowly. With a USB powerbank like the INIU Powerbank that costs about 35 Euros (~$35) on Amazon and a corresponding USB Type-C cable, charging is even faster thanks to PowerDelivery.

The digital end devices will thus continue to pose problems for the school boards. It would make sense to install charging stations in the schools. Permanent battery operation cannot be sustainable.

Battery Runtime
Idle (without WLAN, min brightness)
9h 22min
WiFi Websurfing
8h 9min
WiFi Websurfing max. Brightness
7h 33min
Load (maximum brightness)
3h 07min
Acer Chromebook Spin 511 R752T-C26N
Celeron N4120, UHD Graphics 600, 41 Wh
Acer Chromebook Spin 713 CP713-2W-560V
i5-10210U, UHD Graphics 620, 50.3 Wh
HP Chromebook 14 G5
Celeron N3350, HD Graphics 500, 47.36 Wh
HP Chromebook x360 14 G1
i5-8350U, UHD Graphics 620, 60.9 Wh
Lenovo ThinkBook 14 G2 ITL 20VDS02G00
i3-1115G4, UHD Graphics Xe G4 48EUs, 58 Wh
Samsung Galaxy Tab S6 Lite
Exynos 9611, Mali-G72 MP3,  Wh
Apple iPad 10.2 2020
A12 Bionic, A12 Bionic GPU, 32.9 Wh
Average of class Convertible
 
Battery Runtime
27%
35%
51%
-0%
135%
129%
27%
Reader / Idle
562
793
41%
2120
277%
2241
299%
1138 ?(680 - 1667, n=25, last 2 years)
102%
WiFi v1.3
489
619
27%
661
35%
738
51%
454
-7%
792
62%
782
60%
557 ?(329 - 876, n=64, last 2 years)
14%
Load
187
121
-35%
309
65%
238
27%
121 ?(53 - 219, n=47, last 2 years)
-35%
H.264
526
950
934
740 ?(542 - 999, n=16, last 2 years)

Pros

+ good keyboard
+ energy-saving
+ enduring battery operation
+ passive cooling
+ Google Playstore
+ robust
+ cheap

Cons

- below average screen
- poor webcam
- no keyboard illumination
- little memory
- hardly maintainable

Verdict - Can do a lot, costs little

The Acer Chromebook Spin 511
The Acer Chromebook Spin 511

The Acer Chromebook Spin is probably a good choice for the planned use as a digital end device for students. The 2-in-1 laptop combines the advantages of a Android tablet and a folding calculator in one device. At the same time, the Chromebook is light, has a balanced performance and the battery should also withstand everyday school use. Of all four options so far the Chromebook is the cheapest alternative. The Acer convertible does not look cheap at all, and the Acer Chromebook Spin 511 should more than fulfill the requirements of everyday school life.

It is conceivable that many schools shy away from choosing the Chromebook in order to be able to work with the familiar Windows. However, it quickly became apparent in the test that this device can definitely deliver the same features as a Windows laptop. The advantages of Chrome OS clearly outweigh the disadvantages of not using Windows. The Chromebook is a versatile device. Even the argument that students will mainly work with Windows in their later professional life could prove to be wrong in the next few years. Chromebooks with specifications that are adapted to corporate customers have been available for a few years now.

It doesn't always have to be Windows. In everyday use, the Acer Chromebook can perform all tasks from surfing, office applications, streaming, gaming and learning. You only have to get used to the available software.

In the test of the Lenovo ThinkBook 14 G2 ITL we compared the advantages of Android, iOS, Windows devices and Chromebooks in the conclusion. The question of which device the schools will prefer remains after this test. This is because most of the advantages that, for example, the Samsung Galaxy Tab S6 Lite offers in school use, the Acer Spin 511 can also deliver. However, the Samsung tablet is clearly ahead in terms of battery life, while the Chromebook's system performance is much higher.

Price and availability

The Acer Chromebook Spin 511 R752T-C26N is not available in stores in the tested configuration. The alternative configurations offered via Amazon (DE) are priced around €450 (~$505). According to OeAD, the winning device of the tender for digital end devices of the category Chromebook-laptop is procured for €337.02 (~$378). Of this, parents pay only €84.27 (~$95) under the 25% rule.

Acer Chromebook Spin 511 R752T-C26N - 11/16/2021 v7
Marc Herter

Chassis
76 / 98 → 78%
Keyboard
79%
Pointing Device
94%
Connectivity
47 / 75 → 63%
Weight
73 / 20-75 → 96%
Battery
81%
Display
75%
Games Performance
14 / 78 → 18%
Application Performance
57 / 85 → 68%
Temperature
93%
Noise
100%
Audio
70 / 91 → 77%
Camera
24 / 85 → 28%
Average
68%
80%
Convertible - Weighted Average

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> Expert Reviews and News on Laptops, Smartphones and Tech Innovations > Reviews > Acer Chromebook Spin 511 R752T in review - The 2-in-1 laptop for the classroom
Marc Herter, 2021-11-25 (Update: 2021-11-25)