Notebookcheck Logo
Teaser

Beautiful, fast, but power-hungry: The Samsung Galaxy Chromebook Plus review

Chromebook deluxe:

The Samsung Galaxy Chromebook Plus impresses with its ultra-slim aluminum body and exceptionally brilliant AMOLED display that sets new standards in this class. It also delivers good performance thanks to the Intel Core 3, but has a steep price tag.
Marc Herter, 👁 Marc Herter, Anton Avdyushkin (translated by DeepL / Ninh Duy) Published 🇩🇪 🇫🇷 ...
Chromebook Laptop Intel

Verdict

The Samsung Galaxy Chromebook Plus XE550XGA clearly positions itself as a "premium Chromebook" and leaves a mixed, yet overall high-quality impression. Numerous aspects make it an outstanding representative of its class.

First and foremost, the truly great design is impressive—it is stylish, remarkably light, and pleasantly flat. The outstanding AMOLED display, which impresses with brilliant colors and deep contrasts, is an absolute plus point. The good selection of ports for everyday needs and the surprisingly clear and rich sound for such a slim device also speak in favor of the Chromebook.

On the other hand, a few points cloud the positive impression. The battery life can prove to be an Achilles heel, especially when the bright display and keyboard illumination require a significant amount of energy, causing the battery to drain faster than expected. The price of around 800 euros is also a real challenge for a Chromebook and is likely to be a hurdle for many. And the webcam? Unfortunately, it only delivers poor performance, likely disappointing for "Digital Natives" in particular. This almost raises the question of whether the Android smartphone's camera, which is usually available anyway, wouldn't be a better alternative for video calls.

All in all, the Samsung Galaxy Chromebook Plus is a Chromebook for users who value an excellent display, a very appealing and lightweight design, and are prepared to dig deeper into their pockets for it. If you can live with the compromises in battery life under full load and the mediocre webcam, you will get a brilliant piece of technology.

Pros

+ excellent AMOLED display
+ very elegant and flat design
+ fast everyday performance (Core i3)
+ good, illuminated keyboard
+ mostly silent operation
+ good variety of ports

Cons

- battery life is short under load
- power-hungry AMOLED and keyboard illumination
- high price for a Chromebook
- highly reflective display

Price and availability

At the time of this review, the Samsung Galaxy Chromebook Plus XE550XGA is available from MediaMarkt and Saturn for around 800 euros [in Germany, that is].

Specifications

Samsung Galaxy Chromebook Plus XE550XGA
Processor
Intel Core 3 100U 6 x 0.9 - 4.7 GHz, Raptor Lake-U Refresh
Memory
8 GB 
, LPDDR5X
Display
15.60 inch 16:9, 1920 x 1080 pixel 141 PPI, AMOLED, glossy: yes, 60 Hz
Storage
256GB eUFS
Connections
1 USB 3.0 / 3.1 Gen1, 2 USB 3.1 Gen2, 1 HDMI, Audio Connections: 3.5mm
Networking
802.11 a/b/g/n/ac/ax (a/b/g/n = Wi-Fi 4/ac = Wi-Fi 5/ax = Wi-Fi 6/), Bluetooth 5
Size
height x width x depth (in mm): 11.8 x 355.4 x 225.8 ( = 0.46 x 13.99 x 8.89 in)
Battery
68 Wh
Operating System
Google Chrome OS
Camera
Webcam: Yes
Additional features
Speakers: Stereo, Keyboard: Chiclet, Keyboard Light: yes, 24 Months Warranty
Weight
1.17 kg ( = 41.27 oz / 2.58 pounds) ( = 0 oz / 0 pounds)
Note: The manufacturer may use components from different suppliers including display panels, drives or memory sticks with similar specifications.

 

Case & features

The Samsung Galaxy Chromebook Plus is thin - at just over one centimeter high and weighing around 1.17 kilograms, it is super light for a 15.6-inch device. Nevertheless, it feels sturdy and solid thanks to the aluminum casing. Nothing creaks, and the screen hinges operate smoothly.

A chiclet keyboard with illumination is installed for typing. Typical for flat devices, the key travel is short, but the pressure point is pleasantly crisp. The large touchpad is also comfortable. There is a reasonable selection of ports: one USB-A 3.1 Gen1 and two faster USB-C 3.1 Gen2. The integrated microSD card reader is also worth mentioning, although it proved to be a little slow in the test. Wireless connectivity is good with stable Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth.

A 2.1 MP webcam is also on board. However, its quality must be described as mediocre, probably due to the very slim display edge, which does not leave much room for more elaborate camera modules. The built-in stereo speakers are also decent for everyday use and deliver a reasonable sound.

Size comparison

355.4 mm / 14 in 225.8 mm / 8.89 in 11.8 mm / 0.4646 in 1.2 kg2.58 lbs326.9 mm / 12.9 in 250 mm / 9.84 in 20.5 mm / 0.807 in 1.4 kg3.09 lbs325 mm / 12.8 in 227 mm / 8.94 in 22 mm / 0.866 in 1.4 kg3.14 lbs325.9 mm / 12.8 in 221.8 mm / 8.73 in 19.3 mm / 0.76 in 1.3 kg2.87 lbs315 mm / 12.4 in 231 mm / 9.09 in 21 mm / 0.827 in 1.6 kg3.62 lbs255.37 mm / 10.1 in 166.92 mm / 6.57 in 17 mm / 0.669 in 874 g1.927 lbs297 mm / 11.7 in 210 mm / 8.27 in 1 mm / 0.03937 in 5.7 g0.01257 lbs
Connectivity: microSD, USB-A 3.2, 3.5 mm headset, HDMI, 2 x USB-C
Connectivity
SD Card Reader - average JPG Copy Test (av. of 3 runs)
Asus Chromebook CM14 CM1402CM2A-EK0048
MediaTek Kompanio 520 (AV Pro SD microSD 128 GB V60)
59 MB/s +163%
Average of class Office
  (22.4 - 198.5, n=33, last 2 years)
52.3 MB/s +133%
Lenovo Flex 5 Chrome 14IAU7 83EK002GE
Intel Core i3-1315U
49.5 MB/s +121%
Lenovo IdeaPad Slim 3 CB 14M868
MediaTek Kompanio 520
46 MB/s +105%
Acer Chromebook Plus CB514-4H
Intel Core i3-N305
41.43 MB/s +85%
Samsung Galaxy Chromebook Plus XE550XGA
Intel Core 3 100U
22.4 MB/s
Networking
iperf3 transmit AXE11000
Average of class Office
  (47.8 - 1793, n=80, last 2 years)
1095 MBit/s
Average 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac/ax
  (305 - 1757, n=146)
845 MBit/s
Lenovo IdeaPad Slim 3 CB 14M868
Lenovo 5W11H85391
534 (366min - 556max) MBit/s
Lenovo Flex 5 Chrome 14IAU7 83EK002GE
Intel Wi-Fi 6E AX211
131.3 (4min - 1155max) MBit/s
Acer Chromebook Plus CB514-4H
Intel Wi-Fi 6E AX211
64 (11min - 1070max) MBit/s
Asus Chromebook CM14 CM1402CM2A-EK0048
MediaTek MT7921
47.8 (11min - 248max) MBit/s
iperf3 receive AXE11000
Acer Chromebook Plus CB514-4H
Intel Wi-Fi 6E AX211
1767 (1476min - 1816max) MBit/s
Lenovo Flex 5 Chrome 14IAU7 83EK002GE
Intel Wi-Fi 6E AX211
1755 (1419min - 1806max) MBit/s
Average of class Office
  (104.2 - 1775, n=81, last 2 years)
1291 MBit/s
Average 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac/ax
  (234 - 1696, n=144)
817 MBit/s
Lenovo IdeaPad Slim 3 CB 14M868
Lenovo 5W11H85391
463 (434min - 480max) MBit/s
Asus Chromebook CM14 CM1402CM2A-EK0048
MediaTek MT7921
104.2 (7min - 444max) MBit/s
iperf3 transmit AXE11000 6GHz
Average of class Office
  (385 - 1961, n=48, last 2 years)
1308 MBit/s +214%
Average 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac/ax
  (417 - 1902, n=23)
1204 MBit/s +189%
Samsung Galaxy Chromebook Plus XE550XGA
802.11 a/b/g/n/ac/ax
417 (19min - 629max) MBit/s
Acer Chromebook Plus CB514-4H
Intel Wi-Fi 6E AX211
385 (11min - 1232max) MBit/s -8%
iperf3 receive AXE11000 6GHz
Acer Chromebook Plus CB514-4H
Intel Wi-Fi 6E AX211
1757 (1426min - 1828max) MBit/s +60%
Lenovo Flex 5 Chrome 14IAU7 83EK002GE
Intel Wi-Fi 6E AX211
1740 (1545min - 1828max) MBit/s +59%
Average of class Office
  (1065 - 1790, n=49, last 2 years)
1572 MBit/s +44%
Average 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac/ax
  (743 - 1816, n=23)
1236 MBit/s +13%
Samsung Galaxy Chromebook Plus XE550XGA
802.11 a/b/g/n/ac/ax
1095 (911min - 1313max) MBit/s
05010015020025030035040045050055060065070075080085090095010001050110011501200125013001350140014501500155016001650170017501800Tooltip
Samsung Galaxy Chromebook Plus XE550XGA 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac/ax; iperf3 transmit AXE11000 6GHz; iperf 3.12: Ø417 (19-629)
Acer Chromebook Plus CB514-4H Intel Wi-Fi 6E AX211; iperf3 transmit AXE11000 6GHz; iperf 3.12: Ø385 (11-1232)
Samsung Galaxy Chromebook Plus XE550XGA 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac/ax; iperf3 receive AXE11000 6GHz; iperf 3.12: Ø1095 (911-1313)
Acer Chromebook Plus CB514-4H Intel Wi-Fi 6E AX211; iperf3 receive AXE11000 6GHz; iperf 3.12: Ø1757 (1426-1828)
Lenovo Flex 5 Chrome 14IAU7 83EK002GE Intel Wi-Fi 6E AX211; iperf3 receive AXE11000 6GHz; iperf 3.12: Ø1740 (1545-1828)
Acer Chromebook Plus CB514-4H Intel Wi-Fi 6E AX211; iperf3 transmit AXE11000; iperf 3.12: Ø64.1 (11-1070)
Asus Chromebook CM14 CM1402CM2A-EK0048 MediaTek MT7921; iperf3 transmit AXE11000; iperf 3.1.3: Ø47.7 (11-248)
Lenovo IdeaPad Slim 3 CB 14M868 Lenovo 5W11H85391; iperf3 transmit AXE11000; iperf 3.9: Ø534 (366-556)
Lenovo Flex 5 Chrome 14IAU7 83EK002GE Intel Wi-Fi 6E AX211; iperf3 transmit AXE11000; iperf 3.12: Ø131.3 (4-1155)
Acer Chromebook Plus CB514-4H Intel Wi-Fi 6E AX211; iperf3 receive AXE11000; iperf 3.12: Ø1767 (1476-1816)
Asus Chromebook CM14 CM1402CM2A-EK0048 MediaTek MT7921; iperf3 receive AXE11000; iperf 3.1.3: Ø104.2 (7-444)
Lenovo IdeaPad Slim 3 CB 14M868 Lenovo 5W11H85391; iperf3 receive AXE11000; iperf 3.9: Ø463 (434-480)
Lenovo Flex 5 Chrome 14IAU7 83EK002GE Intel Wi-Fi 6E AX211; iperf3 receive AXE11000; iperf 3.12: Ø1755 (1419-1806)
ColorChecker
3 ∆E
5.5 ∆E
6.1 ∆E
7.1 ∆E
6.4 ∆E
8.1 ∆E
7.8 ∆E
10 ∆E
6.1 ∆E
2.6 ∆E
8 ∆E
6.1 ∆E
5.1 ∆E
9.9 ∆E
8.3 ∆E
7 ∆E
7.7 ∆E
13 ∆E
1.8 ∆E
8.7 ∆E
9.4 ∆E
5.7 ∆E
6.4 ∆E
3.5 ∆E
ColorChecker Samsung Galaxy Chromebook Plus XE550XGA: 6.8 ∆E min: 1.76 - max: 13.05 ∆E

Sustainability

The completely plastic-free packaging scores plus points. However, there is no information on the product's CO2 footprint. There are no upgrade options available, although the fan is easily accessible for cleaning.

Display

Subpixel structure Samsung Galaxy Book
Subpixel structure Samsung Galaxy Book

Samsung uses its own 15.6-inch AMOLED panel with Full HD resolution for the screen. This is quite an achievement for a Chromebook, as the AMOLED technology ensures crisp, vivid colors and excellent contrasts thanks to perfect blacks. One minor drawback is the reflective surface, as is common with many panels of this type. This can be distracting in direct sunlight or with bright light sources behind you.

421
cd/m²
418
cd/m²
415
cd/m²
419
cd/m²
415
cd/m²
416
cd/m²
410
cd/m²
414
cd/m²
414
cd/m²
Distribution of brightness
tested with X-Rite i1Pro 3
Maximum: 421 cd/m² (Nits) Average: 415.8 cd/m² Minimum: 3.43 cd/m²
Brightness Distribution: 97 %
Center on Battery: 416 cd/m²
Contrast: 5748:1 (Black: 0.0722 cd/m²)
ΔE Color 3.84 | 0.5-29.43 Ø4.84
ΔE Greyscale 2.7 | 0.09-98 Ø5.1
100% sRGB (Calman 2D)
Gamma: 2.271
Samsung Galaxy Chromebook Plus XE550XGA
AMOLED, 1920x1080, 15.6", 60 Hz
Lenovo Chromebook Duet 11M889
IPS, 1920x1200, 11", 60 Hz
Acer Chromebook Plus CB514-4H
IPS, 1920x1080, 14", 60 Hz
Asus Chromebook CM14 CM1402CM2A-EK0048
CMN 14E5, TN, 1920x1080, 14",  Hz
Lenovo IdeaPad Slim 3 CB 14M868
AUO 208D, TN, 1920x1080, 14", 60 Hz
Lenovo Flex 5 Chrome 14IAU7 83EK002GE
1920x1200, 14", 60 Hz
Display
sRGB Coverage
54.35
AdobeRGB 1998 Coverage
37.54
Response Times
-462%
-589%
-620%
-627%
-507%
Response Time Grey 50% / Grey 80% *
2.8 ?(1.4, 1.4)
37 ?(16.5, 20.5)
-1221%
35 ?(16.5, 18.5)
-1150%
37 ?(18.9, 18.1)
-1221%
39.3 ?(20.7, 18.6)
-1304%
30.8 ?(14.6, 16.2)
-1000%
Response Time Black / White *
18.8 ?(17.8, 1)
23 ?(11.5, 11.5)
-22%
24 ?(13.5, 10.5)
-28%
22.4 ?(18.6, 3.8)
-19%
9.4 ?(6.1, 3.3)
50%
21.2 ?(11.4, 9.8)
-13%
PWM Frequency
60
2000 ?(100)
24800 ?(50)
PWM Amplitude *
33
80
-142%
Screen
-90%
-53%
-145%
-170%
-39%
Brightness middle
415
423.1
2%
306
-26%
230
-45%
281
-32%
344
-17%
Brightness
416
397
-5%
284
-32%
204
-51%
259
-38%
333
-20%
Brightness Distribution
97
89
-8%
85
-12%
81
-16%
85
-12%
94
-3%
Black Level *
0.0722
0.2845
-294%
0.1871
-159%
0.433
-500%
0.45
-523%
0.263
-264%
Contrast
5748
1487
-74%
1635
-72%
531
-91%
624
-89%
1308
-77%
Colorchecker dE 2000 *
3.84
4.76
-24%
4.88
-27%
8.91
-132%
12.4
-223%
4
-4%
Colorchecker dE 2000 max. *
13.93
11.69
16%
8.39
40%
19.81
-42%
21.9
-57%
7
50%
Greyscale dE 2000 *
2.7
11.7
-333%
6.3
-133%
10.3
-281%
13.2
-389%
2
26%
Gamma
2.271 97%
2.186 101%
2.081 106%
2.239 98%
2.174 101%
CCT
6995 93%
8417 77%
7117 91%
11724 55%
6757 96%
Total Average (Program / Settings)
-276% / -191%
-321% / -160%
-383% / -240%
-399% / -262%
-273% / -132%

* ... smaller is better

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
18.8 ms ... rise ↗ and fall ↘ combined↗ 17.8 ms rise
↘ 1 ms fall
The screen shows good response rates in our tests, but may be too slow for competitive gamers.
In comparison, all tested devices range from 0.1 (minimum) to 240 (maximum) ms. » 39 % of all devices are better.
This means that the measured response time is similar to the average of all tested devices (20.6 ms).
       Response Time 50% Grey to 80% Grey
2.8 ms ... rise ↗ and fall ↘ combined↗ 1.4 ms rise
↘ 1.4 ms fall
The screen shows very fast response rates in our tests and should be very well suited for fast-paced gaming.
In comparison, all tested devices range from 0.165 (minimum) to 636 (maximum) ms. » 10 % of all devices are better.
This means that the measured response time is better than the average of all tested devices (32.2 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 60 Hz
Amplitude: 33 %
Secondary Frequency: 500 Hz

The display backlight flickers at 60 Hz (worst case, e.g., utilizing PWM) .

The frequency of 60 Hz is very low, so the flickering may cause eyestrain and headaches after extended use.

In comparison: 53 % of all tested devices do not use PWM to dim the display. If PWM was detected, an average of 8389 (minimum: 5 - maximum: 343500) Hz was measured.

Brightness levels

Level 16
Level 16
Level 15
Level 15
Level 14
Level 14
Level 13
Level 13
Level 12
Level 12
Level 11
Level 11
Level 10
Level 10
Level 9
Level 9
Level 8
Level 8
Level 7
Level 7
Level 6
Level 6
Level 5
Level 5
Level 4
Level 4
Level 3
Level 3
Level 2
Level 2
Level 1
Level 1

Performance

Powered by a fast Intel Core 3 100U Processor and 8 GB RAM, this Chromebook is as fast as an arrow in everyday use. It outperforms many of its competitors and easily handles even demanding apps - there are plenty of performance reserves for Chrome OS here.

However, the 256 GB memory uses the slower eUFS technology, which you might notice when copying large files - hardly relevant for a Chromebook. The integrated Intel graphics are also only average: good enough for everyday use and videos, but rather unsuitable for demanding 3D games. However, Android games run smoothly on the device.

Samsung Galaxy Chromebook Plus XE550XGA
UHD Graphics 64EUs, Core 3 100U
Lenovo Chromebook Duet 11M889
Mali-G57 MP3, Kompanio 838, 128 GB eMMC Flash
Acer Chromebook Plus CB514-4H
UHD Graphics 32EUs, i3-N305, Kingston OM8PGP4128Q-AA
Asus Chromebook CM14 CM1402CM2A-EK0048
Mali-G52 MP2, Kompanio 520, 128 GB eMMC Flash
Lenovo IdeaPad Slim 3 CB 14M868
Mali-G52 MP2, Kompanio 520, 64 GB eMMC Flash
Lenovo Flex 5 Chrome 14IAU7 83EK002GE
UHD Graphics 64EUs, i3-1315U, SK hynix HFS512GEJ4X112N
Geekbench 6.4
-67%
-41%
-76%
-6%
GPU Vulkan
8436
1861
-78%
5493
-35%
8753
4%
Multi-Core
6620
2291
-65%
4329
-35%
1538
-77%
5403
-18%
Single-Core
2389
1003
-58%
1146
-52%
633
-74%
2323
-3%
CrossMark
-62%
-22%
-75%
-74%
5%
Responsiveness
1137
381
-66%
1004
-12%
258
-77%
268
-76%
1308
15%
Creativity
1439
550
-62%
1050
-27%
340
-76%
350
-76%
1421
-1%
Productivity
1368
554
-60%
1012
-26%
393
-71%
400
-71%
1389
2%
Overall
1360
524
-61%
1027
-24%
348
-74%
357
-74%
1391
2%
PCMark for Android
-62%
-30%
-68%
-64%
-8%
Work 3.0
14174
10843
-24%
11631
-18%
6924
-51%
6885
-51%
12986
-8%
Storage 2.0 random write int.
1.65
1.21
-27%
1.59
-4%
1.09
-34%
1.37
-17%
Storage 2.0 seq. write int.
208.14
76.4
-63%
292.4
40%
81.31
-61%
82.5
-60%
Storage 2.0 random read int.
206.92
4.84
-98%
43
-79%
6.6
-97%
7.5
-96%
Storage 2.0 seq. read int.
3429.91
113.16
-97%
374.61
-89%
99.17
-97%
117
-97%
WebXPRT 4
Overall
259
138
-47%
194
-25%
80
-69%
81
-69%
243
-6%
GFXBench 3.1
1920x1080 Manhattan ES 3.1 Offscreen
101
34
-66%
58
-43%
15
-85%
15
-85%
92
-9%
GFXBench
3840x2160 4K Aztec Ruins High Tier Offscreen
11
3.6
-67%
6.2
-44%
1.4
-87%
1.7
-85%

1.4
-87%

11
0%
GPUScore: Sacred Path
2560x1440 Official
13.98
2.85
-80%
5.3
-62%
9.7
-31%
GPUScore: The Expedition
2560x1440 Official
29.65
7.43
-75%
14.8
-50%
29.1
-2%
3DMark
Wild Life Extreme
2059
514
-75%
203
-90%
204
-90%
1983
-4%
Total Average (Program / Settings)
-67% / -65%
-40% / -34%
-79% / -75%
-78% / -74%
-7% / -4%

Emissions & Energy

Noise emissions

The Samsung Galaxy Chromebook Plus scores many plus points when it comes to noise. In everyday use, it works practically silently. The fan only becomes audible when the system is pushed to its limits, for example, in demanding benchmarks. Even then, it remains pleasantly restrained with a measured maximum value of around 35 dB(A).

Accordingly, the Chromebook remains cool during operation. Even in the stress test, the surface temperatures only rise marginally.

Noise Level

Idle
25.8 / 25.8 / 26.3 dB(A)
Load
29.7 / 35.4 dB(A)
  red to green bar
 
 
30 dB
silent
40 dB(A)
audible
50 dB(A)
loud
 
min: dark, med: mid, max: light   Earthworks M23R, Arta (15 cm distance)   environment noise: 25.8 dB(A)

Fan noise

dB(A) 0102030405060708090Deep BassMiddle BassHigh BassLower RangeMidsHigher MidsLower HighsMid HighsUpper HighsSuper Highs2032.930.734.6362538.231.634.336.13143.336.240.443.9404735.43937.85037.933.432.631.2632827.929.730.68022.225.126.724.610021.221.42720.612522.926.329.517.516021.72223.919.620018.716.823.716.925021.11721.318.831522.815.315.522.440019.814.314.823.850018.113.715.623.56301912.713.322.480019.213.114.121.9100017.513.61320.7125017.91313.322.6160019.713.913.423.2200019.31413.825.5250020.214.815.126.5315017.514.114.223.9400016.414.714.82550001914.714.724.663001914.314.4208000171414.116.31000016.414.113.916.4125001513.513.713.81600013.912.712.812.7SPL29.725.425.635.4N1.30.70.82median 19median 14.1median 14.4median 21.9Delta1.51.42.32.9hearing rangehide median Fan NoiseSamsung Galaxy Chromebook Plus XE550XGA
Samsung Galaxy Chromebook Plus XE550XGA
UHD Graphics 64EUs, Core 3 100U
Lenovo Chromebook Duet 11M889
Mali-G57 MP3, Kompanio 838, 128 GB eMMC Flash
Acer Chromebook Plus CB514-4H
UHD Graphics 32EUs, i3-N305, Kingston OM8PGP4128Q-AA
Asus Chromebook CM14 CM1402CM2A-EK0048
Mali-G52 MP2, Kompanio 520, 128 GB eMMC Flash
Lenovo IdeaPad Slim 3 CB 14M868
Mali-G52 MP2, Kompanio 520, 64 GB eMMC Flash
Lenovo Flex 5 Chrome 14IAU7 83EK002GE
UHD Graphics 64EUs, i3-1315U, SK hynix HFS512GEJ4X112N
Noise
14%
-5%
-1%
off / environment *
25.8
24
7%
27
-5%
25.4
2%
Idle Minimum *
25.8
24
7%
27
-5%
25.4
2%
Idle Average *
25.8
24
7%
27
-5%
27.2
-5%
Idle Maximum *
26.3
24
9%
31
-18%
27.2
-3%
Load Average *
29.7
24
19%
31
-4%
29.5
1%
Load Maximum *
35.4
24
32%
32.3
9%
36.8
-4%

* ... smaller is better

Heat distribution idle and load

Max. Load
 33.7 °C
93 F
39.1 °C
102 F
37.1 °C
99 F
 
 33.6 °C
92 F
33.4 °C
92 F
33.6 °C
92 F
 
 22.1 °C
72 F
22.5 °C
73 F
22.3 °C
72 F
 
Maximum: 39.1 °C = 102 F
Average: 30.8 °C = 87 F
32.1 °C
90 F
38.3 °C
101 F
32.4 °C
90 F
27 °C
81 F
29.7 °C
85 F
27.3 °C
81 F
24.5 °C
76 F
24.9 °C
77 F
24.1 °C
75 F
Maximum: 38.3 °C = 101 F
Average: 28.9 °C = 84 F
Power Supply (max.)  36 °C = 97 F | Room Temperature 21 °C = 70 F | Fluke t3000FC (calibrated), FIRT 550-Pocket
(+) The average temperature for the upper side under maximal load is 30.8 °C / 87 F, compared to the average of 29.5 °C / 85 F for the devices in the class Office.
(+) The maximum temperature on the upper side is 39.1 °C / 102 F, compared to the average of 34.3 °C / 94 F, ranging from 21.2 to 62.5 °C for the class Office.
(+) The bottom heats up to a maximum of 38.3 °C / 101 F, compared to the average of 36.8 °C / 98 F
(+) In idle usage, the average temperature for the upper side is 25.5 °C / 78 F, compared to the device average of 29.5 °C / 85 F.
(+) The palmrests and touchpad are cooler than skin temperature with a maximum of 23.1 °C / 73.6 F and are therefore cool to the touch.
(+) The average temperature of the palmrest area of similar devices was 27.6 °C / 81.7 F (+4.5 °C / 8.1 F).
Load
Load
Load
Load
Idle
Idle
Idle
Idle
Samsung Galaxy Chromebook Plus XE550XGA
Intel Core 3 100U, Intel UHD Graphics 64EUs (Alder Lake 12th Gen)
Lenovo Chromebook Duet 11M889
MediaTek Kompanio 838, ARM Mali-G57 MP3
Acer Chromebook Plus CB514-4H
Intel Core i3-N305, Intel UHD Graphics 32EUs (Alder Lake)
Asus Chromebook CM14 CM1402CM2A-EK0048
MediaTek Kompanio 520, ARM Mali-G52 MP2
Lenovo IdeaPad Slim 3 CB 14M868
MediaTek Kompanio 520, ARM Mali-G52 MP2
Lenovo Flex 5 Chrome 14IAU7 83EK002GE
Intel Core i3-1315U, Intel UHD Graphics 64EUs (Alder Lake 12th Gen)
Heat
-1%
11%
15%
12%
-15%
Maximum Upper Side *
39.1
38.3
2%
35.1
10%
30.4
22%
32
18%
40
-2%
Maximum Bottom *
38.3
38.1
1%
41.1
-7%
37.1
3%
33
14%
50
-31%
Idle Upper Side *
29.1
31.5
-8%
23.5
19%
21.8
25%
26
11%
29.7
-2%
Idle Bottom *
28.1
27.2
3%
22.6
20%
25.9
8%
27
4%
35
-25%

* ... smaller is better

Speaker Pink Noise

dB(A) 0102030405060708090Deep BassMiddle BassHigh BassLower RangeMidsHigher MidsLower HighsMid HighsUpper HighsSuper Highs2030.733.12531.632.73136.237.84035.441.65033.440.16327.929.48025.126.610021.425.512526.3301602235.220016.845.72501748.831515.357.140014.36350013.761.963012.759.680013.165.3100013.668.412501367160013.966.620001462.4250014.860.1315014.164.2400014.762.8500014.767.1630014.368.7800014681000014.165.11250013.557.81600012.755.1SPL25.477.5N0.738.5median 14.1median 62.4Delta1.48.642.84944.332.738.834.933.441.432.829.833.733.529.53328.725.930.32628.226.721.539.624.626.84720.132.450.118.43651.616.435.352.914.633.75714.432.961.712.534.963.61237.663.112.137.263.51238.669.212.344.371.411.946.173.212.647.369.412.743.567.113.641.56212.93758.813.635.55914.633.85814.331.754.613.427.855.513.329.75513.229.254.112.330.979.125.553.538.10.67.6median 58.8median 13.3median 35.34.91.53.6hearing rangehide median Pink NoiseSamsung Galaxy Chromebook Plus XE550XGALenovo Flex 5 Chrome 14IAU7 83EK002GE
Frequency diagram (checkboxes can be checked and unchecked to compare devices)
Samsung Galaxy Chromebook Plus XE550XGA audio analysis

(±) | speaker loudness is average but good (77.5 dB)
Bass 100 - 315 Hz
(-) | nearly no bass - on average 22% lower than median
(±) | linearity of bass is average (11.3% delta to prev. frequency)
Mids 400 - 2000 Hz
(+) | balanced mids - only 2.7% away from median
(+) | mids are linear (6.2% delta to prev. frequency)
Highs 2 - 16 kHz
(+) | balanced highs - only 3.4% away from median
(+) | highs are linear (5.1% delta to prev. frequency)
Overall 100 - 16.000 Hz
(±) | linearity of overall sound is average (18.9% difference to median)
Compared to same class
» 32% of all tested devices in this class were better, 7% similar, 60% worse
» The best had a delta of 7%, average was 21%, worst was 53%
Compared to all devices tested
» 42% of all tested devices were better, 8% similar, 50% worse
» The best had a delta of 4%, average was 24%, worst was 134%

Lenovo Flex 5 Chrome 14IAU7 83EK002GE audio analysis

(±) | speaker loudness is average but good (79.1 dB)
Bass 100 - 315 Hz
(±) | reduced bass - on average 9.1% lower than median
(±) | linearity of bass is average (10.5% delta to prev. frequency)
Mids 400 - 2000 Hz
(±) | higher mids - on average 8.2% higher than median
(+) | mids are linear (5.7% delta to prev. frequency)
Highs 2 - 16 kHz
(+) | balanced highs - only 2.9% away from median
(+) | highs are linear (5.1% delta to prev. frequency)
Overall 100 - 16.000 Hz
(±) | linearity of overall sound is average (16.6% difference to median)
Compared to same class
» 29% of all tested devices in this class were better, 4% similar, 67% worse
» The best had a delta of 6%, average was 20%, worst was 57%
Compared to all devices tested
» 27% of all tested devices were better, 6% similar, 68% worse
» The best had a delta of 4%, average was 24%, worst was 134%

Power consumption and battery life

Chromebooks are typically economical, and the Samsung Galaxy Chromebook Plus is no exception. However, a few details about its power consumption are noteworthy. The keyboard backlight is a small power guzzler, consuming an extra 4 watts. That's nearly as much as the entire Chromebook needs when idle with a dark display, approximately 4.5 watts. Additionally, the AMOLED display can draw up to 4 watts more power.

Of course, all of this significantly impacts battery life. In our tests, when surfing the web with adjusted brightness (150 cd/m²) and without the keyboard backlight, it lasted around 13 hours. However, in everyday use, with the backlight on and possibly the brightness sensor active, it lasted about five hours. This clearly shows that the battery runtime can vary significantly based on which comfort features are activated, lasting a long time or depleting unexpectedly fast, even with a substantial 68 Wh capacity.

Power Consumption
Off / Standbydarklight 0.33 / 0.33 Watt
Idledarkmidlight 4.5 / 5.21 / 9.44 Watt
Load midlight / 43 Watt
 color bar
Key: min: dark, med: mid, max: light        Metrahit Energy
Samsung Galaxy Chromebook Plus XE550XGA
Core 3 100U, UHD Graphics 64EUs, , AMOLED, 1920x1080, 15.6"
Lenovo Chromebook Duet 11M889
Kompanio 838, Mali-G57 MP3, 128 GB eMMC Flash, IPS, 1920x1200, 11"
Acer Chromebook Plus CB514-4H
i3-N305, UHD Graphics 32EUs, Kingston OM8PGP4128Q-AA, IPS, 1920x1080, 14"
Asus Chromebook CM14 CM1402CM2A-EK0048
Kompanio 520, Mali-G52 MP2, 128 GB eMMC Flash, TN, 1920x1080, 14"
Lenovo IdeaPad Slim 3 CB 14M868
Kompanio 520, Mali-G52 MP2, 64 GB eMMC Flash, TN, 1920x1080, 14"
Lenovo Flex 5 Chrome 14IAU7 83EK002GE
i3-1315U, UHD Graphics 64EUs, SK hynix HFS512GEJ4X112N, , 1920x1200, 14"
Average Intel UHD Graphics 64EUs (Alder Lake 12th Gen)
 
Average of class Office
 
Power Consumption
50%
39%
29%
40%
3%
-77%
-22%
Idle Minimum *
4.5
1.7
62%
2
56%
3.03
33%
2.9
36%
4.85
-8%
8.78 ?(3.6 - 14.3, n=13)
-95%
Idle Average *
5.21
4.5
14%
3
42%
5.7
-9%
4.6
12%
5.35
-3%
10.4 ?(5.21 - 16.8, n=13)
-100%
Idle Maximum *
9.44
4.9
48%
6
36%
7.7
18%
5.1
46%
6.7
29%
14.7 ?(6.7 - 28.7, n=13)
-56%
Load Maximum *
43
9.98
77%
33
23%
11.1
74%
14.1
67%
45
-5%
67.6 ?(43 - 101.2, n=13)
-57%
Load Average *
4.37
10.9
8.7
11.3
12.5

* ... smaller is better

Power consumption idle, web-surfing, stress test

051015202530354045Tooltip
Samsung Galaxy Chromebook Plus XE550XGA Core 3 100U, UHD Graphics 64EUs; 1280x720 Prime95 28.10 and Furmark 1.25: Ø35.3 (33.6-43.7)
Lenovo Flex 5 Chrome 14IAU7 83EK002GE i3-1315U, UHD Graphics 64EUs; 1280x720 Prime95 28.10 and Furmark 1.25: Ø24 (8.37-48.7)
Samsung Galaxy Chromebook Plus XE550XGA Core 3 100U, UHD Graphics 64EUs; Idle 150cd/m2: Ø5.49 (4.74-10.1)
Lenovo Flex 5 Chrome 14IAU7 83EK002GE i3-1315U, UHD Graphics 64EUs; Idle 150cd/m2: Ø6.62 (6.4-7.91)
Battery Runtime
WiFi Websurfing
12h 59min
Samsung Galaxy Chromebook Plus XE550XGA
Core 3 100U, UHD Graphics 64EUs, 68 Wh
Lenovo Chromebook Duet 11M889
Kompanio 838, Mali-G57 MP3, 29 Wh
Acer Chromebook Plus CB514-4H
i3-N305, UHD Graphics 32EUs, 51 Wh
Asus Chromebook CM14 CM1402CM2A-EK0048
Kompanio 520, Mali-G52 MP2, 42 Wh
Lenovo IdeaPad Slim 3 CB 14M868
Kompanio 520, Mali-G52 MP2, 46 Wh
Lenovo Flex 5 Chrome 14IAU7 83EK002GE
i3-1315U, UHD Graphics 64EUs, 51 Wh
Average of class Office
 
Battery Runtime
WiFi v1.3
779
696
-11%
660
-15%
725
-7%
866.6
11%
555.4
-29%

Notebookcheck overall rating

The Samsung Galaxy Chromebook Plus leaves a strong impression as a high-performance premium Chromebook.

Samsung Galaxy Chromebook Plus XE550XGA - 05/16/2025 v8
Marc Herter

Chassis
84 / 98 → 86%
Keyboard
76%
Pointing Device
86%
Connectivity
45 / 80 → 56%
Weight
73 / 20-75 → 96%
Battery
89%
Display
75%
Games Performance
30 / 75 → 40%
Application Performance
72 / 92 → 78%
Temperature
94%
Noise
93%
Audio
73%
Camera
40 / 75 → 54%
Average
62%
81%
Office - Weighted Average
CO2 Emissions
No Data
Materials
0%
Packaging
100%
Power Use
86.7%
Repairability
0%
Software Updates
83.3%
Recycle Logo Total Sustainability Score: 45%

Possible alternatives in comparison

Image
Model / Review
Price
Weight
Height
Display
1.
80.7%
Samsung Galaxy Chromebook Plus XE550XGA
Samsung Galaxy Chromebook Plus XE550XGA
Intel Core 3 100U ⎘
Intel UHD Graphics 64EUs (Alder Lake 12th Gen) ⎘
8 GB Memory
Amazon:
1. $24.99
Fintie Sleeve Case Cover for...
2. $6.99
Keyboard Cover for 2024 Sams...
3. $19.88
Alapmk Protective Case for S...
1.2 kg11.8 mm15.60"
1920x1080
141 PPI
AMOLED
2.
77.8%
Lenovo Chromebook Duet 11M889
Lenovo Chromebook Duet 11M889
MediaTek Kompanio 838 ⎘
ARM Mali-G57 MP3 ⎘
8 GB Memory, 128 GB eMMC
Amazon:
1. $20.99
Case Compatible with Fro Len...
2. $375.00
Lenovo Chromebook Duet Gen 9...
3. $11.99
Supershieldz Designed for Le...
List Price: 450€
874 g17 mm10.95"
1920x1200
207 PPI
IPS
3.
79.5%
Acer Chromebook Plus CB514-4H
Acer Chromebook Plus CB514-4H
Intel Core i3-N305 ⎘
Intel UHD Graphics 32EUs (Alder Lake) ⎘
8 GB Memory, 128 GB SSD
Amazon:
List Price: 575€
1.4 kg20.5 mm14.00"
1920x1080
157 PPI
IPS
4.
78.1% v7 (old)
Asus Chromebook CM14 CM1402CM2A-EK0048
Asus Chromebook CM14 CM1402CM2A-EK0048
MediaTek Kompanio 520 ⎘
ARM Mali-G52 MP2 ⎘
3.7 GB Memory, 128 GB eMMC
Amazon: $165.00
List Price: 319€
1.4 kg22 mm14.00"
1920x1080
157 PPI
TN
5.
78.5% v7 (old)
Lenovo IdeaPad Slim 3 CB 14M868
Lenovo IdeaPad Slim 3 CB 14M868
MediaTek Kompanio 520 ⎘
ARM Mali-G52 MP2 ⎘
4 GB Memory, 64 GB eMMC
Amazon: $299.00
List Price: 250€
1.3 kg19.3 mm14.00"
1920x1080
157 PPI
TN
6.
81.2%
Lenovo Flex 5 Chrome 14IAU7 83EK002GE
Lenovo Flex 5 Chrome 14IAU7 83EK002GE
Intel Core i3-1315U ⎘
Intel UHD Graphics 64EUs (Alder Lake 12th Gen) ⎘
8 GB Memory, 512 GB SSD
Amazon:
1. $23.95
mCover Case ONLY Compatible ...
2. $29.91
Original New for Lenovo IP F...
3. $26.99
65W USB C Fast Charger Fit f...
List Price: 700€
1.6 kg21 mm14.00"
1920x1200

Transparency

The selection of devices to be reviewed is made by our editorial team. The test sample was provided to the author as a loan by the manufacturer or retailer for the purpose of this review. The lender had no influence on this review, nor did the manufacturer receive a copy of this review before publication. There was no obligation to publish this review. We never accept compensation or payment in return for our reviews. As an independent media company, Notebookcheck is not subjected to the authority of manufacturers, retailers or publishers.

This is how Notebookcheck is testing

Every year, Notebookcheck independently reviews hundreds of laptops and smartphones using standardized procedures to ensure that all results are comparable. We have continuously developed our test methods for around 20 years and set industry standards in the process. In our test labs, high-quality measuring equipment is utilized by experienced technicians and editors. These tests involve a multi-stage validation process. Our complex rating system is based on hundreds of well-founded measurements and benchmarks, which maintains objectivity. Further information on our test methods can be found here.

Read all 3 comments / answer
static version load dynamic
Loading Comments
Comment on this article
Please share our article, every link counts!
Mail Logo
> Expert Reviews and News on Laptops, Smartphones and Tech Innovations > Reviews > Beautiful, fast, but power-hungry: The Samsung Galaxy Chromebook Plus review
Marc Herter, 2025-05-19 (Update: 2025-05-21)