Acer has developed a gaming-focused Chromebook that utilizes the power of the cloud to offer on-the-go gaming.
The Acer Chromebook 516 GE adds an Intel Alder Lake processor to Core i7 models (P series) and comes with 16GB of RAM (LPDDR4X) and a 256GB PCIe SSD for storage.
Cloud gaming services will assist running games, including support for Nvidia GeForce Now, Amazon Luna, and the Xbox Cloud Gaming product (still in beta).
Acer has equipped this Chromebook with a 2,560 x 1,600 resolution IPS panel (boasting 100% coverage of the sRGB color gamut), plus it has a 120Hz refresh rate (so can support frame rates of up to 120 fps).
Gamers get the benefit of a backlit RGB keyboard that features anti-ghosting technology, and DTS audio is on-board.
Acer claims to have a battery life of nine hours, but take the time with some caution, as battery life can vary dramatically depending on a variety of factors.
The Chromebook 516 GE will be out in October in the United States, where pricing will start at $650. It will be delivered in Europe in December at 999, with the gaming laptop expected to hit the United Kingdom in Q1 next year (hopefully January) starting at 849.
Analysis: Trading a set of demands for another
As Acer has packed in here, any Chromebook may be a gaming laptop with the advantage of the cloud, and the entire thing is that makes the hardware irrelevant. Despite the fact that the screen is spacious, and the inclusion of an impressive backlit keyboard and so forth.
A cloud gaming might be an interesting option for some, as long as the UK price appears to be disappointing. For some, however, we must say, there are limitations on hardware (like the requirement for a powerful GPU) to rely on your internet connection instead.
If you subscribe to a cloud gaming program, do not forget to pay attention. While the good news on the back is that you get a free 3-month trial of GeForce Now and Luna with the laptop, giving them both a shot.