Chromebooks for Artists: 7 Best Picks for Creative Pursuits

A Chromebook is an excellent tool for any artist, as you can draw on the screen with a stylus. This feature makes it easier than ever to create digital artwork.

Plus, Chromebooks are affordable and have come leaps and bounds in recent years. You can even access the Adobe apps on ChromeOS now. These developments have made Chromebooks much more attractive to artists and designers.

So, if you’re looking for a 2 in 1 Chromebook for drawing, I’ve got you covered. Read on for my guide on choosing the right Chromebook. Then, I’ll share my recommendations for the best Chromebooks right now for artists.

Buyer’s Guide to the Best Chromebook for Art & Drawing

There are a few factors you need to keep in mind when shopping for a Chromebook. If you look out for these features, you’ll find the perfect Chromebook for your needs.

Display & Touchscreen

As an artist, an essential thing to consider is the screen. You want a high-resolution display so that you can work on intricate designs. It’s critical that you can see the tiny details and vivid colors in your artwork. That’s why you should look for a screen with at least 1920 x 1080 pixels. Don’t skimp on this, or you’ll regret it later.

For your ease of use, you should go for a Chromebook with a touchscreen. Working on a touchscreen with a stylus is much more user-friendly and intuitive. Using a stylus is simple and straightforward compared to other drawing apps. You get great control so that you can create stunning masterpieces.

You also need to look out for true-to-life color rendering and decent contrast. If you find a Chromebook with these features, you’ll know it’s a winner.

Processor

Not all Chromebooks are powerful, so pay careful attention to the processor. If you go for one of the low-end processors, you may have to deal with lags and crashes. It might not be able to cope with the software you want to run as an artist. 

I recommend that you look for a model that has an Intel i3 or i5 processor. An M series processor is another reliable option for your Chromebook.

Graphics

As an artist, excellent graphics are a priority. So you should know that most Chromebooks have an integrated graphics card. Integrated graphics don’t tend to be as powerful or precise as a dedicated graphics card. 

If that’s a deal-breaker, the other option is to splash out on a Chromebook with an Intel HD graphics card. In this case, you’ll need to look for a model that has an Intel i5 processor and a dedicated graphics card. Then, it should have no problem handling demanding applications with heavy graphics.

A few more questions to think about:

• Is the Chromebook portable or quite heavy? If you move around a lot, go for a compact, lightweight model.
• What ports does the Chromebook have? Make sure it has a USB 3.1 or 3.0 port so that you can connect it to other devices with ease.

• Does it offer both Bluetooth and Wifi connectivity? Wifi is essential for almost everything you will do on your Chromebook. But Bluetooth can also come in handy from time to time.

• How much RAM does it have? Many Chromebooks come with a standard 4GB RAM. That’s suitable for light tasks like browsing and streaming. If you plan on running heavy software, you might need to upgrade to an 8 or 12 GB RAM model. Just bear in mind that these Chromebooks are harder to find and more expensive!

• Does the Chromebook come with a stylus? Or do you have to buy it separately?

That sums up what you need to look out for when buying a Chromebook drawing tablet. Now, let’s get onto my specific recommendations! 

The Top 3 Chromebooks for Artists

Before we dive in the reviews, here’s a quick summary of the top three chromebooks! 

Product Name	Google Pixelbook Go M3 Chromebook	Samsung Chromebook pro	HP 14-inch Chromebook HD Touchscreen
Screen Size	13.3 inches	12.2 inches	14 Inches
Resolution	1920 x 1080	1900 x 1200	1366 x 768
Dimensions & Weight	12.2 x 8.1 x 0.5 inches, 2.33 lbs	8.1 x 11.4 x 1 inches, 0.70 lbs	8.93 x 13.27 x 0.72 inches, 3 lbs
Processor	8th Gen Intel Core Processor	Intel Core m3 processor	‎2.2 GHz A_Series_Dual_Core_A4
RAM	8 to 16 GB	4 GB	4 GB
Operating System	Chrome OS	Chrome OS	Chrome OS

Top Chromebooks

Google Pixelbook Go M3 Chromebook

Best Overall

(Image credit: Google)

The Google Pixelbook Go is a sleek, slim Chromebook that is easily portable. Plus, the battery life is long at 12 hours, allowing you to sketch on the go. It’s the perfect companion for any artist who likes to work from a cafe or needs to commute to the office.

It has fantastic specs, from 8GB RAM and 128 GB of storage. This model is robust and responsive, allowing you to run any application with ease. You shouldn’t run out of space with the generous storage space. The 8th Gen Intel Core processor is also noteworthy!

But as an artist, you’re most interested in the screen. The Pixelbook Go offers 8+ million pixels for an immersive, vivid experience. Your artwork will look spectacular when you draw on the touchscreen.

• Screen Size: 13.3 inches
• Resolution: 1920 x 1080
• Dimensions & Weight: 12.2 x 8.1 x 0.5 inches, 2.33 lbs
• Processor: 8th Gen Intel Core Processor
• RAM: 8 to 16 GB
• Operating System: Chrome OS

Pros

• Lightweight and portable with a long battery life
• High-resolution touchscreen display

Cons

• It’s quite expensive

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Lenovo Chromebook C340 Laptop

Best 2-in-1 laptop / Chromebook

(Image credit: Lenovo)

The Lenovo Chromebook C340 is another excellent choice. This 2-in-1 laptop offers exceptional versatility, as you can use it in tablet or laptop mode. This feature gives you greater freedom to sketch in comfort.

The HD touchscreen is a joy to draw on. But you will need to buy your own stylus, as it doesn’t come with one. While the settings aren’t as impressive as some other models, it’s sturdy and reliable. You’ll get 4 GB of RAM with this model, which is suitable for most tasks. Plus, you can use it for 10 hours anywhere without needing to charge it.

The affordable price will attract many students and amateur artists. Grab this model, and you’ll be all set to sketch and draw for years to come!

• Screen Size: 15.6 inches
• Resolution: 1920 x 1080
• Dimensions & Weight: 14.23 x 9.8 x 0.75 inches, 4.40 lbs
• Processor:  Intel Pentium Gold processor
• RAM: 4 GB
• Operating System: Chrome OS

Pros

• You can draw on the large IPS touchscreen in tablet or laptop mode
• Smooth connectivity via Wifi, Bluetooth, and a USB 3.1 port

Cons

• It doesn’t have a lot of storage space

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ASUS Chromebook Flip C434 2-In-1 Laptop

Best Affordable Chromebook for Drawing

(Image credit: Asus)

The Flip’s super-large 14-inch touchscreen is sure to grab your attention. It has ultraslim bezels and a 1920×1080 pixel display. So, it’s ideal for aspiring and professional artists.

This Asus 2 in 1 touchscreen 2 in 1 Chromebook / laptop comes with some desirable specs. It runs smoothly, thanks to the Intel Core m-3 processor and 8 GB RAM. With 64 GB of storage space, you can keep your artwork safe and secure.

The elegant, all-metal design is both attractive and hardwearing. It’s also lightweight, making it suitable for commuting and travel. So, you can get creative wherever you are with the Asus Flip.

• Screen Size: 14 inches
• Resolution: 1920 x 1080
• Dimensions & Weight: 12.6 x 8 x 0.6 inches, 3 lbs
• Processor:  Intel Core m3-8100y Processor
• RAM: 4 to 8 GB
• Operating System: Chrome OS

Pros

• A powerful Chromebook with a superb HD display
• Versatile and intuitive design

Cons

• The letters on the keyboard are quite hard to see

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HP 14-inch Chromebook HD Touchscreen

Best Large Touchscreen Chromebook

(Image credit: HP)

This large touchscreen from HP is perfectly suited to digital artists. The 14-inch responsive touchscreen allows you to create detailed sketches. 

Despite the large size, it’s lightweight and compact. So you can take it to class or work without it weighing you down. This HP Chromebook also has a long battery life of up to 10 hours. So, you don’t need to worry about charging it all the time.  It doesn’t have a lot of storage space, but you’d expect that of a Chromebook. You can save your files to the Cloud or on an external hard drive instead.

It’s also very low-cost compared to a lot of other models on the market. If you’re on a tight budget, this Chromebook will serve you well! As a bonus, it comes with built-in anti-virus and Google apps.

• Screen Size: ‎14 Inches
• Resolution: 1366 x 768
• Dimensions & Weight: 8.93 x 13.27 x 0.72 inches, 3 lbs
• Processor: ‎2.2 GHz A_Series_Dual_Core_A4
• RAM: 4GB
• Operating System: Chrome OS

Pros

• Very affordable for a touchscreen Chromebook
• Long battery life

Cons

• The screen doesn’t have the highest resolution

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Samsung Chromebook Pro Convertible

Best 2-in-1 Chromebook with Stylus For Artists

(Image credit: Samsung)

This Samsung 2-in-1 Chromebook has everything an artist needs to get started. It comes with a stylus that you can use to draw straight onto the touchscreen. So, it’s never been more straightforward to create digital artwork. You don’t need to buy anything else, and the pen doesn’t need charging. You can sketch and draw to your delight for as long as you like.

The Samsung Chromebook Pro has a sleek and lightweight design. It’s powerful enough for multitasking, thanks to the Intel Core m3 processor. You can also flip this laptop into tablet mode for the ultimate versatility. So, you can find the most comfortable position for sketching. 

Overall, this model is the best Chromebook with a stylus for artists. It combines responsiveness, ease of use, and smart design. Plus, the included stylus makes it a no-brainer for any artist.

• Screen Size: 12.2 inches
• Resolution: 1900 x 1200
• Dimensions & Weight: 8.1 x 11.4 x 1 inches, 0.70 lbs
• Processor: Intel Core m3 processor
• RAM: 4 GB
• Operating System: Chrome OS

Pros

• Great touchscreen & stylus combo
• 2-in-1 Chromebook with a long battery life

Cons

• The keyboard isn’t backlit

(Image credit: Brooke Cagle)

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Acer Chromebook 14in Display

The Best Affordable Chromebook for Drawing

(Image credit: Acer)

Acer is another well-respected brand name, and its Chromebooks don’t disappoint. This model has a generous 14-inch screen, an ultrafast Quad-core processor, and a 1920 x 1080 HD display. These superb features set this Chromebook apart from the rest!

With the incredible resolution and anti-glare screen, your designs are crystal-clear and defined. Factor in easy connectivity and SSD storage, and it ticks all the boxes for artists. 

(Image credit: Andrew Neel)

The RAM isn’t the highest at 4 GB, but it should be plenty for sketching and other web uses. You can connect to the Google Play Store to install the best drawing apps for Chromebooks. But keep in mind that it doesn’t have a touchscreen display. If that’s a deal-breaker, check out the other models on my list instead!

• Screen Size: 14-inch
• Resolution: 1920 x 1080
• Dimensions & Weight: 12.81 x 9.13 x 0.78 inches, 4.89 lbs
• Processor: Quad-core processor
• RAM: 4 GB
• Operating System: Chrome OS

Pros

• Accessible, low-cost price
• Fantastic HD screen with anti-glare

Cons

• It doesn’t have a touchscreen

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Dell Inspiron 2-in-1 5000

Best High-Performance Chromebook

(Image credit: Dell)

If you’re looking for a top-of-the-range Chromebook, this offering from Dell fits the bill! It has amazing specs, from the 8 GB of RAM to the 256 SSD storage. The 8th Gen Intel Core i3 processor can handle anything you test it with.

More critically, it has a hi-res screen that has beautiful visuals. As a result, your artwork is displayed in all its glory. You can take your pick from four different modes: tablet, laptop, tent, or media. Not only is it powerful, but you can adapt it to your needs.

• Screen Size: 14.0 inch
• Resolution: 1366 x 768
• Dimensions & Weight: 12.91 x 9.17 x 0.78 inches, 3.9 lbs
• Processor: 8th Generation Intel Core i3-8145U Processor
• RAM: 8 GB
• Operating System: Chrome OS

Pros

• Excellent screen quality for a 2-in-1 Chromebook
• Impressive design and 360-degree flexibility

Cons

• It’s on the heavy side

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The Best Drawing Apps for Chromebooks

So, you know which Chromebook is the best fit for you! Now you’ll want to know which are the best drawing apps for your Chromebook. Here are my top recommendations:

Sketchpad

Sketchpad is designed for sketching and drawing, so it offers all the tools a digital artist needs. This free tool gives you lots of fun features to play with. You can get creative with spiral brushes, paintbrushes, textures, and shapes. Plus, you can add clip art or import images and edit them. As a result, you can create some excellent designs.

Artflow

Artflow is a superb tool that gives you ultimate control. You can experiment with brushes, masks, and filters with amazing effects. Artflow is available in Google Play Store for use on Chromebooks. While the app is free, you do have to pay for extra features.

Sumo Paint

Sumo Paint is a popular drawing app for amateur and pro artists! It’s not just an image editor. It comes with an impressive array of tools for you to use. You can take your pick from 300+ brushes. Another great feature is that you can use it in sync with your stylus. This app picks up on the pressure to create intricate shading. These features combine to make it my favorite drawing app for Chromebook!

Infinite Painter

This is another great choice for drawing on your Chromebook. It offers both basic and advanced tools for sketching and painting. So, any artist can have fun with this app, no matter your experience. Powerful tools like liquify and pattern fill can transform your designs. While this app isn’t free, it’s well worth the investment.

The Wrap Up

A Chromebook is an excellent tool for any artist, especially with a stylus and touchscreen display. You can create intricate and spectacular drawings, no matter where you are. So make your choice and click through to buy your Chromebook today.

You’ll love the freedom to sketch and draw on the go with your shiny new Chromebook! Got any questions about using a Chromebook as an artist? Let me know in the comments below! 

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