Google Debuts First Chromebooks 'Made for Gaming'

Google has always marketed Chromebooks as fast, secure, and easy to use, and now the company is looking to take things a step further by introducing a few Chromebooks specially "made for gaming."

The three new Chromebooks include models created by Acer, ASUS, and Lenovo, and come with a myriad of features, including a 120Hz (and higher) high-resolution display.

The first of the new Chromebooks designed for gaming is the Acer Chromebook 516 GE. This ChromeOS-based laptop will offer a 120Hz display, along with an RGB-powered anti-ghosting keyboard and support for Wi-Fi 6E connectivity.

Additionally, users who pick up this Chromebook will be able to take advantage of the included Intel Core i5 (and higher) processor, as well as 8 GB or more of memory.

Google Gaming Chromebooks
Google just debuted three new Chromebooks "made for gaming." The new Chromebooks are all on sale now and can be found at Best Buy and Walmart. Google

The second laptop that debuted in the announcement is the ASUS Chromebook Vibe CX55 Flip. This cloud-gaming-based laptop will offer a 144Hz full HD display, an anti-ghosting keyboard (without RGB support), Wi-Fi 6 connectivity and Harmon Kardon-certified dual speakers.

Gamers will be able to take advantage of the ASUS' two-in-one convertible option, which allows you to use it as a laptop or a tablet. It also comes equipped with an Intel Core i5 and higher processor, as well as 8 GB or more of memory, depending on the model.

Finally, the third option debuted by Google today is the Lenovo Ideapad Gaming Chromebook. This gaming-centric Chromebook will sport an Intel Core i3 or higher processor, along with 8 GB or more of memory.

It's also equipped with a four-speaker system that comes with Wave audio tuning and support for Wi-Fi 6E connectivity. Finally, the display on this laptop will offer up to 120Hz, and the anti-ghosting keyboard comes packed with RGB options to help make it stands out.

All three models are packed to the brim with features to help them stand out to gamers. The move is intriguing, especially after Google's recent announcement that it is shutting down Google Stadia. While Stadia isn't set to end just yet, Google seems to be moving its Chromebooks to push back into cloud gaming thanks to Nvidia GeForce Now.

GeForce Now brings over 1,000 games to the frontline of gaming on Chromebooks and sets gamers up with plenty of options, including Fortnite, Cyberpunk 2077, and tons more. But the access doesn't end there.

You'll also be able to connect Amazon Luna and Xbox Cloud Gaming to play games on your new Chromebook. These new Chromebooks will now also come with a three-month trial for both Amazon Luna+ and Nvidia GeForce Now's RTX 3080 tier.

The new Chromebooks are all on sale now and can be found at Best Buy and Walmart, and any other places where Chromebooks are sold.

Uncommon Knowledge

Newsweek is committed to challenging conventional wisdom and finding connections in the search for common ground.

Newsweek is committed to challenging conventional wisdom and finding connections in the search for common ground.

About the writer


Joshua Hawkins is a Newsweek gaming reporter based in Texas. His focus is reporting on video games, the games industry, ... Read more

To read how Newsweek uses AI as a newsroom tool, Click here.
Newsweek cover
  • Newsweek magazine delivered to your door
  • Newsweek Voices: Diverse audio opinions
  • Enjoy ad-free browsing on Newsweek.com
  • Comment on articles
  • Newsweek app updates on-the-go
Newsweek cover
  • Newsweek Voices: Diverse audio opinions
  • Enjoy ad-free browsing on Newsweek.com
  • Comment on articles
  • Newsweek app updates on-the-go