A few days ago, someone at Newegg made a major boo-boo by posting a photograph of an Asus Chromebook and listing it for sale. Why was it a major boo-boo? The Chromebook in question hasn't been released yet.
Before Newegg realized its mistake and deleted the post, some have already seen it. Chrome Unboxed was the first to spot the post and thus started rumors of a new Asus C302CA.
The Chromebook in question, known initially by its codename "Cave", first made news in mid-October after an FCC filing was discovered. Since then, it has been quiet in their front even after the filing was approved.
Since the surprising leak, a little buzz has developed especially after one considers the impressive features of the upcoming Chromebook.
USB-C Chromebook Specifications
The most glaring feature of the leaked Chromebook is, of course, the two USB3.1-Type C slots along its side. But those are not the only impressive ones. The new Chromebook also boasts of the following:
- Intel Core m3-6Y30 Processor with 4M Cache and speed of up to 2.2 GHz
- 12.5" FHD (1920 x 1080) Touch Display with 300 units
- 4GB LPDDR3 RAM
- 64GB EMMC Internal Storage
- Dimensions: 11.97" x 8.27" x 0.54"
- Weight: 2.65 lbs
- Bluetooth 4.2
- Headphone-out and Audio-in Combo Jack
- Illuminated Chiclet Keyboard
- Micro SD Card Slot
Looking at the leaked picture of the device, one would immediately be impressed. Basically, it looks fantabulous (Is this word still being used?). The body is made up of aluminum giving it the chic look of the MacBooks.
Port Comparisons
Speaking of, the new MacBook Pro has taken a bit of a hit since its release. The new Touch Bar feature is interesting, to say the least. The problem lies with its other new features - or lack of it. Apple's decision to get rid of the SD card slot, the MagSafe 2 charging port, HDMI port, the Thunderbolt 2 ports and the USB port has been quite questionable. In their stead are four Thunderbolt 3/USB-C ports.
A side-to-side comparison between the MacBook Pro and the leaked Chromebook will show that there are more ports on the latter's side. When Apple got rid of most of the useful ports, many voiced their disappointment. Asus seems to be aware of the backlash and does not want to follow Apple's footsteps.
It is a wise move by Asus leaving the standard ports while adding the USB-Type C which Apple is trying to turn into the "in thing" among computers. Asus will be ready if the industry does shift to USB-C or if it fails miserably. One point for Asus.
Price
The MacBook Pro is costly, that is a fact. One unit runs to the thousands. The 13" MacBook Pro costs around $1499 while the 15" version is priced at $2399.
As for the leaked Chromebook, it is priced at a lowly $500. Checkmate.
Surely, there are other factors with which one can compare and contrast the two devices but so far, this is all we have. To have a clearer picture of what the Asus C302CA would be like, we'll have to wait for the official announcement.