Acer is doubling down on education-focused computing. The company has officially introduced the Acer Chromebook 311 and Acer Chromebook Spin 311, two compact ChromeOS laptops designed specifically for K–12 classrooms and shared learning environments.
These are Acer’s first Chromebooks powered by MediaTek Kompanio 540, and they focus on three big priorities schools care about most: long battery life, durability, and modern connectivity.
Pricing and Availability
Acer has confirmed regional pricing for both models:
- Acer Chromebook 311
- Starts at $499.99 in North America
- €329 in EMEA regions
- Acer Chromebook Spin 311
- Starts at $579.99 in North America
- €379 in EMEA regions
Both laptops will roll out across North America, Europe, the Middle East, Africa, and Australia starting March, with configurations and pricing varying by region.
Display and Design: Classroom-Friendly Form Factors
Both Chromebooks feature an 11.6-inch HD (1366×768) IPS display, optimized for everyday school use.
- The Chromebook Spin 311 comes with a 360-degree hinge, allowing it to switch between laptop, tent, and tablet modes, and supports touch input.
- The standard Chromebook 311 sticks to a classic clamshell design for simpler classroom setups.
Select configurations also include antimicrobial Corning Gorilla Glass and TÜV Rheinland-certified low blue light panels, aimed at durability and eye comfort for students.
Performance and Software
Under the hood, both models run on the MediaTek Kompanio 540 octa-core processor, featuring:
- 2× Arm Cortex-A78 cores
- 6× Cortex-A55 cores
- Arm Mali-G57 MC2 GPU
Memory options go up to 8GB LPDDR5x RAM, while storage is available in 32GB, 64GB, or 128GB eMMC variants.
Both devices run ChromeOS, with optional Chrome Education Upgrade support for schools managing large fleets of devices.
Connectivity and Classroom Tools
Acer hasn’t cut corners on connectivity. Depending on the configuration, the Chromebooks support:
- Wi-Fi 7 or Wi-Fi 6E
- Bluetooth 5.3 or 5.2
Port selection includes:
- 2× USB Type-C (charging + DisplayPort)
- 2× USB 3.2 Gen 1
- 3.5mm headphone jack
For online classes and hybrid learning, both models feature a 1080p Full HD webcam with a privacy shutter, dual microphones, and stereo speakers. Acer is also offering an optional 5MP world-facing camera for classroom projects and interactive learning.
Security is handled by a Titan C Trusted Platform Module and a Kensington lock slot.
Battery Life and Durability
Battery life is one of the biggest highlights. Both Chromebooks pack a 45Wh battery, with Acer claiming up to 15 hours of usage on a single charge, along with fast charging support.
They’re also built to survive school life. The laptops meet MIL-STD 810H durability standards, featuring:
- Spill-resistant keyboards
- Reinforced ports
- Shock-absorbing bumpers
- Modular components for easier repairs
Size and Weight
- Chromebook 311: 292.3 × 202.2 × 19.1mm, approx. 1.17kg
- Chromebook Spin 311: 292.3 × 204.4 × 18.9mm, approx. 1.26kg
Lightweight enough for backpacks, but sturdy enough for daily classroom use.
Final Words
With the Chromebook 311 and Spin 311, Acer is clearly targeting schools that want reliable, long-lasting laptops without premium pricing. A 15-hour battery, Wi-Fi 7 support, rugged design, and ChromeOS ecosystem make these Chromebooks practical choices for modern classrooms.
They may not be flashy, but for education-focused buyers, Acer’s new Chromebooks check all the right boxes.
