Laptops & Chromebooks

At least one flash memory-card slot (CF, SD, XD, MS, etc.)

A built-in webcam for videoconferencing.

Also known as the CPU (Central Processing Unit), the processor is responsible for running commands and handling data. Processors come in different speeds and may have two or more cores (ex. dual-core), which let you more quickly process multiple complex tasks.

Also known as RAM, memory is a temporary storage area for data. Its size is an important factor for performance.

The amount of storage, a permanent area for the operating system, programs and data such as documents, music, and media files. Storage can be a hard drive, an SSD (solid state drive), or hybrid drive.

The number of picture elements ("pixels") across the horizontal and vertical dimension of the screen. The higher the resolution within a given size screen, the finer the detail that can be displayed. No scaling is needed to view a picture or movie of this size, or to match the display resolution with the native resolution, sometimes called Default or Recommended.

Also known as the video card, the video adapter processes all the data that you see on your screen. They come in different speeds and may be integrated (most common, but is slower and uses up memory) or discrete (which is faster and has its own dedicated memory).

The width of the Chromebook while closed.

The height from the table, or thickness, of the Chromebook while closed.

The depth, from the front edge to the back hinge, of the Chromebook while closed.

Based on weight and thickness. This includes Chromebooks that may be labeled "Ultrabook," "Sleekbook," "Thin and light," and "Ultrathin," among other terms.

The operating system that was installed on the computer at the time it was tested. The operating system is the software that controls the basic operation of the computer.

The length in months of the manufacturer's standard warranty.

The length in months of the manufacturer's free technical support by telephone.

The total energy contained in the battery, expressed in Watt-hours. A larger capacity battery will deliver longer battery life, but will add weight and sometimes will extend beyond the edge of the Chromebook.

Assigned by Google, the expiration date is when this Chromebook will stop receiving system updates. Depending on its hardware, each model receives a date about 6.5 years from the date of initial release. This is one way to encourage updated hardware from both manufacturers and consumers, and ensure system security and stability.

The type of built-in 802.11 wireless networking supported. Chromebooks with 802.11n also support 802.11g routers. Some models with 802.11n also support the 5GHz "high band," a standard suitable for apartments and other crowded areas. 802.11ac is the newest, fastest type.

Support for 1000 Mb/s networking.

Number of USB ports for printers, flash drives, or other peripherals.

An HDMI out port for sending a digital video/audio signal to a computer monitor or HDTV.