ASUS Chromebook CM32 Review: Better Than an iPad or Budget Laptop
ASUS Chromebook CM32
Buying devices to help with studying isnโt the simplest thing to do. iPad offers great portability, but it normally requires buying a separate keyboard. Good all-around Android tablets might be a bit restricted for more intense work, while a Windows laptop will work with far more applications, but an affordable option can feel clunky and slow.
The new ASUS Chromebook CM32 wants to come right down the middle on some fronts, with a compromise that sees it acting like both a tablet and a small laptop, powered by ChromeOS and offering a removable keyboard.
In this ASUS Chromebook CM32 review, we break down the pricing, specifications, student-friendly aspects, cons, and overall value for money. We compare it with an iPad, an Android device, and a low-end Windows laptop.
What is the ASUS Chromebook CM32?
This 2-in-1 Chromebook runs ChromeOS, so it can easily be used with or without the detachable keyboard. Attach the keyboard whenever you want to write a letter, email, or homework assignment, or detach it when you want to curl up and relax with your book, movie, or the touch screen.
It comes with a 12.1-inch touchscreen โ bigger than average tablet, but smaller than most laptop sizes, meaning you wonโt find it heavy in the college bag.
The tablet has been primarily designed for activities like browsing the web, online classes, use of Google Workspace, video chats, use of Android applications, and office work that does not demand much from the computer. It is not intended to replace the powerful Windows computer for all users.
ASUS Chromebook CM32 Specifications
Here are the main ASUS Chromebook CM32 Specifications available for Indian buyers:
| Feature | ASUS Chromebook CM32 |
|---|---|
| Display | 12.1-inch 2.5K touchscreen |
| Refresh rate | 120Hz |
| Brightness | Up to 600 nits |
| Processor | MediaTek Kompanio 540 |
| RAM | 4GB or 8GB LPDDR5X |
| Storage | 64GB or 128GB eMMC |
| Operating system | ChromeOS |
| Front Camera | 5MP |
| Rear Camera | 5MP |
| Battery | 42Wh |
| Connectivity | Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth 5.4 |
| Port | USB Type-C |
| Keyboard | Detachable keyboard with touchpad |
| Stylus Support | Yes, but availability may vary |
ASUS Chromebook CM32 Price in India
The ASUS Chromebook CM32 price in India starts at 37,990. The final price of the ASUS Chromebook CM32 may vary with the available RAM, storage, accessories, and the launch offer at the time of purchase.
However, the 8 GB of RAM & 128 GB of internal storage version makes sense if the cost difference is not too huge. Youโll have a bit more space, and multitasking should be better when compared to the base model.
And finally, before you press the buy button, you need to confirm if the keyboard and the stylus are part of your package deal or not. A separable machine is just half the of a machine, and paying extra too much to own and have the indispensable accessories around just does not pay.
How Does the ASUS Chromebook CM32 Perform in Daily Use?
The Kompanio 540 processor isnโt made for hard work like professionals, but it does fine with everyday ChromeOS tasks. You can open browser tabs, use Google Docs, watch videos, take online classes, and even run the right kinds of Android apps.
They can use this for Google Classroom, Meet, presentations, research projects, and essays. The service can also be useful for freelance workers who rely on browser-based tools for communication, email, WordPress, spreadsheets, and design software like Canva.
ChromeOS starts quickly and receives automatic updates. It is also generally easier to manage than a full Windows system.
Still, the CM32 is not a gaming or editing laptop. Heavy video editing, advanced design software, and demanding PC games are outside its main purpose. Some Windows and macOS programs also do not have full ChromeOS versions.
Is the ASUS Chromebook CM32 Good for Students?
The ASUS Chromebook CM32 for Students Only makes sense when work takes place mostly online (in school or in college).
The attachable keyboard can also aid you in writing emails, papers, and notes, and the use of tablet mode is perfect for viewing PDF files and lectures. The touchscreen and optional stylus support can also assist in taking notes manually and making basic drawings.
Best if you are looking to use the same resources in a web browser, as well as access tools via Google Workspace and on Android devices. It may not be the right choice for courses that require full desktop software, advanced coding tools, or Windows-only exam applications.
Parents should check the childโs school software before buying. This simple step can prevent compatibility problems later.
ASUS Chromebook CM32 vs iPad
An iPad offers a large app library, strong tablet performance, and good creative tools. It may be better for drawing, mobile gaming, and users who already own other Apple devices.
The ASUS Chromebook CM32 can be more practical for typing, browser-based assignments, and managing files in a laptop-style interface. Its design is undeniably a productive one thanks to its removable keyboard.
Go for an iPad for a better experience. Choose the CM32 if you want it for more study, browsing, documents, and online classes.
ASUS Chromebook CM32 vs Android Tablet
Youโll pay less for a regular Android tablet that will get the job done streaming movies, reading e-books, and the occasional bit of searching on the web. For really hardcore use, though, many Android tablets still have more of a large smartphone feel.
With ChromeOS, you get more of a desktop-like browser, better window management, and easier use of a keyboard. The CM32 can also run many Android apps through Google Play.
An Android tablet may offer better value for entertainment. However, if they want laptop convenience, while having a bit of tablet portability in one device, the ASUS Chromebook CM32 is probably going to be your better bet.
ASUS Chromebook CM32 vs Windows Laptop
The basic Windows laptop will open more programs. It is the safer choice if youโre getting it for desktop Microsoft Office, specialized software for university or advanced coding languages, and old desktop PC programmes.
The CM32 is lighter and more portable with tablet ease. Plus, ChromeOS takes a lot less work and supports you in your cloud work.
Go with Windows if the apps you use the most will only run on an operating system other than Chrome OS. Get a Chromebook if weight, battery life, ease of use, and your willingness to work online in more cases are more important.
ASUS Chromebook CM32 Pros and Cons
Pros
- Sharp 2.5K touchscreen
- Smooth 120Hz display
- Detachable keyboard design
- Useful laptop and tablet modes
- Easy-to-use ChromeOS
- Supports Android apps
- Suitable for classes and light work
- Portable design
Cons
- Limited built-in storage
- Only one main USB Type-C port
- Not suitable for heavy editing or gaming
- Some Windows software will not work
- Stylus availability may depend on the package
- The starting price is close to that of some budget Windows laptops
Who Should Buy the ASUS Chromebook CM32?
ASUS Chromebook CM32 Chromebook is great for students, users of computers in university, professors, teachers, and also people learning online, if these users basically use tools based on the web.
Also convenient for a casual freelance worker on Chrome, Google Workspace, WordPress, Canva, or online messaging software.
Donโt buy if you rely on the most demanding Windows applications, pro video editing, PC games, or require a huge amount of data stored on the local hard drive.
Conclusion
The ASUS Chromebook CM32 offers a useful mix of tablet comfort and laptop productivity. Its sharp display, detachable keyboard, and ChromeOS experience make it an interesting study device.
This makes sense, given that itโs priced just shy of many budget Windows laptop equivalents and top-end Android tablet price ranges (from 37,990 dollars). This means the buying decision depends more on your software needs than the design alone.
This Chromebook from Asus would be suitable for any students or internet users who will predominantly be browser-based and would like a handy 2-in-1 option. Those with a requirement for specialist applications would be better off sticking to a more traditional Windows laptop. Those focused largely on applications or entertainment would prefer to invest in a tablet like an iPad or an Android tablet.
List the apps you use daily before you go out and buy. It will show you a lot more than the product specs.
