Google Pixelbook: What You Need to Know About This Chromebook

The Google Pixelbook is a high-performance Chromebook that Google released in 2017. Its sleek design, versatility, and power launched Pixelbooks into the same conversation as high-end Windows and Mac laptops. Here's a look at the Google Pixelbook's features, specs, and pricing.

Google Pixelbook Design

The Pixelbook features high-end hardware and a premium design that incorporates an aluminum chassis along with Corning Gorilla Glass detail. The Pixelbook offers several configurations for a choice of processor, memory, and storage.

At 0.4 inches (10.3 mm) thick when closed, the Pixelbook is strikingly slim, rivaling a 13-inch MacBook Pro. The Pixelbook has 360-degree flexible hinges, giving it a hybrid convertible design similar to the Microsoft Surface or Asus Chromebook Flip. This design lets the keyboard fold flush against the back of the screen to use a Pixelbook as a laptop, tablet, or propped-up display.

Google Pixelbook Specs

Here's a by-the-numbers look at the Pixelbook's tech specs:

Google Pixelbook's Chrome OS

One important aspect separating the Pixelbook from previous model Chromebooks is that the operating system is no longer only focused on Wi-Fi and cloud connectivity. The updated Chrome OS offers standalone functionality so you can multitask and download media content for offline playback.

The Pixelbook also incorporates full support for Android apps and the Google Play store. Earlier Chromebooks were limited to only browser-based versions of select Android apps and apps designed specifically for Chrome.

Notable Pixelbook Features

The Pixelbook includes some unique and noteworthy features.

Google Assistant

The Pixelbook is the first laptop with Google Assistant built-in. Interact with Google Assistant through a dedicated keyboard key, voice activation (say "OK Google" for the Pixelbook's microphones to pick up), or by pressing the Google Assistant button on the Google Pixelbook Pen.

Google Assistant can launch apps, send emails, manage calendar items, set reminders, create notes, and control media. It also provides relevant information about photos, text, or events.

Google Pixelbook Pen

The Pixelbook offers active stylus support for the Google Pixelbook Pen (sold separately). Created as a joint partnership between Google and Wacom, the Pixelbook Pen delivers a virtually lag-free writing experience with tilt support and pressure sensitivity (with select apps).

Create and save handwritten notes and designs or sketches with natural precision, even from a locked screen. The Pixelbook Pen also doubles as a magnifying glass or a laser pointer for presentations.

Instant Tethering

The Pixelbook features instant tethering with Pixel phones. If wireless internet is unavailable to the laptop, instant tethering allows it to seamlessly connect to a Pixel phone to share the mobile data.

Fast-Charge Battery

With the included USB-C 45 W adapter (which also works with Pixel phones), the Pixelbook can gain up to two hours of use time with only 15 minutes of charging or up to 7.5 hours with 60 minutes of charging.

Backlit Keyboard

If you work in low-light conditions, the Pixelbook's backlit keys make it easier to type.

Hardware Security Module

Although ideal for business and enterprise consumers, everyday users can appreciate the added layer of protection safeguarding personal and sensitive data.

Glass Trackpad

The Pixelbook trackpad has a smooth, responsive glass surface that offers edge-to-edge operation. The trackpad also has finger-swiping shortcuts to see all open windows, open links in a new tab, or quickly change tabs.

Pixelbook Pricing

The Pixelbook with an Intel Core i5 processor, 8 GB of RAM, and a 128 GB SSD retails for $999. The same model with a 256 GB SSD costs $1,199. A Pixelbook with an Intel Core i7 processor, 16 GB of RAM, and a 512 GB NVME SSD costs $1,649.