Distinctions - The CX22N’s strongest point stands with its integration of Google’s suite. With powerhouse web applications like Drive, Docs and Youtube readily accessible to users through a singular Chrome startup, a user is readily exposed to the full extent of what the Chromebook is designed to do, for better or worse. While the lack of fat around external compatibility does expose the scarcity of complexity or choice, the Chromebook succeeds in properly showcasing the elegant simplicity of its offerings.

Criticisms - ASUS provides the CX22N with few ports, only a single USB 2.0, two USB type C (also used for charging), an audio line out, and a Micro SD slot for unexplained reasons. Peripherals that might provide the Chromebook with greater usability like external storage to combat the hard 32 GB limit, or a mouse to avoid using the antiquated and slow trackpad are therefore limited to whether they can be used synchronously across the limited port space. Increased reliance on internet also results in errors not present in peers, with all three products we tested refusing to sync until the date and time was sought out and adjusted manually to validate the certificates needed to access Google’s own sites during setup. While not deal-breaking individually, the frequency with which limitations are reached with the CX22N begins to snowball into a negative user experience.

Distinctions - Not redefining the Chromebook space, ASUS engineers the CX22N with durable plastic housing and a tight build that makes the whole assembly feel solid. Little flex between components and a beveled edge create peace of mind knowing drop and damage resistance has been upgraded when compared to peers. Processor is relatively par for the course, but is nonetheless very capable for the intended use of the CX22N.

Criticisms - Plastic housing, plastic screen and overall inexpensive components suggest an actual cost of assembly significantly lower than the MSRP. While plastic durability is better than average, increased investment in a metal housing would drastically increase longevity and decrease visible wear overtime.

Distinctions - Neutral gray plastic and embossed ASUS logo provide a business professional design that befits its intended use.

Criticisms - Largest demerit awarded to garish and clashing Chrome logo embossed on the cover that undoes most of the design language created by the rest of the product. Plastic used in screen and keyboard appear cheap due to decreased quality and washed out coloration. Color bleaching with time worsens the issue.

Distinctions - The CX22N ships in entirely recycled packaging that arrives ready to recycle again. Bespoke design eliminates the need for more shipping protection, reducing the overall footprint of transporting the product from creation to destination. Plastic housing and screen aids somewhat with recycling. Longevity of the unit is higher than some peers at comparable price points within the Chromebook sphere.

Criticisms - Lack of a buyback or recycling program by ASUS means the lifespan of the CX22N is limited to its first user. Low intrinsic value means a small second-hand market, leading a much higher percentage than comparable standalone laptops who are likely to be passed on before disposal. Similarly, few replacement parts are sold, leaving the most feasible and economic solution to most damage to be disposal and complete replacement.

Distinctions - As a Chromebook, the CX22N is a competitive peer to existing notebooks functioning on the Chrome OS, with solid build quality, a middling price point and competent execution of the Chromebook formula.

Criticisms - Comparable Chromebooks provide the same experience with stronger materials, while comparable small notebooks and laptops pack a harder punch with more standalone use. While the Chrome OS is supposedly streamlined for work environments, users within its intended demographic of college students or young professionals will find the Chromebook suffers from a lack of ability to download, store, and easily markup assignments and materials. For those looking to get a fully functional laptop on a budget, second-hand or manufacturer refurbished self-sufficient laptops would get far more return on investment.