Acer Chromebox CXI Series Receives Boost With Intel Core i3, 8GB Memory, 4K Support

Although Chromebooks seem to get all the attention these days when it comes to Google’s Chrome OS, we mustn’t forget that desktop-based Chromeboxes are also out in the wild. Primarily targeting the small business and education sectors, these low-power, low-cost devices are billed as credible alternative to similar devices running Windows.

Acer today has announced that it will beef up its popular Chromebox CXI line with two new models that feature the fourth generation, dual-core Core i3 4030U processor (1.9GHz, 15W TDP). This is a nice upgrade from the Celeron processors found in lesser members of the Chromebox CXI family.

The two models available differ only in the amount of standard RAM with the CXI-i34GKM ($349) bring 4GB to the table, while the CXI-i38GKM ($399) ups the antes with 8GB. Other specs are shared between both machines including a 16GB SSD, integrated Intel HD graphics with support for 4K (3840 x 2160) display resolutions, 802.11ac Wi-Fi, Bluetooth 4.0, GbE, a microSD slot, and four USB 3.0 ports (two of the ports are capable of charging a smartphone or tablet while the system is “off”).

Both new Chromebox CXI models measure just 6.51” x 5.12” x 1.3” and are VESA mountable.

The machines boot into Chrome OS in just eight seconds and Acer touts the web-based Google Management Console that allows administrators to easily manage hundreds, if not thousands of Chrome OS-based devices. Also supported is Powerwash functionality, which makes it a trivial operation to wipe all data stored on a Chromebox, restoring it to a factory state without affecting user accounts.

“A win/win for users and IT staff, the Chromebox CXI devices are easy to use and deploy, highly secure and save significant desk space,” said Acer America exec Leila Axelle-Robert. “Featuring multiple accounts and Google Drive access, they’re ideal for any environment where multiple users will be sharing one device, such as classrooms, libraries, hotel business centers and reception areas.”

Both the Chromebox CXI-i34GKM and CXI-i38GKM are available now from “leading retailers and resellers.”