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Unplug attached devices, then try the recovery keys for your Chromebook’s form factor: on most models, hold Esc + Refresh, press Power, release Power, and let go of the other keys when the recovery message appears. Some models use Esc + Maximize; tablets use a separate three-button sequence. If the recovery screen still does not appear, check power and model-specific instructions before repeating attempts. Don’t proceed with ChromeOS recovery unless you are prepared to lose local files: it permanently erases them, including Downloads.
Try the recovery sequence for your device
- Disconnect peripherals. Unplug attached devices such as a mouse or external drive before trying again.
- For most Chromebooks: Hold Esc + Refresh, press Power, then release Power while continuing to hold Esc and Refresh. Release the remaining keys when the recovery message appears.
- If that sequence does not work: Some Chromebook models use Esc + Maximize instead of Refresh. Check the manufacturer’s instructions for your specific model rather than assuming the usual combination applies to every Chromebook.
- For a Chromebook tablet: Hold Volume Up + Volume Down + Power for at least 10 seconds, then release the buttons.
Check whether the device is powering on
If the screen stays blank and the Chromebook gives no response, check power before treating this as a recovery-key problem. Google’s hardware and system troubleshooting guidance says to connect the Chromebook to power and check for a charging indicator. If it indicates charging but still will not turn on, leave it charging for at least 30 minutes before trying again. If it cannot power on, repeated key attempts may not help; follow hardware troubleshooting or contact the manufacturer.
Check for a model-specific recovery button
Chromeboxes and Chromebits use a physical recovery-button procedure involving a paper clip or similar object; a Chromebit must be unplugged first. Not all Chromebook models have a recovery button. If you cannot find one or are unsure of the procedure, consult the manufacturer’s instructions for the device instead of inserting an object into an unidentified opening.
Choose a recovery method once the recovery screen appears
Google’s recovery instructions describe internet recovery for supported newer Chromebooks and recovery from USB media. Use internet recovery if the option appears on your device and it can connect to the internet. Older Chromebooks may not support it. If the option is unavailable or there is no internet connection, use USB recovery media if you can prepare it on another computer.
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- Intel Celeron N4120: 4 Cores & Threads, 1.1GHz Base Clock, Up to 2.6GHz Boost Clock, 4MB Cache, Intel UHD Graphics 600. The perfect combination of performance, power consumption, and value helps your device handle multitasking smoothly and reliably with four processing cores to divide up the work.
- 14" HD Display: 14.0-inch diagonal, HD (1366 x 768), micro-edge, anti-glare. See your digital world in a whole new way. Enjoy movies and photos with the great image quality and high-definition detail of 1 million pixels.
- Memory & Storage: 4 GB LPDDR4x & 64 GB eMMC Storage. Adequate high-bandwidth RAM to smoothly run multiple applications and browser tabs all at once. An embedded multimedia card provides reliable flash-based storage.
- Ports:2 x USB 3.0 Type-A，1 x USB 3.0 Type-C，1 x HDMI，1 x Headphone Jack
- Chrome OS: Chromebook is a computer for the way the modern world works, with thousands of apps. Enjoy the seamless simplicity that comes with Google Chrome and Android apps, all integrated into one laptop. It’s fast, simple, and secure.
| Method | Use it when | What you need |
|---|---|---|
| Internet recovery | The recovery option appears on the Chromebook, the model supports it, and the device can access the internet. | An internet connection. Older Chromebooks may not support this option. |
| USB recovery media | Internet recovery is unavailable, or the Chromebook has no internet access. | Another working Chromebook, or a Windows or Mac computer with Chrome; the Chromebook Recovery Utility; and a USB flash drive with at least 8 GB capacity. Creating the media erases the drive. |
Create and troubleshoot USB recovery media
- On a working Chromebook or a Windows or Mac computer with Chrome, use the Chromebook Recovery Utility to create recovery media on a USB flash drive with at least 8 GB capacity. Creating the media erases its contents.
- When asked to identify the Chromebook, select the model or use the model number shown at the bottom of the Chromebook’s error screen.
- Insert the USB device you used to create the recovery media into the Chromebook and follow the on-screen recovery instructions.
If recovery reports an “unexpected error” or says the device does not contain ChromeOS, first confirm that the inserted device is the USB drive prepared with the Recovery Utility. If the message persists, erase the storage device and create the media again, or try another USB drive. Google notes that some flash drives do not work well for recovery.
Understand the data loss before continuing
ChromeOS recovery removes and reinstalls the operating system, permanently erasing local files, including downloaded files. Google’s recovery guide warns: “Recovery permanently erases everything on your Chromebook’s hard drive, even your downloaded files.” Back up local files first if you can; do not assume recovery will preserve them.
Rank #2
- Storage: 16GB Flash Memory
- OS: Chrome OS
- Screen Size: 11.6"
A factory reset, also called Powerwash, is a different procedure. Google’s factory-reset guidance describes it as erasing local user data and presents it as a troubleshooting option when you can sign in. It is not a substitute for entering recovery mode when the Chromebook will not boot to the recovery screen.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- FOR HOME, WORK, & SCHOOL – With an Intel processor, 14-inch display, custom-tuned stereo speakers, and long battery life, this Chromebook laptop lets you knock out any assignment or binge-watch your favorite shows..Voltage:5.0 volts
- HD DISPLAY, PORTABLE DESIGN – See every bit of detail on this micro-edge, anti-glare, 14-inch HD (1366 x 768) display (1); easily take this thin and lightweight laptop PC from room to room, on trips, or in a backpack.
- ALL-DAY PERFORMANCE – Reliably tackle all your assignments at once with the quad-core, Intel Celeron N4120—the perfect processor for performance, power consumption, and value (2).
- 4K READY – Smoothly stream 4K content and play your favorite next-gen games with Intel UHD Graphics 600 (3) (4).
- MEMORY AND STORAGE – Enjoy a boost to your system’s performance with 4 GB of RAM while saving more of your favorite memories with 64 GB of reliable flash-based eMMC storage (5).
Rank #4
- THE BETTER WAY TO LAPTOP – Imagine a Chromebook that’s as flexible as your day: thin and lightweight with built-in Google apps and stress-free security.
- TAKE HITS KEEP MOVING – Sleek, light, and built to last- the Chromebook 2-in-1 is just 0.69” thick and 3.3lbs. Enjoy long-lasting battery life, fast charging, and military-grade durability for nonstop productivity wherever life takes you.
- PERFORMANCE THAT MATCHES YOUR HUSTLE – Fuel your ideas with an Intel Core processor and 128GB storage. Boot up in under 10 seconds to start the day powerfully efficient.
- FLEX YOUR CREATIVITY ANYWHERE, ANYTIME – Create, work, or unwind your way with a versatile 2-in-1 design. Flip easily between laptop, tent, and tablet modes with a responsive touchscreen built for flexibility.
- BRILLIANT VIEWS AND IMMERSIVE AUDIO – See, hear, and create with awesome clarity. The WUXGA display brings rich detail to your work and play, while audio tuned by Waves MaxxAudio provides immersive, balanced sound.
Rank #3
- Intel Processor Up to 2.80GHz, 4GB DDR4, 128GB Storage
- 15" FHD IPS Display, Intel UHD Graphics
- 1x USB Type C, 1 x USB Type A, 1x Headphone/Microphone Combo Jack, HDMI
- Fast WiFi and Bluetooth, Integrated Webcam
- Chrome OS, AC Charger Included, Pastel Silver
When to get help
- Work or school Chromebook: Contact your administrator if recovery does not work or the device is managed. Do not try to bypass management.
- Recovery screen still will not appear: Check the manufacturer’s model-specific recovery instructions, then contact the Chromebook manufacturer if Google’s steps do not resolve the problem.
- Older Chromebook: Some older devices may not support current updates or recovery procedures. Ask the manufacturer what options apply to your model.
- No power or charging response: Follow hardware troubleshooting and seek manufacturer support if the device still will not turn on. A failed key attempt alone does not establish what component, if any, has a fault.
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
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