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Open the Files app, select Downloads, choose the file, then click the Trash icon or right-click it and choose Move to trash. Important: deleting a file from Downloads is permanent on a Chromebook and cannot be undone. Move anything you want to keep somewhere safer before deleting it.
Delete files from the Downloads folder
- Open the Files app.
- Select Downloads in the left sidebar.
- Select the file you want to delete. To select multiple files, use the selection controls in Files.
- Click the Trash icon, or right-click the selection and choose Move to trash.
Downloads deletions are permanent. Google says a file deleted from the Chromebook Downloads folder cannot be undone; it does not go through the recoverable Trash process. Do not delete a file unless you are sure you no longer need it. Google Chromebook Help: Keep your downloaded files from being deleted
Keep a file before removing it from Downloads
If you may need a download later, move it out of Downloads first. In Files, select the file and drag it to a permanent location such as My Drive. Google also lets you change Chrome’s default download location or choose to be asked where each download should be saved. Google Chromebook Help
Recoverable Trash is different from Downloads
Google says most files deleted from other locations go to Trash and are permanently deleted after 30 days. You can restore those files from Trash before they are permanently removed. That 30-day recovery period does not apply to files deleted from Downloads. Google Chromebook Help: Open, save, or delete files on your Chromebook
#1 Best Overall
- 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.
Check what is using Chromebook storage
To see how local storage is being used, open Settings → Storage management. The screen breaks storage down by category, including Downloads. Google suggests deleting unneeded local files, moving files to Google Drive, clearing browsing data and download history, uninstalling unused apps, or removing extra local user accounts. Google Chromebook Help: Free up space on your Chromebook
Clearing Chrome’s browsing data or download history is separate from deleting the downloaded file itself. To remove the actual file, use the Files app and delete it from Downloads. Also note that Google says a Chromebook running low on space might automatically remove downloaded files, browsing data, cache, or unused accounts.
Rank #2
- Storage: 16GB Flash Memory
- OS: Chrome OS
- Screen Size: 11.6"
Do not use a factory reset just to clear downloads
A factory reset, also called Powerwash, removes local user data and is excessive for routine cleanup. Back up files you want to keep before resetting a Chromebook; Google identifies external storage as one possible backup destination. Google Chromebook Help: Reset your Chromebook to factory settings
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
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