The Samsung Chromebook Plus V1 has the sharper, taller display; the V2 adds a built-in pen and later scheduled ChromeOS updates, but its processor depends on the exact configuration. For a used purchase in 2026, the key distinction is support: Google lists the V1’s automatic updates through August 2023 and the V2’s through August 2027. Check the specific device’s model code and update schedule before buying.
Samsung Chromebook Plus V1 vs. V2 at a glance
| Feature | Chromebook Plus V1 | Chromebook Plus V2 |
|---|---|---|
| Model family | XE513C24 | XE520QAB or XE521QAB variants |
| Generation | Announced in 2017 | Announced in 2018 |
| Display | 12.3-inch, 2400 × 1600 touchscreen, 3:2; Samsung’s 2017 U.S. datasheet lists 400 nits | 12.2-inch, 1920 × 1200 touchscreen on the XE520QAB specification page |
| Processor | OP1 hexa-core: dual A72 plus quad A53 | Varies by configuration: documented options include Intel Celeron 3965Y and Core m3 7Y30 |
| Memory and storage | 4 GB LPDDR3 and 32 GB eMMC | Samsung’s launch materials list 32 GB built-in storage; configuration details vary |
| Pen | Pen input included in Samsung’s original product materials | Built-in pen, according to Samsung’s launch announcement |
| Ports and expansion | Two USB-C ports and microSD | Samsung described microSD expansion up to 400 GB at launch; check the precise model for its ports |
| Google-listed automatic update endpoint | August 2023 | August 2027 |
Specifications are from Samsung’s 2017 V1 announcement and product sheet, its June 14, 2018 V2 announcement, the XE520QAB support page, the XE521QAB support page, and Google’s automatic update policy. They describe product configurations, not the present condition or performance of a particular used device.
Which model has the better display?
The V1 wins on the listed display specifications. Its 12.3-inch, 2400 × 1600 panel has a 3:2 aspect ratio, which provides relatively more vertical space for documents and web pages than a widescreen display of the same diagonal size. Samsung’s U.S. datasheet lists brightness at 400 nits. The V2’s XE520QAB page specifies a 12.2-inch, 1920 × 1200 touchscreen.
That makes the V1 the more appealing choice if screen detail and document work are your priorities. The V2’s built-in pen may be more convenient for handwriting or sketching, but it does not change the lower listed resolution. Display specifications alone cannot tell you whether a used screen has wear, damage, or uneven brightness, so inspect the actual unit.
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- TWEIGHT 2-in-1 DESIGN At just under 3 pounds, the Chromebook Plus is incredibly lightweight. You can easily fold it into tablet mode for comfortable viewing and browsing
- BUILT-IN PEN Experience the power of the incredibly precise built-in pen that never needs charging. It's always ready to write, sketch, edit, magnify and even take screenshots
- DUAL CAMERA Fold your laptop into tablet mode to capture clear shots and even zoom in for a closer look with the revolutionary 13MP world-facing camera with autofocus
- CHROME OS AND GOOGLE PLAY STORE Create, explore and browse on a bigger screen with the tools you use every day —all on the secure Chrome OS
- POWER AND PERFORMANCE Tackle anything with a long-lasting battery and Intel Celeron processor. Store more with 64GB of built-in memory and add up to 400GB with a microSD card.Bluetooth v4.0
V2 processor performance depends on its model code
It is inaccurate to say that every V2 is faster than the V1. Samsung lists the V1 with an OP1 hexa-core processor. Its V2 support pages document different Intel configurations: the XE520QAB family includes a Celeron 3965Y version, while the XE521QAB page lists a Core m3 7Y30 configuration. Those specifications establish that V2 units vary; they do not provide a head-to-head benchmark proving one generation is faster.
Ask for the full model code rather than relying on a listing that says only “Chromebook Plus V2.” The V1’s 4 GB of memory and 32 GB of storage, and Samsung’s stated 32 GB base storage for the V2, are modest capacities by current standards. Actual usability also depends on the device’s condition and the work you expect it to do.
Rank #2
- The x360 degree hinge allows 'Laptop' mode for everyday computing, 'Yoga' mode for sharing things, 'Flip' mode for binge-watching, or 'Tablet' mode for more intuitive interaction. Full-metal body with Long Battery Life, up to 10 hours.
- Intel Celeron 3965Y Processor (2 cores 2 threads, base clock speed 1.5GHz, 2MB L3 Cache); 4GB LPDDR3 Memory (Soldered); 128GB Storage (64GB eMMC + 64GB SD Card).
- 12.2" FHD+ (1920 x 1200), LED, Glossy, 16:10, Touch Display, support Samsung Stylus; 1 MPix Camera (front), 13 MPix Camera (on keyboard deck); Integrated Intel HD Graphics 615 - Expandable to 1 monitor via Type-C. Max resolution of the External Monitors: 4K (3840*2160) @60Hz.
- 2 x USB Type-C, USB 3.0 Type-A, Headphone/microphone combo jack, Micro SD card reader; Wi-Fi 5 (802.11ac) + Bluetooth v4.0.
- Everything is original from the Samsung, Auto Update Expiration (AUE) Date: 2026. 1-year warranty from Samsung. Google Chrome OS, Chromebook is a computer for the way the modern world works, with thousands of apps, built-in cloud backups and Google Assitant. It is secure, fast, up-to-date, versatile, and simple. Idea for Online course, Online school, k12 & k9 & College students, Zoom meeting, or Video streaming.
Both support pen use, but the V2 stores its pen in the device
Samsung’s original V1 materials describe pen input, and its V2 launch announcement highlights a built-in pen. The V2’s integrated design is useful if you want a stylus close at hand. With either model, verify that the pen is present and works if you are buying used; a listing’s generation name does not establish the condition or completeness of the individual device.
ChromeOS update support is the biggest buying difference in 2026
Google’s automatic update policy lists the Chromebook Plus V1 through August 2023 and the Chromebook Plus (V2) through August 2027. As of 2026, the V1’s listed endpoint has passed, while the V2 remains within its scheduled period. These dates are policy endpoints, not a guarantee that a secondhand device has received every update or that a particular unit is in good condition.
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One free scan finds every outdated or missing driver and matches the right update for your exact hardware.Free scan · exact hardware matchRank #3
- The x360 degree hinge allows 'Laptop' mode for everyday computing, 'Yoga' mode for sharing things, 'Flip' mode for binge-watching, or 'Tablet' mode for more intuitive interaction. Full-metal body with Long Battery Life, up to 10 hours.
- Intel Celeron 3965Y Processor (2 cores 2 threads, base clock speed 1.5GHz, 2MB L3 Cache); 4GB LPDDR3 Memory (Soldered); 320GB Storage (64GB eMMC + 128GB SD Card).
- 12.2" FHD+ (1920 x 1200), LED, Glossy, 16:10, Touch Display, support Samsung Stylus; 1 MPix Camera (front), 13 MPix Camera (on keyboard deck); Integrated Intel HD Graphics 615 - Expandable to 1 monitor via Type-C. Max resolution of the External Monitors: 4K (3840*2160) @60Hz.
- 2 x USB Type-C, USB 3.0 Type-A, Headphone/microphone combo jack, Micro SD card reader; Wi-Fi 5 (802.11ac) + Bluetooth v4.0.
- Google Chrome OS, Chromebook is a computer for the way the modern world works, with thousands of apps, built-in cloud backups and Google Assitant. It is secure, fast, up-to-date, versatile, and simple. Idea for Online course, Online school, k12 & k9 & College students, Zoom meeting, or Video streaming.
Google says the most reliable way to check a device’s schedule is on the Chromebook itself: Settings > About ChromeOS > Additional details > Update schedule. For an older or refurbished unit, ask the seller to show this screen before purchase. Google’s guidance on checking an old Chromebook is available at Use or upgrade an old Chromebook.
Google also describes extended updates for eligible pre-2021 Chromebooks, potentially allowing up to 10 years of updates from platform release. That option can exclude Android apps and Google Play Store support, and some devices require opting in. The available information does not establish that these Samsung Plus models qualify, so do not assume extended updates change the dates above. See Google’s extended updates support details.
Rank #4
- 【12.2" WUXGA Touchscreen LED Display】Embark on a visual journey where vibrant colors and high resolution come to life at your fingertips. 【2-in-1 Design 】Convert to a tablet with the flip of a screen around a 360° hinge.
- 【Intel Celeron Processor 3965Y】The low voltage design optimizes energy usage, allowing you to stay productive and entertained with great efficiency. Seamlessly multitask between study materials, stream your favorite entertainment content, and browse the internet smoothly without any lag. Experience Intel performance with entertainment features and fast connectivity.
- 【4GB LPDDR3 RAM】Plenty of high bandwidth to run multiple programs simultaneously without any slowdowns. 【64GB eMMC】Massive storage space for your files, applications, and multimedia content, providing fast and reliable data access.
- 【Island-type Keyboard】The shape of Island-type keyboard — square with rounded corners — offers a high level of ergonomics that's naturally comfortable to use, making it a popular choice among people who type a lot.【Intel HD Graphics 615】Enjoy solid image quality that brings your everyday content to life with vibrant colors and sharp details.
- 【Chrome OS】Using Chrome OS let you connect effortlessly with colleagues in the cloud and easily access calendars, documents and other business data.【Dimensions & Weight】11.35" x 8.2" x 0.7", 2.98 Lb. 【Ports and Accessories】1x USB 3.0, 2x USB-C, MicroSD Multi-media Card Reader, 1x Headphone out/Mic-in Combo, Internal Digital Dual Array Mic + Mono Mic, Built-in pen, 802.11 ac (2x2), Bluetooth 4.0, Samsung Bluetooth Mouse, 32GB Hotface USB Card.
Which should you choose?
Choose the V1 if the display is your priority
- You value the higher-resolution 3:2 screen for reading and documents.
- You understand that Google’s listed August 2023 update endpoint has passed and that this is acceptable for your intended use.
- The specific unit’s condition and price make sense to you; launch specifications do not indicate the health of a used device.
Choose the V2 if you want the integrated pen or a specific Intel configuration
- You prefer a pen stored in the convertible device.
- You can verify whether the unit is an XE520QAB Celeron 3965Y configuration or an XE521QAB Core m3 7Y30 configuration.
- You value its later Google-listed update endpoint, August 2027, while recognizing that it is still a dated device.
Check the actual device before paying
- Ask the seller for the complete model code and confirm that it matches the advertised V1 or V2 configuration.
- On the Chromebook, open Settings > About ChromeOS > Additional details > Update schedule and check the displayed support information.
- Inspect the screen, hinge, keyboard, pen, ports, battery, and charger. These are condition checks, not conclusions you can draw from the model name.
- Confirm the included charger and any accessories with the seller; the V1 launch sheet lists a 30 W USB-C adapter, but that does not establish what a particular used listing includes.
Do not confuse these models with Galaxy Chromebook Plus
“Chromebook Plus” also appears in the name of later Samsung products. The V1 discussed here is the XE513C24 family, and the V2 is the XE520QAB or XE521QAB family; they are not the later Galaxy Chromebook Plus. Samsung’s Galaxy Chromebook Plus product page shows that separate product name.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- 【12.2" FHD Touchscreen Display】Navigate, create, and write naturally with utmost precision on this responsive touchscreen.【2-in-1 Design 】Convert to a tablet with the flip of a screen around a 360° hinge.
- 【Intel Celeron Processor 3965Y】The low voltage design optimizes energy usage, allowing you to stay productive and entertained with great efficiency. Seamlessly multitask between study materials, stream your favorite entertainment content, and browse the internet smoothly without any lag. Experience Intel performance with entertainment features and fast connectivity.
- 【4GB LPDDR3 RAM】Elevate your projects with a high-speed RAM, ensuring faster data processing, seamless multitasking, and improved responsiveness that keeps you in the flow.【224GB Storage】64GB eMMC + 128GB 7-in-1 docking station + 32GB MicroSD card adapter, massive storage space for your files, applications, and multimedia content, providing fast and reliable data access.
- 【720p HD Camera】Provides high quality video calls, virtual meetings and online interactions. 【Intel HD Graphics】Enjoy solid image quality that brings your everyday content to life with vibrant colors and sharp details.
- 【Chrome OS】Chrome OS is secure, fast, up-to-date, versatile, and simple. With thousands of apps, built-in virus protection and cloud backups.【Dimensions & Weight】 11.35" x 8.20" x 0.67", 2.98 lbs. 【Ports & Accessories】1x USB 3.0, 2x USB-C, 1x MicroSD Card Reader, 1x Headset, Stylus Pen, Wireless Mouse. 802.11 ac, Bluetooth.【Bonus Hotface Extension Set】1x 7-in-1 Docking Station w/ 128GB SSD, 1x 32GB MicroSD Card w/ Adapter, 1x Type-C Data Cable, 1x 3-in-1 Charging Cable, 1x Suede Cleaning Cloth.
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.
