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Ipad vs Chromebook vs Netbook – What’s Right For Your Student?

Our parents often ask us what computer is right to keep their child coding at home. To help them make a wise decision, we’re putting together a series of videos where we compare computers, operating systems, and parental controls. If you have questions about the video below or any videos at all, feel free to add a comment below. 🙂

 

Number 1: The ChromeBook

The ChromeBook is a lightweight laptop designed to store data online, perfect for coding on the Code Naturally app.

First, the pros:

  1. Price: The Chromebook retails for $200 to $400, significantly lower than most laptops.
  2. Parental Controls:  The ChromeBook allows you, the parent, to monitor your child’s activity, by tracking or limiting the websites they go to.
  3. Speed: Chromebooks are fast and easy. Your child will have little difficulty navigating throughout the computer

Now the cons:

  1. Storage:  The Chromebook only allows you to download up to 32GB. If your child plans on downloading games and/or software applications for programming, then it may be worth it to buy a computer with more storage. However, the Code Naturally works great on the ChromeBook since you do not have to download anything to use it.
  2. Internet Required: Unlike other computers that can run without internet, ChromeBooks are designed to run only if you have internet access. If you are planning on having your child code on the go, make sure you have internet access or coding online would not be possible.
  3. Functionality: Chromebooks are designed for web usage.

Regardless, many parents choose to buy this computer for their kids because of the great price and kid friendly environment offers

Number 2: The HP Stream

A small portable computer, much like the Chromebook but with some differences.

The pros:

  1. Price: Again, this is another computer that is fairly affordable. This Microsoft version of the ChromeBook ranges from $100-$300, especially great for kids because if they lose or break it, it is not a big loss for you.
  2. Portable: When on the go, your child can carry this computer with little difficulty.

The cons:

  1. Storage: Like the ChromeBook, the Netbook also offers only 32GB, and again if your child plans on using it for more than just the web, buying a computer with more storage would be worth looking into.
  2. Battery Life: The HP Stream Notebook’s battery life is 10 hours, enough time for your child to code anywhere without charging. However, some reviews state HP Stream Notebook’s battery life is actually about 5 hours

So if you want to save some money you can get the HP Stream, however, we highly recommend you get the Chromebook over the HP Stream because of the storage difference!

Number 3: The iPad/iPad Pro

The iPad is a beautiful, portable touch screen tablet that runs the iOS mobile operating system.

The pros:

  1. Easy to Use: The iPad is great for kids because it is easy to use. Most children can learn how to use an iPad without any instruction.
  2. Portable: The iPad is small enough to bring anywhere you go. With a good case, it would be hard for children to break the iPad.

The cons:

  1. Expensive: Unlike the Chromebook and and the Netbook, the iPad pro is fairly expensive, its price tag ranges from $400-$600. however to be able to type, you would have to buy the Smart Keyboard for $169. If you also want to draw, you would have to buy the Apple Pencil for $99.
  2. Limited access to applications: iPad users only have access to apple applications. If your child wants to use android apps, then the iPad may not be right for your child.

Thank you for reading and good luck finding the perfect computer for your kid!