Acer is upgrading its top-tier convertible Chromebooks with cutting-edge AI functionalities. Unveiled at IFA 2025 in Berlin, the latest Acer Chromebook Plus Spin 514 (CP514-5HN) is powered by a MediaTek Kompanio Ultra chip equipped with a neural processing unit (NPU) capable of achieving up to 50 TOPS, facilitating unique software features.

The Spin 514 stands as the sole Chromebook Plus featuring an NPU, alongside the Lenovo Chromebook Plus 14, which utilizes the same processor. It also comes with a complimentary trial of Google AI Pro, granting 12 months of access to sophisticated AI tools such as Veo 3 Fast and NotebookLM.

“With impressive performance, AI functionalities, and a sturdy premium design, the Acer Chromebook Plus Spin 514 will enable creators, professionals, and educators to develop, work, and be efficient from any location,” stated James Lin, General Manager of Notebooks at Acer.

One configuration of the Spin 514 is available on Acer’s website this week at $749.99, while another version is set to launch at Best Buy later this month for $50 less. Initial reviews are favorable, underscoring it as an appealing budget laptop.

**Acer Chromebook Plus Spin 514 specifications and availability**

Acer supplied a Spin 514 (model CP514-1HN-K6DY) with the following specifications:

– MediaTek Kompanio Ultra 910 processor
– Arm Immortalis-G925 MC11 integrated graphics
– 12GB RAM
– 256GB UFS storage
– 14-inch 1920 x 1200 IPS touchscreen display with a 120Hz refresh rate, 16:10 aspect ratio, and stylus compatibility (sold separately)
– 1080p webcam
– WiFi 7 and Bluetooth 5.4
– Two USB-C ports and a headphone jack on the left side; two USB-A ports and a Kensington lock slot on the right

The Best Buy version will come with a 5MP webcam, priced at $699.99 and launching later in September. Acer will present another configuration on its website for $749.99 starting September 4, featuring 16GB of RAM and a higher resolution display (2880 x 1800 pixels) but with a lower refresh rate (60Hz).

**Acer Chromebook Plus Spin 514 design**

The 2025 Spin 514 measures 12.32 x 9.13 x 0.61 inches and weighs three pounds, slightly bulkier than an M4 MacBook Air. It is portable and showcases a premium design with a robust build. The lid can rotate 360 degrees for tablet mode.

The Spin 514 meets military-grade MIL-STD810H standards, having been tested for durability against drops and wear. It features an aluminum exterior with metallic accents and a Platinum Silver finish.

The keyboard cover is made of matte plastic, coordinating with the chassis for a uniform appearance.

**Display**

The bezels on the Spin 514 are sizable, yet the touchscreen proves to be responsive. It features a 120Hz refresh rate, delivering smooth visuals for casual cloud gaming. The screen boasts a brightness rating of 300 nits.

**Keyboard and touchpad**

The keyboard is quick and comfortable, though it lacks backlighting and a fingerprint sensor. It includes dedicated keys for the Launcher and Quick Insert tool. The keyboard is constructed from Acer’s “OceanGlass” material, which resembles glass and is resistant to moisture.

**Speakers**

The Spin 514 is equipped with upward-facing speakers that are somewhat tinny but clear, with effective placement to prevent muffling.

**Acer Chromebook Plus Spin 514 performance**

The Spin 514 has a fan that operates quietly and stays cool. It achieved a score of 7,187 in the Geekbench 6 CPU benchmark, ranking it as the second-fastest model tested.

**Google AI features**

Chromebook Plus models enable AI functionalities absent in standard Chromebooks. The NPU in the Spin 514 provides smart grouping and an on-device image editor. Smart grouping organizes tabs by subject, while the image editor offers options for background expansion and removal, scene erasure, and sticker creation.

**Battery life**

Acer claims the Spin 514’s battery can last for up to 17 hours of web browsing on a single charge.

**Who should consider the Acer Chromebook Plus Spin 514?**

The Spin 514 is well-suited for early AI enthusiasts and anyone in need of a dependable budget laptop with a premium design and capabilities. Its primary rival is the Lenovo Chromebook Plus 14, which features a brighter OLED display, quad speakers with Dolby Atmos, and a backlit keyboard for $649.99, although it starts with half the storage.

Battery life will play a crucial role in the final assessment.