Review of Chrome netbook

I have a couple of students who are using Chromebooks. In fact, one of them tried to use it for her final exam essay. So I tried one out to see how it stacked up. So... First is construction. It's not as solid as most other comparable netbooks and tablets. I have heard the same complaint about the iPad Air but I have not worked with one yet. The case for the Chromebook that my students have are flimsy and the one I worked with was also the same thing. I know, I know. What do you want for $200-250. But after investing that much in a gadget, the consumer should be able to feel the money was well spent. What about software? The Chromebook comes with a word processor, presentation program and a spreadsheet program. They are simple enough but very basic. You can use Microsoft Word online or download the Word app but, if you are used to using more complex commands, you will be disappointed. I didn't like the word processor. The presenter and spreadsheet programs were okay but I use a lot of the formatting tools in Word so I really felt the lack. As far as other software - not much else on the device out of the box. But this is a netbook that is pretty simple to use and, if you have used an Android device, you will have little problems adjusting. My biggest problem is with the lack of printing options. You have to go through Google on the Internet to print. Trying to connect a "classic printer," as it is called in the Chromebook, is a cycle of frustration and confusion. I never was able to do it. My printer in the classroom is not on the Internet. (Who wants everybody else in the building connecting to and using my printer?)So I could not print in my classroom. I finally gave up and used another computer to print. I have a relatively fast connection in my home (up to 50 mbps)and it is pretty fast during the peak hours of use. In the early morning and late evening, it is blazing. In my school we have a two T1 connections. So the speed is good, even with all the students on their laptops. The biggest problem is for people who don't always have access to the Internet. This netbook needs the Internet to work. I know many, if not most people, have Internet in their home or place of work. But not everyone. So that is a big factor to keep in mind. The Chromebook I used was not mine, fortunately. My school let me try one out. I would never consider buying one for several reasons. First, poor construction. Second, the software is too basic for my use. Third, this is a netbook, which means it is for light computer users - email and surfing the Web and some basic software use. I am on the computer a lot and this type of device is not for power users. It is a scaled-down tablet. I have a Galaxy Tab 3 7" and would probably use it for anything I might consider a Chromebook for. Lastly, this is NOT a computer replacement. Don't fool yourself into thinking you can get this for a student and it will fulfill all their needs. It won't. A Chromebook has very limited use. I give the Chromebook a 2 out of 5 for limited use and construction as well as the printing issue. I like the idea that is behind the Chromebook but the execution is lacking.