Chromebooks have limitations, such as fewer ports, limited storage, and low-resolution webcams. However, with the right accessories, you can bypass these limitations and enjoy features not included by default on your device. Here are a few accessories I believe are worth investing in.
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Expand Your Ports With a USB-C Hub
Most Chromebooks come with just one or two ports. While this helps keep the device lightweight and portable, it limits how many accessories you can connect. That’s why a USB-C hub is a must-have. It expands your Chromebook’s connectivity, allowing you to plug in multiple devices that wouldn’t be possible with the built-in ports alone.
With a USB-C hub, you can add extra USB-A ports, connect to external monitors or TVs via HDMI, use SD and microSD cards, or even get a wired Ethernet connection for stable internet. Most hubs are plug-and-play on ChromeOS, meaning no driver installations are needed. They’re also compact and travel-friendly—perfect if you use your Chromebook on the go.
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Keep It Safe With a Protective Sleeve
Many Chromebooks use plastic construction in their chassis, screen bezel, and other parts to keep them lightweight and affordable. While this helps lower cost and makes them easier to carry, it also leaves them more prone to scratches, dents, and other damage, especially while traveling. That’s where a protective sleeve comes in handy.
The sleeves, designed with padded exteriors and soft inner linings, help cushion your Chromebook from minor bumps and accidental drops. Some even offer water resistance for protection in bad weather. Choose a sleeve that fits your Chromebook’s size, and go for materials like neoprene or faux leather for extra durability.
Inateck 12.3-13 Inch Laptop Case Sleeve
A sleeve is a great way to keep your device safe on your travels, but worry-free during daily use.
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Boost Storage With an External SSD
Chromebooks rely on web apps and cloud storage, so their internal storage is usually limited, typically ranging from 32GB to 128 GB. While that’s fine for online use, it can quickly feel cramped if you work offline or download media. That’s where an external SSD becomes a valuable upgrade, giving you anywhere from 250GB to 1TB or more of additional space.
SSDs use flash memory, so they offer fast data transfer speeds for quicker backups. They’re compact—often smaller than a smartphone—and durable, as they don’t have any moving parts. Many also offer built-in encryption to securely store sensitive work files or personal data. In my experience, it’s one of the best Chromebook accessories I’ve invested in.
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3
Improve Your Video Calls With an External Webcam
While most built-in Chromebook webcams offer 720p resolution, which works fine for casual video calls, they don’t meet the quality needed for professional virtual meetings. That’s where an external webcam pays off. Many models provide 1080p Full HD or even 4K resolution, and features like a wider field of view, low-light correction, auto-focus, and face tracking.
These features improve video quality, especially in professional settings, something built-in webcams typically can’t offer. Some high-end webcams also come with dual microphones for clearer audio, even in noisy environments, or you can pair them with a dedicated USB mic. Most webcams are plug-and-play, easy to use, and compact to carry with your Chromebook.
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2
Get Creative With a Stylus
If your Chromebook supports a stylus but didn’t come with one, buying one can be a smart upgrade. It allows you to handwrite notes, highlight text, sketch diagrams, or annotate documents—great for students and professionals. Since ChromeOS automatically syncs your notes to the cloud, your work stays safe and easily accessible.
If you love drawing or doodling, using a stylus with creative apps gives you greater control thanks to pressure sensitivity and tilt support. Its precise accuracy is also helpful for tasks like editing spreadsheets or working with drag-and-drop tools. Overall, a stylus makes interacting with your Chromebook feel more natural and hands-on.
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1
Deter Theft With a Simple Kensington Lock
Since Chromebooks are portable, we use them in schools, libraries, coffee shops, or coworking spaces. While convenient, this also makes them an easy target for opportunistic theft. If you leave your device unattended in shared environments, a Kensington lock can help. It’s a simple lock-and-cable system that secures your device like a bike lock.
You insert the lock into the reinforced slot on your device and loop the cable around a fixed object, making it extremely difficult for someone to walk away with it. These locks come in two types: keyed versions that require a physical key and combination locks with customizable codes. Just be sure your Chromebook has a Kensington slot before buying it.
From improving connectivity with USB-C hubs to protecting your device with a Kensington lock, buying the right accessories can help you be more productive, improve your workflow, enhance your device’s security, and upgrade video quality. So, assess whether the benefits I’ve outlined justify the cost, making these accessories valuable investments for you.
