**ZDNET’s Approach to Product Recommendations and the Best Early Black Friday Chromebook Deals**
**How ZDNET Makes Recommendations**
When you see the label ‘ZDNET Recommends’ on a tech product, it’s not just a casual endorsement. ZDNET’s editorial process is rooted in thorough testing, research, and a deep dive into both expert and customer feedback. Their team spends hours examining products firsthand, comparing listings across retailers, and reading reviews from other trusted sources. Importantly, they also pay close attention to feedback from real customers who have already spent time with the products in question. This helps ZDNET understand which features matter most in everyday use and which products truly live up to their marketing.
ZDNET is transparent about its business model: if you click on one of their links and make a purchase, they may earn a commission. However, they are clear that this does not influence their editorial coverage or the price you pay. Their writers and editors are not compensated by advertisers for their reviews, and strict guidelines are in place to keep their recommendations objective. Every article undergoes careful fact-checking and review to ensure accuracy. ZDNET also invites readers to notify them of any errors, promising to correct any misinformation.
**Why This Matters During Black Friday**
As the holiday season approaches, Black Friday becomes the focal point for shoppers seeking the best deals, especially in tech. Retailers like Best Buy, Walmart, and Amazon start rolling out discounts well before the actual day, and Chromebooks are among the first products to see significant price drops. Whether you’re looking for a device for school, work, or travel, this period is one of the best opportunities to find high-quality Chromebooks at reduced prices.
ZDNET’s approach is to only highlight Chromebook deals that offer genuine value—laptops they would consider buying themselves. For this year’s early Black Friday roundup, the editorial team has selected models that are at least 15% off, although some discounts are smaller as the biggest bargains are still to come. The emphasis is on laptops that pair good pricing with strong performance, durability, and features that matter to real users.
**Top Chromebook Picks for Early Black Friday**
Below is a summary of some of the standout Chromebook deals recommended by ZDNET as of now, each chosen for its unique strengths:
- **Acer Chromebook CX15**: Named an “excellent budget pick” by ZDNET Editor Kyle Kucharski, the CX15 is ideal for anyone seeking a reliable, everyday laptop. It’s not a premium device, but offers solid hardware, a clear 1080p screen, and a robust selection of ports. This Chromebook is especially well-suited for students who need a dependable machine for schoolwork.
- **HP Chromebook Plus x360**: Despite being close to two years old, the HP Chromebook Plus x360 remains a strong contender thanks to its 12th-generation Intel Core i3 processor and a sturdy aluminum frame. The 2-in-