Summary
- The Acer Chromebook Spin 714 is a top-tier Chromebook with a sturdy build and impressive specifications, including a responsive touchscreen and included stylus.
- Unfortunately, it lacks a SIM slot or eSIM, meaning it does not support LTE or 5G connectivity, which is a disappointing flaw for a device focused on mobility.
- While there are alternative connectivity options like Wi-Fi 6E and Instant Tethering, fans hope that future editions of the Chromebook Spin 714 will reintroduce LTE support or even upgrade to 5G.
Quick answer: No. While the Acer Chromebook Spin 714 comes with an impressive feature suite, it lacks a SIM slot that would allow it to support LTE or 5G.
The Acer Chromebook Spin 714 is one of the best Chromebooks on the market thanks to its sturdy build and impressive specifications. It has MIL-STD-810H military-grade durability, can be configured to up to a 13th-gen Core i7 processor, includes two Thunderbolt 4 ports, and its hinges allow it to be opened into a tablet.
Despite all its accolades, not many Chromebooks support LTE connectivity. So, if you have your eyes on the Acer Chromebook Spin 714, questioning if it has LTE is not out of place.
Does Acer Chromebook Spin 714 have LTE?
Unfortunately, one of the Spin 714’s cons is it lacks a physical SIM slot or an eSIM, so you cannot insert a SIM card or download a SIM profile onto it to connect to a mobile network. This is a lousy flaw for an otherwise well-designed machine, as it means that you’ll be unable to connect any time you’re out of Wi-Fi range. It’s an odd choice for a device whose primary ethos revolves around mobility.
What are some good Chromebook alternatives that support LTE?
What makes the lack of LTE support on the Spin 714 even more baffling is that previous versions did include it. The Spin 514 has optional 4G support and is an exceptionally thin, super portable Chromebook that mirrors a lot of the functionality of the following year’s Spin 714. On the high end of performance, the HP Elite Dragonfly Chromebook provides LTE support, impressive specs, and extras like a haptic touchpad and a 5MP camera.
If you’re looking for something more affordable, the Samsung Galaxy Chromebook Go is a good low-end option available for a fraction of the price of many other Chromebooks, though you do sacrifice performance to hit that appealing price tag.
No LTE? The Acer Chromebook Spin 714 has alternative connectivity options
Acer’s decision to forego LTE connectivity with Acer Chromebook Spin 714 is disappointing considering it is available on the model released in 2022. Nevertheless, there are ways to get an internet connection on the device. For example, there is Wi-Fi 6E, and while it is not as fast as Wi-Fi 7 (which is the latest standard), it is still plenty fast when you connect to the internet in your home, office, or school. If you are one of those who are frequently on the go, another option is the ChromeOS feature Instant Tethering.
Instant Tethering allows you to share the internet on your phone with your Chromebook. However, you’ll need an Android phone that runs Android 5.1 and later to use this feature. Another condition is that your network operator allows you to tether your smartphone to other devices. Acer has probably noted fans’ displeasure at the Chromebook Spin 714’s lack of LTE connectivity, and while it is yet to announce its 2024 Chromebook lineup, it is hoped that LTE support, or maybe even an upgrade to 5G, will make a comeback if there is a 2024 edition of the Chromebook Spin 714.
Acer Chromebook Spin 714 (2023)
A curious spin
The Acer Chromebook Spin 714 has a lot going for it, including its responsive touchscreen, included stylus, and snappy performance. But the lack of a SIM slot for LTE and 5G support is a little baffling.
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