Laptops

Many people consider the Chromebook to be the sleeker, quicker, and even simpler cousin of the traditional laptop. Chromebook is not like the regular laptop you have, Unlike a Mac or Windows system, a Chromebook relies heavily on the internet for everyday tasks.

Since they’re also typically less expensive, for their limited functionality and reliance on a consistent internet connection, you might be wondering how a Chromebook compares to a regular laptop. Are they a waste of money or an affordable diamond in the rough? Read on to find out!

What is a Chromebook

A Chromebook is a laptop or tablet running the Linux-based Chrome OS as its operating system. Chromebooks are primarily used to perform a variety of tasks using the Google Chrome browser, with most applications and data residing in the cloud rather than on the machine itself. Chromebooks first appeared in 2011, and in addition to laptop models, a desktop version, called a Chromebox, was introduced in may 2012 and Chromebase all-in-one device was introduced in January 2014. Sold by Companies like , Acer Inc, Samsung, HP, Asus, Lenovo, Google and so more.

What can a Chromebook do?

As opposed to Windows 10 or MacOS, Chromebooks have their own operating system called Chrome OS. Although there are basic computing elements, such as a file manager and an app launcher, the focus of these devices is the Google Chrome web browser. Because you can’t download web-based apps, most of the action happens within Chrome’s tabs. That might sound limiting at first, but many applications already offer web versions, such as Spotify, Netflix, Gmail, Slack, and Evernote. Due to the prevalence of web applications, many people spend the majority of their time in a web browser anyway. If your typical workflow resembles this scenario, transitioning to a Chromebook will be relatively smooth. Just connect to Wi-Fi and proceed with your browsing as normal. If you’re a gamer, there are plenty of options, but you’re also limited. For example, your best bet is to install Android games or subscribe to Google’s new Stadia streaming service. Installing Steam via Linux is viable, but the typical low-end hardware and minimal storage will limit what you can download and play.

Who are Chromebook for?

Chromebooks are designed with a few specific people in mind. At the forefront are students, as school administrations tend to favor Chromebooks due to their security benefits, sturdy build quality, and software limitations. That means you’ll find cheap Chromebooks in public schools all across the country. Chromebooks go beyond just cheap, plastic laptops for kids. There are also higher-end options for professionals and college students. Because they tend to be lightweight with a long battery life, they are great options for people who need to take their work on the go, whether that’s from class to class or on long flights. Some of these include the Google Pixelbook, Google Pixelbook Go, and the Asus Chromebook Flip C436.

There are certainly those same options in the Windows 10 laptop world. However, in the cheaper price range, Chromebooks can sometimes provide a better value. For example, approximately $500 is where Chromebooks thrive, but Windows 10 laptops at this price tend to get bogged down with a thick chassis and clunky performance.

What can't a Chromebook do

The limitations of Chrome OS mean you can’t install some important software that you might otherwise need. Some notable examples include certain Adobe applications or any kind of proprietary software that’s restricted to Windows or MacOS. If you rely on similar applications, you’ll either need to find a Linux-based alternative or avoid Chromebooks altogether. Limitations also extend to performance in general. Chromebooks do tend to run fast, but in some cases, you’ll be limited by the components inside. Lower-end Chromebooks tend to use older processors that can’t compete with what you get in the Windows and Mac space, especially in terms of multitasking.

Finally, A Chromebook’s features will never compete with pricier laptops, but they do pretty much everything you need them to, less battery consumption. Good for schools. They are reliable products that fit spur of the moment, budget-friendly needs. Their simple design also makes them incredibly easy to use, making them ideal for people who aren’t super comfortable using laptops or computers.