Complete Guide to Buying a Chromebook

Your Guide to buying the best Chromebooks

Overview

A Chromebook is an affordable laptop designed for everyday tasks like browsing the internet, streaming videos, and typing documents. It runs on a streamlined version of the Chrome operating system which is built around the popular Google Chrome browser. Chromebooks are great for everyday computing, especially for students and those with limited budgets. This buying guide will help you find the right Chromebook that meets your needs and budget. We will discuss the different features to consider when choosing a Chromebook, provide tips for selecting the best model, and help you find the best deals on Chromebooks.

Key features

  1. Operating System and Compatible Apps: What operating system is running on the Chromebook? Is it compatible with the applications you need to use?
  2. Chrome OS Features: What unique features does the Chrome OS provide? Can you use Google Play for Android apps, and what other features are included?
  3. Storage & Memory: How much internal storage is available, and how much RAM does the device have?
  4. Screen Size & Resolution: What size of screen does the Chromebook have, and what is the resolution?
  5. Battery Life: How long can the battery last? Is there a power-saving mode to extend the battery life?
  6. Connectivity Options: What ports and other connectivity options are available? Are there any additional connectivity features, such as Bluetooth or Wi-Fi?
  7. Price: What is the price of the Chromebook? Are there any discounts available?
  8. Warranty: Does the Chromebook come with a warranty? Are there any additional support or service options?

See the most popular Chromebooks on Amazon

Important considerations

Pros

  • Price - Chromebooks are typically much more affordable than other types of laptops.
  • Ease of use - Chromebooks are known for their simple and easy-to-use design, making them ideal for those new to computing.
  • Portability - Chromebooks are generally very lightweight and compact, meaning they can be easily carried with you wherever you go.
  • Software - Chromebooks run on Google Chrome’s operating system, which offers fast and reliable performance.
  • Battery life - Chromebooks have impressive battery life, lasting up to 12 hours on a single charge.
  • Security - Chromebooks are considered to be more secure than other laptops, as they automatically update and use two-factor authentication.

Cons

  • Cost - Chromebooks are typically much more affordable than traditional laptops, but they may not have the power or versatility of more expensive devices.
  • Specifications - Chromebooks typically have weaker hardware than other laptop options, which may limit their performance and capabilities.
  • Software Support - Chromebooks cannot run traditional Windows and Mac applications, and their Android app support may be limited.
  • Storage - Chromebooks may have limited onboard storage, which users will need to supplement with external drives or cloud storage services.
  • Maintenance - Chromebooks may require more frequent updates and maintenance as they are cloud-based and frequently updated.

Best alternatives

    Windows Laptops - Traditional laptops running the Windows operating system, offering complete access to Windows software and applications. MacBooks - High-performance laptops running the MacOS operating system, offering access to MacOS software and applications. Tablets - Portable devices with touchscreen displays that can run a variety of mobile operating systems, such as Android and iOS. Chromeboxes - Small desktop computers running the Chrome OS operating system, offering access to web-based applications. 2-in-1 Devices - Devices that can be used as both a laptop and a tablet depending on the user's needs.

Related tools, supplies, and accessories

  • Charger/Adapter - This is required for powering and charging the Chromebook.
  • SD Card/USB Drive - These are for storing and transferring data.
  • Keyboard/Mouse - These are necessary for making the Chromebook more user friendly.
  • Case/Cover - These are for protecting the Chromebook from damage.
  • Headphones/Speakers - These are for listening to audio through the Chromebook.
  • Screen Protector - This is for keeping the Chromebook's screen clear and safe.
  • Stylus/Pen - This is for using the Chromebook touchscreen with accuracy and precision.

Common questions

  1. What is a Chromebook? A Chromebook is a laptop running the Chrome operating system. It is lightweight, secure, and designed for quick, easy access to the web.
  2. What are some of the advantages of using a Chromebook? Chromebooks are fast to start up, secure, and require minimal maintenance. Since all of the applications run in the cloud, Chromebooks are also highly portable and can be used anywhere with an internet connection.
  3. Which models of Chromebooks are available? There are many different models available. Some of the most popular models include the Acer Chromebook 11, the HP Chromebook 14, and the Samsung Chromebook Pro.
  4. What should I look for when buying a Chromebook? When buying a Chromebook, you should consider the size, weight, and features of the device. Also, make sure to check the processor, RAM, and storage capacity to ensure that the Chromebook meets your needs.
  5. What kind of accessories are available for Chromebooks? Accessories for Chromebooks include cases, keyboards, styluses, and power adapters. Depending on the model, you may also be able to purchase protective covers or docking stations.
  6. What are some of the common features of Chromebooks? Common features of Chromebooks include a range of ports (e.g. USB-C, USB 3.0, and memory card reader), a full-size keyboard, a trackpad, and an HD webcam.
  7. Are Chromebooks good for gaming? Chromebooks are not typically used for gaming, as they are not designed to run the same type of software as traditional gaming PCs. However, they can be used to play certain games that are available in the Google Play store.

Trivia

A funny fact about Chromebooks is that they have been used to protest against Chromebooks. In November 2019 a group of students at a high school in Florida staged a protest against their school district's decision to install more Chromebooks in classrooms. The students sat in the hallway with their Chromebooks and refused to move until the district reversed its decision. The protest was successful and the district agreed to halt their plans for more Chromebooks. Source

Disclaimer: This buying guide was not created by humans, and it is possible that some of it's content is inaccurate or incomplete. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this buying guide. Additionally, the images on this page were generated by AI and may not accurately represent the product that is being discussed. We have tried to convey useful information, but it is our subjective opinion and should not be taken as complete or factual.