How to Choose the Right Chromebook for You

Your Guide to buying the best Chromebook

Overview

A Chromebook is a laptop running the Chrome OS operating system, designed for people who spend most of their time online. This Chromebook buying guide provides an overview of features to consider when shopping for a Chromebook that will best fit your needs. It covers topics such as display size, storage capacity, processors, and battery life, along with helpful tips on the best accessories you should get for your Chromebook. Whether you’re looking for something lightweight and portable to carry around, or a powerful machine to get the job done, this guide will help you make an informed decision.

Key features

  1. Operating System - Chromebooks run on Chrome OS, a lightweight operating system from Google designed specifically for web-based computing.
  2. Storage Capacity - Look for a Chromebook with at least 32GB of storage for apps, media, and other files.
  3. Screen Resolution and Size - Pay attention to the Chromebook's screen resolution and size. Higher resolution screens will make viewing photos and videos more enjoyable.
  4. Processor Speed and RAM – Look for a processor with at least an Intel Celeron or Core i3 processor with 4GB of RAM or more for faster performance and multitasking.
  5. Battery Life - Look for a Chromebook with at least 8 hours of battery life so you won't need to be constantly charging it.
  6. Connectivity Options - Make sure the Chromebook you choose has the ports and connections you need, such as USB 3.0, HDMI, and SD card reader.
  7. Build Quality - Look for a Chromebook that's built with quality materials that will be able to withstand daily use.

See the most popular Chromebook on Amazon

Important considerations

Pros

  • Cost-effectiveness - Chromebooks tend to be more cost-effective than other laptops, making them an attractive option to those on a budget.
  • Portability - Chromebooks are lightweight, making them easy to carry and transport.
  • Battery Life - Chromebooks have long-lasting battery life that can last up to 10 hours depending on the model.
  • Software and Updates - Chromebooks run on the Google Chrome operating system, which is updated regularly for improved security and performance.
  • Security - Chromebooks are secure and protected from viruses and malware, giving users peace of mind when it comes to their data.
  • Ease of Use - Chromebooks are designed with an easy-to-use interface that makes them ideal for those who are new to computing.
  • Extensibility - Chromebooks can be extended and customized with a range of add-ons, making them versatile and able to meet a variety of needs.

Cons

  • Lack of local storage: Chromebooks offer limited local storage, meaning that users may be restricted in the number of files they can save. Additionally, some apps require access to local storage for optimal performance.
  • Limited compatibility: Chromebooks are not compatible with traditional Windows or Mac software programs, so users may need to find alternatives for certain tasks.
  • Limited applications: Chromebooks have a limited selection of apps available, meaning that users may not be able to find the applications they need to get their work done.
  • Price: Chromebooks tend to be more affordable compared to typical laptops, but they may also lack some features that their more expensive counterparts offer.
  • Limited processing power: Chromebooks are not designed for intensive computing tasks, so users may not be able to do certain tasks that require a lot of processing power.
  • Weak graphics capabilities: Chromebooks are not designed for gaming or high-graphics tasks, so users may need to look elsewhere for these types of tasks.

Best alternatives

  1. Windows Laptops - PCs running the Windows operating system that offer a wide range of features and specs.
  2. MacBooks - Apple laptops running the macOS operating system designed for sleek, powerful performance.
  3. Tablets - Lightweight, touchscreen devices designed for portability and on-the-go computing.
  4. Chromebox - A desktop computer running Chrome OS with the same features and functionality as Chromebooks.

Related tools, supplies, and accessories

Common questions

  1. What are the benefits of having a Chromebook?
    A Chromebook provides users with a lightweight, fast, secure, and cost-effective computing experience. Chromebooks offer access to Android apps, along with the full Google suite of tools such as Google Drive, Docs, Sheets, and Slides. Chromebooks are also known for their long battery life and low maintenance.
  2. What type of processor does a Chromebook have?
    Chromebooks typically come with either Intel or ARM processors. Intel processors are usually found in higher-end Chromebooks, and ARM processors are usually found in cheaper models.
  3. How much storage does a Chromebook have?
    Chromebooks usually come with anywhere from 16GB to 128GB of solid-state storage. However, most Chromebooks also offer access to cloud storage, such as Google Drive, so users can access files from anywhere.
  4. What type of ports does a Chromebook have?
    Chromebooks typically have USB ports, a microSD card slot, and an HDMI port. Some models also have USB-C ports.
  5. How long is the battery life of a Chromebook?
    Chromebooks typically have a battery life of 8-12 hours, depending on usage and model.
  6. Can I run Windows applications on a Chromebook?
    No, Chromebooks are not capable of running Windows applications. However, Chromebooks can access Android apps, which can provide some of the same functionality as Windows applications.
  7. Can I play games on a Chromebook?
    Yes, Chromebooks can run some games, either natively or through Android applications. However, Chromebooks are not as powerful as dedicated gaming PCs or consoles, so they may not be suitable for more graphics-intensive games.

Trivia

A funny fact about Chromebooks is that they were originally designed to be used with a cartoon mascot named “Chromie”, who was meant to represent the idea of a “digital buddy” – someone you could share your experiences with while using a Chromebook. Unfortunately, Chromie never made it to the market, but you can still find him on a few promotional materials and websites related to 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.