Summary
There are a lot of individuals who think about Chromebooks as the more streamlined, faster, and even more straightforward siblings of the conventional laptop. To a far greater extent than a Mac or Windows machine, a Chromebook is primarily dependent on the internet for performing day-to-day chores.
Considering that Chromebooks are often more affordable than traditional laptops, you may be curious about how they stack up against other computers, particularly the most reputable laptops now available. It is important to understand the difference between a Chromebook and a laptop. Is it a waste of money to get a Chromebook, or is it rather an inexpensive diamond in the rough? Well, let’s find out.
Describe a Chromebook for me
When Chromebooks were initially introduced in 2011, they were portable computers that were inexpensive and lightweight, and they were based on Google’s new ChromeOS platform. Cloud-based apps, as opposed to conventional software, were the primary source of dependability for these laptops. Despite the fact that their more cheap nature has altered over the years, the value that a Chromebook provides remains at the core of what each one has to offer.
All of the major manufacturers of Chromebooks, including Acer, Asus, HP, Dell, Lenovo, and Samsung, offer Chromebooks in a wide range of sizes, including Ultrabook-style laptops, 2-in-1 laptops, and the more conventional clamshell shape.
When compared to the premium versions, which are leaner and more streamlined, the cheaper ones are often bigger and have less power. These Chromebooks with lower-end hardware are most often seen in educational institutions or as first-time personal computers. In certain circumstances, higher-end Chromebooks, such as Google’s own Pixelbook Go, have luxury aluminum casings, fast Intel Core processors, and, in some instances, 4K and OLED panels. The latter kind of screen is available on the Lenovo IdeaPad Duet 5 Chromebook, which is the first detachable tablet to include an OLED display.
There is now a large variety of solutions available to choose from, depending on your requirements, despite the fact that you cannot get a Chromebook for $2,000 as you can a Windows 11 laptop or a MacBook.
Comparing a Chromebook to a laptop, what are the key differences between the two?
One of the Chromebooks that is among the most costly that you can get is the HP Elite Chromebook C1030, which has a starting price of $1,624. It is a representation of the top end not only in terms of the building quality and premium materials, but also in terms of performance.
In general, Chromebooks come in a variety of sizes, ranging from 11-inch 2-in-1s to 15-inch models, which provide customers with greater screen real estate. High-definition (HD) resolution remains the norm, although features like as touchscreens, Full HD, and 4K are becoming more widespread. Intel Celeron processors are a common option for today’s Chromebooks. These processors are generally dual-core versions that seldom exceed the 2.0GHz mark. However, Core i5 and i7 chips are becoming more available as costs continue to increase.
The majority of Chromebooks have between 2 and 4 gigabytes of random access memory (RAM), which is sufficient for typical laptop work but is inadequate in comparison to conventional laptop models, which often have 8 or 16 gigabytes of RAM. When it comes to storage, Chromebooks do not have huge disk drives since they rely on the internet for the majority of their data transfer needs. If more storage is required, it is often possible to add an SD card or a USB drive to the device.
When it comes to ports, the majority of Chromebooks are equivalent to laptops, but with a smaller number of connectors. Headphone jacks, USB-A, and USB-C are examples of popular types of connectivity.
Compared to the conventional laptop, the battery life of the majority of Chromebooks is exceptional. Depending on the workflow, newer models are more likely to have a battery life of twelve hours, despite the fact that the most typical battery life is about ten hours. The difference between Chromebooks and Windows laptops is gradually narrowing, although Chromebooks have a longer average lifespan.
However, Chromebooks are not included in the category of laptops that are considered to be of the highest quality. You won’t find CPUs of the 12th generation from Intel, AMD Ryzen 5000, or Apple M1 in a laptop like the MacBook Pro 16, Razer Blade 17, or Dell XPS 15, for example. When it comes to performance, these gaming laptops and content-creation devices will be superior to any Chromebook.
In conclusion, ChromeOS tablets, such as HP’s Chromebook X2 11, are now available; nevertheless, we do not advocate tablets that do not come equipped with a keyboard.
What capabilities does a Chromebook possess?
ChromeOS, which is built on Linux and utilizes the Chrome browser as an interface, is the operating system that Chromebooks come with by default. ChromeOS is a proprietary operating system. Despite the fact that it has fundamental computer components, such as a file manager and an application launcher, the majority of the applications that you use are web-based and do not need downloading.
This may at first seem to be restrictive; however, some well-known applications, including as Spotify, Netflix, Slack, and Evernote, currently provide web-based versions of their services. Despite the fact that online apps are so widespread, a significant number of individuals still spend the majority of their time using a web browser. In the event that your regular routine is similar to the one described above, the transfer to a Chromebook will be reasonably easy to do. You need just connect to the Wi-Fi network and continue surfing as you normally would.
In spite of this, the Google Play Store has made it possible for you to download Android applications in order to fill in any software gaps that may exist. It is possible to run Android applications on a Chromebook if you have a pressing need for them, despite the fact that their implementation in a laptop environment may be a little bit peculiar in some instances – some expand to fill the whole screen, while others stay locked in the format of a smartphone screen.
There is also support for Linux software on Chromebooks. The installation of Linux is an alternative to consider if you really need desktop apps from your computer. Although there are Linux versions of a wide variety of applications, including Audacity, Firefox, GIMP, OBS Studio, Steam, VirtualBox, and many more, it is possible that your preferred program does not have a Linux-based equivalent. Initially, before dismissing the possibility of a Chromebook, check out the developer’s website.
Last but not least, if you are a gamer, you have a lot of possibilities, but you also have certain restrictions. Installing Android games is, for instance, your best choice in this situation. It is possible to install Steam on a Chromebook; but, due to the usual low-end hardware and limited storage space, the games and applications that you may download and play will be restricted.
As a result, Chromebooks are not designed to be used for gaming. If that is the sole reason you want a laptop, and you want to play Cyberpunk 2077 or anything like while you are on the road, then the greatest investment you could make would be to get one of the gaming laptops that are powered by Windows that are available today. Nevertheless, if you are interested in what is readily accessible and simple to play, we have compiled a list of the finest games that are compatible with Chromebooks.
Which drawbacks are associated with using a Chromebook?
Due to the limitations of ChromeOS, it is not possible to install some essential apps that you could use in other circumstances. A few famous examples are some apps developed by Adobe or any form of proprietary software that is only available for use on the macOS or Windows operating systems. If you depend on programs that are comparable, you will either need to find an alternate application that is built on Linux or you would need to completely shun Chromebooks.
In addition, there are restrictions on performance in general. It is true that Chromebooks have a tendency to run quickly, but this is mainly because ChromeOS is a lightweight operating system; unlike Windows, it does not rely heavily on services running in the background. When this occurs, however, you will be constrained by the components that are included therein. Chromebooks at lower price points often have CPUs that are either older or of a lower quality, making them unable to compete with the capabilities offered by Windows and Mac computers, particularly in terms of multitasking. A Chromebook, on the other hand, is a far more advantageous choice if you are considering paying $200.
It is also possible that new accessories may not have the drivers that are required for them to function properly on a Chromebook. It is possible that support may be added in the future; but, it is also possible that it will not. As a result, Chromebook users may have a restricted selection of peripherals in comparison to those using Windows laptops and MacBooks.
On the majority of Chromebooks, the amount of local storage is still often restricted to between 16 and 100 gigabytes, and it is nearly entirely comprised of eMMC Flash storage. In other words, it is pretty quick, but the area it operates in is limited. Why is it so little? As stated before, ChromeOS was first conceived as a solution that was both lightweight and economical, and it was focused on web-based applications. In light of the fact that the platform now supports Linux desktop software and Android applications, the storage requirements have increased, but the storage capabilities continue to be limited.
This is where Google Cloud provides its services. You will get 100 GB of free cloud storage for a period of one year; but, after that, you will be charged $20 per year, which is not a terrible deal. In addition, there are other Google One plans that range from 200GB to 30TB and cost up to $150 a month. It hurts. Because the Chromebook has a limited storage capacity, you will need to depend on cloud services that need a subscription. One alternate approach, on the other hand, is to insert an SD card in the Chromebook, provided that it has a slot for doing so. There is currently no way to unload Android applications onto a storage device (SD card), and the maximum capacities of SD cards vary from model to model.
It is also possible to utilize an external hard drive if you need more storage capacity on your local device.
Do Chromebooks need a connection to the internet in order to function?
When it comes to connecting to the internet, the majority of Chromebooks use Wi-Fi; however, some of the more expensive versions include cellular connection. In the event that you are unable to locate a signal, there are solutions available for a wide variety of regular operations; avoid being fooled by the strong dependence on Chrome.
For example, you can still use Gmail Offline to write and read emails, and you can use Google Drive to work on projects even when you are not connected to the internet. When your Chromebook is connected to the internet again, the offline applications will automatically continue to store your work and synchronize with the online services. If that weren’t enough, you can also play a lot of Android games without an internet connection.
Chromebooks are designed for whom?
There are a certain group of individuals that Chromebooks are made to cater to. The kids are at the forefront of this issue, as school administrators have a tendency to support Chromebooks owing to the security advantages, solid build quality, and software limits that Chromebooks provide. This indicates that Chromebooks at affordable prices will be available in public schools all around the nation.
Google Chromebooks are more than simply low-cost computers made of plastic for children. There are various possibilities available for professionals and college students that are of a higher price range. Because they are often lightweight and have a long battery life, they are excellent choices for those who need to carry their work with them wherever they go, whether it is from one class to another or when traveling for an extended period of time. A few examples of these include the Acer Chromebook Spin 713 and the HP Dragonfly Pro, which is designed specifically for business use.
There are unquestionably the same choices available in the realm of Windows laptops. Chromebooks, on the other hand, might occasionally provide a better value than other options when it comes to costs that are lower. Chromebooks, for instance, are designed to survive at a price point of roughly $500; however, Windows 11 laptops at this price point have a tendency to become cumbersome due to their heavy chassis and clunky performance.
What is the price range for Chromebooks?
There is a wide range of prices for Chromebooks, ranging from $100 to $1,000 and everything in between. Nevertheless, they do not often stretch much farther than that, simply because they are not accessible with the same kinds of components that cause some laptops running Windows and Apple to cost in the hundreds of dollars.
The capabilities of a Chromebook will never be able to compete with those of more costly laptops, particularly in terms of graphics capability and local storage. However, Chromebooks are capable of doing almost any activity that you may want them to accomplish, and their displays and battery life can be on level with that of the best Windows machines. These items are solid and trustworthy, and they satisfy impromptu requirements and aspirations while remaining within a reasonable price.
Because of their simple appearance, they are also very user-friendly, which is always a good thing. This is because a lot of people have difficulties with technology and may not feel completely at ease when they are required to deal with laptops or computers.
Do you think a Chromebook would be a better option than a laptop?
In the first place, you should inquire of yourself, “Why do I require a notebook?” You should do some research and think about what you need from a mobile computer.
If you are seeking for a laptop that is capable of handling high-level gaming, editing 4K video in crystal clear quality, or even professional digital art tools, then a Chromebook is definitely not the best option for you.
Although it is possible to update your system by installing Linux-based alternatives, the hardware that is behind the majority of Chromebooks is just not impressive when compared to other options. Android applications do a respectable job of filling in many of the gaps that ChromeOS native applications are unable to, but the software ecosystems of Windows and macOS are just more extensive and better developed.
The storage capacity on Chromebooks is restricted, which is another limitation that users will need to take into consideration to their advantage. There is just 32GB to 64GB of storage capacity available on the majority of Chromebooks, which is around half of what their Windows and MacBook equivalents (which begin at 128GB) provide. You will need to acquire a premium model, such as the Galaxy Chromebook, which offers 256GB of storage space, in order to circumvent the problem of having insufficient storage space.
Chromebooks are, in general, a fantastic choice for day-to-day usage, particularly for communicating via email, using social media, and processing documents. Chromebooks are an economical alternative to more expensive computers; nevertheless, the standard web-based setups that are found on the majority of Chromebooks are not designed to run heavy desktop software. As a result, they are ideal for tasks that are quite straightforward. Due to the fact that they are aimed at a different market, they simply do not possess the same level of capability as many Windows laptops and Apple MacBooks.
Therefore, the most important reason why Chromebooks are such a popular option is because of their inexpensive price, especially among students who do not need a laptop that is capable of great performance.
So, which Chromebook is the best one to purchase?
Even though there are a lot of factors to consider when choosing the finest Chromebook, the HP Dragonfly Pro is the one that is most difficult to top.
In addition to having a high-resolution screen, a quick central processing unit, and a premium build quality, this Chromebook is also contemporary and cutting-edge. In addition, it is equipped with all of the features that are often seen on high-end laptops, such as a haptic touchpad, Intel vPro certification, and Thunderbolt 4 connection respectively.
You should consider purchasing the HP Dragonfly Pro if you are seeking for the Chromebook that reigns supreme. On the other hand, it is not suitable for every situation and is rather pricey. There are a couple more choices available to you.
For the purpose of gaming
Chromebooks are not designed to host gaming, or at least the most of them are not designed to do so. It is one of the few Chromebooks that was designed exclusively for gaming, and the Acer Chromebook 516 GE is one of such Chromebooks. On the other hand, it is not a gaming laptop like the ones you have most likely seen.
It is designed specifically for gaming on the cloud. In spite of the fact that the Chromebook 516 GE is designed to operate applications like as GeForce Now and Xbox Game Pass, the Intel Core i5-1240P CPU is capable of playing certain light games. This is made possible by the laptop itself, which has a screen with a refresh rate of 120Hz, which enables you to take advantage of high refresh rates presented by some cloud gaming applications. Additionally, the laptop is equipped with Wi-Fi 6E for high-speed networking and Bluetooth 5.2 for connecting your controller.
For the benefit of pupils
The majority of the time, students are constrained financially and need a strong computer. The IdeaPad Duet 5 from Lenovo is difficult to match when it comes to strike the ideal balance between affordability and mobility. It is a Chromebook that costs $400 and has very long battery life. Additionally, it is one of the most sturdy constructions that we have seen in a Chromebook.
The performance of the machine is satisfactory, consisting of an eight-core mobile CPU that is capable of powering fundamental office applications. You are restricted to 128 gigabytes of storage space, which is more than most Chromebooks provide, but at this price, this is not a major issue. Additionally, it is simple to miss, especially when one considers the stunning OLED display.
Despite the fact that it is smaller and the keyboard is not as great, the Lenovo Chromebook Duet 3 is still a good alternative for those who are looking for a more affordable option. It costs around $300.
Display with a touch screen
Touch screens are available on a variety of Chromebooks; however, the Acer Chromebook Spin 713 is the one that we recommend the most. The design is a two-in-one device that can be flipped over to provide you with complete access to the touchscreen. Despite its high-quality construction and significant power, the price is not prohibitive.
In terms of cost, the machine comes in at slightly around $800. For that, you will get a stunning display with a 3:2 aspect ratio, certification from Intel Evo, and a CPU from the 12th generation of Intel.