If you are planning to buy a new laptop, you might have noticed that there are three types in the market. There are those that work with Windows 10, there are Apple MacBooks and a third option is Chromebooks, which have Google's Chrome operating system.
Chromebooks can be much cheaper, moreover in recent years they have grown in popularity, they fit superbly for use at home, in the office or in the classroom. So what is a Chromebook? Are they better than a Windows laptop?
Advantages of Chromebooks
- Usually cheaper
- No need for antivirus or security software
- Most can run Android apps (including Microsoft Office)
Disadvantages of the Chromebook
- Not suitable for video or sound editing
- Limited storage
- Cannot run Windows applications
What is a Chromebook?
A Chromebook is very similar to a Windows laptop. They both have a keyboard, a touchpad, a screen, ports for connecting accessories, some have a touch screen, and all of them can access the Internet and run the most popular programs.
What separates them is that they have a different operating system. Windows run on Windows 10, while Chromebooks come with Google's ChromeOS.
ChromeOS is like Chrome Browser as your complete operating system. Of course, there are pros and cons for both Chromebooks and Windows PCs.
Can a Chromebook run Microsoft Office?
Chromebooks can, indeed, run Microsoft Word, Excel, etc. However, this is not their full version as you can get on Windows computers.
To use software and applications from a Chromebook, you have the choice between the Google Chrome Store and Android applications.
Both let you access, create, and make basic edits to documents, spreadsheets, and presentations. It is therefore possible for you to collaborate with your work colleagues who use Word or Excel; which can also be useful for students and the youngest for their homework for example. However, note that the Android version of OneDrive is currently not supported by Chromebooks.
Can a Chromebook run on Windows?
ChromeOS is the operating system for Chromebooks, so it is not possible for them to use Windows, but Linux yes. Nevertheless, we recommend it only to the most seasoned users.
Why do Chromebooks have so little storage space?
Chromebooks typically have a much smaller hard drive or SSD than Windows. This is because ChromeOS is very lightweight, so you don't need the roughly 20 GB required by Windows 10. Also, it's because most apps are meant to be used in the cloud.
Your data is therefore backed up to Google Drive or other online services, minimizing your need for local storage.
On the other hand, if you tend to store all your photos or music on your PC, this might be a problem for you, as the standard 32 or 64 GB on-board space offered might not be enough. Your alternative would be to use an external USB stick.
Typically, Chromebooks are cheaper than their Windows counterparts because they don't need the same level of components for speedy performance. However, there are exceptions, such as Google's Pixelbook, which costs over €1.
Can a Chromebook work with an Android?
Yes, and since both are powered by Google, they'll be able to easily share files, send and receive messages from the Chromebook, unlock each other when they're nearby (so you don't have to enter your password or passcode) .
Can a Chromebook work with an iPhone?
Not in the same way as with Android. You can connect your iPhone to a Chromebook using a USB cable, which will allow you to transfer photos or videos. However, you will not benefit from the other features mentioned above.
Can a Chromebook be used offline?
When Chromebooks were first introduced, the underlying idea was that they would always be used online. This idea has since evolved, so that today many apps work even when you are not connected to Wi-Fi.
Google Docs is a great example of this, as it lets you create and edit documents on your hard drive, then sync the changes once you're back online.
The Google Play Store has a section for apps that can be used offline, and many Android apps can also work offline.
Of course, applications installed on a PC can usually work independently of a Wi-Fi connection.
Can you use Windows apps on a Chromebook?
You can't directly install Windows apps on Chromebooks, but many have web-based versions or equivalents. For example, the aforementioned Microsoft Office is available with limited functionality on a Chromebook, while the Google Suite is a great alternative.
Photoshop is another program that has web-based clones, but if you're serious about editing photos, the full version on a Windows is the one for you. The same goes for video editing, audio editing and greedy games. Naturally, you will need a powerful PC to run this type of software and program.
Can you play Windows games on a Chromebook?
No. Chromebooks are generally designed for light tasks such as web browsing, writing documents, video calls, etc. Games, especially FPS titles with high resolution graphics, are not really meant for this platform.
That said, you can play Android games on Chromebooks and since many of them have touchscreens and can fold into tablet mode, you'll find that they do the job just fine.
Are Chromebooks Worried About Viruses?
Chromebooks are less prone to malware and viruses. You won't need antivirus on a Chromebook, while it's pretty much essential on a Windows 10 laptop, although there's a wide range of awesome antivirus software out there to protect you if you go the Microsoft route.
That's not to say Chromebook users are immune to attack, as it's still possible to click on suspicious links in emails and be taken to dubious sites.
If you're online, you're vulnerable, so take the time to research how to stay safe online.
What to choose ? A Windows or a Chromebook?
First of all you need to know what you intend to do with it. If you want full-featured apps, compatibility with almost any software, and the ability to use it all offline, a Windows laptop will meet those criteria.
Chromebooks are simple, easy to use, and do a lot. If you spend the majority of your time online and don't need specific software, then these are more suitable for you.
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