Google Chromebooks - Notebook Laptops, Detachables and Tablets (2024)

FAQs

What is the difference between a Chromebook a laptop and a notebook? ›

A Chromebook is basically a budget laptop that does not run Mac OS, Linux, or Windows, and instead operates on a special Google-based operating system called Chrome OS. Chromebooks are especially popular with college students.

Chromebooks are designed for everyday users

So, if you use your laptop for just browsing the web and watching Netflix, then you should consider picking one up. As someone who regularly uses a Chromebook for work and leisure, I find that performance is zippy enough for the kind of things I do.

Chromebooks are web-centric laptops that run Google's Chrome operating system (OS). Chrome OS is built around the Chrome browser, which runs web-based apps like Gmail and Google Docs, as well as some apps from third-party vendors. Most Chromebooks can also run Android apps.

Even if you're not connected to the Internet, you can still do lots of things with your Chromebook. Important: Some offline apps and services won't work in Incognito or guest mode. If you're using Gmail with your work or school account, you can ask your admin to help change your Gmail offline settings.

If you plan on doing more intensive tasks like video or photo editing, then a laptop might be the better option due to its more powerful hardware components. However, if you only need something for basic tasks like web browsing or light office work then a notebook could suffice since it's smaller and more portable.

Even if you use the in-built tools, photo and video editing are simple with Windows and Macs. With Chromebooks, this is not the case, as the majority of them have low-end technology, making video rendering and editing virtually impossible. Additionally, Chromebooks do not support the simple use of Adobe Photoshop.

The single biggest differentiator between Chromebooks and other laptops is that Chromebooks don't run the latest Windows or macOS version as their operating system (OS), but instead Google ChromeOS.

The best Chromebook is more than a match for a Windows laptop or MacBook in terms of performance, while still remaining an affordable and secure device for getting things done.

Chromebooks also require an internet connection for many of their web-based applications and features whereas laptops do not. Also, you'll oftentimes spend less on a Chromebook than a laptop since they tend to have lower hardware specifications and are intentionally designed to be affordable and lightweight.

Chromebooks offer more flexibility in terms of software and applications. While iPads are limited to the apps available in the Apple App Store, Chromebooks can run a wide variety of apps and programs, including Google Suite (Docs, Sheets, Slides, etc.)

Can you use Word on Chromebook? ›

On your Chromebook, you can open, edit, download, and save Microsoft® 365 files, such as Word, PowerPoint, or Excel files.

If you're interested in getting a free laptop from Google, here's what you need to know. To be eligible for the program, you must be a currently enrolled student or teacher at an accredited school. You'll also need to have a valid email address and be at least 13 years old.

The ChromeOS operating system is so light-touch, that you can run it with a basic processor. Chromebooks still start quickly and run smoothly, but on a processor that helps cut the cost of the computer. Windows laptops and Macs need much more advanced processors in order to run quickly.

You can access your Microsoft 365 apps from the web — including Word, Excel, PowerPoint, OneNote, OneDrive, and Outlook. The web apps allow you to: Create, edit, and collaborate on documents and files.

A laptop is portable and weighs 4-8 pounds (2 to 4 kilograms), while a notebook is a personal computer that remain lightweight and small and typically weigh less than 5 pounds.

Chromebooks are a new type of computer designed to help you get things done faster and easier. They run ChromeOS, an operating system that has cloud storage, the best of Google built-in, and multiple layers of security. Learn more about switching to a Chromebook.