Google’s Chrome OS is a rival to Windows and macOS. It’s a great platform, yet it has drawbacks. In order to acquire a Chromebook, you must first understand Chrome OS, what are chrome OS features, and who it is intended for. This page will answer them all.
Read More: Top 3 Best Google Chromebook for Your Needs!
What is Chrome OS?
Table of Contents
Google created and owns Chrome OS. It’s open-source and based on Linux. The ease of use of Chrome OS is a significant plus. Although it includes a desktop environment comparable to Windows, Chrome OS is primarily a web browser. Like a Windows or macOS browser, Chrome allows you to stream videos, surf the web, and more.
Most Chrome OS devices were made in 2017 or after having Google Play Store access. So most Android apps work on Chrome OS. Not all of these apps are Chrome OS ready. These can be used as phone screens on Chromebooks. Learn how to launch Android apps on Chrome OS in our dedicated post.
In addition to running Linux software, some newer Chromebooks can run Android apps. Chrome OS can therefore execute desktop-level programs if they are available for Linux.
Chrome OS’s simplicity has a serious flaw. You can’t download and run AAA games or use desktop tools like Adobe Premiere Plus like you can on Windows or macOS. You can only run apps and games from the Play Store or Linux. Chromebooks aren’t for everyone.
Who is Chrome OS Intended For?
Chromebooks are simple and cheap, but there are also high-end ones. A Chrome OS laptop is worth considering if you only want to surf the web, watch YouTube videos, play Android games, and use apps.
If you’re a more sophisticated user who wants to play AAA PC games and use Photoshop, a regular Windows or macOS device is best. While apps like Photoshop can be downloaded from the Play Store and used on Chrome OS, the Android version is significantly less capable and feature-rich than the Windows version.
That’s just a basic rule for who should utilize a Chromebook. Check out the pros and drawbacks of Chrome OS below to see if a Chromebook is right for you.
Chrome OS Features
Here are some Chrome OS features.
- Simple:
Chrome OS is designed to be simple. So easy to use, even your grandmother could use it. It also boots up quickly.
- Secure:
Chrome OS is more secure than Windows laptops due to its simplicity and the fact that most apps are downloaded from the Play Store. Chrome OS has frequent and automated upgrades and built-in virus protection.
- Cheap:
Chrome OS is free and open-source. To browse the web and operate Android apps, it does not require high-end hardware. As a result, Chrome OS devices are often less expensive than Windows/macOS devices, however, there are some premium ones available.
- Android App Support:
As previously stated, Chromebooks introduced in recent years all enable Android apps, making them far more useful.
- Linux app support:
Google now supports Linux apps. Because Chromebooks enable Linux apps and have enough capacity to run them, they can now run desktop-level software.
- Weight:
Chrome OS devices are lighter than most other laptops because they don’t have huge hard drives or other high-end hardware.
- Cloud-based:
Chrome OS is supposed to be cloud-based. It has Google Docs, Drive for files, and Photos for photos. That means you can use them from any internet-connected device, anywhere. Your files are safe if your Chromebook is stolen or lost.
- Battery life:
Because Chrome OS is a lightweight operating system, battery life is often outstanding.
Chrome OS Gadgets
Chrome OS runs on Chromebooks. There are many options at various price points, with less expensive models available than those with high-end specs and price tags.
This piece would be too long if we listed our favorite Chromebooks. Instead, read our dedicated best Chromebooks post at the link. We also have a list of the best Chromebooks under $300. Alternatively, click on the links below to see our best Chromebooks by brand listings.
- Asus Chromebooks
- Samsung Chromebooks
- HP Chromebooks
- Acer Chromebooks
- Google Chromebooks
- Dell Chromebooks
Chrome OS is available on a few tablets as well as Chromebooks. These gadgets are considerably more portable and can be used with a keyboard to type lengthier emails or documents.
Read More: What is Chrome OS And Why Would You Use Chrome OS?
