![]() When ChromeOS launched more than a decade ago, it was essentially Google's Chrome web browser. What OS does a Chromebook use?Ĭhromebooks run on Google's minimalist Chrome operating system, or ChromeOS. Again, ChromeOS is what really makes a laptop a Chromebook but there are some other differences to consider before you buy. However, while Chromebooks come in various sizes and designs, options are more plentiful with Windows laptops or Apple MacBooks, especially if you need to run demanding software. Because ChromeOS is built for efficiency and to take advantage of web or cloud services, the operating system runs well with less expensive hardware. Instead, Chromebooks are designed to use web apps ( like those for Microsoft Office 365), Android apps and Linux software. This means Windows or Mac software cannot be directly installed and run on a Chromebook. What is the difference between a laptop and a Chromebook?Ī Chromebook is a laptop running on Google's ChromeOS instead of Microsoft Windows or Apple's MacOS. You can find a more detailed description of our test methodology on our How We Test Computers page. The list of benchmarking software and comparison criteria we use changes over time as the devices we test evolve. ![]() We also place importance on how well they work given their cost and where the manufacturer has potentially made upgrades or tradeoffs for its price. We have a different set of tests specifically for Chromebooks since they can't run Windows or MacOS software.įor the hands-on, the reviewer uses it for their work during the review period, evaluating how well the design, features (such as the screen, camera and speakers) and manufacturer-supplied software operate as a cohesive whole. If a laptop is intended for gaming, we'll also run benchmarks from Guardians of the Galaxy, The Rift Breaker (CPU and GPU) and Shadow of the Tomb Raider. We test all laptops with a core set of benchmarks, including Primate Labs Geekbench 5 and 6, Cinebench R23, PCMark 10, a variety of 3DMark benchmarks (whichever can run on the laptop), UL Procyon Photo and Video (where supported), and our own battery life test. A final review verdict is a combination of both objective and subjective judgments. This includes evaluating a device's aesthetics, ergonomics and features with respect to price. The review process for laptops consists of two parts: performance testing under controlled conditions in the CNET Labs and extensive hands-on use by our reviewers. Security: Because it's nearly impossible for Chromebooks to be corrupted with viruses or other malware, you don't need to worry about extra software to secure a Chromebook. These can be checked on Google's site before you buy, and newer models are supported for 8 to 10 years. This is when a specific model will no longer receive ChromeOS security and feature updates. Still, we recommend getting the best hardware you can afford because they can't be upgraded later.ĪUE: Google gives all Chromebooks an auto-update expiration date. Specs: ChromeOS doesn't require powerful components to run smoothly (which is why you can find many good Chromebooks for less than $400). With more software going online, it's easier than ever to find the applications you need still, before you buy, check if any necessary apps are available for ChromeOS. It is different than MacOS and Windows and can't natively run software designed for those OSes.Īpps: Chromebooks run web apps, Android apps from the Google Play store and Linux software. ![]() Operating system: Chromebooks run on Google's ChromeOS operating system. The AUE is when ChromeOS stops receiving system updates, now up to 10 years, but the date differs for every model, old and new. Considering an older or used model? Check the auto-update expiration date for the model before you buy. All of the models on this list offer excellent performance and features for their price. ( I've been reviewing Chromebooks since their start more than a decade ago.) We conduct performance testing under controlled conditions in the CNET Labs and extensive hands-on use. Each member of our team has decades of experience testing and reviewing laptops. Read more: How to Take a Screenshot on a ChromebookĬNET's editors tested all of the Chromebooks on this list. We are just starting to test the first of these, but we expect to update this list soon with a Chromebook Plus pick. These models ensure you get a certain level of hardware to take advantage of the latest ChromeOS features. Google also just introduced a new category of devices called Chromebook Plus. This is a great choice if you're looking for a Chromebook as your only computing device. It's pricier than many, but it's full-featured with a fast 12th-gen Intel Core i5 processor, a great display and a beautiful design that's built to last. The HP Dragonfly Pro Chromebook is the best Chromebook for 2023 that we've tested.
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