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- Chromebooks have developed a lot over the years and have become an ideal machine for those looking for a basic, affordable work/study computer.
- They are also great for those who prioritize ease of use, lightweight, and good battery life.
It’s 2024, and I finally got my hands on a Chromebook to try out the experience, and only now I’ve realized how much they have progressed. They still may not be as powerful as their traditional laptop counterparts, but they can serve as the ideal device for many different types of users
Before I dive into that, it’ll help to go over some of the basics of Chromebooks.
Chromebooks, How Do They Differ From Laptops?
The key difference between Chromebooks and laptop computers is in the software: Chromebooks run Google’s ChromeOS, a very minimalistic operating system compared to Windows and MacOS. It basically runs on a browser, so all the functionality you get is the same as that of a typical web browser. That’s not the worst news, as many apps have web browser versions, including Adobe’s Photoshop. More recently, support was added for Android apps, but not all apps are supported.
Moreover, Chromebooks aren’t as premium as laptops can be in terms of hardware. Typically, an entry-level Chromebook has 4 gigs of RAM, 32/64 GB of space (called eMMC), and an Intel Celeron CPU. They tend to be lighter on hardware because their operating system is far lighter than Windows and can run without hiccups on weak hardware. This is the key reason that Chromebooks tend to be cheaper, and you can find many options under $150, even!
Don’t be fooled, though; Chromebooks have stepped up their game in recent times. High-end Chromebooks tend to have Intel Core i7 CPUs, screen refresh rates beyond 60 Hz, and can cost up to $800 for the most premium models.
Why A Chromebook Might Be Perfect For You
Based on that information, a Chromebook could be the ideal pick for you because:
They Won’t Break The Bank
Since a Chromebook can be as cheap as the $100 mark, you can happily buy these computers without breaking the bank. If you’re looking for a machine for viewing multimedia or just general browsing, an entry-level Chromebook will serve you well.
Of course, if you need something more premium, Chromebooks offer that too. The more premium models can cost upwards of $700, have better hardware, and generally be faster.
They Do The Basics Well
Since Chromebook recently added support for Android apps, you can now run all the essential Microsoft Office suite apps (Excel, Word, PowerPoint, and more!) on your Chromebook. So, you can invest in a cheap Chromebook to run these apps now instead of a costlier Windows laptop. It can also perform your other work-related tasks, like checking emails, social media, or work voice and video calls, seamlessly.
For students who don’t require any specialized software like programming or graphic design apps), Chromebooks are a great option. Tasks like taking and reading notes, as well as web browsing, work well on any Chromebook.
Chromebooks Can Now Game!
For a long time, Chromebooks could only run browser games and, later on, Android games. But now, with cloud streaming, you can run all your favorite games on a Chromebook through apps like Nvidia’s GeForce Now and Boosteroid. You only need a stable internet connection and a Chromebook with a decent CPU, like a Core i3.
I tried running Red Read Redemption 2 using the Boosteroid, and things went smoothly with very little latency. Do note, though, that all the cloud streaming apps are subscription-based.
A Great Computer On The Go
Chromebooks are an excellent option if you travel often and need a computer for the same basic tasks described above. They are thin, lightweight, and have impressive battery numbers. Not just that, you can find 2-in-1 Chromebooks that can also serve as tablets, further improving portability.
Ideal For The Not-So-Tech Savvy Folks
The fact that Chromebooks don’t offer as much functionality as Windows or MacOS can also serve as a plus point for some people. It makes the interface straightforward and easy to understand, making it ideal for anyone not well-versed in modern tech, including children and the elderly.
Looking For A Basic Computer? A Chromebook Might Be It
Chromebooks have come very far compared to their initial days, from being low-specced machines with the functionality of a web browser to offering support for Android apps, Microsoft Office, and modern AAA titles through cloud gaming. They are affordable, light-weight, typically have impressive battery numbers, and ChromeOS is easy to use, making it an ideal computer for users looking for one or more of these characteristics.
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[Comparisons Expert]
Ali Tauseef is an experienced writer and computer enthusiast with a passion for graphics cards and processors. With a wealth of knowledge in the field of computer technology, he regularly publishes blogs and in-depth comparisons on Tech4Gamers.
Get In Touch: ali@tech4gamers.com
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