This seems promising, but apps installed on a Chromebook often don’t look or feel great to use. Many also run Android apps available through the Google Play Store. And there’s a big difference in the stuff Chromebooks and laptops can run.Ĭhromebooks are designed to run apps available through Chrome Web Store. Software, apps, services - whatever you call them, you’re going to want your Chromebook or laptop to run stuff. It’s possible to install large apps and easier to store large files like high-resolution photos or 4K video. However, laptops ultimately pack more RAM and storage. A laptop’s versatility comes at the cost of efficiency, so web browsing often doesn’t feel any better than a Chromebook. Microsoft’s popular Windows operating system has decades of app support and is generally the go-to launch platform for new laptop apps and services. Wi-Fi always available, mobile data is rare.Chrome is often the only app you’ll use and very little data can be stored on the device. This is why Chromebooks can get away with such limited amounts of RAM and storage. Most tasks performed in the browser will feel a bit quicker on a Chromebook than on a similar laptop. Limited storage (32GB to 128GB is common)Ĭhromebooks ship with ChromeOS, Google’s lean web-centric operating system that is simple, fast, and skews heavily toward the use of the Chrome web browser.Wi-Fi always available - mobile data is not uncommon.Built-in connectivity with Google cloud services.Still, there are key points that make each standout. Each offers a variety of display options that can be purchased as an old-school clamshell or a more modern, touchscreen 2-in-1 laptop. Both have a display, keyboard, and touchpad. Some may find it hard to tell a Chromebook from a conventional laptop at a glance.

We compare Chromebooks and laptops with the following in mind:Ĭhromebook vs. This guide will help you decide which is worth your money. Yet the differences between Chromebooks and laptops are greater than they seem at a glance.

Install windows 11 on chromebook