Chromebook: The Simpler Computer
Chromebooks are affordable, secure, and surprisingly powerful. Whether you are considering one or already own one, here is everything you need.
What Is a Chromebook?
How it differs from Windows or Mac
Chromebooks run Chrome OS — a stripped-down system built around the Chrome web browser. Almost everything happens in the browser or as a web app. That makes the computer faster, cheaper, and harder to break.
Why schools love them
Schools deploy Chromebooks because they are inexpensive, boot in seconds, update themselves, and are hard to infect with viruses. The same qualities make them great for households too.
Is it right for you?
If you already spend most of your computer time in a browser — email, news, YouTube, banking, shopping — a Chromebook can do everything you do today for a fraction of the cost.
Is a Chromebook Right for You?
Check the boxes that sound like you. If most are green, a Chromebook is a great pick.
Yes — get one
- You mainly browse the web, email, watch videos, and use Google Docs.
- You want something simple, secure, and inexpensive.
- You want a laptop with long battery life that stays fast for years.
Consider alternatives
- You edit video professionally or play demanding PC games.
- You rely on the desktop versions of Microsoft Office (Excel macros, advanced Word features).
- You need Windows-only software for work (specialty tax, medical, or CAD programs).
Best Chromebooks in 2026
Five honest picks across budgets and use cases. Prices change often — use these as starting points.
A reliable everyday Chromebook with a big screen and enough power for web browsing, email, and video calls.
A nice step up in build quality and battery life. Fits most households for years.
Repairable, upgradable, and fast. For people who want a high-end machine without Windows or Mac complexity.
Large, backlit keyboard and a touchscreen that folds flat. Friendly for anyone with vision or dexterity challenges.
Rugged design, long battery life, 2-in-1 hinge. Built to survive backpacks and homework sessions.
Chromebook Basics
Short, plain-language guides for the most common tasks.
Living with a Chromebook
What works great, what doesn't, and why you can stop worrying about viruses.
What works great
- Google apps (Docs, Sheets, Slides, Gmail, Photos)
- Web browsing and web apps
- Video calling (Zoom, Meet, FaceTime via web)
- Streaming video (Netflix, YouTube, Disney+, Max)
- Android apps from the Play Store (on newer models)
- Linux apps for developers (optional, advanced)
What doesn't work
- Traditional Windows or Mac desktop software
- Most PC games (AAA titles, Steam library)
- Industry software that requires Windows (some tax, accounting, or medical apps)
Built-in security that takes care of itself
Chromebooks update themselves in the background. Each update ships the latest security patches. The system also isolates every web page and app in a "sandbox" so a bad site cannot touch your files. You do not need antivirus software.
Tips for Long Life
Four small habits that keep a Chromebook fast and useful for years.
Let it update itself
Chromebooks download updates automatically and install them on restart. You do not need to manage this — just restart it once a week.
Keep it plugged in occasionally
Most Chromebook batteries last 5+ years. Letting it hit 0% often can shorten that. Top it up before it dies.
Clear out old tabs
If it feels slow, close tabs you are not using. Chromebooks love RAM-free space.
Check the auto-update expiration date
Every Chromebook has a date after which it stops getting updates. Search "Auto Update Expiration" + your model to find yours.
Free Chromebook Programs
Can't afford a Chromebook? Several non-profits provide free or low-cost refurbished Chromebooks to households that qualify, including PCs for People and Human-I-T. They also help with free or reduced-cost internet.
See Free Computer Programs