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Chromebooks are a type of laptop that run on the Chrome OS operating system. Chromebooks are designed to be used primarily while connected to the internet, and come with a number of features that make this possible, such as built-in virus protection and cloud storage.
Because they can be used while online, Chromebooks are often seen as a cheaper alternative to traditional laptops, as they do not require the purchase of additional software.
A Chromebook is designed to be used primarily while connected to the internet. Many of them do not have DVD players, can only download programs from Google’s online store (though you can use some Linux programs), and require an internet connection for maximum usage. This makes Chromebooks ideal for travel or users who are constantly on-the-go, as you can still get work done without being connected to the internet.
What to Look Before Buying Chromebook?
Chromebooks come in various specifications and features, and you should always keep in mind what you will be using it for when looking to purchase one.
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Performance
Chromebooks are available with either Celeron or ARM processors, and some come with both. This refers to the type of processor the Chromebook uses, rather than its power (though this can be an indicator).
Celeron processors work faster than ARM chips, but drain the battery more quickly.
ARM processors are designed to use less energy so that they do not drain your battery as quickly as other laptops. They tend to feel slower than their Intel counterparts, however.
Some high-end Chromebooks now come with Intel Core processors, designed to deliver a high-performance system even though they’re Chromebooks.
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Price
The price of Chromebooks varies greatly, depending on its features and quality. Generally speaking, most models fall within the $200-500 range; however there are some high-end models available for several thousand dollars if you want more processing power and additional space. Also, there’re a few cheap chromebooks under $100 that are great for students. Whether it’s worth spending the money will depend on your usage scenarios and what kind of Chromebook you’re looking for. It’s also worth considering that many models have a version that is slightly cheaper but with reduced storage capacity, so if you don’t need a lot of space it might be a better value to purchase a model with less memory.
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Storage
Storage space on a Chromebook is limited by the size of the solid state drive (SSD). The more storage space you have, the more programs and files you can store locally without having to resort to cloud storage or external drives. Look for models with 16GB of SSD if you want a modest amount of local storage space, 32 GB if moderate storage is a priority, or 64 GB or larger if large amounts of storage are necessary for your work.
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Memory
The amount of RAM a Chromebook has will also affect how smoothly it runs. The more memory a Chromebook has, the less often it will need to use its hard drive and thus the faster it will run.
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Battery Life
Battery life can vary significantly between different models, and can also be affected by things like screen brightness and connectivity. Look for a Chromebook with 2-3 hours of battery life if you plan on using it while moving (e.g., commuting or traveling). If you won’t be on the move much but still want good battery life, look for 4-5 hours. If you’ll mostly be sitting at your desk working on your Chromebook, any battery over 5 hours is considered good; however, some high-end models offer as much as 9-10 hours of usage between charges.
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Display Size and Quality
For many users, display quality will be one of their most important considerations when shopping for a new laptop. Chromebook display size can vary significantly, though most are between 11-inches and 15-inches. The larger the display, the less portable it is but also the easier it will be to see what you are doing or give presentations.
If portability is key for your usage of a Chromebook, look for smaller screens (11-inch) on your model; however if presentation is important, look for at least a 13-inch screen before purchasing.
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Add-Ons
Many models come with features that give them an advantage over some other Chromebooks. Check to see whether your preferred model has any special features that might make it worth the price, such as extra storage space or improved biometric security. Many high end models offer some protection against viruses and malware, which is a good feature to look for.
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Biometric Security
Many models now come with biometric security options such as fingerprint scanners or facial recognition software. These features give you another level of security if your Chromebook will contain sensitive material (for example, if you are using it for work). Some also allow you to use multiple patterns, so several people can use the same machine without compromising its security.
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Connectivity
One big difference between Chromebooks is whether they are compatible with 3G and 4G mobile data. If you will be using your laptop in many different locations or need mobile access, look for a model that supports 3G or 4G internet (some even support up to LTE). Sharing this connection with other devices is possible via tethering if the Chromebook has mobile wireless connectivity built in; otherwise you might need an external modem.
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Warranty
Last but not least, consider the warranty on your Chromebook. If you’re using it for personal use just make sure that it’s long enough to cover any issues that might arise. For business use, look for a model that offers repair or replacement services along with its warranty; some even offer next day onsite repairs if your device is damaged while working!
Final Words
Chromebooks are great for many needs, but they only work if you have a good idea of what your usage scenarios are. Need to run specific applications? Do you need access to the internet everywhere you go?
What kind of Chromebook do you need? The more features it includes, the higher quality it will be; however keep in mind that high-end models often come at a high price.
The key is finding the model that offers exactly what you need without any additional bells and whistles that will drive up its price point. Luckily, most models offer great value for their cost so there’s no reason not to choose one!