Though you probably already know what differentiates a Windows PC from a Chromebook, here’s a brief refresher: Windows PCs run Microsoft Windows 10 (and soon, Windows 11), the dominant operating system for traditional PCs for more than 25 years.
What’s the difference between a Chromebook and a Windows PC? (We’ll talk more about that, below.)Ĭhrome OS or Windows? The choice is up to you. Just make sure you’re not buying a Chromebook that’s fallen out of the support window. Amazon’s list of the “ best-selling laptops” is often dominated by Chromebooks-see for yourself! Pay attention during the holidays or peak sales periods like Prime Day, when prices can drop really low-down around $100 or more. Google is also adding more features to Chromebooks to make them as useful as Windows devices. Now, however, Chromebooks can do much more, including Android apps and cloud gaming, making them entertainment as well as productivity devices. It can also be hundreds of dollars cheaper than a comparable Windows PC, even with the same processor inside! Numerous American classrooms have settled on Chromebooks for in-person and distance learning, and often made them available for loaning to students. Essentially, it’s useful to think of a Chromebook as a dedicated Chrome browser running on top of secure hardware. A Chromebook powered by Google’s Chrome OS is a simpler, more optimized affair.
