The Chromebook is a fast and secure alternative to other, often more expensive, laptops. Featuring Google’s Chrome OS, the Chromebook represents the company’s personal computing efforts, which have been traditionally centered around web browsing. Chromebooks are built with portability and accessibility in mind, making them an excellent option for education, work, and travel.
However, with the growing adoption of personal laptops for gaming, alongside a global movement towards tablets, will Chromebooks still have a place in 2021?
How Chromebooks Differ From Other Laptops
Chromebooks were developed primarily for simplicity. Google adopted a cloud-based approach when building Chrome OS, which utilizes the Chrome browser to perform most of its tasks. In doing so, they created a fast and efficient system that can perform well on a budget.
One of the most compelling reasons to use a Chromebook over other laptops is the availability of Google’s apps and services. While there are no applications to install as in Windows or Mac OS, there are a variety of available web apps that allow users access to common features – such as editing documents, watching videos, and accessing files even when offline. This approach also means that updates will happen less often and take less time to complete.
While these differences might not mean much to everybody, those used to certain applications might have difficulty transitioning to a Chromebook.
So How Do Chromebooks Work?
Chromebook functionality is designed for online use and works best when connected to the internet.
1. A Powerful Browsing Experience
Chrome OS was made to take advantage of Google’s well-established web browser – Chrome. By building out its menus and interface, using this software as a backend, the underlying system benefits from its stability and long-term development. This also means that Chrome OS is able to utilize the user ecosystem that the browser has established over the years.
2. Leveraging Web Applications
One of the most powerful aspects of the Chrome browser is the ability for users and other third parties to create web apps and plugins that extend and expand on the capabilities of the software. Because it is built on top of the browser framework, Chrome OS can also take advantage of this flexible system, which ensures that users are able to benefit from the enhancements made by others. Applications offered by Google – including G-Mail, YouTube, and Google Play – are all made available, which allows users to easily access their personal accounts right from the desktop.
3. Cloud Computing For Today’s Needs
Chrome OS offers users a simplified computing experience by leveraging the power of cloud computing. By centering the user experience around online tools, syncing data between devices, and providing personalized support for clients, Google’s Chromebook is designed to take advantage of the increasingly interconnected technologies of our modern world.
Chromebooks can be useful devices in both learning and business, providing users with easy access to their documents, videos, and other important files. These are fundamental components of the system’s design and are important factors to examine when considering whether Chromebooks will continue to have a place in the modern world.
Pros and Cons of Using a Chromebook
Chromebooks present a unique option for individuals looking to purchase a laptop in 2021. However, because of their uniqueness, some might find that they lack the functionality that they have come to expect.
Some pros of using a Chromebook include:
- Price: Cheaper Chromebooks can be purchased for less than $200.
- Speed: Chromebooks are known for their speed, utilizing solid-state drives (SSDs) to achieve faster loading and boot times.
- Security: With a small, simple, and up-to-date system, Chromebooks boast some of the best security.
Despite these benefits, some people might have trouble with some aspects of the Chromebook’s design.
Some cons of using a Chromebook include:
- Compatibility: Because they are locked into the Google ecosystem, Chromebooks lack cross-platform compatibility with many popular applications, as well as basic driver support for some peripheries.
- Storage: While Chromebooks use SSDs for a more responsive system, this also means that there is less space for local storage.
- Gaming: Chromebooks are not made with a powerful performance in mind. Couple this with their lack of compatibility with some programs, and you may experience limitations in gaming options.
Are Chromebooks Still Worth Buying?
We think it is safe to say that Chromebooks are still worth buying in 2021, depending on the user’s needs. While there are benefits in prices, speed, and security, the lack of compatibility, storage, and gaming support are all important limitations to take into account.
For those who just want a simple, fast, and cheap means to access the internet, the Chromebook is an excellent option as it performs this at a pace faster than its competition.
