Chromebook vs. Laptop: What's the difference?

If you’re in the market for a portable computer, chances are that you’re considering either a Chromebook or a traditional laptop, such as a Windows laptop or a MacBook. Which one should you get? To make the right choice, you first need to understand how each works and what sets them apart. It’s also important to consider what you’ll be using it for and how much you’re willing to spend.

At first glance, a Chromebook and a regular laptop may look similar. After all, Chromebooks are laptops too. But these devices are very different in how they operate and what they offer. So, what’s the difference between a Chromebook and a laptop? We break down how Chromebooks differ from other laptops so you can choose the ideal device for yourself, your kids, your school, or your business.

Differences between a Chromebook and a laptop

Device	Chromebook	Laptop
Operating system	ChromeOS	Windows, macOS, Linux
Web browser	Google Chrome	All web browsers
Apps and software	Web apps from Chrome Web Store, Android apps from Google Play Store, Linux apps	Almost all apps and software programs
Storage space	Cloud storage/limited local storage	Internal hard drive or SSD/cloud storage
Security	Built-in virus protection	Antivirus software
Battery life	On average 8-12 hours	Depends on the model and how the laptop is used, typically 4-8 hours
Portability	Usually thin, lightweight, highly portable	Different sizes and weights, some models more portable than others
Affordability	Very affordable	Prices vary from one model to another

As you can see, many crucial characteristics set Chromebooks apart from other laptops, so let’s take a closer look at some of the main differences.

Operating system

Chromebooks: ChromeOS

Laptops: Windows, macOS, Linux

The essential difference between Chromebooks and traditional laptops lies in their operating systems. A Chromebook runs on Google’s operating system known as ChromeOS, while a laptop typically uses one of the three most popular operating systems, Windows, macOS, or Linux. ChromeOS is based on the Linux operating system, and Chromebooks are designed to be used primarily with an Internet connection. Since ChromeOS is a simple operating system compared to the more complex Windows and macOS, Chromebooks boot up much faster than Windows laptops or MacBooks, which is one of their advantages. Besides being known as easy to use, ChromeOS also downloads and installs updates automatically.

Web browser

Chromebooks: Google Chrome

Laptops: All browsers

Chromebooks use the Google Chrome web browser as their primary user interface. And Google Chrome is the main component of ChromeOS, serving as the web app platform. While it’s possible to install and use some other web browsers on a Chromebook, the pre-installed Google Chrome browser is, without question, the best option for Chromebooks since it’s the basis of their operating system. Plus, you can install many useful extensions to increase its functionality. On the other hand, when it comes to other laptops and web browsers, you have many options. Depending on your preferences and needs, you can choose any web browser, such as Google Chrome, Mozilla Firefox, Microsoft Edge, or Opera.

Apps and software

Chromebooks: Web apps from Chrome Web Store, Android apps from Google Play Store, Linux apps

Laptops: Almost all apps and software programs

Although initially designed to rely on web-based apps in the Google Chrome browser, Chromebooks released in or after 2017 can run Android apps from the Google Play Store, while models with Linux support can also run Linux apps. The Chrome Web Store and the Google Play Store include thousands of apps for various tasks. One of the main concerns for many people is access to Microsoft Office. Even though you can’t install the Windows desktop version of Microsoft Office on a Chromebook, the good news is that you can run MS Office apps through the online version of Microsoft Office.

Regarding laptops, you can download and install almost any app or software you want. For example, you can download and install apps from the Microsoft Store or third-party software directly from websites on a Windows laptop. Likewise, the Mac App Store is available for MacBooks. For Linux laptops, you can install third-party software directly from developers.

Storage space

Chromebooks: Cloud storage/limited local storage

Laptops: Internal hard drive or SSD/cloud storage

Chromebooks have less local storage than laptops, typically 16 GB to 64 GB, though some premium models offer 128 GB or more. This is because Chromebooks are designed to be cloud-first devices that rely heavily on Google Drive for file storage. ChromeOS itself requires relatively little space, and many tasks are handled through web-based apps. Also, you don’t store your documents, photos, music, or other files on your device; you save them online in Google Drive. This can be a good thing because if your Chromebook gets damaged or stolen, all your files will be safe.

In contrast, laptops typically come with at least 256 GB of internal storage, but many models offer 512 GB or 1 TB. You can save files on the hard drive, but you also have the option to store files online using cloud storage services, such as Google Drive, Dropbox, or OneDrive.

Security

Chromebooks: Built-in virus protection

Laptops: Antivirus software

Security is one of Chromebooks’ strong suits. These devices include built-in virus protection, and ChromeOS is highly resistant to malware. Google has taken numerous security measures for its ChromeOS, including sandboxing, automatic updates, verified boot, and data encryption. All this makes Chromebooks one of the safest laptops you can use.

Unlike Chromebooks, traditional laptops are more susceptible to malware and viruses and are attractive targets for hackers, especially Windows laptops. So, to keep a Windows laptop safe from malware and viruses, it’s necessary to install the latest antivirus software regularly. MacBooks are considered a little bit safer but still more vulnerable to viruses and malware than Chromebooks.

Battery life

Chromebooks: On average 8-12 hours

Laptops: Depends on the model and how the laptop is used, typically 4-8 hours.

Chromebooks are known for having impressive battery life. In fact, they typically have much longer battery life than most Windows laptops, thanks to the fact that ChromeOS is a less demanding operating system than Windows. This means you can use a Chromebook for hours and hours without worrying that the battery will drain before finishing your work. Chromebooks usually last 8 to 12 hours on a single charge, which is rare for most Windows laptops unless you opt for a costly model. MacBooks tend to have a better battery life than typical Windows laptops, but they are a much more expensive option than Chromebooks.

Portability

Chromebooks: Usually thin, lightweight, highly portable

Laptops: Different sizes and weights, some models more portable than others

Chromebooks are usually thin and light, which makes them highly portable. This means they are an excellent choice for those who need a device they can easily carry everywhere, for example, students or people who are constantly on the go. Laptops come in different sizes and weights, so some are less portable than others. In general, Chromebooks are considered more portable than average Windows laptops. Of course, those Windows laptops that can match Chromebooks’ portability are usually more expensive. The same goes for MacBooks – they can be thin and very portable, but come at a much higher price.

Affordability

Chromebooks: Very affordable

Laptops: Prices vary from one model to another

Chromebooks are generally much more affordable than Windows laptops (not to mention MacBooks, which start at $999). The reason for this lies in Chromebooks’ low hardware requirements. Namely, you can get an entry-level Chromebook for less than $200. A good Chromebook can cost you around $300, whereas a Windows laptop with good performance will probably cost you at least $600. However, it’s important to note that although Chromebooks are great devices for basic computing needs, Windows laptops and MacBooks have a higher price tag because of their superior performance and features.

The Bottom Line

Ultimately, both Chromebooks and regular laptops have advantages and disadvantages that you should consider before making your final decision. Don’t forget that it all comes down to your needs, workload, and budget.

Chromebooks are budget-friendly, easy to set up and use, very secure and portable, and have long battery life. Also, they are great for online activities such as web browsing and research, checking email, watching videos, listening to music, or doing schoolwork. All this, and the Google Classroom app that comes with Chromebooks, has made them a popular choice for K-12 schools that issue laptops to their students and teachers. Chromebooks are also an excellent choice for parents whose children need a simple laptop for learning and fun and for all those individuals or business users who don’t need a powerful device for more complex tasks.

However, for those who need a more powerful, flexible, versatile machine, specific programs only available on Windows or macOS, or advanced software for performing more demanding tasks, such as video or photo editing, a Windows laptop or a MacBook is a better choice. For instance, these laptops are great for creative professionals, power users, or serious gamers.