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Chromebooks

Simple, low-maintenance laptops that run ChromeOS. Check the update end date before you buy: after it, a Chromebook stops getting security fixes.

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Choosing a Chromebook

Chromebooks run ChromeOS, Google’s simple operating system built around the Chrome browser. They start quickly, update themselves, rarely need antivirus and work well with Google Docs, Gmail and Android apps. They can’t run Windows programs.

The most important thing to check is the update end date. Google promises each Chromebook updates until a fixed date, and after it the laptop stops getting security fixes. We show the date on every Chromebook, so compare it before you compare anything else.

Chromebooks need less memory and storage than Windows laptops: 4 GB of memory and 64 GB of storage is workable, but 8 GB and 128 GB feel faster and last longer. Chromebook Plus models add a faster processor, a Full HD screen and Google’s AI features.

Frequently asked questions

How long do Chromebooks get updates?

Recent Chromebooks get up to ten years of updates from when the model was released, not from when you buy it. The exact end date is on each Chromebook's page here.

Can a Chromebook run Microsoft Office?

You can use Office on the web and the Android versions of Office apps, which cover most everyday work. You can't install the full Windows versions.

What is a Chromebook Plus?

A Chromebook that meets Google's higher minimum spec: a faster processor, at least 8 GB of memory, 128 GB of storage and a Full HD screen, plus extra AI features.

Is a Chromebook good for children?

Yes. They're affordable, hard to break with bad downloads, and Google Family Link lets parents manage apps and screen time.