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If you've established that Chrome OS will suit your needs, then the next steps are just as they would be with any laptop: what size screen will best suit you? do you want a laptop-only design or a 2-in-1 or 360-hinge product for versatility? will you need a little power for basic tasks or a bit more for more demanding operation? How to choose the best Chromebook for you Chrome OS is a very streamlined OS that is designed to work completely in sync with Google's suite of applications, such as Google Mail and Google Docs, and while offline work is of course possible, Chromebooks are really designed to be used while online. What can you do on a Chromebook? (opens in new tab)Ĭhrome OS is the major difference between a Chromebook and Windows or Apple laptop. The operating system, for example, is Google's Chrome OS - it's not Windows, Linux or macOS - while the apps that Chromebooks use are from Google's G-Suite of software and Android mobile app downloads. Where Chromebooks differ to laptops is in their operating system, apps, and internal components. They deliver a portable computing experience that allows people to work and be creative wherever they might be, and often for significantly less money. Is a Chromebook and laptop the same thing? Read our full Asus Chromebook Flip C436 review (opens in new tab) to get the thorough lowdown on this versatile option.
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Handy! Battery life could be better, though, and it is expensive, but otherwise this is a Chromebook that really looks the part and that's going to last you for years to come. We like the form factor too: as with other Asus Flip models, you can fold the 14-inch screen right back and set it up in tent mode or use it as a tablet. If you're in need of the very best components inside your Chromebook, and you have a decent budget to spend on one, then consider the Asus Chromebook Flip C436. Head to our full Acer Chromebook Spin 713 review (opens in new tab) for full info to decide if this is the Chromebook to make you flip out. This means it'll be able to handle all the Chrome tabs and Android apps you throw at it - and then some. Not only that, this Chromebook has plenty of power, as you can specify Intel Core i processor options here, meaning power is never a problem. It's a 3:2 aspect ratio, too, which is unusual, but is great for looking over documents as it's closer to a sheet of paper than a wide-angle screen. It comes with a high-resolution 13.5-inch screen that can be folded throughout its 360-degree hinge mechanism, meaning you can use it like a laptop, a tablet, or position it upright on a desk for watching shows. Acer's Spin 713 ticks all the right boxes, so we think it's the best all-round versatile Google laptop on the market today. Although all Chromebooks are the same - as they all run Chrome OS - there's plenty of variety in terms of screen size, build quality, keyboard and trackpad performance.
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