The difference between a Chromebook and a laptop: Which should you pick?

TL;DR

​​✨​Whether you choose to buy a Chromebook or a laptop will depend largely on your budget and how you’re going to use your device. Given the Chromebook’s more accessible price point and web-based operating system, these computers are often best for students, casual users, and buyers on a budget. If you need something more versatile or heavy-duty for advanced professional or creative tasks, though, a traditional laptop will be the better choice thanks to its local storage availability and broader customization options. If you’re looking for an affordable web-based computer that’s a little more powerful than the traditional Chromebook, though, you may want to consider the Chromebook Plus.

Why can you trust this Chromebook vs. laptop comparison?

You can trust our comparison because at Back Market, we live and breathe tech. As a leading refurbished electronics marketplace, we know the ins and outs of Chromebooks as well as a plethora of different laptops from brands like Microsoft, Lenovo, Dell, and many more.

Our professional third-party refurbishers work with these devices daily, inspecting, cleaning, and repairing them to get them ready to be posted on our pages. In this unbiased comparison guide, we combine their expert knowledge with real-world user insights to examine the differences between the two and determine which is best for whom.

At a glance: What’s the difference between a Chromebook and a laptop?

✨Chromebooks are basically simplified versions of laptops that run mostly on cloud-based storage and web-based applications.

What is a Chromebook anyway?

✨A Chromebook is a portable web-based computer operating on ChromeOS.

A Chromebook is a laptop that runs ChromeOS. Before we compare Chromebooks to laptops, it’s essential to understand the basics of what a Chromebook can do. These devices have cloud-based storage and built-in Google features, such as the apps included in the Google Workspace: Gmail, Google Docs, Google Sheets, Google Drive, and many more.​​ Android apps are also available via the Google Play Store. Since Chromebooks are typically not used for heavy-duty tasks, they often offer better battery life than traditional laptops.

Chromebooks do not have powerful processors or a lot of local storage, so ​​don’t expect to download desktop programs like Microsoft Office or Adobe Creative Suite on one — but web apps like Microsoft 365 can be accessed via the Chrome browser. Chromebooks are simply portable computers designed for primarily web-based use. A Chromebook will run smoothly if you have an internet connection; you can also use a Chromebook in offline mode, but some features may be limited.

A Chromebook Plus, however, offers a step up from a regular Chromebook — think of it as a premium version of the original. A Chromebook Plus typically has a higher minimum standard for its specs, supporting more productivity and more advanced creative tasks. These computers also enjoy built-in generative AI features that traditional Chromebooks lack, like AI wallpapers, Magic Editor for photo editing, and more. However, its capabilities still don’t match those of regular laptops.

One Reddit user, though, points out that Chromebooks can also be less of a hassle than some laptops: “There's nothing radical about Chromebooks. Whether they work for you entirely depends on the applications you need. If you can live with a Chromebook, it's way, way better than Windows and less grief than Apple.” So, the choice is yours.

How do the specs of Chromebooks and laptops compare?

✨Spec-wise, Chromebooks and Chromebook Pluses are generally less powerful than laptops, but they excel in consistently strong security features and long battery life.

The specs of Chromebooks and laptops depend on the specific brand and model of Chromebook or laptop that you’re looking at. An HP Chromebook 14, for example, will look a little different spec-wise from a Lenovo Chromebook Flex 5.

We can, however, make some generalizations about each type of computer. Let’s take a look at some of the most common specs of Chromebooks vs. Windows laptops and Macbooks.

What are the pros and cons of Chromebooks and laptops?

✨Chromebooks’ main advantages are their low price point, portability, and long battery life, while the lack of local storage and limited compatibility with certain apps can be major drawbacks.

✨Chromebook Pluses offer a higher minimum standard of performance than regular Chromebooks and incorporate more AI features and a more durable build. The drawbacks are still lack of compatibility with certain apps and limited local storage and RAM.

✨Laptops take the lead in performance during heavy-duty tasks and better offline functionality, while also offering more customization options. They are generally expensive, though, and things like battery life and security features depend on the model.

How do the features and benefits of Chromebooks and laptops compare?

Chromebooks and laptops have a variety of features and benefits that set them apart from each other, so let’s dive into the most important ones.

What’s the difference in performance between Chromebooks and laptops?

✨Laptops offer better performance for resource-heavy tasks, while Chromebooks perform quite well for web-based tasks. Chromebook Pluses strike a decent middle ground between the two.

A computer’s performance is largely determined by its processor and memory (RAM). Since Chromebooks lack local storage and are primarily web-based, they don’t have very much RAM or ultra-fast processors like laptops do. However, they really don’t need them. Chromebooks excel at cloud-based tasks and fast load times, making their average processors and small amounts of RAM barely noticeable if you’re only browsing the web.

The Chromebook Plus strikes a decent middle ground: these typically have faster processors and start with more RAM and storage than Chromebook base models, but they’re still primarily intended for web-based use. People who just need to install a few apps and run one or two heavier programs may not notice, but the Chromebook Plus still isn’t nearly as powerful or customizable as a laptop.

Laptops, whether they’re Macbooks or Windows, have more powerful processors than Chromebooks overall. This makes them better at handling demanding tasks such as working with creative software, gaming, and desktop-based applications. Laptops also vary more in how much RAM they have; you can find premium models with 32GB or more out of the box. Since these are under a heavier workload, though, they may take a little longer to boot up.

How do the designs of Chromebooks and laptops compare?

✨Chromebooks are typically slimmer, lighter, and easier to carry around, while Chromebook Pluses’ and laptops’ designs are bulkier — though the specifics vary by model.

Since Chromebooks don’t have as much heavy hardware under the hood and are typically plastic-based, it’s easy for them to be thinner and more lightweight than laptops.

Laptops and Chromebook Pluses, on the other hand, tend to be made of metal, so they’re more durable and a little heavier. However, you can still find some laptop models that rival the thinness and portability of Chromebooks, such as the MacBook Air.

How do the operating systems of Chromebooks and laptops compare?

✨Chromebooks use ChromeOS, a closed ecosystem most compatible with Google apps, while laptops run a variety of different operating systems that offer more customization options.

Chromebooks and Chromebook Pluses run exclusively on ChromeOS, which is centered around Google’s Chrome browser and the Chrome Web Store. This makes the devices intuitive and easy to use, especially for those working frequently with apps in Google Workspace like Docs, Sheets, Slides, and others. The drawback of this, though, is that there are few customization options, and Chromebooks may not be compatible with some apps you’d normally want to download. It’s important to note, though, that some Chromebooks do also support Linux environments alongside the typical ChromeOS, which may be important for programmers.

Newer versions of ChromeOS also feature some AI integration, but Chromebook Pluses may run these a little more smoothly. A generative AI assistant is built directly into ChromeOS, giving you access to features like Help Me Write, Magic Editor and Magic Eraser, and AI tools for video calls like background blur, light correction, and noise cancellation.

Laptops, on the other hand, offer a wide range of operating systems based on the model you buy. The Windows and Linux operating systems power most PCs, while macOS is reserved for Apple MacBooks. macOS offers seamless integration with the Apple ecosystem and is more customizable than ChromeOS, but Windows and Linux are the most customizable out of them all. Each of these operating systems also integrates AI, but the specific tools available will depend on your laptop’s brand and version of the operating system.

What’s the difference in battery life between Chromebooks and laptops?

✨Chromebooks consistently have longer battery life than laptops since they typically aren’t under as heavy of a workload.

Chromebooks may have smaller batteries than most laptops, but since they don’t run nearly as many demanding applications, they consistently last longer. After all, browsing the web certainly isn’t as demanding as video editing or heavy gaming. Chromebooks can usually last around 10–12 hours or more on a single charge, while Chromebook Pluses consistently reach 8–12 hours, while laptops, depending on the model and how they’re being used, can last anywhere from 4–12 hours on a single charge.

What’s the difference in security between Chromebooks and laptops?

✨Chromebooks are generally considered to have higher security than laptops across the board, thanks to their isolated ecosystem and cloud-centric data storage.

Since both Chromebooks and Chromebook Pluses are primarily web-based, their risk of getting a virus is incredibly low. Neither of these models can run regular .dmg or .exe files, so they can’t get viruses that many other PCs are vulnerable to. In addition, Chromebooks’ apps and tabs are sandboxed, meaning they run in an isolated environment so viruses in one tab or app can’t spread to the rest of your device. Security and software updates on Chromebooks are also automatic and easy to run in the background.

Security for laptops, on the other hand, is a little more variable. It will depend on your brand and specific operating system, but generally both Windows computers and MacBooks are vulnerable to more viruses because of their capability to download more files. Since laptops also store more files locally, more of your data is vulnerable to theft or damage if it’s not encrypted. In addition, software and security updates for many laptops are not automatic and often require download and approval from the user.

Which should I pick: a Chromebook or a laptop?

✨Chromebooks are best for light users, students, and those looking for top-notch online productivity, while laptops are better for creatives and professionals who need something more powerful.

Thanks to their differences in specs, operating system, and price point, Chromebooks and laptops each cater to the needs of different types of users.

With a lower price point and a high level of portability, Chromebooks are among the best laptops for students. These devices excel at note-taking, web browsing and research, and other online productivity tasks. Casual users who only need to browse the web may also benefit more from a Chromebook over a laptop.

Chromebook Pluses take the Chromebook’s capabilities up a notch, making them better for remote workers who primarily use Google Workspace and one or two other apps. These models will also benefitworkers who spend most of their day on video calls, especially thanks to the built-in AI tools.

Laptops, on the other hand, are better for professionals and creatives who need a more powerful device. Those willing to pay more for local storage, more RAM, and more versatile capabilities will appreciate the extra convenience and power that comes with a laptop, whether it’s a MacBook or a PC. Heavy gamers who value high-quality graphics and smooth gameplay will also want to check out laptops over Chromebooks, but Chromebooks can still stream GeForce Now and Xbox Cloud Gaming (Beta) Game Pass via the web apps or the Chrome browser.

How can I buy an affordable Chromebook or laptop?

✨You can bundle or wait for sales events, but the best way to find an affordable computer is to shop refurbished at Back Market.

If you’re looking to save money on a Chromebook, Chromebook Plus, or laptop, there are several ways to do so. First, you can wait for newer models of your chosen Chromebook or laptop to come out — after a new launch, the price of older models typically goes down. You can also wait for sales events like Black Friday or Cyber Monday for savings, or bundle your new computer with other accessories to get more bang for your buck.

The best way, however, is to shop refurbished at Back Market. On our product pages, you’ll find both Chromebooks and laptops from different brands for​​​​ 50% to 70% off the price of a new model, and for your peace of mind, each device comes with a 30-day money-back guarantee and a 1-year warranty. The best part is that our deals aren’t restricted to certain sales events or times of the year; you’ll find deals here all year round. Just take it from this satisfied customer who got an Acer Chromebook from us:

“I was extremely impressed with the whole thing. The shipping and packaging was great and the item was in excellent working condition. This is the only site I trust for refurbished electronics.”

Why buy refurbished?

There are two main reasons to consider buying refurbished: the health of your wallet and the health of our planet.

Back Market specializes in Verified Refurbished devices, meaning each item you see on our pages goes through thorough inspections, repairs, cleaning, and finally, testing, to ensure it performs up to its original benchmarks. You can buy confidently from us and save up to 50% on your new-to-you device.

Buying refurbished also supports a circular economy and reduces e-waste, making sure old but still perfectly good tech doesn’t end up in landfills. This also reduces the need for new manufacturing, ultimately lowering your carbon footprint.

Trade in your old tech for cash

You can save even more on your Chromebook or laptop by trading in old tech you no longer use. We offer a simple 3-step trade-in program. First, fill out a short online form providing details about your device, and get a quote from us. If you choose to accept, ship your device to us for free. Once your device is verified, you get paid — either in credit you can put towards a new device or in money sent directly to your account. It’s that simple.

Price and availability

*Back Market prices taken at the date of publication — these are subject to change.

Final thoughts: Chromebook vs. laptop

The differences between a Chromebook and a laptop are worth considering; Chromebooks and Chromebook Pluses tend to be cheaper than laptops and excel in online productivity, while laptops perform better under heavy workloads and support desktop apps. A laptop can do just about everything a Chromebook or Chromebook Plus does and more, but it definitely comes at a more premium price. If you’re a casual user who doesn’t need a lot of storage or RAM, though, the full functionality of a laptop may not be worth the higher price. Ultimately, the decision between a Chromebook and a laptop comes down to your budget and your needs.