Chromebooks

Chromebooks are very capable laptop-style computers that don't run on a Windows operating system, but rather run on Chrome OS, a Google-designed operating system that uses the Google Chrome web browser as its principal interface. They're laptops designed specifically for how people live today, primarily functioning while being connected to the internet, making them the ideal solution for kids, students, families and professionals who are looking for a device to use chiefly with web-based documents and applications stored in the cloud, or perhaps files on a flash drive or other jump drive solution. They are made by many companies, so you can get an HP Chromebook, a Samsung Chromebook, an Acer Chromebook, or an ASUS Chromebook, to name a few.

In our connected, digital world, Chromebooks are playing a big part in children's education, in grade school through high school. Often considered more portable than conventional laptops, Chromebooks start up fast, load websites quickly, and have onboard Chromecast for media streaming. Additionally, the Chromebook touch screen that's included on many models makes navigation quick and easy. Or you can add a wireless mouse for easier browsing. Also on the plus side, Chromebooks are automatically updated, so you can count on always having the latest Chromebook features and the latest virus protection.

Choosing the best Chromebook requires making many of the same decisions you would make with any computer purchase. You can select a Chromebook with a screen ranging in size from 11.6 inches to 15.6 inches. You can pick random access memory from 2GB to 16GB to impact how fast and how many programs you can use at once, and you can select the processor, screen resolution, and hard drive type and size. You may want to consider getting a 2-in-1 Chromebook, with a display that flips and folds over, capable of offering versatile functionality in audience, laptop, tabletop, presentation and tablet modes.

The number of apps that can be used on Chromebooks is growing all the time, but since these devices are optimized to use Google apps like Gmail, Calendar and Drive, they require Wi-Fi for most uses. That means you'll want to be sure your wireless router is sufficient for your needs, and you may want to consider using Wi-Fi on the go to keep your Chromebook functioning when you're away from home. Chromebooks stay synced with your Android devices, or anywhere you're signed into your Google account, so it's easy to pick up your projects where you left off on another device. And if you'll be traveling with your Chromebook, it might make sense to get a laptop bag, whether backpack-style or briefcase-style, to protect your computer and hold any accessories like a hotspot or mouse, or even school books.