The Chromebook is a fantastic OS for Linux users, and if you’re one of those people who still want to run Linux but don’t want the hassle of Linux in a VM, or for Don’t fret! With this guide, you can easily turn your trusty Chromebook into a device that has just the apps you need and remove all the unnecessary applications.
Top 07 Best Chromebook for Linux Users
- Asus Chromebook Flip C436 – Overall best laptop on the list
- Lenovo Chromebook Flex 5i – Best Value for Money Laptop
- HP Chromebook 14 – The best Affordable laptop
- Samsung Chromebook Galaxy – The most Premium laptop on the list
- Google Pixelbook Go – Best laptop for professional gamers
- Dell Inspiron 11.6 – Longest lasting Battery Life
- Acer Chromebook Spin 311 – It has quite a unique design
What are the Best Chromebook for Linux Users Overall in 2023?
In this article, you’ll discover the best Chromebooks for running lightweight Linux apps.
How to Choose the Best Chromebook for Linux Users
If you want to install Linux variants like Void Linux on a Chromebook, you’ll need to keep some specs in mind. You should definitely give yourself a little breathing room after installing a new operating system on your computer. Think about storage capacity, processor speed, screen size, and battery life when considering all the features of a new laptop.
Storage:
Chromebooks store all your files online, and your data is stored in the cloud. You can add more storage by buying an external hard drive. Consider buying a laptop with solid-state drive (SSD) storage so you’ll be able to get up and running quickly. A Chromebook without a storage slot needs a microSD card.
Processor:
Microsoft Windows is better at bringing out your processor’s full potential, but it doesn’t need a particularly powerful or speedy processor. Running Linux with an Intel-core processor is a better option than running Windows.
Intel has the fastest, more robust support for Linux of any processor maker. Intel processors are better for video editing than AMD’s chips, even if you have more than 2GB of RAM. They also consume less power.
Display Size and Touchscreen Capabilities:
A Chromebook is designed for people who need a smaller laptop that’s better at performing specific tasks. They can fit into a smaller bag, making them great for travel, business use, and educational use. It is unfortunate that most Chromebooks are not touch-screen devices. I would recommend getting a touchscreen Chromebook with an 11.6” screen at the minimum. If you plan on using your Chromebook outdoors, choose one with an anti-glare coating.
Battery Life:
Linux won’t drain your laptop’s battery, but it may look like your Chromebook runs out of power faster when running Linux distros. To avoid this problem, buy a Chromebook with around 7 to 10 hours of battery life. You’ll have a lot of time to compile before plugging your device in.
Top Best Chromebook for Linux Users In 2023
Read on to find the best Chromebook for Linux for your needs!
Asus Chromebook Flip C436
Best Overall
PROS
- Massive amount of onboard storage compared to other Chromebooks
- Backlit keyboard for use in poorly-lit areas
- microSD card slot for more storage
CONS
- Not as affordable compared to the older model
- Weaker selection of ports
- Has stylus support, but no included stylus
Features
- Intel HD graphics
- 14-inch Full HD display
- 10th-gen Intel core i5 CPU
- 512 GB SSD
This is an improved version of an older Chromebook: The C432. The new MacBook Pro is thinner and faster than the previous model and packs more memory. This powerful laptop has 512GB of storage and a powerful Intel i5 processor. It will run almost any Linux distro out there!
It’s a sleek and sturdy little device. The Lenovo ThinkPad P52s is one of the best value-for-money laptop computers on the market. This is a great 2-in-1 device, and it can be enjoyed in either Tablet Mode, Laptop Mode, or Tent Mode.
If you want to enjoy it, even when you don’t have a keyboard, then this is the laptop for you. It has a big screen. Your new workspace is bigger, neater, and easier to use thanks to some slimmed-down bezels. You can pick up a Chromebook Flip C436 here.
Lenovo Chromebook Flex 5i
Best Value
PROS
- Light and portable
- Surprisingly powerful dual stereo speakers
- Features Intel integrated UHD graphics
CONS
- It does not come with a stylus
- It lacks an HDMI port
- Risky power button placement
Features
- 2-core Intel core i3 CPU
- 64 GB of eMMC storage
- 8 GB of DDR4 RAM
- 3-inch FHD display
The main draw of Chromebooks as an operating system is their customizability, and this Chromebook is no different. Wait until you get your new computer—it will never be the same! You can take it apart and customize it however you want, just like other computers.
You can upgrade the relatively low amount of onboard storage to an SSD drive with a bit of effort. Remember to take everything back to the right place before you close the laptop and start typing. This laptop has a microSD card reader for even more storage, but it lacks an HDMI port. Don’t expect to be projecting anything from the Flex 5i onto a big screen soon.
A privacy shutter for Linux enthusiasts who value their privacy. It keeps your information private and out of the hands of snoops. You can pick up a Chromebook Flex 5.
HP Chromebook 14
Budget Pick
PROS
- Approachable price
- Long battery life of almost 14 hours
- Clear dual speakers
CONS
- Both storage and RAM are lacking
- The display is fairly dim
- Very flexy deck
Features
- Intel Celeron N4020 processor
- 14″ 1366×768 HD display
- 32 GB eMMC disk space
- 4 GB of RAM
This is the most affordable Chromebook currently available on the market and has out-of-the-box support for Linux and Android apps, thanks to its Celeron CPU. It can work as a desk or lap laptop, but I recommend using it only as a portable laptop.
The Chromebook 14 is ideal for people who want to listen to music while searching for more Linux distributions since it comes with Bang & Olufsen speakers. You can use this laptop for more than an entire day of tinkering. It also has a fast-charge function.
This laptop will get up to 50% charge quickly. You don’t have to be in a rush to charge this laptop. The HP Chromebook 14 has a strong set of speakers, a fast-charging battery, and a good battery life. It’s let down by its lack of RAM.
Samsung Chromebook Galaxy
Premium
PROS
- Features a built-in stylus
- Extremely sharp screen resolution
- Eye-catching bright red design
CONS
- 16:9 aspect ratio wastes screen space
- Expensive compared to its competitors
- It lacks the spill-resistant keyboard of its predecessors
Features
- 3-in 4K touchscreen display
- 10th-gen Intel core i5 CPU
- 256 GB SSD disk space
- 8 GB of RAM
One weird thing about the Galaxy Chromebook is its 4K-capable AMOLED display. But since it comes in a 13.3-inch form factor, we figured it was worth the odd design decision. I want A, not B. This laptop is gorgeous: Its 4K screen, bright red coloring, and touch screen capabilities.
A very solid and useful Linux-based computer for all sorts of purposes. If you need an easy laptop for working out, this is the model for you. The battery life will be less than 6 hours, but that’s not as bad as some other models.
This Chromebook is a lot sturdier than most Chromebooks. That’s why the hinge is so good, but it can get in the way sometimes. The difference is that ‘A’ is grammatically correct, and the other one isn’t. Although this laptop is almost a complete package, it is a good idea to use a stylus sparingly. Its performance gains and respectable SSD disk space are marred by its poor battery life.
Google Pixelbook Go
Best Processor![Google Pixelbook Go - Lightweight Chromebook Laptop - Up to 12 Hours Battery Life[1] - Touch Screen- Just Black](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/31DJln+KBhL.jpg)
PROS
- Pleasantly slim and lightweight design
- Tough chassis
- The fanless design stays cool under load
CONS
- Weak selection of ports
- Shockingly pricey compared to its competitors
- It doesn’t support stylus input
Features
- Full Google Assistant integration
- 8 GB of RAM
- 64 GB disk space
- 3-in touchscreen HD display
You don’t need to be satisfied with Chrome OS, either. Google has designed a Chromebook that handles it splendidly! This portable Linux distribution has enough power to run your preferred Linux distro and is small and light enough to take any trip.
This camera is super light and small. You’ll feel like a kid again when you take it out of the box. The Chromebook Go’s sleek design leaves its connectivity in the lurch. There are two USB Type-C ports and an audio jack, but no display port or Ethernet.
This Google Chromebook is an affordable and light Chromebook that is ideally suited for both Linux and portability. There’s only one reason why anyone would need a Pixel book Go. That reason is if you’re going to get a Pixel book.
Dell Inspiron 11.6
Long Battery Life
PROS
- Fairly robust selection of ports
- Affordable yet durable
- Design protects the USB ports
CONS
- Both storage and RAM are lacking, even for a Chromebook
- Very thick and blocky bezels
- Storage isn’t upgradeable
Features
- 2-core Intel Celeron CPU
- 32 GB of eMMC storage
- Intel HD graphics 400
- 4GB of RAM
The Dell Chromebook may not be very big in size, but it punches way above its weight class with its performance. Inspiron laptops have always been aimed at students. Yes, I’d say that the 15-inch Inspiron Chromebook 11 has enough under the hood for professionals, as long as you can stand the thick and chunky display. It’s a shame you can’t upgrade the RAM, which makes this Inspiron ideal for Phoenix Linux, which has lighter RAM requirements.
Acer Chromebook Spin 311
Unique Design
PROS
- Tough Gorilla Glass display
- Good selection of ports
- Pleasantly tactile keyboard
CONS
- Disk space and RAM are lacking
- Screen size shrank by large bezels
- Fairly dim display
Features
- Intel Celeron N4020 CPU
- Wi-Fi 5 capable
- 6-in HD display
- 4 GB of RAM
If you want a tough little laptop, look no further than the Acer Chromebook Spin 311. Thanks to the Gorilla Glass display, this phone will take a few hits and scrapes, but it won’t crack or break. This Chromebook has an Intel Celeron processor inside, which is powerful enough to run Ubuntu easily, but you’ll likely need to use the Google cloud for further storage. This MacBook Pro only comes with 32 GB of memory. It’s not very much. In fact, it might not be enough for any other programs at all.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Learn more about fine-tuning a Chromebook for Linux here!
Are Chromebooks Good for Linux?
Google Chrome OS is a lightweight operating system that allows you to use it without all the clutter of Windows or macOS. Some users may find that they prefer to run a Linux-based operating system. You might not realize it, but all Chromebooks today are running a version of the Linux operating system, and while you don’t need to know much about Linux to use a Chromebook, there are some Whether you prefer to stay up-to-date with Arch Linux or prefer the hot-swapping capabilities of Void Linux, a portable Chromebook will be ideal for both of them.
Which Chromebook Is Best for Ubuntu?
The best laptop for the price is the Google Pixel book Go. It’s also the only convertible Chromebook that has an OLED display. This smartphone runs a Linux kernel and is thus compatible with the Chromium OS. Some Chromebooks can run Ubuntu, but you’ll have an easier time with an Intel-core processor. With an 8th gen Intel Core M3 chip, you’ll still be able to run Linux on this Chromebook.
Can Every Chromebook Be Turned into a Linux Laptop?
Your Chromebook may not be compatible with all Linux distributions. Some may work fine while others may not work at all. Despite having added support for Linux, Google has actually added support for Windows through the “Crostini” feature.
Crostini is based on the Linux distro Ubuntu, but it won’t fully replace Chrome’s operating system. It will run Linux like a regular application on your device. If this is not enough, you can replace your Chromebook’s operating system with the Linux kernel, but I recommend backing up your laptop’s original operating system before doing so. You’ll only need a small flash drive. Don’t tinker with your Chromebook unless you know what you’re doing, and be prepared to run into a few bugs here and there.
Can You Fully Replace Chrome’s OS With Linux?
Replacing Chrome OS with a Linux operating system will differ between Chromebook laptops. Some Chromebook laptops will let you replace the OS entirely or piecemeal, depending on your needs. You can run any Linux distribution in a Docker container, including Red Hat Enterprise Linux, CentOS, Ubuntu, and more. Malicious adware may have opened and replaced your operating system. You should scan your computer for viruses to make sure you can still use it safely.
Conclusion
Chromebooks are handy and portable devices that work for students. These trusty laptops are perfect for working, editing photos, and more. However, some Chromebook owners aren’t students and want something more for their devices. They will probably start with tweaking the kernel and compiling in the required driver. Chromebooks are ideal for running Linux with their affordability, portability, and lightweight specs!
Hello, My name is Shari & I am a writer for the ‘Outlook AppIns’ blog. I’m a CSIT graduate & I’ve been working in the IT industry for 3 years.