Is Chrome OS right for you? by Kim Komando

Sunday, July 27, 2014

Q. I am a PC guy. I wouldn't use Macs even if you paid me! However, I have recently become frustrated with my Windows 7 machine. I am thinking about a Chromebook or a Chromebox from Google. What are the pros and cons of the Chrome operating system?

A. For decades, Mac and PC have been the major players in the world of consumer computers. A few years back, however, Google decided to step into the game with Chrome OS.

Chrome OS is a very light operating system that's based on the Chrome browser and Linux - a popular OS in advanced tech circles.

One of the major perks of the Chrome OS is incredibly fast booting - a few seconds. That's because there's a browser, a media player and not much else.

Most of the programs you'll use are Web apps that run online. This gives you flexibility to run games, online productivity sites and streaming content.

Plus, Chrome OS stores all your data in the cloud so you never have to worry about losing data in computer crashes. This also means you can log in to any Chrome OS system and immediately have all your information and apps.

On the surface that sounds great, but there are a few obstacles. For example, the only systems that run Chrome OS are Chromebooks and the Chromebox.

Chromebooks are ultra-portable laptops that range from $199-$429. They have solid state drives and can be upgraded with 3G cellular. The Chromebox is a tiny desktop that resembles the Mac Mini and costs $330. That's actually decent pricing.

However, everything a Chrome computer does is online, so you'll need always-on Web access. A few apps do have an offline mode, but if you're a frequent traveler or don't have access to broadband Internet, you'll want to steer clear.

Unless you have very basic needs, I don't think a Chrome computer is fit to be your main system. However, it could be a good secondary device for basic use.

Of course, for that price, you can buy a tablet that will perform similar tasks. Consider a Chromebook only if you want a bit more power, a physical keyboard and the flexibility of Web-based apps.

As for the Chromebox: It might make a good media streaming device, but there are cheaper options. I'd avoid buying one unless you need only the most basic desktop features.

Although Chrome OS still isn't a sure thing, there are plenty of Google products that are big hits. Chrome OS takes its name from one of my favorite browsers, Google Chrome.

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