Chromebook vs Laptop for Students: A Side-by-Side Comparison

Chromebook vs Laptop for Students: A Side-by-Side Comparison

What is the best type of device for your district? Chromebooks are stripped down laptops with a straightforward user experience. Windows laptops and MacBooks are more complicated devices but have their own benefits. Today, we’ll discuss Chromebook vs laptop for students, and what the best option is for your district.

 

What is a Chromebook? What is a Laptop?

A Chromebook is a type of laptop that runs on Chrome OS. Most work on a Chromebook is done via the internet, so having a reliable internet connection is essential. This doesn’t mean your Chromebook turns into a brick offline, but internet connection is necessary to provide vital updates, as well as sync and host apps.

In the simplest terms, a laptop is a portable computer, created as the compact and portable version of desktop computer. Notebooks are a thinner version and lighter version of a laptop, and Ultrabooks are thinner and lighter than notebooks typically with loads of features. For the purposes of this article, a laptop refers to any non-Chromebook portable computer, specifically a Windows laptop or MacBook.

 

Chromebook vs Laptop Side by Side

 

Operating System

Chromebooks run on Chrome OS, an operating system designed by Google. Windows laptops run on Windows, an operating system designed by Microsoft. Finally, MacBooks run on macOS engineered by Apple.

Each operating system carries its own strengths and weakness, and much is subjective to the user. Chrome OS and macOS have the most straightforward interfaces, making them easier to use for students, while Windows is most complex. MacOS is most intuitive when it comes to multitasking and having multiple applications and windows open. Chrome OS is likely the least multitasking friendly. Ultimately, this all comes down to the students’ needs.

 

Software & Applications

This is one of the biggest differences when comparing a Chromebook vs laptop. Chromebooks have virtually no software. Most applications run in Google Chrome. Applications are downloaded from the Google Play Store, and no third-party software can be installed on a Chromebook. This makes them boot very quickly.

Both Windows laptops and MacBooks have software, sometimes pre-installed, or bundled, software. Additionally, users often install software packages like Office 365 or Adobe.

No software makes Chromebooks extremely easy to deploy and manage. Setup on a Chromebook is generally simpler than its counterparts. Updates are generally easier to manage, and there is no need for your technology department to install software on hundreds, or thousands, of devices.

 

Storage

When comparing devices, you may be shocked to see how little local storage a Chromebook needs, especially when compared to its Windows laptop and MacBook counterpart. Chromebooks can run on as little as 16GB of local storage. This is largely due to no software. Additionally, Chromebooks rely on Google Drive as their cloud-based storage system.

Although a Windows laptop and MacBook both have their own cloud-based storage, they still boast a large amount of local storage. It is not uncommon to find a laptop with 128GB to 256GB to as much as 1TB. There really is no upper limit in terms of storage

Again, this makes Chromebooks very attractive to schools. Less storage means less money per device.

 

Virus Protection & Security

Another big difference in Chromebooks vs laptops—virus protection. Google designed Chromebooks with security in mind. For Chromebooks, there is very little to attack, which makes them protected and secure devices. Google delivers updates and vital security patches automatically until the Chromebook’s AUE. These updates require little to no maintenance or oversight making the process easy peasy.

Windows laptops, and MacBooks, are much more complicated devices. MacBooks are generally considered secure devices as macOS has many protections in place against viruses and malware.

On the other hand, Windows laptops are most vulnerable to viruses and malware. They own the market share, making them a more attractive target to malware makers. And while Windows does come with Windows Defender, these laptops generally require a third-party antivirus software in addition. This translates to more maintenance and oversight when using Windows laptops.

In this case, save the headache—Chromebooks are the easiest and bring most peace of mind in knowing your students and devices are protected.

 

Maintenance

Expect Chromebooks to require the least amount of maintenance, largely due to no software and integrated virus protection with automatic updates from Google. Generally, Chromebooks are also easy to repair in house. This is another attraction—repair can be as simple as ordering a part and watching a tutorial. We have a complete library of 175+ Chromebook repair tutorials for a variety of models.

Expect a Windows laptop to require the most maintenance in managing software updates and any other issues that may arise.

 

Price

While Chromebooks and some Windows laptops come in at comparable price points, MacBooks are the most expensive device. Unless your district plans to buy a refurbished model, expect to pay an upwards of $1,000 per device.

Chromebooks and Windows laptops for education are affordable and you can generally find models between $200-$400.

 

Chromebook vs Laptop: The Winner?

Chromebooks make an extremely compelling case for any district. Low price, low maintenance, and easy to use, Chromebooks have everything a student would need for their work. Ultimately though, the winning device all comes down to the needs of your district and students.

 

When it comes to your 1:1 Chromebooks, AGParts Education has your back. From Chromebook parts to buyback, we support 6,000+ US school districts. Contact us today to see how we can help your school district today.

 

Google Workspace for Education

Google Workspace for Education

Chromebooks are a popular choice for digital learning programs across the nation. With many benefits, they offer schools an affordable way to equip their students with computers. Running on the Chrome OS, Google also offers a comprehensive cloud-based office package designed for schools, Google Workspace for Education.

 

What is Google Workspace for Education?

Formerly G Suite for Education, Google Workspace for Education is a set of cloud-based applications to streamline classroom instruction.

Announced in February 2021, Google Workspace for Education includes all the products that 170 million educators and students worldwide rely on including Classroom, Meet, Gmail, Drive, Docs, Sheets, Slides, and more.

 

What’s included in Google Workspace for Education?

Google Workspace for Education includes 13 products for collaboration, productivity, communication, and organization, plus an admin tool.

 

Collaboration

A consistent challenge in remote or hybrid learning models is enabling collaboration. Without applications that can seamlessly allow collaboration, it risks being lost. Google Workspace for Education includes Docs, Slides, Sheets, Drive, Forms, and Jamboard (interactive white board) to promote working together whether together or apart.

 

Productivity

With Classroom and Assignments, educators are equipped with simple tools to save time on administrative tasks allowing them to focus more on teaching. It easily connects students with classroom content—syllabi, lectures, notes, teacher feedback, and assignments—essential for student engagement and success.

 

Communication

Arguably one of the biggest challenges of the past school year has been learning to be together while apart. Easy communication tools overcome this barrier and lay foundation for a solid learning environment. Gmail, Meet, and Chat connect teachers and students together easily,

 

Organization

Keep and Calendar will keep your staff and student organized and focused with to-do lists, reminders, and a meeting and events scheduler.

 

Security

The admin tool keeps you in control—safeguarding against digital threats.

 

Versions of Google Workspace for Education

There are now four versions of Google Workspace for Education, including a free version.

 

Google Workspace for Education Fundamentals

Formerly G Suite for Education, this is the free version with a new name and features. It still includes all the apps and security tools that were available in G Suite for Education. It also includes data loss prevention, user data settings with Vault, and will hold Meet recordings up to 30 days.

 

Google Workspace for Education Standard

A new addition that was released in April 2021 is Google Workspace for Education Standard. In addition to Education Fundamentals, this version provides:

  • Enhanced security and control to make digital learning more secure
  • Greater visibility through various tools like advanced audit log
  • Device and app management
  • Investigation Tool

 

The Teaching and Learning Upgrade

Available for Fundamentals or Standard versions, this upgrade includes advanced multimedia features and tools that focus on critical thinking and academic integrity. The upgrade affects Meet, Classroom, and Assignments.

 

Google Workspace for Education Plus

Formerly G Suite Enterprise for Education, this version is the culmination of the other three versions and is the most comprehensive in teaching and learning tools, security, and analytics. It is also the most expensive version. Features include:

  • Increased storage capacity
  • Meet live streaming for up to 100,000 in-domain viewers
  • Integrated approvals for Gmail, Drive, Docs, etc.
  • Classroom sync with SIS vendors (upcoming late 2021)

 

Qualifications for Google Workspace for Education

Globally, K-12 schools and higher-education learning institutions are eligible for Google Workspace for Education if they meet certain criteria. Qualifying homeschool co-ops in the U.S. are also eligible.

K-12 and higher-education institutions must be government recognized and formally accredited awarding nationally or internationally approved certifications at the primary, secondary, or tertiary (post-secondary) level.

 

Why Google Workspace for Education?

Google Workspace for Education offers comprehensive tools for educators to easily manage and streamline their classrooms, sections, and students. It’s a one-stop shop for everything a teacher could need and keeps teachers and students connected whether together or apart.

It’s also ad-free, reliable, and secure. With 24/7 access and one login, it really doesn’t get any easier.

 

AGParts Education supports 6,000+ innovative 1:1 school districts in Chromebook parts supply and technology buyback. Contact us today to see how we can help your school.

 

Open Educational Resources for K-12

Open Educational Resources for K-12

The internet has united communities globally, easily allowing for the sharing of resources in nearly every industry. In education, these resources are called open educational resources. Open educational resources for K-12 can unlock new learning pathways and engage students in exciting ways.

 

What are Open Educational Resources?

Open educational resources (OER) are teaching and learning materials that are free to use and disseminate. They are either public domain or released under a license that allows the materials to be freely used.

 

Types of OERs

OERs cover a very broad range of materials and can include any of the following:

  • Textbooks
  • Lesson Plans
  • Lecture Notes
  • Syllabi
  • Assignments
  • Handouts
  • Tests
  • Images
  • Videos & Other Multimedia
  • Historical Documents

 

Why OERs Are Important

OERs overcome copyright and license barriers that prevent vital educational resources from being accessed and shared locally, regionally, and globally.

Fundamentally, education is about sharing. A teachers share knowledge with students. Teachers share lessons plans with each other. Until the advent of the internet, books were the main channel to share collective knowledge.

The internet has provided something that books could never do—access. The internet made it possible for people worldwide to access and share educational resources without the high cost of ordering or shipping books. The only thing that stands in the way of this access is copyright laws.

While necessary, copyright laws can prevent the shared nature of educational resources. OERs overcome this hurdle by providing materials that are public domain or under a license that allows materials to be freely used, like a creative common license.

The benefits of OERs are many. They’re access and flexibility are unparalleled. Not only do they supplement lesson plans, but they can also expose students to wider range of learning materials. OERs can also reduce the cost of education for students, in turn reducing financial burden, which is especially meaningful in low-income communities.

 

OER Limitations & Challenges

There are virtually no limitations with OERs. Since their free to use in the public domain or under a creative common license, they can also be adapted to lessons, curriculums, and students as needed. Educators can edit or modify OERs according to their specific needs. They can also continue to share original or modified OERs as they see fit.

In short, OERs can be:

  • Reused in its original, unedited format
  • Retained for personal archives or future reference
  • Revised, edited, or modified based on needs
  • Remixed with other similar content to create something new
  • Redistributed in its original or edited version

However, herein lies the challenges with open educational resources. Since technically anyone can create an OER, ensuring quality resources can be problematic. Be sure to review OERs prior to class use to ensure they are credible and accurate. You can also use this set of downloadable rubrics from Achieve to verify quality.

 

Where to Find Open Educational Resources for K-12

Looking for open educational resources for K-12? Check out the below resources:

  1. OER Commons: public digital library of OERs
  2. Creative Commons: a nonprofit organization with a huge library of shared content
  3. Edutopia: while Edutopia is not solely an OER library, it does have many helpful guides and roundups
  4. World Digital Library: vast library of primary materials from countries and cultures around the world
  5. cK-12: OERs for K-12 with a STEM focus
  6. Khan Academy: free lessons from K-12 to early college in math, grammar, science, history, AP®, SAT®, and more.
  7. PBS Learning Media: curated videos, interactives, and lesson plans
  8. Achieve: while not solely an OER library, OERs are available

 

AGParts Education supports 6,000+ innovative 1:1 school districts in Chromebook parts supply and technology buyback. Contact us today to see how we can help your school.

 

New Chromebooks in 2021

New Chromebooks in 2021

The Chromebook has been making waves since it was first introduced in 2011. What started as the leanest of laptops has transformed into high-performing machines attracting more users with flashy and premium models. Here’s a look at the latest models introduced from late 2020 to Spring 2021.

 

Acer Chromebook Spin 514

Acer Chromebook Spin 514

Photo Credit: Acer

Released: February 2021
Price Range: Less than $500
Processor: AMD Ryzen 3 2.6 GHz
Battery: 10 hours
Memory: 4GB
Storage: 64GB
Screen: 14”
Resolution: 1920 x 1080
Convertible: Yes
Weight: 3.42 lbs

The most powerful Chromebook that Acer has released, the Acer Chromebook Spin 514 (CP514-1H-R4HQ) is the first Acer Chromebook to feature AMD hardware. While it easily rivals a Windows 10 laptop in hardware, its price tag is still more affordable than Windows 10 laptop with similar specs. It’s heavier than most Chromebooks and feels more like a traditional laptop. Fully convertible, this Chromebook is great for business-minded power users.

There are two additional models in this series that have been announced but have not been released yet.

 

Asus Chromebook CX9

Asus Chromebook CX9

Photo Credit: Asus

Announced: January 2021 (not released)
Price Range: Not available
Processor: Intel Core i3 to i7
Battery: 10 hours
Memory: 8GB-16GB
Storage: 256GB-512GB SSD
Screen: 14”
Resolution: 1920 x 1080
Convertible: No
Weight: 2.31 to 2.98 lbs

The Asus Chromebook CX9 is designed to perform in the harshest conditions. Meeting MIL-STD 810H US military standards, its rugged design doesn’t mean bulk weighing in at less than 3 pounds. With multiple ports for peripherals galore, the base model will still outperform most Chromebooks with an i3 processor. The premium model will exceed most users’ needs in Chromebook, with a blazing fast i7.

 

Asus Chromebook Flip CX5/C536

Asus Chromebook Flip CX5

Photo Credit: Asus

Announced: January 2021 (not released)
Price Range: $500+
Processor: AMD Ryzen 3 3250C Processor 2.6 GHz or AMD Ryzen™ 5 3500C Processor 2.1 GHz
Battery: 10 hours
Memory: 4GB-8GB-16GB
Storage: 64GB eMMC, 128GB-256GB SSD
Screen: 15.6”
Resolution: 1920 x 1080
Convertible: Yes
Weight: 4.30 lb

The first Chromebook with the latest generation of Intel Core processors, the Asus Chromebook Flip CX5 performance matches its sleek aesthetic. With a large display, this convertible Chromebook is on the heavier side at 4+ lbs. This Chromebook also features a backlit keyboard with full numeric keypad and multiple ports for peripherals.

 

Asus Chromebook Flip CM5

Asus Chromebook Flip CM5

Photo Credit: Asus

Announced: Early 2021 (not released)
Price Range: $500+
Processor: AMD Ryzen 3 3250C Processor 2.6 GHz or AMD Ryzen™ 5 3500C Processor 2.1 GHz
Battery: 10 hours
Memory: 4GB-8GB-16GB
Storage: 64GB eMMC, 128GB-256GB SSD
Screen: 15.6”
Resolution: 1920 x 1080
Convertible: Yes
Weight: 4.30 lb

With bold orange accents, the Asus Chromebook Flip CM5 feels like a gaming laptop. Don’t be fooled by its sleek design—not one bit of performance is sacrificed for aesthetic. Weighing in at 4+ pounds, this convertible Chromebook is on the heavier side, but boasts a large display, full numeric keypad, and plenty of ports.

 

Updated: HP Chromebook x360 14c

HP Chromebook x360 14c

Photo Credit: HP

Released: March 2021
Price Range: $600+
Processor: Intel Core i3
Battery: 13.5 hours
Memory: 8GB
Storage: 64GB
Screen: 14”
Resolution: 1920 x 1080
Convertible: Yes
Weight: 3.64 lb

Updated for 2021 is the eleventh generation HP Chromebook x360 14c. With a business focus and a bit of flair, this Chromebook is equipped with a fingerprint reader for easy and secure access. Convertible to four modes, this model featured updated hinge construction. This Chromebook also features the HP fast-charging battery technology. Boasting 13.5 hours of battery life, it also charges from 0 to 50% in 45 minutes.

 

Samsung Galaxy Chromebook 2

Samsung Galaxy Chromebook 2

Photo Credit: Samsung

Released: March 2021
Price Range: $500+
Processor: Intel Celeron Processor 5205U or Intel Core i3
Battery: 13 hours
Memory: 4GB-8GB
Storage: 64GB-128GB
Screen: 13.3”
Resolution: 1920 x 1080
Convertible: Yes
Weight: 2.71 lb

The Samsung Galaxy Chromebook 2 is the world’s first QLED Chromebook. With a durable aluminum body and a battery that lasts all day, it’s perfect for users on the go. Designed to capture the best of work and play, this Chromebook easily converts to a tablet. Featuring a backlit keyboard and large keycaps, you’ll be able to type with precision even in low lighting.

 

AGParts Education supports 6,000+ innovative 1:1 school districts in Chromebook parts supply and technology buyback. Contact us today to see how we can help your school.

 

Chromebook Spec Comparison Chart: Education Edition (2021 Update)

Chromebook Spec Comparison Chart: Education Edition (2021 Update)

Chromebooks are a popular choice for one-to-one computing programs, but how do you decide which Chromebook is right for your school? Our Chromebook Spec Comparison chart can help you compare popular and new Chromebooks for education.

 

What is a Chromebook?

First introduced in June 2011, a Chromebook is a type of laptop that uses Chrome OS to run. Chromebooks are internet-heavy devices, and most activities occur online. This includes word processing, creating spreadsheets and slideshows, notetaking, etc. These docs are automatically saved to cloud storage via Google Drive. Chromebooks have limited internal storage and rely on cloud-based storage for most applications and data.

Google provides regular updates and security patches to Chromebooks until their Auto Update Expiration. With built-in virus protection, regular security updates, and cloud-based work, Chromebooks are extremely secure devices and less prone to viruses.

 

Why are Chromebooks so popular in schools?

Durable, affordable, secure, fast, easy to deploy—the list of pros goes on. According to 2018 data, 60% of K-12 devices purchased in the US were Chromebooks. Worldwide, Chromebooks came in first place for K-12 devices with 31% of educators reporting their use. In 2019, Google reported 40 million Chromebooks in use in education.

Bear in mind that this data is prior to the COVID-19 pandemic. The Chromebook’s popularity has exploded as more schools had to adjust to remote learning in 2020-2021 school years. There’s no sign that this Chromebook sales will be slowing anytime soon.

Remember that just like any device, there are pros and cons of a Chromebook. Be sure to do your research on different K-12 devices to ensure your students end up with the device that is best for them.

Chromebook Spec Comparison Chart

Name Release Screen Resolution CPU Model CPU Speed Memory Storage Battery Weight (lbs) 2-in-1 Touch
Acer Chromebook 314 2021 14 1366 x 768
1920 x 1080
Intel Celeron N4020 1.1 4GB 32GB 12 3.75 No No
Acer Chromebook 512 2021 12 1366 x 912 Intel Celeron N4020 1.1 4GB 32GB 12 3.09 No No
Acer Chromebook Spin 13 2021* 13.3 1920 x 1080 Qualcomm Kryo 468 2.1 4-8GB 64GB 13.5 2.65 Yes Yes
Acer Chromebook Spin 511 2021 11.6 1366 x 768 Intel Celeron N4020 1.1 4GB 32GB 10 2.78 Yes Yes
HP Chromebook 11MK G9 EE 2021 11.6 1366 x 768 MediaTek MT8183 2.0 4-8GB 32-64GB eMMC 12 2.95 No Available
HP Chromebook 11 G9 EE 2021* 11.6 1366 x 768 Intel Celeron N4500 or N5100 1.1 4-8GB 32-64GB eMMC 12 2.95 No Available
HP Chromebook x360 11MK G3 EE 2021 11.6 1366 x 768 Intel Celeron N4020 1.1 4GB 32GB eMMC 12 3.19 Yes Yes
HP Chromebook x360 11 G4 EE 2021* 11.6 1366 x 768 Intel Celeron N4500 or N5100 1.1 4GB 32-64GB eMMC 12 3.19 Yes Available
HP Chromebook 14 G7 2021* 14 1366 x 768
1920 x 1080
Intel Celeron N4500 or N5100 1.1 4-8GB 32-64GB eMMC 12 3.4 No Available
Lenovo 100E Gen 3 2021* 11.6 1366 x 768 AMD 3015Ce 1.2 4GB 32GB eMMC 10 2.76 No No
Lenovo 300E Gen 3 2021* 11.6 1366 x 768 AMD 3015Ce 1.2 4GB 32GB eMMC 10 2.9 Yes Yes
Lenovo 500E Gen 3 2021* 11.6 1366 x 768 Intel Celeron N5100
Intel Pentium Silver N6000
8GB 64GB eMMC 10 2.9 Yes Yes
Lenovo 14e Gen 2 2021* 14 1366 x 768
1920 x 1080
AMD 3015Ce 1.2 4-8GB 32-64GB eMMC 10 3.2 No Available
Acer Chromebook 311 2020 11.6 1366 x 768 Intel Celeron N4020 1.1 4GB 32GB 10 2.43 No Available
Acer Chromebook Spin 311 2020 11.6 1366 x 768 MediaTek MT8183 2.0 4GB 32-64GB 15 2.65 Yes Yes
HP Chromebook 11 G8 EE 2020 11.6 1366 x 768 Intel Celeron N4020 1.1 8GB 32GB eMMC 13.5 2.91 No No
Lenovo Chromebook Duet 2020 10.1 1920 x 1200 MediaTek Helio P60T 2.0 4GB 64GB 10 1 Yes Yes
Acer Chromebook 15 2019 15.6 1920 x 1080 Intel Pentium N4200 1.1 4GB 32GB 12 4.3 No No
Dell Chromebook 3100 2019 11.6 1366 x 768 Intel Celeron N4020 1.1 4GB 16-32GB eMMC 14 2.85 Available Available
HP 14A G5 2019 14 1366 x 768
1920 x 1080
AMD A4-9120C APU
AMD A6-9220C APU
1.6
1.8
4GB 16-64GB eMMC 9 3.46 No Available
HP Chromebook x360 12b 2019 12 1366 x 912 Intel Celeron N4020 1.1 4GB 32GB 13 2.98 Yes Yes
HP Chromebook 11 G7 EE 2019 11.6 1366 x 768 Intel Celeron N4000
Intel Celeron 4100
1.1 4-8GB 16-64GB eMMC 13 2.93 No Available
Lenovo Chromebook C340 2019 11.6 1366 x 768 Intel Celeron N4000 1.1 4GB 64GB 10 2.65 Yes Yes
Samsung Chromebook 4+ (15-inch) 2019 15.6 1920 x 1080 Intel Celeron N4000 1.1 4GB 32GB+ 10 3.75 No No

 

*At date of publication, these models have been announced, but have not been released.

AGParts Education supports 6,000+ US school districts with their 1:1 Chromebook initiatives. From Chromebook parts to technology buyback, contact us to see how we can help your district. 

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