by AGParts Education | Chromebooks, Education Technology
Chromebooks are a popular choice for businesses and schools alike. In 2020, Chromebook popularity surged in the education industry as remote and hybrid learning dominated. But what is a Chromebook? What makes it different from a laptop or notebook? Today, we’ll answer those questions.
Note: We updated this blog in March 2021 and have moved Pros and Cons of a Chromebook.
What is a Chromebook?
First introduced in June 2011, a Chromebook is a type of laptop that uses the Linux-based Chrome OS as its operating system. Chromebooks are specifically designed to use the Google Chrome browser 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.
Chromebook Versus Traditional Laptops
Although a Chromebook is a type of laptop, chances are it’s not the first thing you think of when you hear the word laptop. Chromebooks are lightweight, efficient, and low maintenance. How do they compare to traditional laptops like a Windows laptop or MacBook?
Here are the key differences:
Operating System
The operating system is one of the biggest differences between a Chromebook traditional laptop Chromebooks run ChromeOS, while Windows laptops run Windows OS and MacBooks use macOS.
The functionality of these systems is starkly different. Chrome OS relies heavily on the internet, with most applications hosted online. Other operating systems host various software and applications online and offline.
Due to its reliance on the internet, working offline is more limited. It’s still possible but requires planning and enabling offline settings.
Light in Hardware & Software
One of these reasons why Chromebooks are so lightweight is because they use less components and parts in their construction. Additionally, they have no actual software. Everything happens in Google Chrome through online applications.
This is very different from a Windows laptop or MacBook. One of the biggest benefits of this difference though is the maintenance. Because there are fewer moving parts, there’s less a chance that something will need repaired. The lack of software means no need to worry about installation or updates.
Storage
Although both Microsoft (OneDrive) and Apple (iCloud) have implemented cloud-based storage, Chromebooks thrive under a cloud storage system (Google Drive). Unlike their counterparts, Chromebooks have limited local storage, meaning you can’t save a surplus of files locally, i.e., to your actual device. This makes Chromebooks efficient and easy to share. Users only need to sign into their Google Account for a personal computing experience.
Less Vulnerable to Viruses
Since most work is cloud based and there is no actual software, Chromebooks are less prone to viruses. Similar to macOS, but unlike Windows OS, Chrome OS comes with built-in virus protection and receives regular security patches via Google auto updates. Due to this integrated protection and updates, some could argue this makes Chromebooks far more secure than a Windows laptop.
Google Workspace
Another key difference—Microsoft Office Versus Google Workspace. Whether you own a Windows laptop or MacBook, chances are you use Microsoft 365 as your office suite. Chromebooks offer the analogue to this in Google Workspace. It hosts equivalent apps to each Microsoft app.
While Google Workspace’s apps are considered equivalent, there is still a learning curve especially if you’re a lifelong Windows 365 user. This could be the most limiting factor for Chromebooks; however, online versions of Microsoft 365 are available for free.
Auto Update Expiration
This is a feature unique to Chromebooks—auto update expiration (AUE). Formerly EOL, AUE is the date when Google will stop providing automatic updates and security patches to your device. This doesn’t mean that your Chromebook stops working. It only means that Google will no longer support the device. Generally, this date is anywhere from six to eight-and-a-half years from the manufacture date. Additionally, Google has been known to extend AUEs.
Price Tag & Lifetime Cost
Possibly the most attractive feature about the Chromebook: low price tag and low cost of ownership. While you most certainly can find a Chromebook that carries a lofty price tag, this is not the norm. You can easily purchase a device for less than $300. Beyond that, due to less hardware and no software, these are extremely easy devices to maintain which translates to low cost of ownership.
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.
by AGParts Education | Chromebooks, Education Technology, Laptops, Notebooks
For 1:1 education technology initiatives, it’s important to understand your options when it comes to mobile devices. Chromebooks are a popular choice for many education technology programs. With so many industry terms flying around and sometimes used interchangeably, it can cause your head to spin making it difficult to choose the right device for your ed tech program. We’re breaking down the foundational and influential history of the laptop, and ins and outs of each type of device.
What is a Laptop?
In the simplest terms, a laptop is a portable computer. It was created as the compact and portable version of a desktop computer.
The History of the Laptop
All roads lead to the laptop. Arriving on the scene in 1981, the Osborne 1, of Osborne Computer Corp., is widely regarded as the first laptop. It’s a far cry from the sleek and light laptops we see today. Weighing in at a hefty 24 pounds with a price tag north of $1,500, the Osborne 1 featured a 5” screen, two floppy drives, and bundled software. Introduced as an ideal office solution for business execs on the move, this model never saw any type of real success.
Fortunately, though, Osborne Computer Corp. was not the only computer company with an interest in the advent of the portable computer. Epson, Microsoft partnered with Radioshack, and IBM all released laptop computers by the mid 1980s. Microsoft was the first to feature a laptop with an LCD display.
Various computer powerhouses continued to introduce new laptops and integrated technologies in the late 1980s into the 1990s. Most notably:
- Compaq released their version of the laptop in 1988
- Apple released the first portable Macintosh in 1989
- Microsoft released mouse and trackball technology for laptops in 1991
- IBM released the first ThinkPad in 1992
In 2008, laptops eclipsed desktops in sales for the first time. This trend has continued since, with laptops consistently outselling desktop models yearly. Today, laptops are still very popular despite decreased net sales for personal computers. This decrease is due in part to the increased popularity of smartphones. Although net sales have decreased since 2012, laptops are on the uptrend, with laptop sales increasing since 2016. In 2019, 166 million laptops were sold worldwide.
Traditionally, laptops use the Windows or Apple operating systems and support Microsoft Office applications.
What is a Notebook?
A notebook computer, which is typically a smaller, slimmer, and lighter laptop, was first introduced in the late 1980s by NEC. It was a similar in size to a laptop but weighed in at mere five pounds. By the early 1990s, Compaq and Apple had both released versions of the notebook as well.
Generally, notebooks are less expensive than laptops, ranging in price from $150 to $400.
A type of notebook, the ultrabook, was first introduced in 2011 as Intel’s answer to Apple’s thin and light MacBook. They are a high-end notebook that use low-power Intel Core processors, solid-state drives, and unibody chassis to create an ultra-light computer without sacrificing battery life.
Traditionally, notebooks use the Windows or Apple operating systems and support Microsoft Office applications.
What is a Chromebook?
First introduced in June 2011, a Chromebook is a type of laptop that uses the Linux-based Chrome OS as its operating system. Chromebooks are specifically designed to use the Google Chrome browser and most activities occur online via Chrome. This includes word processing, creating spreadsheets and slideshows, note taking, etc. These docs are automatically saved to cloud storage via Google Drive.
One of the biggest differences between a laptop and Chromebook is security. There is no need to purchase virus protection because it is built into the Chrome OS. This built-in protection is regularly updated via the Chrome OS’ auto updates. This makes Chromebooks nearly impervious to viruses and malware.
Closely related to this is the Auto Update Expiration (UAE, formerly known as EOL). This is the date that the Chrome OS will no longer support regular auto updates for software and security patches, as well as technical support. The Chromebook will still be functional, but it would be risky to use the device past this date.
Don’t let this deter you—AUE allows Google to focus on providing the best and most secure updates for the newest and most recent hardware. Additionally, AUE date far outweighs the average shelf life of four to five years for a traditional laptop. In fact, AUE gives Chromebooks a shelf life of six-and-a-half years to eight-and-a-half years from the date of launch.
Another difference between a laptop or notebook versus a Chromebook was storage. Chromebooks rely on cloud-based storage for most applications and data, as opposed to internal storage on the machine itself. However, cloud storage is common for any laptop today, whether it’s powered by Microsoft (OneDrive) or Apple (iCloud) operating systems. Various cloud storage platforms, like Dropbox and Google Drive, can also be used for older laptops where cloud storage is not as common.
Chromebooks are a popular choice for ed tech program because they are affordable, fast, secure, require little maintenance, and collaborative. Whatever device you may be considering for your school, AGParts Education can help. Our dedicated team of Account Executives have the knowledge and expertise to help you build the right education technology program for your school. Contact us today for more information on devices for 1:1 education technology initiatives.
by AGParts Education | Buyback, Chromebooks, Education Technology
AGParts Education offers a comprehensive tech buyback program for your used Chromebooks or notebooks. Our expertise and global resources allow us to pay you more for your used devices.
We’ve designed these programs with you in mind. Selling your used fleet of devices shouldn’t be a difficult and timely process. We aim to make it as easy as possible to sell used devices with benefits like pre-paid shipping labels, free boxes and packing supplies, and top-dollar payout. We even offer White Glove Pickup Service on qualifying orders.
Not only is our process hassle free, it is also secure, safe, and sustainable. We operate under the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) guidelines to ensure your student data is protected. We issue data privacy certificates upon completion. Our ISO 14001, 45001, and SERI R2 certifications ensure that all electronic devices are reused and recycled in a way that promotes resource preservation, sustainability, and the health and safety of our employees and communities.
We also offer two payment options for your used devices—cash or credit. The credit option credits your account and can be redeemed for future purchase. This allows your district to keep those buyback funds within your technology budget and prevents them from being absorbed into the general budget. We also offer a 10% bonus when you choose an account credit.
Here’s an overview of the buyback process:
- Request a quote: We’ll provide you with a formal quote within 48 hours.
- Sign quote: Sign and accept the device buyback quote.
- Device Retrieval: We’ll coordinate device pick-up or shipping with you.
- In-House Grading Audit: Your devices will go through a detailed inspection and audit process, which takes approximately 30 days. There are no deductions for missing accessories or engravings.
- Payment: A electronic statement providing final grades and payment, in cash or credit, will be sent to you. Your payment will be issued within 45 days of your audit.
Whether your district is refreshing devices, or they’re at the end of their useful lifecycle, we’ll purchase your devices providing you with cash or credit for our other solutions. Our Device Buyback Programs are the easiest and most lucrative way for you to recoup the highest value for your used devices.
To request a quote for your used devices, click here.
AGParts Education is a dedicated initiative of AGParts created to deliver high-quality support to schools across the United States for their Chromebook 1:1 Program and notebook computers. We’d love to help you develop your education technology program. Contact us today for more information!
by AGParts Education | Chromebooks, HP
HP is updating its line of Chromebooks designed for classroom use with four new models featuring Intel Gemini Lake or Gemini Lake Refresh processors.
HP Chromebook 11 x360 G3 EE
This convertible notebook features an 11.6 inch, 1366 x 768 pixel touchscreen display and a 360-degree hinge that allows you to use the computer in notebook, tablet, tent, or stand modes. The laptop should be available this this month and comes with up to an Intel Celeron N4120 processor, up to 8GB of LPDDR4-2400 RAM, and up to 64GB of eMMC 5.0 support. There’s optional support for an active digitizer that lets you use a Wacom EMR pen with the tablet.
HP Chromebook 11 G8 EE
This model is a little thinner and lighter, at 11.6″ x 8.1″ x 0.74″ and 2.9 pounds, but it lacks the 360-degree hinge or active pen support. The touchscreen display is also optional — there are also non-touch models. Otherwise, the specs are largely the same.
HP Chromebook 11A G8 EE
Take all of the above, but swap out the Intel processor for an AMD chip, with a choice of an AMD A4-9120C processor with Radeon R4 graphics or an AMD A6-9220C processor with Radeon R5 graphics. The HP Chromebook 11A G8 EE should be available in February, and it will ship with up to 8GB of RAM, up to 32GB of eMMC storage, and it features an 11.6 inch, 1366 x 768 pixel display.
HP Chromebook 14 G6
While HP is positioning this laptop as an option for teachers and students, the lack of the EE at the end of the name makes it clear that this isn’t an education-exclusive device. It’s just HP’s latest 14 inch Chromebook. Available this month up to an Intel Celeron N4120 processor, up to 8GB of RAM and 128GB of storage, HP says its new 14 inch Chromebook will ship with a choice of HD or full HD displays.
Source: HP Launches Four New Chromebooks for the Education Market by Brad Linder, published by liliputing
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.
by AGParts Education | Chromebooks, Google Forms
Google Forms is a tremendous tool for organizing and automating digital quizzes. Here are five tips for designing cheat-proof Google Forms.
1. Shuffle Answer Choices to Block Screen Creepers
When asking a multiple choice question, click on the snowman menu to find the “shuffle option order” feature which will randomize the order of the answer choices in your question. Shuffling answer choices will make it more difficult for “screen creepers” to copy answers from a classmate.
2. Use Section Breaks to Block Assessment Preview
Add sections to your quiz to prevent students from previewing a form before class. This is a common problem if you post your quiz through Google Classroom to all of your sections early in the day. You can take this a step further by adding a “password” to your form to prevent students from moving ahead until you are ready.
3. Use Branches to Create Alternative Assessment Paths
Google Forms doesn’t have a question bank feature to create different assessments for each student. However, you can create a similar experience by creating a branched form. First, add an un-graded multiple choice question in your quiz: “pick a number,” “pick a color,” etc.
4. Ask Better Questions
Don’t limit yourself to multiple choice questions. Consider some of these other options: sequence questions, matching questions, reading passage, video question, image question, and free response/short answer.
5. Enable Locked Quiz Mode
Locked quiz mode is one of many tools you have to protect the integrity of your assessments. When used in combination with the tips above, you have done your part to protect the integrity of your classroom quizzes. Locked mode prevents students from accessing external resources while taking a quiz. Their tabs, extensions, chrome apps, and screenshot functions will be disabled during the duration of the quiz. Note: locked quiz mode is only available for Chromebooks.
Source: 5 Ways to Prevent Cheating on Your Google Form Quiz by John Sowash, published by Tech & Learning
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.
by AGParts Education | Asus, Chromebooks
Asus has revealed a new range of “education-ready” Chromebooks and a Chrome OS tablet. The C204 and C403 will be traditional clamshell laptops, coming in 11.6-inch and 14-inch sizes respectively, while the C214 will be a 14-inch convertible.
The new series features durability, spill- and tamper-resistant keyboards and all-around rubber bumpers to withstand bashes and bumps Asus believes the kids of today will inflict on the devices.
The Chromebook C204
- 11.6-inch display
- 4GB RAM
- 32GB Onboard storage
Coming with a dark grey finish rather than the bright and breezy white and blue of the predecessor, it will feature a thinner design (292 x 199 x 195mm, 1.2kg), but be able to withstand a drop of 1.2m when flat or 80cm when dropped on its sides.
The Chromebook C403
- 14-inch HD non-touch display
- 11 hour battery life
The C403 features the same design as the C204 but features a much larger 14-inch HD non-touch enabled display instead. It too will be powered by an Intel Celeron processor, come with 4GB of RAM and 32GB of onboard storage.
The Chromebook Flip C214
- Can be used either as a laptop or tablet
- 11.6-inch touch or non-touch display options
Offering you option of laptop or tablet, the C214 will come with virtually identical specs to C204 but with the option of flipping the screen around to treat it as a tablet when you need. That includes the Intel Celeron processor, 4GB of RAM and 32GB onboard storage.
Source: Asus Chromebook Range Refresh Adds Chrome OS Tablet Alongside New Models by Stuart Miles, published in Pocket-Lint
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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