ChromeOS is a highly popular operating system that has garnered a lot of attention due to its numerous benefits. This operating system comes preinstalled in specialized devices known as Chromebooks, which are small and portable computers. In addition to this, there are also desktop devices called Chromeboxes that run on ChromeOS, providing a similar experience to a workstation.
Although the terms Chromebooks and Chromeboxes may appear interchangeable, they are, in fact, different. Many people who are interested in this operating system often face a dilemma when it comes to choosing between these two devices. They are unsure whether a Chromebook will suffice or if they should opt for a Chromebox instead.
This guide will go over all you need to know about a Chromebox and how it mainly differs from Chromebooks.
What is a Chromebox?
A Chromebox is a type of computer that runs on ChromeOS operating system. It is a compact device that is designed to be connected to an external monitor or display. The name Chromebox comes from the combination of two words, “Chrome” which refers to the operating system and “Box” that alludes to the form factor of a personal computer.
Despite its small size, a Chromebox is powerful enough to handle most basic computing tasks. It does not have an internal battery and requires a power source to operate. You can easily set it up by connecting it to a monitor or display and plugging in the necessary cables. Once set up, you can use it as a desktop computer with all the features of ChromeOS.
Hardware
Chromeboxes are devices that operate similar to a full-fledged Windows PC, but with substantial differences in their operating systems. The first Chromebox was introduced in 2012, and since then, several manufacturers have focused on developing technically enhanced versions of the gadget.
Each Chromebox has its own unique technical specifications or hardware components. Some Chromeboxes can be configured with an Intel Core i7 processor, 16 GB RAM, and 64 GB storage, while others may have minimal specifications and be powered by an Intel Celeron. Manufacturers analyze the market and release products accordingly.
More power
Users tend to purchase Chromeboxes while keeping their requirements in mind, assessing how much hardware power they actually need to operate the device. With the technological advancements that have been made in recent years, we are seeing highly advanced Chromeboxes entering the market in 2022.
Ports
Additionally, Chromeboxes come equipped with a variety of ports depending on the model. These ports enable users to establish wired connections with their keyboard, mouse, and other peripherals. Bluetooth-based wireless functionality is also a standard feature in ChromeOS. Lastly, a Chromebox supports wireless printing. Now that you have a basic understanding of what Chromeboxes are and how they work, let’s move on to the main differences between Chromeboxes and Chromebooks.
- In the meantime, though, we encourage you to check out the best Acer Chromeboxes that you can buy in 2022.
How do Chromeboxes differ from Chromebooks?
We’ve rounded up the following factors determining major differences between Chromeboxes and Chromebooks.
Form factor
A Chromebook is a type of laptop that operates on ChromeOS, a preconfigured software system that comes with specific technical specifications. As a laptop, Chromebooks have built-in displays, speakers, and rechargeable batteries that can last up to 8-12 hours on a single full charge, making them highly power-efficient.
In the other corner of the ring, we have Chromeboxes. Now first off, these aren’t laptops by any means. A Chromebox, as iterated earlier, is simply a PC that you can connect with an external monitor or any other capable device to transform into a desktop operating system. While these minimalistic computers aren’t as universally acclaimed as Chromebooks, they do prove to be nothing short of excellent for dishing out reliable performance daily.
Customizability
Did you know that in a direct comparison with Chromebooks, Chromeboxes are generally more upgradable pieces of hardware? Typically, these desktop ChromeOS PCs have a better port selection, including a cooling fan and a specialized heatsink. Since Chromeboxes are constantly plugged into a power source, these devices rarely face thermal throttling.
Power management
Thermal throttling or dynamic frequency scaling is a technique used by CPUs to conserve power. It involves reducing the performance levels at certain intervals during the computing process to save more power for later use. This is a common practice for laptops, including Chromebooks. However, it is not necessary for a Chromebox which is always connected to a power outlet and doesn’t need to conserve power.
Popularity and availability
Chromebooks have gained significant popularity in the market and are available in various shapes and sizes. However, Chromeboxes are still considered a niche product and have a limited number of models available for purchase. Chromebooks have been around longer than Chromeboxes, with the first Chromebook released approximately a year before the first Chromebox.
Chromebooks offer a highly versatile form factor, combined with easy accessibility and availability, which has made them stand out in a market dominated by Microsoft Windows laptops and Apple’s macOS devices. Chromebooks provide an exceptional option for users to experience fast networking, top-notch security, and access to Android applications, all within a single computer. Furthermore, ChromeOS is widely affordable, making Chromebooks an excellent choice for budget-conscious users.
On the other hand, Chromeboxes are not as well-known as Chromebooks, mainly because not many manufacturers are developing these devices in large quantities. As a result, users have fewer options to choose from when looking for a Chromebox in the market. However, this may change in the future, and more manufacturers may start developing and offering Chromeboxes.
Overall, Chromebooks are more popular and universally available than Chromeboxes. At Chrome Ready, we have compiled several best-Chromebook-oriented articles that can provide more details on why Chromebooks are unmatched in terms of distribution and availability in the market.
The following are links to some of the listicles we’ve covered over time, showcasing the firm grasp of Chromebooks in the PC market today:
- Top 10 Chromebooks with best trackpads
- Top 10 Chromebooks for best performance
- Top 10 Chromebooks with best keyboards
- Top 5 Chromebooks with best displays
Portability
Chromebooks are highly appreciated in the computing world for their flexibility and portability. These devices are remarkably lightweight, with most Chromebooks weighing between 1.5 to 3 pounds, making them easy to carry around. Moreover, some Chromebooks have a detachable form factor, which means that the keyboard can be removed, allowing you to use the device’s screen as a tablet with specialized controls.
The Lenovo Chromebook Duet and the Asus CM3 Detachable are two prime examples of this form factor. However, despite their versatility, Chromeboxes are the ultimate in portability. These tiny PCs are exceedingly compact and small, and some models are even pocket-sized. Despite their small size, Chromeboxes provide a full desktop operating experience without packing a lot of bulk, making them an excellent choice for those on the go.
Personal Insights: Chromebox vs. Chromebook – which one to buy?
From my experience, the choice between a Chromebox and a Chromebook boils down to your lifestyle and computing needs. As someone who appreciates the minimalism of Chrome OS but also loves a good dual-monitor setup for productivity, the Chromebox holds a special place on my desk. That said, I can’t deny the convenience of flipping open a Chromebook at a café or while lounging on the couch.
Conclusion
ChromeOS is a highly advanced operating system that keeps getting better with the regular updates from Google. However, choosing between Chromebooks and Chromeboxes can sometimes be confusing for users. To help you make an informed decision and choose the device that best suits your needs, we have provided a guide that outlines the major differences between these two devices. We hope that you find this informative article helpful in making your decision. Good luck from Chrome Ready!
