Chromebook vs. Netbook — What's the Difference?
By Urooj Arif & Fiza Rafique — Updated on May 15, 2024
Chromebooks run Chrome OS and primarily use cloud storage, focusing on web-based applications, while netbooks, smaller and less powerful than laptops, typically run Windows or Linux and rely on local storage.
Difference Between Chromebook and Netbook
Table of Contents
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Key Differences
Chromebooks are a type of laptop designed to primarily run Google's Chrome OS, which depends heavily on cloud storage and applications. This system is streamlined for high-speed internet use, and users primarily access software and documents through the web. On the other hand, netbooks are small, lightweight laptops that run full versions of Windows or Linux and are designed for basic tasks like web browsing, word processing, and media playback, using mostly local storage.
Chromebooks often boast faster boot times and simplified security, which makes them popular in educational settings and among users who rely mostly on web applications. Whereas netbooks, though now largely phased out, offered more traditional computer experiences with the capability to install a variety of software, but often suffered from slower performance due to less powerful hardware.
Regarding design, Chromebooks are available in various sizes but generally emphasize a thin and light form factor with longer battery life. Netbooks were similarly compact and designed for mobility, but typically featured smaller screens and keyboards, making them less ideal for prolonged use.
Storage options differ significantly; Chromebooks usually come with a small amount of SSD storage, as they store most data online. Netbooks, however, came with larger hard drives to store data locally. This reflects their different approaches to computing needs and user accessibility.
Price points for Chromebooks can vary, with models ranging from budget to premium depending on features like touchscreens or higher-performance hardware. Netbooks were generally inexpensive, aimed at users needing basic computing on the go without the cost of a full-sized laptop.
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Comparison Chart
Operating System
Chrome OS
Windows or Linux
Primary Storage
Cloud-based
Local HDD or SSD
Typical Use
Internet-based applications
Basic computing tasks
Hardware Performance
Varied, generally moderate to high
Generally low power
Price
Range from budget to high-end models
Generally low-cost
Compare with Definitions
Chromebook
Features minimal local storage.
Her Chromebook has 32GB of SSD storage, but she saves most files online.
Netbook
A small, lightweight laptop that runs Windows or Linux.
Her old netbook is still useful for writing papers.
Chromebook
May include premium features like touchscreens.
His high-end Chromebook doubles as a tablet with its detachable screen.
Netbook
Suitable for basic tasks like word processing and internet browsing.
He took his netbook on vacation to check emails.
Chromebook
A laptop running Chrome OS focusing on cloud applications.
She used her Chromebook to access Google Docs for schoolwork.
Netbook
Designed for cost-effective, mobile computing.
They bought a netbook because it was affordable and easy to carry.
Chromebook
Designed for fast internet browsing and cloud-based tasks.
His Chromebook boots up in seconds, perfect for quick web searches.
Netbook
Generally has a smaller screen and keyboard.
The netbook's small keyboard wasn't ideal for typing long documents.
Chromebook
Often used in educational environments.
The school issued Chromebooks to students for remote learning.
Netbook
Features more traditional local storage options.
The netbook has a 160GB hard drive for storing his files.
Chromebook
A Chromebook (sometimes stylized in lowercase as chromebook) is a laptop or tablet running the Linux-based Chrome OS as its operating system. Chromebooks are primarily used to perform a variety of tasks using the Google Chrome browser, with most applications and data residing in the cloud rather than on the machine itself.
Netbook
The marketing term netbook once identified small and inexpensive laptops; these were generally low-performance. While the name has fallen out of use, machines matching their description remain an important part of the market for laptops running Microsoft Windows.
Netbook
A portable computer that is smaller than a laptop, with less processing speed and less memory, used primarily for accessing the internet.
Netbook
(computing) An economical notebook computer.
Common Curiosities
Can I install Windows on a Chromebook?
Installing Windows on a Chromebook is not typically supported and may violate the device's warranty.
Are Chromebooks good for gaming?
Generally, Chromebooks are not ideal for gaming due to their cloud-based design and limited local storage.
What operating systems do Chromebooks use?
Chromebooks run Google's Chrome OS.
Can netbooks run applications like a regular laptop?
Yes, netbooks can run many standard applications, but are limited by their hardware capabilities.
How do Chromebooks handle data storage?
Chromebooks rely primarily on cloud storage, minimizing the need for large local drives.
What made netbooks become less popular?
The rise of more powerful, similarly priced tablets and ultrabooks made netbooks less appealing.
Do Chromebooks require an internet connection to work?
While designed for online use, Chromebooks can also operate some functions offline.
Are netbooks suitable for professional use?
Netbooks are generally more suited to basic tasks and may not meet the demands of heavy professional use.
How long does a Chromebook battery last?
Battery life varies but Chromebooks are designed for extended use, often lasting 6-12 hours on a single charge.
What is the price range for netbooks?
Netbooks were typically priced lower than full-sized laptops, often under $300.
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Written by
Urooj ArifUrooj is a skilled content writer at Ask Difference, known for her exceptional ability to simplify complex topics into engaging and informative content. With a passion for research and a flair for clear, concise writing, she consistently delivers articles that resonate with our diverse audience.
Co-written by
Fiza RafiqueFiza Rafique is a skilled content writer at AskDifference.com, where she meticulously refines and enhances written pieces. Drawing from her vast editorial expertise, Fiza ensures clarity, accuracy, and precision in every article. Passionate about language, she continually seeks to elevate the quality of content for readers worldwide.
