Setting up Linux on a Chromebook is possible. Follow the recommended steps for your specific model and OS version.
Setting up Linux on a Chromebook is possible. Follow the recommended steps for your specific model and OS version.
I explored some options and found ways to use a laptop when needed. Since my gaming PCs and phone work well for me, I mainly rely on them unless I’m at home or in a space without a computer. My current 2013 laptop has a decent spec but is aging, and my friend’s old 8-year-old machine runs poorly. I’m considering buying a new one but want to stay within a budget of around $200 for basic tasks like playing OSRS. I really dislike Chromebooks, though I appreciate their simplicity and affordability for this purpose. With the laptop my friend gave me, it was running Windows 8, and I wondered if I could switch it to Linux Mint Cinnamon—maybe that’s the only way I’d think about getting a Chromebook.
Not that I'm aware of. Also, if you engage in activities like gaming, performance will feel similar to ray tracing on a smartwatch. Not exactly, but it won't be great.
Several Chrome OS books allow you to install standard Linux distributions using Cronton, though there are certain restrictions. It isn't set up as a full operating system. If you're looking for an affordable laptop, consider a business-grade model. Generally, there are more suitable options available for budget devices.
I was thinking about a used laptop similar to what I currently own, but made around the past three years. Just swapping it out for an SSD and adding more RAM. The issue is, checking eBay and Facebook Marketplace shows many listings in poor condition or priced higher than their actual value—something typical in the used PC market.
Consider these options: the Dell Latitude E5470, Lenovo ThinkPad T440, and Lenovo ThinkPad X250 models available on eBay. Each offers solid performance at a reasonable price.
I'm running Linux on my Chromebox right now, though it's not ideal. It's a dual-boot setup with ChromeOS and your preferred Linux distro using chrx. Make sure your CPU is compatible—most pre-skylake Intel chips work, but ARM and AMD models are less supported. You can find more details on the hardware compatibility page. I used chrx for dual booting, but I also tried single-booting. If you're not comfortable with the steps, you might consider getting a more affordable laptop instead.
Great suggestions, but I'm likely to heed what the person above advises.