My favorite device is a Chromebook
Chromebooks emerge as a surprisingly favored everyday computer for many users, who value their low maintenance, strong security model, long update support, and tight integration of ChromeOS with Linux via Crostini. Others criticize them as poor value compared to used ThinkPads or MacBooks, pointing to constrained hardware options, awkward keyboard layouts, and dependence on Google’s ecosystem and support policies. The exchange highlights a broader split between people who want a simple, secure “appliance-like” device and those who prioritize flexibility, raw performance, and long-term hardware reuse with traditional Linux, Windows, or macOS laptops.
Overall sentiment
- Many commenters say a Chromebook (often inexpensive, small, fanless) is their “favorite” or most-used device, even if not the most powerful.
- Others find theirs sitting unused: too slow, limited app support, or poor value versus used ThinkPads, MacBooks, or Windows laptops.
- Several emphasize the distinction between “favorite” and “best”: convenience, weight, and “always there” matter more than raw specs.
Hardware value & form factor
- Positive experiences with cheap Acers and Lenovo Duet tablets: light, good-enough screens, usable keyboards, solid battery life (often 6–10+ hours).
- Complaints: weak CPUs for heavy dev work, mediocre speakers, “circumcised” keyboard layouts, and some recent models seen as poor value vs used PCs.
- High-end Chromebooks (Pixelbook, HP Dragonfly, Framework Chromebook, newer ASUS/Chromebook Plus models) exist but are often considered overpriced or hard to find.
OS, Crostini, and workflows
- Crostini (Linux VM) is repeatedly cited as ChromeOS’s killer feature: run Debian with good GUI integration, hardware acceleration, and device passthrough.
- Users run dev stacks (ssh, tmux, vim/helix, VS Code, databases), Gimp/Inkscape, and even some Windows apps via Linux/Wine.
- Some argue Crostini’s integration is smoother than WSL2; others counter that WSL2 matches most capabilities.
Security, privacy, and updates
- One view: Chromebooks are “overpriced thin clients” with short lifetimes; once EOL, they become e‑waste.
- Counterpoint: many devices now have ~10‑year update policies; commenters report 6–7‑year‑old units still receiving updates.
- Pro‑ChromeOS arguments highlight verified, read‑only root FS, per‑user encryption, strong sandboxing, lack of autostart, and low malware risk, especially for nontechnical users.
- Critics worry more about Google’s data collection; others note Windows and macOS have their own privacy and control issues.
Longevity, modding, and alternatives
- After EOL, several install ChromeOS Flex or full Linux (often via custom firmware like MrChromebox) to extend life.
- Some ex‑Chromebook fans migrated to MacBooks or Linux laptops due to lack of powerful modern Chromebooks or Google’s retreat from flagship devices (e.g., Pixelbook).
- Alternatives mentioned: Android phones with Termux and external peripherals, Surface Go tablets, and conventional Linux laptops.
UX details
- ChromeOS praised for being “it just works,” especially for tabbed browsing (gestures, infinite-height tab bar), touchscreens, and seamless Android/phone integration.
- Some feel ChromeOS is closer to the “ideal Linux desktop” than most traditional distros.