Chromebooks remain budget friendly as Googlebooks target premium buyers
Googlebooks offer a higher-spec alternative to Chromebooks, with an Android-based system that runs most Android apps natively and connects closely with compatible Android phones. Their arrival does not end Chromebooks: Google says ChromeOS will receive updates and security patches until 2034, and the two ranges are aimed at buyers with different needs.
Googlebooks start at $899, with models reaching $1,299, while Chromebook Plus laptops typically cost under $500 and basic models can cost less than $300. Googlebooks offer at least 16GB of RAM, 256GB of storage and around 14 hours of battery life; Chromebooks are suited to lighter tasks and run on a more mature platform. Googlebooks may suit video editing or casual gaming, though the new ecosystem could have early problems, and some Android phone features require Android 17 or later.
- Chromebooks remain supported through 2034.
- Googlebooks start at $899; Chromebooks are much cheaper.
- Googlebooks offer stronger specs and closer Android phone integration.
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Chromebooks are laptops that run Google’s ChromeOS, a system designed for everyday tasks such as browsing the web and working with online documents. They have been sold in a wide range of prices, including basic models costing less than $300.
Googlebooks are a newer, higher-priced range built around an Android-based system. They can run most Android apps and connect with compatible Android phones, while offering more memory and storage than typical budget Chromebooks.
The two ranges are aimed at different budgets and uses, such as lighter everyday work on Chromebooks and more demanding tasks on Googlebooks. Google says ChromeOS will continue to receive updates and security patches until 2034; the newer Googlebook system may take time to mature, and some phone features need Android 17 or later.
Both sides, in good faith
The strongest fair case each way — we don't pick a winner.
The case for
Googlebooks could give buyers who need stronger performance a more capable option, with higher memory and storage, long battery life, and native support for many Android apps. Their close links with compatible Android phones and potential for video editing or casual gaming may justify the higher price for people who value those features.
The case against
Chromebooks remain a compelling choice for people who mainly need a laptop for lighter tasks, since many cost far less and run on a more mature platform. Googlebooks start at a premium price, and buyers may face early ecosystem problems or find that some phone features depend on newer Android versions; Google says Chromebooks will continue receiving updates and security patches until 2034.
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Originally published by Engadget as “Are Chromebooks still worth buying after the Googlebooks release?”.