You must already know how popular Google’s Chrome OS is among people who prefer a fast, lightweight, and secure operating system. Google has also introduced an alternative for this OS—Chrome OS Flex—which is meant to repurpose old hardware.
When it comes to Chrome OS vs Chrome OS Flex, the core features in both operating systems are almost the same, but both of the operating systems serve different purposes.
The below article delves into the Chrome OS and Chrome OS Flex comparison, and will help you figure out which one is truly suitable for you.
[Also Read: How to Improve Laptop Performance: A Comprehensive Guide]
What is Chrome OS?
Chrome OS is a Linux-based Google’s official operating system which has been designed for Chromebooks and optimized for modern hardware. It offers cloud-centric computing and works on minimal system requirements.
This operating system is built around the Chrome browser and offers smooth performance, robust security, and seamless updates.
Key Features of Chrome OS:
- Automatic Updates: Chrome OS automatically receives regular updates. It keeps updated with new features and required security patches, and that too without needing to have intervention by its user.
- Support for Google Play: You can access, download, and use the Android apps from the Google Play Store, which makes the OS even more versatile.
- Linux Support: You can also run Linux applications on this operating system as Chrome OS also offers an environment for Linux development.
- High-Level Security: Chrome OS possesses sandboxing, virus protection, and verified boot, which makes it a secure OS.
- Cloud Integration: This operating system is designed around cloud services including Google Drive. So it’s not dependent on local storage.
What is Chrome OS Flex?
Chrome OS flex is the version of Chrome OS which has been designed for older macOS and Windows computers. It’s a lightweight version and can be installed on non-chromebook devices (unlike Chrome OS).
This operating system by Google is an initiative to provide a more efficient OS alternative for old, aging hardware, thus extending their lives.
Key Features of Chrome OS Flex:
- Designed for Old Hardware: As this operating system has been designed for Old hardware, it injects new life into outdated systems, whether it’s a PC or Mac. This OS makes those systems faster and more efficient.
- Cloud-Based Experience: It works on cloud services and web applications.
- Security Benefits: Automatic updates and sandboxing features offered by this operating system bring better security.
- Fast Boot Time: Chrome OS Flex offers fast booting and smooth performance even on older hardware systems.
- No Support for Google Play Store: Chrome OS Flex doesn’t support Android applications.
Which One Should You Choose?
If you possess a Chromebook or intend to buy one soon, you should choose Chrome OS. It will provide you access to Android apps and full Linux support.
On the other hand, if you possess an old machine currently running on Windows or macOS and intend to install a lightweight and secure operating system on it, you should choose Chrome OS Flex.
Final Thoughts
Both the operating systems compared above—Chrome OS Flex vs Chrome OS—can be great options for you to enjoy Google’s ecosystem. However, which one is the most suitable choice for you depends on the device you are using.
If you are using Chromebook, Chrome OS is the operating system you should go for to get access to Google Play Store and enjoy deep Google integration. However, if your machine is older and you wish to extend its life with a more efficient, yet lightweight operating system, Chrome OS Flex would be the best choice.