A “Chromebook” is a computing experience designed by Google. What sets Chromebooks apart from other laptops is that Chromebooks run a customized version of Linux that Google has dubbed “ChromeOS.” In short, this means that the computer has been optimized to run a special version of Google Chrome.

Google markets the Chromebooks as a faster, more secure web browsing experience. They also come with many other useful and unique features, like having built-in access to Google’s Cloud file storage system, Google Drive and a simple, easy-to-use interface. In addition, some newer Chromebooks can even install Android apps, a feature currently not available out-of-the-box on any Windows computer.

The software on the school Chromebook is much more simplistic than any Windows laptop. Once everyone figures out how to right-click, they will find that the Chromebook is much easier to use.

While some may argue that Chromebooks don’t have half of the features offered by Windows 10, the reality is that most of these features are disabled by the school. For example, students cannot install programs additional on their computer. So why pay extra for laptops that can?

Additionally, the Chromebooks have a significantly higher build quality than their Windows counterparts. From personal experience, by the end of the year, numerous students’ laptops were falling apart, especially at the hinges. The Chromebooks, on the other hand, have yet to show signs of such weaknesses. Compared to the other laptops, handling a Chromebook is a much more sturdy experience.

The exterior plastic shell of the Chromebook doesn’t bend or pop out and the end result is that the Chromebook feels like a much higher-quality laptop. The edges and corners of the Chromebook are rubberized as well, just as a nice little touch that will help prevent damage from accidental drops.

Battery life is another large advantage that Chromebooks hold over Windows laptops. A new laptop means a new battery, and newer batteries can greatly outperform older, used batteries (depending on the old one’s age). Despite its small size, Chromebooks are getting more students through the day.

Superior battery life isn’t the only thing the Chromebook has up its sleeve. The Chromebook also features an improved typing experience. Even though previously basic functions like caps-lock (Alt+Search) have been replaced with keyboard shortcuts for someone who does a lot of typing, the larger function keys and clickier keyboard make writing essays and filling out reports more pleasant and sometimes an even faster experience. And the Chromebook screen is brighter, in case any student cares to work outside.

The bottom line is that a Chromebook is the best “school laptop.” As long as FHS is sticking with Google’s suite of productivity applications, the Chromebook provides a simple yet efficient Google experience. While Chromebooks might be lacking in areas like the third-party desktop application department, it still has plenty of redeeming qualities — enough so to put it ahead of the clunky old Windows computers.