This article helps you understand the best device for you and the differences between Tablets vs. Laptops vs. Chromebooks
The choice of a reliable non-desktop computer is not as straightforward as it may seem. For many users, questions like what differentiates a Chromebook and a laptop or whether to choose a tablet or a traditional laptop can be very confusing.
Difference between a Tablet, Chromebook and Laptop?
Before comparing the pros and cons, we will first describe each of the devices.
What are laptops?
A laptop is a small computer with a keyboard, mouse, and screen. It allows you to use computer functions on the move or outdoors. It was the first portable computer ever created.
Although they are small in size, they offer enough power to outdo some desktop computers. Their power and specifications make them easy to use as multipurpose devices. Whether you are streaming, gaming, or drawing, there is always a laptop for you.
Laptops come with many computer accessories as one compact device for versatility and flexible usage. They have a screen, keyboard, mouse, and connectivity ports.
The screen size will determine the overall laptop size. For example, 17-inch laptops simply mean laptops with 17-inch screen sizes.
What are tablets?
It is easy to mistake a tablet for a large smartphone or a small laptop. This is because it features similar features to the two devices, but that’s it. After close research, you will learn that it is neither of the two but is a different and unique device on its own.
A tablet is a compact device offering the power of a laptop but the portability of a smartphone. It comes with a sensitive touch screen that allows you to use it for different tasks such as streaming, drawing, or gaming.
Like laptops, they are named based on the sizes of their screens and can be switched from portrait to landscape orientation.
What are Chromebooks?
Chromebooks are basically laptops that run on Chrome’s ChromeOS platform. Unlike conventional laptops, they rely on cloud applications and are only operated when connected to the internet. They were first released in 2011. What stood out was their affordability and unique usage model.
With improvements over the years, the prices have been gradually increasing, but their lightweight build and purpose have remained as they were from the onset.
Just like laptops, they come in different brands such as Acer, Asus, HP, Dell, Lenovo, and Samsung. However, there are 2 variations of Chromebooks available. There is the modern 2-in-1 laptop-like option and the older foldable tablet-like look.
Thick-built, larger-sized, and lightweight Chromebooks tend to be cheaper in comparison to their slimmer, more compact alternatives.
These premium options feature a durable, full aluminum body and powerful processors. Additionally, the display is very impressive with up to 4K resolution on some of them.
HP’s Elite Chromebook C1030 and Google Pixelbook Go are some of the best Chromebooks available. If you want a cheaper beginner-level option, we recommend the Lenovo Chromebook 3.
Tablets Vs. Laptops Vs. Chromebooks: Which one is best for you?
The device you choose will depend on your unique needs and requirements for the device. If you need a versatile, high-performing, general-purpose device that can be used for a wide range of tasks, we recommend using a laptop.
It is also recommended if you intend to multitask or use complex software like Photoshop. A laptop will also be perfect for tasks like gaming, streaming, and media.
If you need ultimate simplicity and portable usage or are running simple tasks like reading, streaming, browsing, social media, or basic tasks, a tablet will be the best pick.
Finally, if you want a device that allows easy use of web-based applications and has fast, unlimited cloud storage, Chromebooks are the best. Students best use them since they are perfect for simple tasks and casual usage. Compared to laptops and tablets, Chromebooks are the cheapest devices and are recommended for users on a budget.
Tablets, Laptops and Chromebooks Pros and Cons
| Device | Pros | Cons |
| Chromebooks | They are cheaper Affordablecompared to laptops and tablets. As cloud-focused devices, they are lightweight and offer quick boot functionality. | Provides fewer software compatibility and is not the best for heavy tasks. It is also totally dependant on the internet. |
| Tablets | Easily portable and use outdoors thanks to their long battery life Responsive touchscreen interface. Powerful and can run large applications at the same time. | Most lack built-in keyboard s and have low less storage due to lack of cloud storage. Lags when running desk top Software. |
| Laptops | Powerful performance with full software access and multitasking. Larg and expandable storage options. | Heavy and relatively more bulky. Shorter battery life. Relatively more expensive than Chromebooks and tablets. |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between laptops and Chromebooks?
Laptops run on OSes like Windows or macOS. They support different types of software for various tasks. Chromebooks, on the other hand, use Chrome OS. They are designed for cloud computing and web-based applications.
