Check out this list of common questions to learn more about Chromebooks.
Switch from a PC or Mac
What’s the difference between Chromebooks and other computers, like Windows or Mac OS?Chromebooks are a new type of computer designed to help you get things done faster and easier. They run ChromeOS, an operating system that has cloud storage, the best of Google built-in, and multiple layers of security.
Learn more about switching to a Chromebook.
Google works with manufacturers to keep Chromebooks affordable, and you don’t need to worry about the prices of most software.
Instead, you can choose from the thousands of apps at no charge from the Chrome Web Store for work and play.
Yes. You can use offline-ready apps to keep using a Chromebook when it’s not connected to the Internet. Below are some examples:
- Read and write emails with Offline Gmail
- Write a note or make a list with Google Keep
- Create and edit documents, slides, or spreadsheets with Google Drive apps (Google Docs, Sheets, and Slides)
- View and RSVP to events with Google Calendar
- View and edit photos saved with the built-in photo editor
- Enjoy music or movies with the built-in media player
Use apps on a Chromebook
Does Microsoft Office work on a Chromebook?On all Chromebooks, you can open, edit, download, and convert many Microsoft Office files.
On Chromebooks that support Android apps, Microsoft Office is currently available as an Android app. To see which Microsoft apps are available for your device, go to the Google Play Store.
iTunes doesn't work on Chromebooks. Instead, you can add music from iTunes to your Google Play Music library. Learn how to play music on your Chromebook.
On Chromebooks that support Android apps, Skype is available as an app on the Google Play Store.
What is the Google Play Store?
The Google Play Store is where you can find and download a wide range of Android apps on your Chromebook. Learn which Chromebooks support Android apps.
Music, videos, & photos
How do I store and organize photos?You can save your photos with Google Photos, where they’ll be quickly and safely stored and organized for you.
- You can stream music and organize your personal music collection with YouTube Music.
- Learn how to get started with YouTube Music.
- For other info, like how to play saved music, check the play music on your Chromebook article.
Store your files
Do I need to store files online (or "in the cloud")?You can choose to store your files on your Chromebook or online with a cloud-based file storage service like Google Drive.
With Google Drive, your data is stored in Google's highly secure data centers. The Terms of Service make clear that "what belongs to you stays yours."
Every Google Account comes with 15 GB of storage at no charge that’s shared across Google Drive, Gmail, and Google Photos.
When your no-charge storage expires, all your files remain in Drive and you can use, download, or share them whenever you want. If you need additional storage, you can buy more.
Use accessories & print
Do Chromebooks have CD or DVD drives?Chromebooks don’t have a CD or DVD drive, but you can play saved music and movie files in any of the compatible file types with the media player. You can also play files from a USB drive or SD card.
Yes, you can. To print with a Chromebook, set up your printer.
Mac or Windows USB drives, computer mice, keyboards, and external storage devices work well with Chromebooks.