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Last updated: September 29, 2026
On Black Friday, you’ll see Chromebooks for $200 or less sitting right next to Windows laptops for $500 and up. Both look like laptops, but they work very differently. Buy the wrong one and you may find it can’t run a program you need, or you’ll pay for power you never use. Here’s how to choose.
The Short Answer
Choose a Chromebook if you mostly use the internet: email, web browsing, Google Docs, YouTube, Netflix, online banking and schoolwork. It’s cheaper, simple and very low-maintenance.
Choose a Windows laptop if you need a specific program (tax software, work software, a printer’s special app), the full desktop version of Microsoft Office, or photo and video editing. For most households, Windows is the safer all-around choice.
Side by Side
| Chromebook | Windows laptop | |
|---|---|---|
| Typical price | About $200 to $450 | About $400 to $800 for a good budget model |
| Programs | Web apps and Android apps from the Google Play Store | Almost any program, including full desktop software |
| Microsoft Office | Web versions of Word, Excel and PowerPoint in the browser | Full desktop Word, Excel and PowerPoint |
| Games | Browser and Android games, plus cloud gaming | Most PC games (with the right hardware) |
| Security | Built-in protection and automatic updates; very low virus risk | Good built-in protection (Windows Security); needs regular updates |
| Updates | Automatic, until the model’s end date (see below) | Ongoing for Windows 11 |
| Storage | Often 64GB or 128GB; relies on cloud storage | 256GB minimum, 512GB recommended |
| Best for | Web, email, Google Docs, streaming, schoolwork | Most households, work software, printers, photo and video editing |
The Chromebook Detail Most People Miss: The Update End Date
Every Chromebook model gets automatic updates, including security fixes, for 10 years from when its platform was first released, not from the day you buy it. Google says that after the end date, a Chromebook no longer gets security updates, bug fixes or new features, and some apps may stop working.
That matters on Black Friday because older Chromebook models are often the ones on deep discount. A model that came out years ago will have fewer years of updates left.
How to check: On a Chromebook, open Settings, then About ChromeOS, then Additional details, and look for Update schedule. Before you buy, search the exact model name plus “update date,” or look it up on Google’s Auto Update policy page.
What About “Googlebook”?
You may see news about Googlebook, Google’s new line of higher-end laptops announced in 2026 that combines Android and ChromeOS. On September 28, 2026, Google said existing Chromebooks will keep getting updates through their supported lifetime, with ChromeOS updates continuing through mid-2034. Some newer Chromebooks will be able to switch to the new Googlebook system, and Google says it will share which models later.
What it means for you: a Chromebook bought this Black Friday still gets updates until its own end date. Just check that date before you buy, as above.
If You Choose a Chromebook
- Want more speed? Look for the “Chromebook Plus” label. Google requires these to have at least 8GB of memory, 128GB of storage, a Full HD screen, a 1080p camera and an Intel Core i3 (12th generation) or AMD Ryzen 3 (5000 series) processor or better.
- Just need the basics? A regular Chromebook with 4GB of memory handles web browsing and schoolwork. Our pick is the Acer Chromebook 315 in Best Laptops Under $700.
- Setting one up for a child? ChromeOS works with Google’s Family Link parental controls.
If You Choose Windows
- Memory: 8GB minimum, 16GB ideal.
- Storage: 256GB minimum, 512GB better. Skip Windows laptops with only 128GB of storage. They fill up fast with Windows updates.
- Processor: AMD Ryzen 5 or Intel Core i5 for everyday work.
Our full checklist is in How to Choose a Laptop: A No-Jargon Checklist.
Still Using a Windows 10 Laptop?
Microsoft stopped regular support for Windows 10 on October 14, 2025. Home users can still get security updates by enrolling in Microsoft’s Extended Security Updates program, which now runs through October 12, 2027. Enrollment can be free if you sync your PC settings with a Microsoft account, or costs $30 one time. So if your Windows 10 laptop still works well, you don’t have to rush. This Black Friday or next is a sensible time to replace it.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can a Chromebook run Microsoft Word and Excel?
Yes, the web versions, in the browser, with a free or paid Microsoft account. They cover everyday documents and spreadsheets, but not every feature of the full desktop programs.
Can I print from a Chromebook?
Most modern Wi-Fi printers work. Very old printers, or printers that need their own software, may not. Check your printer’s website before you buy.
Do Chromebooks get viruses?
It’s rare. Chromebooks update automatically, keep apps separated from each other and check themselves for tampering each time they start. You should still use strong passwords and watch out for scam emails and websites.
Which is better for students?
Many schools use Chromebooks and Google apps, so a Chromebook is often enough. Check with the school first. Some courses need Windows or Mac software.
When should I buy?
Adobe’s 2026 forecast expects computer discounts to peak on Cyber Monday, November 30. See our Black Friday laptop watch list for September prices and what counts as a real deal.
The Bottom Line
If you live in your web browser, a Chromebook is a smart, low-cost choice. Just check its update end date before you buy. If you need specific programs, full Microsoft Office or more flexibility, get a Windows laptop with at least 8GB of memory and 256GB of storage. After you buy, follow our new laptop setup checklist.
Sources: Google: Chromebook update schedule, Google: Auto Update policy, Google: Chromebook Plus requirements, Google: What the Googlebook announcement means, 9to5Google (September 28, 2026), Microsoft: Windows 10 Extended Security Updates and Adobe 2026 holiday forecast.