Chrome OS vs Windows: 5 differences and which one to choose

Chrome OS or Windows?

2019 has arrived. Many of us have made a list of tasks for this year, and it is possible that changing your devices is one of them . And since you get a new device, you will be considering which operating system to stay with.

Two of the main operating systems most used at a professional level are Chrome OS and Windows . Don't you know their main differences? We explain them to you in this post!

operating systems

Chrome OS

Chrome OS is Google 's operating system, since 2011. It is based mainly on the cloud and online work. It has a range of electronic devices such as Chromebook (laptops), Chromebase (all in one), Chromebook Tab (tablets), Chromebox (small computers that connect to screens), Chromebits (pens that connect to screens), Hangouts Meet (solution video conferencing) or Google Jamboard (interactive whiteboard).

In addition, it also has the G Suite office suite. If you want to know more, you can read G Suite: What it is and why take it into account or G Suite Basic, Business and Enterprise: Which plan to choose .

Windows 10S

Windows is Microsoft 's operating system. It is one of the oldest operating systems: it has been implemented since 1985. Its latest update is called Windows 10 S and it is software indicated for PCs.

Main differences between Chrome OS and Windows

1. Interface and desktop

One of the main differences between both operating systems is their interface. Although the look of Windows is one of the most familiar (even after many updates), it is known for having a more classic and less intuitive look . However, in recent updates these aspects have been improved.

On the other hand, although the Chrome desktop may be less familiar to us, its intuitive and simple interface makes the experience of browsing in its environment very good and becomes one of its strong points.

2. Ecosystem and applications

If both operating systems are compared taking into account the default applications, Chrome OS is ahead of Windows. In Windows we find a store (Microsoft Store) with useful applications, but not very varied. Instead, Chrome OS supports apps from Google Play . This considerably opens the range of possibilities and apps available.

3. Default browser

Although the possibilities of choosing a browser are becoming more and more flexible, each operating system has one as default. This influences some of the main functions offered by the operating system.

In the case of Windows , as many of us already know, the famous (and disowned) Internet Explorer is the default . Instead, Chrome OS features Google Chrome , one of the most widely used browsers regardless of operating system. This also influences the number of extensions and web applications that its main operating system, Chrome OS, has.

4. Updates

One of the aspects that most worries businesses is the maintenance of the devices and their updating. In the case of Windows , it has a good update system , but sometimes it can be slightly confusing and annoying.

In Chrome OS constant updates are eliminated . This allows many companies to save a lot of IT effort.

5. Virtual assistant

Both operating systems have different virtual assistants. One of the best known, since a couple of Windows Updates ago , is Cortana . This wizard can be found on the left side of the taskbar on laptops.

In the case of Chrome OS , surely you have heard of Google Assistant . One of the improvements that Google has proposed this past 2018 is the considerable improvement of its assistant. In this way, it has introduced other devices such as Google Home.

Is Chrome OS right for your business?

If what you want is a simple, cloud-based and efficient interface, YES.

The main aspect to take into account when choosing it is the professional use you make of the devices. If you think you can only work with online applications, is your best solution. The operating system and devices are fully prepared for work in the cloud. It also has offline work possibilities, for times when online work is complicated.

On the other hand, if you are already a G Suite user, you may be interested in purchasing their devices , since their applications are fully designed and adapted to this operating system.

If you want to know more about G Suite, you can read What is G Suite and why take it into account . You can also learn about our Chrome devices on our website . Ucloudstore, gives you the possibility to request advice, you just have to contact us using the form that you will find on our website or by calling +34 634 88 78 70 .