Both Chromebook and Android tablet offer access to Google’s ecosystem, portability, and affordability compared to conventional laptops or iPads, making it difficult to choose between the two. Chromebook vs Android Tablets: which will you buy then?
If we are asked the same question, our answer will depend on our budget, specific needs, and the way we are going to use the device. To make it easy for you to make an informed choice, we have compared these two devices below.
1. Performance and Productivity
Chromebooks feature larger screens, a full-sized keyboard, and can run multiple apps in separate windows, positioning themselves as an ideal device for study, work, and multitasking just like traditional laptops.
There are many Chromebooks that are more versatile for programming or light development work, as they also offer support for Linux apps.
Android tablets, on the other hand, are perfect for gaming, casual browsing, and entertainment, too. In some tablets, such as the Samsung Galaxy Tab S9, which are high-end devices, you will also be provided with some desktop-like features.
However, you won’t experience the full computing power in them, and they don’t even offer the level of flexibility that you experience with a Chromebook.
Hence, in terms of productivity, Chromebooks are the winner, and for casual use, Android tablets are better than Chromebooks.
2. Operating System & Software Compatibility
As far as the operating systems on which these devices run are concerned, Chromebooks run on Chrome OS, and Android tablets run on Android OS. Chrome OS is a lightweight operating system that is web-based and provides access to web applications, Google Play apps. It also allows you to install Linux software in some models.
Chrome OS is a safe and secure operating system as Google releases regular security updates for it, thus it stands as an ideal OS for school and work.
Android tablets, on the other hand, run on the Android OS. This operating system is optimized for touchscreen and supports many of those applications that are found in Chromebooks. However, it doesn’t offer a desktop-like experience that you are provided in Chromebooks.
In addition to the above, with an Android tablet, you get a variety of applications, including video editing apps, drawing apps, and many more.
So if you prefer to have a touch-based experience on your device, an Android tablet is the winner for you between these two devices. And, if a desktop-like experience is what you are after, a Chromebook is better than an Android tablet for you.
3. Gaming & Entertainment
As far as the gaming and entertainment aspect of the devices is concerned, Android tablets take the lead over Chromebooks. They offer support for high-quality mobile games. You will be able to use streaming apps such as Netflix, YouTube, Disney+, etc.
Additionally, if you opt for a premium model Android tablet, it will offer you a more immersive experience with its OLED displays as well as higher refresh rates.
Chromebooks, on the other hand, are not so good for many games. That’s because those games are not well-optimized for Chromebooks’ trackpad and keyboard. However, these devices are also capable of running Android applications.
There have been introduced some newer Chromebooks in the market, which support some cloud gaming services, including NVIDIA GeForce Now and Xbox Cloud Gaming. However, they still lack the convenience that you can enjoy with touchscreen tablets.
Hence, here, the winners are undoubtedly the Android tablets.
4. Portability and Battery Life
Android tablets are more travel-friendly because they are more compact in size and lighter in weight compared to Chromebooks. You can use them to read ebooks and watch videos on the go.
Chromebooks, however, are bulkier due to their larger screen and built-in keyboard; they are still portable. They are also better than Android tablets if we look at the battery life of these devices. Their battery lasts 8-12 hours on a single charge.
If your preference is better portability, Android tablets are the winner for you. And, if you judge Chromebook vs Android Tablets based on battery life, Chromebooks are the winner.
5. Pricing
In a budget of $100-$300, you can get Android tablets that will offer you a decent experience for media consumption and web browsing. In these budget-friendly devices, you may not have appreciable experience when using them for demanding tasks.
And, if you go for mid-range Android tablets that cost between $300-$600, you have a great experience of performance and support for the device. Similarly, if you buy high-end devices that cost between $700-$1000, the experience offered can compete with premium devices like the iPad Pro.
On the other hand, if you buy a Chromebook that costs even just $250, it will offer better productivity. You will be able to manage your general tasks efficiently with it. And, if you buy premium Chromebooks that usually cost between $500-$800, you can handle even demanding tasks with them.
Premium Chromebooks feature 2-in-1 functionality, touchscreens, and better processors, which make them capable of handling those demanding tasks.
So when it comes to the winner in this aspect, Android tablets are better for casual users. And, for those who need the device for work-related tasks, Chromebooks are the winner for them.
Final Verdict: Which One Should You Buy?
You should choose a Chromebook over an Android tablets if you are looking for a device that can offer you a laptop-like experience along with the facility to allow you to work in Google’s ecosystem. On the other hand, an Android tablet will be a better choice for you if you are someone who prioritizes portability, gaming, entertainment, and touch-based apps.
However, a high-end Android tablet with a keyboard attachment or a Chromebook with a touchscreen will be the device that can offer you the best of both.