Chrome OS is a Un-Appreciated Masterpiece

First Time I used Chrome OS and so many people have this operating system wrong! It does far more than you'd expect.
Timestamps:
00:00 Intro
01:15 Chrome OS Desktop
03:20 Linux on Chrome OS
05:30 Downsides of Chrome OS
07:17 Crostini Virtual Environment
09:58 Final Fantasy VI Gameplay
11:13 Terminal Work and Upgrades with Crosh
13:00 Native Linux Game without Proton on ChromeOS .
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[@ChrisTitusTech]

Chrome OS Videos: - Using Chromebrew to install any Application: kzbin.info/www/bejne/l2OvXpKDo6x6eqM - Integrate Arch Linux inside ChromeOS: kzbin.info/www/bejne/f2fWcqmtfcyMrbM Couple Addendums based on comments: - Model of Laptop used: Thinkpad Yoga C13 - Ryzen 3700C w/ 16GB - The major downside is privacy as everything based around Chrome Browser - The major upside is the new virtualization that Google is doing (You can sandbox certain apps like Linux desktop apps) - TLDW; It is an extremely polished system with great battery life and tight integration with the hardware and you can expand it to include Linux apps to get a LOT more out of your Chromebook than the stock configuration.

[@emblemi6345]

Afaik it uses kvm + lxc

[@ashutoshmourya4748]

Can we install ChromeOS on our own system?

[@kingof9x]

How is the steam performance? Supposedly Google and valve have been working on an official chrome os release. I wouldn't be surprised if that ended up being a container running the same new steam os that the steam deck will run.

[@emblemi6345]

@@ashutoshmourya4748 not officially. Chromium os is there though.

[@brendanhansknecht4650]

@@emblemi6345 I am pretty sure that chrome os vms(android, Linux, steam, etc) are more custom made and streamlined than what you would get from just kvm + lxc. A lot of effort has gone into running things in vms while still being fast instead of using containers.

[@JesseMaurais]

4 years ago I bought a discount Acer Chromebook. I was doing serious programming in it using the Linux subsystem with Clang, Vim, Tmux and other comm and line tools. It was a beautiful experience.

[@krtirtho]

But one problem, We don't want Linux on top of Android. We want Android top of Linux

[@manm5302]

well said. I want android, windows, ios, osx running as vms on my base linux distro

[@krtirtho]

@gghhkm if so, then how does it run on potato laptops?!😂

[@_Tzebra_]

Android is literally Linux

[@ashwin372]

@gghhkm GNU is a set of philosophy not Linux. Linux is a kernel now GNU Linux since it uses GNU tools. Android is having modified Linux kernel.

[@rkvkydqf]

@@krtirtho 1. It's Gentoo 2. Containers, not VMs 3. Tight integration and optimization

[@kurtselleslagh7489]

Totally agreed. I’m now moving away from Windows and MacOS. I love speed and simplicity of ChromeOS for light desktop work.

[@matthews8580]

@@joim3480 chrome can run faster with 4gb of ram than some windows machines can with 16gb. Plus some people literally just need a browser and Google suite for writing documents etc. For those people windows just adds unnecessary bulk and programmes and slows it all down

[@axethepenguin]

@Dhfa 10 okay but who would decide to use a 13 year old OS over something new, everything is literally dropping support for it. He’s talking about simplicity and you’re talking about tweaking an old OS.

[@Seven71987]

This is why I would make an idea of a debian/Ubuntu/mint based linux is which has Windows and Android compatibility that is easily adaptable and optimal for other types of smart computer like devices like phones, tablets, TVs, watches, console, high end PCs and low end PCs. "Yes Chromebooks are a type of PC in my personal opinion."

[@Tylerc442]

That's good to know. It seemed like Chrome OS became a much better operating system last year but for some reason it wasn't translating well to consumers. Google's ads made it look really awesome and manufacturers announced a lot of new devices so hopefully it catches on quickly. Google's Assistant makes it seem like a really fun experience as well.

[@jacobnunya808]

If you are on a budget chromebooks have a lot going for them. Probably not great for power users though.

[@Ryan48219]

I had a Chromebook that I paid about $130 for that lasted around 5 years before the battery died and updates stopped for that model. Hands down the best value for a device I had, I did my degree on it, and since my work doesn't require computing power I could do my whole job on it to this day if I needed to. It worked perfectly *all* the time.

[@7GtwNYkHYs]

I just picked up an entry level Chromebook for personal use and I'm honestly blown away at how much I like it.

[@dab42bridges80]

Good overview. I totally agree, I'd had a preconceived view that ChromeOS was a lightweight, simple OS. When I began to use it however, I quickly realized the depth, sophistication and functionality.

[@inscrutablemungus4143]

Here's the thing. I love the hardware of the chromebook. It's cheap, it's light and it has a humongous battery life. However, ChromeOS itself is not really suitable for most of what I do. Thankfully, as long as you have an intel based device, it's fairly trivial to replace ChromeOS with a linux distro. At that point you get the best of both worlds.

[@CantoniaCustoms]

Honestly at this rate might as well just make laptops dedicated to using linux.... but the eternal normie demands it either must run windows or toilet paper sub android system sigh.

[@brebenelandrei]

Until you actually try to use it long term and find all the issues that come with it. Let's not even talk about the arbitrary way Google stops sending updates, and how both Android apps and Linux support feel like/are like beta software on most Chromebooks.

[@cereal_experiments]

Most linux apps also feel like they're in beta on linux itself.

[@Codyslx]

@@cereal_experiments True

[@MobileDecay]

Try to not be biased for a half a minute once at least. Lol.

[@mw7967]

You're incorrect with respect to your assertion that Google arbitrarily stopping updates. On the contrary, Google very clearly defines support length at 8.5 years minimum from the Chromebooks manufacture date, regardless of the retail price paid. Quite simply, chromebooks are the best price to performance laptops you can buy. Furthermore, if you've ever used a chrome book, you'd know that it's absurdly easy to find the Auto Update Expiration date for every Chromebook on the market; it's easily found within the settings menu>"about Chrome OS "> " additional details ". The end of support date will be clearly listed under " update schedule.". Google does a far better job of transparency regarding software support than Microsoft and especially Apple. No offense but your bias and lack of basic knowledge with respect to Chrome OS is on full display here.

[@CoasterMan13Official]

I don't care if ChromeOS can run on my 14-year-old laptop. If it's only gonna have 3 measly years of support, count me out.

[@victormartins9826]

There’s a lot of cool functionality. I don’t think I’d use a chromebook personally. But this is some neat tech.

[@ChrisTitusTech]

Yup, this is where I land as well. Very neat and polished, but definitely has drawbacks.

[@shurmurray]

A cool gadget no question, but there is still no real cases shown where it may be superior to traditional win or linux! Up to date all the points about that chromebooks/chromeOS are like: "Hey look they can do some things just like normal PC but with some caveats" and not a single: "Here is a thing chrome OS does better than linux or windows machine". The device with many caveats and shortcomings with no strong points.

[@David_Granger]

@@shurmurray I think it's good for like my parents, they just browse the web and write documents, even if it is on part with win, it's more polished. For that type of user I would also say it's superior to Linux.

[@shurmurray]

@@David_Granger the catch is - browsers keep getting more resource-hungry just like the web itself. I have awesome HP netbook from 2010 laying around - back in days it was a blast serfing the web and watching youtube videos in 720p. But now it barely shows youtube in 144p! From a technical perspective the hardware is still ok: CPU runs at it's normal GHz and cooling system works fine - there is no thermal trottling. The hdd replaced with ssd, the battery also replaced.

[@raz0229]

@@kreuner11 I've never used in personally but recommended it to my friend who wanted something cheaper for work and I don't think I have ever heard him regretting his decision

[@52Drew]

I have Google Chrome Flex installed on a old Dell OptiPlex 3020 with a 34" Dell Monitor. Awesome simplicity for anybody just needs to do productivity online and not just play computers. Totally recommended for senior citizens or anybody technology challenged.

[@thydevdom]

ChromeOS is solid and gets the job done for those that just need utilities and aren’t running heavy programs. I have no hate towards it.

[@montellallen5339]

Chrome os works great for me! I installed it on my laptop after windows started giving me issues, and I’m extremely happy with it, it’s not even meant to be on my computer but yet it still works great!

[@guilherme5094]

Well, like for the video Chris, but, no thanks, Google already have too much power.

[@ravitejaknts]

I consider them to be less that Apple. So competition to Apple is better.

[@ethanbroussard]

@@ravitejaknts linux is competition to Microsoft Google and apple

[@ravitejaknts]

@@ethanbroussard yes I use Linux. But sometimes I also prefer companies because they have money to promote and make it available for more people. Anyhow, competition don't have to only include Linux, there can be many. Many people feel Linux as intimidating.

[@ethanbroussard]

@@ravitejaknts yeah but really the beginner friendly distributions arent all that intimidating, and of course companies are going to have money to promote their product but it doesn't make it have any less spyware. And I just think linux is better competition to big companies than chrome os considering it's not made/maintained by a big company

[@daniishere1009]

@@ethanbroussard How? Google Chrome OS is based on Linux so how Linux can be competition to google?

[@MrHappygolfer]

A year late to this video; but I said the browser was the future in 1998. But I'm an old guy, at 65, and saw where the consumer of computing was going back then. All about content, and information. I use Mac, Widows & Linux, as my work OS's, but ChromeOS is my daily driver, for all my infotainment, and even some dev work, via the Linux VM in Chrome. Love it! For two years migrating a network from one domain to another, my work laptop was a Chromebook: Everything runs on the web.

[@realtimestatic]

ChromeOS might be polished but I can’t feel like Google isn’t tracking me and it isn’t open source so I don’t really feel to save when it comes to privacy there

[@mble]

There is open-source Chromium OS and you can install open gapps on it

[@realtimestatic]

@@mble now all we need is ungoogled chromium os

[@esconis5304]

Still better than Windows at least

[@realtimestatic]

@@esconis5304 I personally prefer Linux

[@ravitejaknts]

@@realtimestatic That's why he mentioned Linux.

[@jason-budney7624]

Chris, nice video on showing how to get the most out of an OS that to mostly walled-in for many. I may not like and use ChromeOS, and think Google is the worst. I just like learning about new tech and better ways to use it.

[@SpaceTimeBeing_]

The downside is that it's from Google. Let us try and get away from privacy wrecking nuisances at least in our desktop systems, privacy is dying but that doesn't mean you should give that up everywhere.

[@geometrikselfelsefesi]

there is chromium os that is open source

[@techorigin9624]

I installed Ubuntu and ran it alongside Chrome OS even when they didn't explicitly support it. Mind you this was on an Acer Chromebook with a Celeron processor. Suprisingly enough I was able to install Steam and I used to play truck simulator on there and other indie games. This was back in sixth grade. Seeing that chrome os interface brings some serious memories back

[@Backtrack3332]

Bought my first Chromebook today. Until this morning, I always thought Chromebooks were just a glorified Android Device. Boy was I wrong... Having access to the Linux machine makes it 1000x more useful!

[@Nightsaberban]

What is the Linux machine?

[@_ianjms]

@@Nightsaberban they probably meant crostini or some containerized form of Linux accessible to Chrome OS

[@klee9016]

I just got mine. I'm absolutely AMAZED as Chromebooks are so talked down. That is actually what drove me to purchase, however. It wasn't necessarily that I'm rebellious (though I am) but I KNEW there had to be SOMETHING about Chromebooks that was being suppressed. I was thrilled to find it Linux ready (I'm just learning Linux as I am so sick and tired of Windows OS and, even with my pure Google devices, the limitations or gyrations that one must go through to truly customize their experience. This video has me even more excited and I know I made the right decision to purchase my Chromebook now. I got a Lenovo Flex 5 i3 128/8 to which I've already added a 512 GB SD card (it will take up to 1 TB but at that point organization becomes an issue, IMO). SSD can be upgraded to 1TB and RAM, per Lenovo, up to 32GB (I think it's really 16 but their technician said 32... I think any upgrade of RAM is difficult in a Chromebook because it's soldiered in, unless I'm mistaken). I am completely new to Linux and Chromebook OS so just learning, green as could be. But right off the bat I was able to install Kodi and LibreOffice Suite in scant minutes and both work beautifully.

[@WhatALoadOfTosca]

I thought ChromeOS was not Android? Is it?

[@x91w]

Is there a way (without an enterprise MDM toolset) to script installs/or remotely deploy to chrome books for common applications, a linux subsystem, security settings etc. I'd like a student to be able to buy (nearly) any chrome book connect to a portal and get the same look and feel as his peers.

[@juzujuzu4555]

Using Gentoo for creating Google jailing OS is crime that I don't forgive.

[@ravitejaknts]

So be open minded and understand that it is not for you.

[@juzujuzu4555]

@@ravitejaknts Google has used Linux to kill the possibility of Linux alternatives. So be open minded and realize that Google is using Linux against Linux. Obviously if you support that, then it's another story. Linux phones were killed by Android, and cheap Linux laptops were killed by ChromeOS. That's the problem with the license. Don't know if GPLv3 would have changed that. The irony is that Linux mostly really benefits the large multibillion dollar companies, and the original goal of desktop Linux is where things are the worst. Large companies making money out of Linux wouldn't be a problem at all, but when they do it to compete against the spread of Linux for the end user, then there's a huge problem.

[@firesnake6311]

@@juzujuzu4555 exactly

[@juzujuzu4555]

@@pendopendo7166 It's pretty much impossible to change the licensing anymore. That was the excuse already back in the day of GPLv3 debate, but then it really would have been possible. I just think Linus and perhaps some others had too much hubris and wanted Linux to become as popular as possible without caring on what could happen. Richard Stallman has been right from the start, for most of the things. Even though it pisses me off that he in many ways is not the great leader of free as in freedom software. Linux foundation is pretty much completely taken by the billion and trillion dollar companies. So I guess changing anything against their interest is kind of impossible.

[@daniishere1009]

@@juzujuzu4555 In simple terms Linux means openness which can be use by any company. Google has followed the rules and created a well-rounded Linux based distribution name Chrome OS. Chrome OS is introducing the Linux to the average Joes with the help of Chrome OS.

[@betapictoris9710]

I used Chrome OS as my main OS for about five-ish years. I feel like it is fair that I can say that I didn't like. I enjoyed the containers, LXC, and I understood the advantages. That being said there is a reason why I am use Fedora. I see Chrome OS as a desktop OS that tries to be too much! I would recommend it to a student or maybe some one who wants something that just works.

[@onimekyo7633]

5 years? I think chrome OS has been only around for 2-3 years Why would you use chromeOS for so long? As long as I know, if someone gets comfortable with Linux, he/she will stay for good

[@betapictoris9710]

​@@onimekyo7633 It's been around since 2012... What do you mean by Linux? Chrome OS may be based on Linux but it sure isn't Linux!

[@onimekyo7633]

@@betapictoris9710 that's what i am asking you: why would you use chromeOS for so long Linux is just better in every aspect

[@betapictoris9710]

@@onimekyo7633 beauty is in the eye of the beholder.

[@Andrew-it7fb]

@@onimekyo7633 show me a reasonably priced touchscreen, 2 in 1 Linux device that just works.

[@patrickgraf3917]

Very good video. I use Chrome OS for my selfe now for about 1 1/2 years and I learned, how powerfull the linux shell is. I installed wine to run some little windows Apps or i installed Java on the Linux container and instead of typing every time the java command, i build a shortcut with the command. Same with appimage programms on Linux. Very cool feature in ChromeOS

[@robertwilson2636]

I have been using Chrome OS for a decade now and I would NEVER go back to Microsoft. You need to approach it with an open mind and soon you will be saying the same.

[@flashx4526]

How? I used a Chromebook for a while and I got back to windows and I'm planning to install Linux on it

[@Seven71987]

@@flashx4526 Windows is pushing AI into it, if you don't want that use Linux or chromeos

[@gregc8730]

Thank you Chris, this comes at a great time. Recently closed the lid on an old Toshiba Chromebook that was about two years behind on updates - due to end of life update coverage. Just bought an ASUS C536EA with an 11th gen i3 and 8GB memory. 15.6" HD screen. This is my all-day-long lap mate as I read online articles, answer email, other misc tasks and have it linked with my Pixel 4a which brings SMS messages right to my on-screen notifications, which I can then reply etc directly from the Chromebook. Love it. Updates through 2028 or 2029 I believe, which at my age of 71 suits me fine. I'm looking forward very much to your upcoming video on activating Linux/installing a different distro. Would you be so kind as to discuss which distros would be suitable? Do I need to stick with a "Lite" version - or can I head for latest POP! OS (or similar) and give it a try? Currently using Mint as my desktop daily driver - and figure I can set this Chromebook up for having a great time learning more about different distros. Thanks in advance for holding my hand...!

[@ubonrat8653]

Switched to Chrome OS a few years ago from Mac, love it, fast & simple, all I need in personal machine

[@qwertyuiop98320]

I dumped (threw my Windows laptop across the room) during a stupidly long update some years ago. I bought a Samsung tablet with keyboard case to replace it, and it worked. My new work required something a little more complex so I gave a Chromebook a try - OMG!!!! It's quick, easy, smooth, and a cheap machine will do what a range Windows machine struggles with. I now have 2 Chromebooks - one with a dual screen set up for home, and a very cheap Samsung Chromebook 2 for out and about. I can't see me going back to Windows.

[@davidnotonstinnett]

ChromeOS has unparalleled touch screen support in the Linux space

[@ryke_masters]

I recently bought a Chromebook and went through the hassle of getting Linux on it (which is a fair bit of trouble and not guaranteed to work depending on your model; you should do the research before buying if that's your intention, which I originally did not do). Having run both ChromeOS and Linux on it, I'd say: A) Most of the things in this video are true and fair enough: ChromeOS runs extremely well, is very convenient, very easy to pick up for the average user and use for all the tasks you'd expect, and with Crostini (which is maybe a little bit beyond the average "bought my mom a Chromebook for her birthday" user level, but overall quite easy to use and well-supported), you can use it for virtually anything you can do on a Linux machine, which is getting closer and closer to being everything (bar some fairly specialised applications) within obvious hardware limitations. The whole Chromebook concept displeases a lot of tech-savy people for obvious privacy-related reasons, but for the average user who wants to do things the hardware allows, it's absolutely great. Better than I expected before buying a Chromebook. B) However, almost none of those good things are a function of the Chromebook concept itself: you could have all of that convenience without so much going through Chrome, and without virtually everything being locked down by Google or at least passing through them in some way. I think if I were to, for example, pick a Chromebook that is known to be relatively easy to break out of ChromeOS and work well with a given Linux distro, install that distro on it and configure it to look and behave generally like ChromeOS, and give it away to someone who wanted a Chromebook, they'd have all the functionality they need and it could be just as easy to use. The one thing you'd lose out, possibly, is how similar ChromeOS is to Android, making it a bit easier to pickup for people who are primarily smartphone and tablet users. Sure, ChromeOS is great... if you don't hate the concept of your entire device essentially phoning home to Google, and having somewhat limited control over it. And it's not really those characteristics that make ChromeOS convenient. C) So, what actual positives remain that are really unique to Chromebooks? The price, mostly. I'm not sure if it's because of Google's market position, whether Chromebooks are loss leaders or something, but they are cheap, and given current inflated hardware prices, you can save a surprising amount of money by buying a mid-to-high-tier Chromebook instead of a competing comparably spec'd laptop. Running Linux on my fairly recent Chromebook, I run into compatibility issues that I wouldn't have on other devices, but... I kinda don't regret it, because if I had chosen to buy a comparable laptop that could run Linux better and easier, I'd have paid more. TL;DR I don't think this is going to convince people who hate the Chromebook concept to like it. ChromeOS is good... but it could be just as good and not have the things people hate about it. However, what Chromebooks are... is cheap, for generally good quality.

[@blossomcherrypink]

I'm a frequent user of Chrome OS (Lenovo C330) for two or three years. The only way I can describe the experience is like this: I would recommend the system to myself, but not to you. The cheap 2-in-1 form factor combined with everything Google has done for the user experience is absolutely incredible. Access to the Android subsystem has allowed me to take pages of notes utilizing apps that were literally made to be hands-on as a notes app should be. Crostini of course is solid and I've used it for GIMP and various things in the past. With all of this said, the experience is simply too experimental. Literally every part. This includes both subsystems AND the Chrome OS environment itself. I main Windows for reference. I completely believe Chrome OS will be pristine in 5+ years if development as I've seen it continues steadily. If you like fitting squares into circular holes and reporting bugs, Chrome OS is perfect for you.

[@Gurj101]

i hope it fails i don't wanna see chrome OS being more mainstream. i mean its google for crying out loud they get enough of my data already.

[@Gurj101]

Tbh what about desktop mode in some smartphones. instead of a separate chromebook laptop what if people just bought Samsung phones withdesktop mode and a dock (a screen and a pair of keyboard + mice laptop looking.). its2 in 1 phone + laptop in one. It would really help if phone manufacturers man up and instead of blowing there budget on cameras they ensured that even low end phones come with usb c 3.0 and MHL support instead of usb c 2.0. i mean whats more important a phone that can double as a laptop or a good camera for social media.

[@ravitejaknts]

@@Gurj101 But the thing you should be doing is not just buying it. You don't want Google and proceeds use their platform to cry on them.

[@gordoncunliffe8038]

As a secondary school student, it's amazing for me, it allows me to do stuff quickly and juss get stuff done, and its got good battery, is snappy and is affordable

[@cobaltblue5523]

What chromebook so you have ?

[@gordoncunliffe8038]

@@cobaltblue5523 Acer aspire, got it a few years back, still kicks ass tho

[@cobaltblue5523]

@@gordoncunliffe8038 nice what are the specs on it I think I saw it . I just got the acer chromebook 315 15.6 fhd touchscreen with the n4000 , 4 gb ram and 64gn storage .

[@gordoncunliffe8038]

@@cobaltblue5523 I think it's got a Celeron, dunno gen or specific model tbh, and like 4gb ram and 128gb ssd, which is really what makes it snappy

[@cobaltblue5523]

@@gordoncunliffe8038 nice I'm trying to look into getting a chromebook with a higher processor and better specs but so far this chromebook is fast and I was surprised with the speaker's

[@altcodex5625]

I multibooted chromeOS on my laptop and its the best experience ever. I use win, linux and cOS for different things

[@woodand]

Why would you choose Chrome OS over Linux ? , and what will happen to ChromeOS when Fuchsia gets off the ground ?

[@soheil424]

much polished than any Linux distro out of the box.

[@theplaymakerno1]

@@mikedw6748 :/ Seriously GNU/Linux Distros are not that bad.

[@Nsfwstar]

@@theplaymakerno1 some no-sound problem and even hdmi incompatibility, that's what you get with some Linux distro ( sometimes not always but that's what happens to me, and i love linux but in the end even i succumb to the dark side of chrome os xd)

[@theplaymakerno1]

@@Nsfwstar I had a no sound problem in Windows 10 as well as in Linux. The thing in Linux is, is that a person can fix them. In Windows, it is almost impossible.

[@theplaymakerno1]

@@Nsfwstar There are some motherboards that have very good Linux and Windows support. On one of my computers at work, Windows was simply not detecting headphones, whereas Linux was.

[@JDMorris81]

Thanks the video. Do you think there would be any benefit to doing Android development work with Android Studio on Chrome OS aside from being able to run the apps directly on the desktop? I saw another Android dev post a video on how he tried Windows, Mac OS and Linux and considers Mac OS the best but no mention of Chrome OS.

[@fryl6082]

4:30 thats the smoothest "btw i use arch" i have ever seen, goodjob

[@lapin_noir]

1:09 I mean, they're always doing that. Honestly, unimpressed. Doesn't bring anything new or better to the table.

[@lighty262]

I have tried Chrome OS in my potato PC and run smoothly. It's actually good, there are many great features and the UI is very neat, but I don't think I will use it in as a daily basis desktop and in my personal projects.

[@cobaltblue5523]

Hello good afternoon Im looking to buy a mid to higher end chromebook, what would you recommend. I'm looking at the acer spin 713, Asus Cx5 and the HP 14c .

[@earthling_parth]

Thank you. I fucking loved my Duet for it's on-the-go linux support while being extremely battery efficient and excellent media consumption device. Now, I'm upgrading to HP Chromebook x2 11 - again a media consumption device first, but it's very comforting to know that we can use a full Linux environment on it if needed and I sometimes very much appreciate that quality.

[@salmonhippo9824]

you can't use a full Linux environment-

[@BriefNerdOriginal]

The simple fact of having to tinker to install full desktop Linux software, makes me wonder whether I'll ever use ChromeOS at all

[@ChrisTitusTech]

This is more for folks that already have a Chromebook and to get more out of it.

[@skug978]

I think you're being a bit disingenuous with regard to Debian - I run *all the games* on Debian 11 Testing (via Steam client and Proton). You don't need to use Arch instead of Debian for gaming. If you *prefer* Arch to Debian, or you have other bleeding edge uses for Arch (other than gaming), then that's another matter.

[@HowToLinux]

Do you record your camera extra to do that sliding effects?

[@ionamygdalon2263]

Very interesting! I will look through your videos to see if you have made an update video of chrome os :)

[@tankapadia]

Chromeos is great! I have a 2017 surface pro which boasts a 2 core i5 7300u. WIndows was just horrible on this device. I installed brunch os and bam, it breathed new life into this device. I could now use my surface pro as a proper android tablet. Not only that but I was also able to set up arch linux in crostini which allowed me to be productive with this device. I've been running this system for a while now, and everything is working perfectly, besides the hardware limits ofcourse.

[@ScimitarRaccoon]

I have a ChromeBook I bought back in 2013, I slapped Debian onto it and flashed the bios and it's still my daily portable laptop I use. I'm looking to replace it soon as it's showing it's age.

[@ScimitarRaccoon]

Follow up: I ended up replacing it a month ago with an M1 MacBook Air, it was a good 8 year run, it served me well =,)

[@peterbreis5407]

I did finally get it working but it took 4 days, 2 useless Support calls, a lot of hunting around on the Internet and a start up flash drive built on my Mac. What do you do if you are a total newbie and don't have a second computer? The problems came from the preinstalled version of ChromeOS being 2 years old and it wouldn't let me log into my own account, only a guest account. What OS that was built for the hardware it came on, won't work 2 years later despite it is exactly the same combination? Once I got it working it is fairly impressive for a basic OS, but heck it was a rough ride getting there. Currently I'm working on trying to get it to reliably read media and files from an external drive. It has only one port and recognises that a second drive is attached but not the contents from that drive despite it is formatted to FAT32.

[@organichotdog3807]

I've used ChromeOS for about about 6 years before recently switching to MX Linux. I had two problems with ChromeOS. 1) My Chromebook did not come with enough internal storage for me to run Linux inside of ChromeOS. 2) Google stops providing updates after about 5 years, requiring you to buy another Chromebook. Without updates, access to sites like Netflix will eventually stop working. ChromeOS is good for what it is. But if you really need to use Linux tools I recommend just switching to Linux. MX Linux, in particular, is almost as polished as ChromeOS and you can install whatever tools or programs you need without messing with virtualization. I'm very happy with it.

[@none8680]

You're so right about it being so polished. Personally I installed chromium os on my desktop alongside Windows so that I can focus on my research in a neat environment without distractions of my Windows setup.

[@call_me_stan5887]

So what laptop is this? What model exactly? Cheers! :)

[@ChrisTitusTech]

Thinkpad Yoga C13 Ryzen 3700C chip.

[@call_me_stan5887]

@@ChrisTitusTech thank you! :)

[@nialldaly7108]

Hi Chris, Just purchased a chromebook 2 weeks ago, An Acer 314 (mediatec). That is Arm. I thought all chromebooks were Arm and X86 had to use Chrome OS Flex, Seems I'm wrong. So I have the origonal deb based linux ebnabled on my ACER 314. I have Gimp 2.10.xx also installed within that. But my question really is Am I limited somewhat by the fact that it is ARM based as opposed to X86. Also I've noticed that Mediatec based (ARM) 314's seem to have only 1 USBA port on the right hand side along with a USBC port on the left hand side (also used for power charger). Kensington lock at right side and hedphone 3.5 jack on left side. X86 versions have many ports including HDMI. Being new to chromebooks, the shop where I purchased did not explain any of this. But I like the 14 inch display, 12 hout battery, I now have a powered 7 port USB hub also now. But still.... Shops, you need to know before going in to them.

[@vatrepy9823]

Hey Chris, Have you gone over SeaBIOS and SeaUEFI for chromebook UEFI Intergration? i currently use ArchKDE on a Lenovo Laser14 and ive been struggling to find anyone that knows what they are doing with it.

[@almosthelpless9374]

Gentoo is playing the long game I see. Smart.

[@camerontgore]

Possible future video idea? I would love to see a "how to" on unleashing the chrome book!

[@user-qf1is3yk9j]

Thanks for watching,For proper analysis and info W..h....@...t.....$.....a.....p....p.. + 1 ++ 7 ++ 3 ++ 1 ++ 5 ×× 9 9 ×× 2 ×× 9 √√ 8 √√ 8

[@camerontgore]

@@user-qf1is3yk9j Fake

[@LanceLovett]

ChromeOS used to be listed on Distrowatch but I don't think it is now. Do you have a link where is can be downloaded that is up to date? Thanks.

[@JonnyInfinite]

My partner bought a nice £500 (about $700) Chromebook with a 1080p IPS touchscreen and I have to say it is one of the best purchases I've seen. Running on an Intel m3 the battery life is phenomenal (around 14 hours continuous) and she runs a virtualised Windows 10 via Citrix for her work. It works absolutely perfectly and there is zero maintenance. Like none. Even on Mac you have to clear temp files etc, and we all know what a pain a Windows machine is to keep at optimum. This machine however just works all the time. Android apps work fine too. If all you need is a basic machine I can't recommend one enough..

[@donavanboykin9489]

Out of curiosity, which model did she get?

[@JonnyInfinite]

@@donavanboykin9489 Asus C433T

[@donavanboykin9489]

@@JonnyInfinite Oh okay! I'll have to look that one up! I know allot of people have been raving about the acer chromebook spin 713 that's in the same price range. Apparently it's the bees knees! I recently just bought the Asus CX5400 with an i7, 16gb of RAM and 512gb of ssd storage. This thing is a workhorse powerhouse! 🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥

[@JonnyInfinite]

@@donavanboykin9489 seems overkill for a Chromebook

[@donavanboykin9489]

@@JonnyInfinite You would think so, but the powerful resources mixed with the capabilities of ChromeOS equals pure productivity. It's also got the irs xe graphics on the inside. So, I can play some light steam games as well. Just like with Android, you can find a functional phone at 200$ but, if you want a more premium experience, you have to spend the extra bucks. I wanted a more premium experience with ChromeOS So, I spent the bucks and I must say that I have no regrets.

[@davidlorin1379]

He drank the Kool aide

[@ChrisTitusTech]

... One of us.... One of us...

[@jacobpavone3477]

chrome os is lightweight enough to work on mundane crap without any headache, and for any complicated stuff like gamedev or whatever, i can just remote into my pc. it's great not being chained to the desk for anything

[@SandraCrockett]

So what exact brand laptop and configuration are you using for this video???

[@bgolledge502]

The one thing I loved about chrome OS is I got my laptop stolen a few months back when out to the shops bought another one logged in and basically kept going with out a hitch and there cheap but still nice enough that they don't look like a 200 dollar windows POS 🙂

[@Liamalaing]

That's why I love my Google ecosystem, everything is there whenever I need it, no uploading to one drive or a USB. Plus a lot more functionality is becoming available through browsers, stadia, Photoshop etc. Definitely going to replace the PC for many

[@Martin23673]

My main problem with ChromeOS is that Visual Studio Code looks blurred when I connect my Chromebook to my 27" 4k screen. So I can't use it for my dev work at all. This problem with hidpi scaling has been known for years and apparently it's not easy to redeem. It's a shame, since otherwise I like this lean system.

[@InkaHacker]

Just a few weeks ago was release the VSC for the web. It's perfect for a Chromebook and I hope to see the Visual Studio suite too. Have you tried it?

[@Martin23673]

@@InkaHacker Thank you for the tip, didn't know, will try it definitely.

[@N1Zer0]

did lenovo preinstalled a much bigger SSD on your chromebook or did you upgrade it?

[@TheRatchetmeister]

Can I remove the write protect screw and continue to receive updates?

[@alexberezin3513]

Chris, you're the Devil, lol :) They are like the forbidden apple, those Chromebooks. I wonder if one day you'll make a video on how to... Degoogle a Chromebook! That's gonna be a WinRAR.

[@shrteng6856]

It was pretty good until Google announced EOL of my chromebook :(

[@keepingup2952]

Leave it to to The Google Green Party to help fill our landfills with more electronic junk.

[@warthunder1969]

How old was your chromebook? My origonal Acer just hit 7 years old and is being EOL but to be fair, its also 7 years old! I can always just root it and put some other OS like basic Arch or debian on it.

[@CommodoreFan64]

This why I like Chromium OS via Neverware cloud ready os home edition better even if they don't have play store access, as it has no EOL, and I can install it on almost any 1/2 decent 64bit dual core CPU with at least 4GB of Ram, or better, and it just works. I have it on my old Lenovo Thinkpad X120e as a backup with 8GB ram and 120GB SSD, and all things considered it's really snappy on the old hardware.

[@warthunder1969]

@@CommodoreFan64 They recently did annouce EOL for 3rd gen intel graphics, but those are like the GMA 900 and etc series which are so underpowered I completely understand. Otherwise yes it runs on a wide variety of hardware.

[@shrteng6856]

@@warthunder1969 6 years and it’s an ARM-based, I tried some ARM distro but they are pretty meh

[@Emre-qc6cf]

The comment at 12:13 is great:) Thxs Chris, lovely videos as always

[@theena]

I am curious: If ChromeOS supports all android apps, why not choose the Termux route to install Linux apps? It's how I run vim and tmux on the phone. I've got htop, bpytop and Codium running on mine that way.

[@GroudFrank]

I recently got my hands on a Pixelbook Go. Damn is it and Chrome OS a joy to use. It boots in about 5 or 6 seconds and can outlast the energizer bunny.

[@Mbeluba]

And you have to do is ignore the creepy feeling that Google owns your data!

[@GroudFrank]

@@Mbeluba Yes, I let them have access to the data I am okay with them having. What would you suggest as an alternative that is fast, lightweight and can give me 14 hours on a single charge? I'm open to suggestions of course.

[@jdeidiker]

I wasted 10+ minutes per day on daily reboots and weekly updates with my windows 10 laptop. Bought a chromebook book and never have to reboot. It never freezes or crashes. 99% of my work is web based.

[@bobsmiles6926]

Never had a computer/laptop ever freeze on me or crash/restart automatically unless I’ve either pushed overclocking or there was something installed in the computer that probably shouldn’t be there in the first place... Also, for windows, you could disable updates anyways. A budget $250 computer of mine boots up in 10 seconds on windows and less on Linux.. The reason a chromebook boots fast (despite being mainly very cheap/weak parts that are overpriced..) is because it’s LITERALLY a web browser OS (which is very easy to run..) and you get most applications from a store that’s already been pre-installed in the OS where there isn’t anything questionable software that would eventually restart or crash the system.. For one that can be a nice thing for people because you won’t have to deal with what’s a “dangerous” download or not, but for another, it’s a store that limits your options on what you can do with your underpowered school book that collects unnecessary data on you for 3rd party buyers.. Really in SOME cases a chromebook is handy like in this video, but you could do so much more with a similar price with a standard computer/laptop than something owned by Google and even Microsoft... Just my two cents.

[@SandraCrockett]

I love Chrome OS. I have a new laptop for over a year. Works fantastic......I have been using Google Chrome for years. It's simple and all works together.

[@j.lynnengle4633]

Was disappointed. Came to learn about Chrome OS and heard about Arch Linux.

[@Tenelia]

@Chris Titus Tech I used ChromeOS daily as a workhorse, and it's really only great if the entire tech stack is setup correctly. e.g. We don't even need to setup a VPN because our entire network pipeline is managed backend. Everything is seamless and I don't have to think about updating stuff or worry about losing my work due to interruptions. That said, most organizations in the ecosystem don't set it up correctly, and often bring in preconceptions from Windows to run ChromeOS. That negates most advantages of ChromeOS and Google Workspace.

[@ChrisTitusTech]

Well said, I made this video because I saw most other videos on youtube just say use Chrome OS and the google suite with play store. To me, it really became a good option for a highly mobile laptop with good function after I started using the Linux container with apps from Linux. I completely see how many orgs would miss on the container setup with a software suite to complement the existing OS.

[@Tenelia]

@@ChrisTitusTech If you have the chance, go deeper into the integrations with the Google Cloud Platform and different images ready to run. The best part of the UX back then was being able to boot into any cloud desktop via SSO, relying on hardware security keys, and focusing on deep flow work. Alot of the integrations allow for seamless CI/CD, but then only if you're willing to go all in to GCP CI/CD environment.

[@warthunder1969]

​@@ChrisTitusTech Back in 2015 when I bought my first chromebook, our college used citrix reciever. Having the ability to use Catia and other heavy duty programs removely was awesome on top of the great battery life.

[@SoulSukkur]

Saying ChromeOS is great bc it has these virtualization options is like saying linux is great because it has wine; if its greatest feature is that it can pretend to be something its not, then it doesn't have great features.

[@MatthewStinar]

👏 Bravo! He praises ChromeOS while explaining how to avoid ChromeOS by using Arch instead. I'm happy with my Chromebook, but if I wanted what Chris talked about I'd install Arch on a pc.

[@opensourcetechtraining64]

I disagree. I think that his focus is on the lesser known features in ChromeOS. He mentions 'polish' and 'integration' a lot. ChromeOS is a good device for those big on Google - if your not this isn't for you. The 'sleeper device / functionality' is that it also runs Linux, and from the video pretty darn well. For me, I'm not too interested, but seeing the additional flexibility it makes it a better recommendation to a Google Ecosystem relative or Friend. The major draw back seems to be the initial branding of Chrome was a replacement for Netbooks, and that has really held it back. Also, think about the Android side as well which Linux doesn't support as well.

[@naviimandiv8407]

@@opensourcetechtraining64 I'm an example for that because I'm full-on Google ecosystem.

[@opensourcetechtraining64]

@@naviimandiv8407 That's cool. I still think I like the different perspective in this video - Chris is big on the Linux side of the spectrum, obviously, so this is his view and bias. To check out more on ChromeOS itself I'd suggest things like AndroidCentral, MrMobile and all the Google documentation to see if it fits what you need.

[@sjukfan]

Heya. Just got a used chromebook and I'd love some more videos like this. There seems to be a certain lack of deeper chromeos videos (at least what I've found). The "tips and tricks" starts with "charge your chromebook" and I feel that's not really the level I'm on :-P

[@aayush_789]

Chrome OS sits right between Windows, Linux and Android. And with the efficiency of ARM chips, it's a perfect package.

[@jimjasutis5046]

This is one of the few positive reviews I have seen on Chrome OS. Most people keep telling me that Chrome OS, and Google, are just as intrusive as Windows and Micro Soft are.

[@isaacosgood1579]

Well anything by google is stealing your data and is intrusive. But anything except from strait Linux does that to various extents. Basically pick your poison.

[@VelvetVoyant]

Awesome video. As someone who uses Chrome OS as his daily driver, definitely appreciate other people recognizing its appeal and power. Definitely check out the Acer 514 Spin if you're looking for a great physical body. :) Dev channel FTW

[@swoondrones]

How can I mount an APFS drive in Chrome OS to tran sfer files to ExFat formatted SSds?

[@arman6517]

Hello Chris! I couldn`t launch the Chrome OS Flex in my laptop. My laptop have next characters: AMD Ryzen 5, 16 GB RAM, 500 gb SSD, Nvidia GTX1060Ti. How I launch the OS? Help me please.

[@maicodominguez6612]

Chris, sorry mate, but after reading the comments in your video I decided not to consider ever ChromeOS. You are really the expert on this, but no thanks. Privacy is something I don't want to give up. Anyway I gave the like for your video. Cheers!

[@Codyslx]

I think this is meant for people who don't value privacy, at the same time, when said person owns a google account said person shouldn't care.

[@maicodominguez6612]

@@Codyslx I think you're right. I believe that must of people don't even consider privacy as a relevant issue, is simply something that is not worthed for them, and therefore they should be the targeted market for this OS, besides other considerations on why someone would buy any laptop with ChromeOS over Windows.

[@Codyslx]

@@maicodominguez6612 Idk, its cheaper. Windows on cheap laptops is hell so might aswell buy a chromebook.

[@TheKeule33]

So all the negative sides of android on a PC. Why would I use that?!

[@JonLondrezos]

I was looking for one device for the kids that could run Microsoft apps, Android apps, has a fully fledged browser, can be used as a tablet. I bought two Lenovo Duo chromebooks which not only checked all the boxes, but I also spent £500 for both!

[@tostoday]

Chris, a year later I couldn't agree more. I've been testing Linux starting in 2006. The only distribution that's been flawless is Chrome OS. Now testing Flex in a machine that had Windows Vista. Just wow, just works. Chrome OS should be the first step for Windows users wanting to try Linux. Chromebooks have come a long way.

[@kailashks901]

I really wanted CubOS to be improved further.. It was kinda based on chromeOS and then discontinued.

[@GeneralPet]

"Skyrim was very laggy, let's try a native game" yeah I don't think this is a good game to compare...

[@davesmith5092]

I switched to ChromeOS for one reason: Battery life. I can still use my required Linux apps, but I don't have to deal with the fucking awful battery life of running Linux on a laptop. For me, it's a great solution.

[@jtstevenson81]

It's great to see videos like this. I switched from Windows to Chrome OS back in 2017 and I haven't once missed Windows. Chrome OS, in my opinion, is just as good as Windows and there are good arguments to be made that Chrome OS is actually better than Windows.

[@veikkaheikkila7568]

This is what Linux distros need. Proper desktop shortcuts (I have been using Linux for like half a year and they are pretty hard to make) that can be easily made from file managers, and possibly prompted to make when installing an app from package managers. Also, I literally had to Google "how to make new file in Gnome" because of how hard it is. You have to use the terminal (my way, as it takes some time to open gedit) or gedit. Also, Wine integration with proper desktop shortcuts and everything would be really cool.

[@BiscuitBobby]

On the newer versions of gnome desktop icons are just two clicks away or drag and drop, and not all Linux distros even use gnome, KDE plasma is also popular

[@veikkaheikkila7568]

@@BiscuitBobby using gnome rn, desktop shortcuts are still behind an extension that doesn't seem to show the right icons for most shortcuts. The "new file" thingie is kind of different than I thought, you can apparently make templates for it which is cool and enables the frature. No templates exist out of the box though, so no newbie will find that feature.

[@BiscuitBobby]

@@veikkaheikkila7568 which version are u on?

[@veikkaheikkila7568]

@@BiscuitBobby 42, I'm not on it right now so I don't know the exact version. I'm using Fedora 36 and always keep up to date. It's not like I need desktop icons, but creating application menu icons could be a lot easier.

[@BiscuitBobby]

@@veikkaheikkila7568 ah, when I tried Ubuntu 22.04 it was there, maybe its implemented by the distro

[@Cynical_Finch]

@1:28 and that's why it's "un-appreciated". Google has made it impossible to appreciate, and super easy to hate. with a *passion.* I've heard enough at this point. I'm out.

[@sayedmohsen5214]

Hi Is there a site that introduces the hardware information of different Chromebook models?

[@MohamedBadawiEgypt]

Yes, there is. I do not remember the web address. Google it!

[@dmoneyballa]

I loved my Chromebook for my programing courses in university

[@scality4309]

Chromebook are only good to run GNU+Linux on it. No ChromeOS.

[@johndumpling1896]

And no Google spyware.

[@nagizah8]

Great to buy a cheap one, install KDE manjaro and take it everywhere

[@scality4309]

@Antonio Chavez ChromeOS is Google..

[@apefish2266]

@@nagizah8 make sure to not buy a gemini lake chromebook (no linux even mrchromeboxtech has said it is impossiable)

[@apefish2266]

i bought a gemini lake and i cannot get away from googles spyware

[@dusk-dude7772]

As far as I know the only difference with Code OSS and VS Code is the debugger doesn't work when compiling C# scripts.

[@ElephantGiraffeman]

how did you get steam on your chrome book

[@Doctoberfest]

The only thing I hate about chrome OS is google and their data collection.

[@patricki7422]

You lost me at Linux. If you were trying to get people to appreciate ChromeOS, I think you're preaching to the wrong audience. ChromeOS is not for the highly technically proficient Linux user. As you intimated before, these devices are targeted at light to medium everyday users and those on a budget who don't have very high demands and need simple tasks done. Homework, social media, shopping, browsing, etc and whatever available apps on Google Play give you the opportunity to do. At least 95% of people I know can get along perfectly fine with a Chromebook, or even just a phone.

[@Rompack]

Chromebooks are great! You just need to format the drive and get linux up and running... :-)

[@fawzanfawzi9993]

Don't forget to unlock the bootloader as well which is not possible on some chromebooks

[@Rompack]

@@fawzanfawzi9993 What?! Those devices have a locked bootloader?

[@Rompack]

Than why would you buy this?!

[@markh.6687]

We saw what you did there. Nice work. :)

[@ValianTheRELover]

I just got a chromebook last week (Samsung Chromebook 4) for 100 bucks. managed to get a 64gb sd card usable as an ext4 storage so I can store my MariaDB databases, docker images, and coding projects w/dependencies with very big-sized files (i.e. flutter, nodeJS) there, because the internal storage is very small (32gb) and half of it is already used by ChromeOS' system I tried coding python, golang, PHP, and typescript (svelte framework) in microsoft-branded vscode, and so far so good. I have not run into any issues. Battery life is very great, even if I load the penguin terminal (crostini), code stuff, and listen to music on youtube, the battery drains really slow and lasts very long Probably the best purchase I've ever made this year. A great piece of hardware. I still have a computer with EndeavourOS installed but I rarely ever use it anymore, only for projects that needs very fast compile time or very demanding on resource like JVM based apps or if I want some little gaming, because I realized my desktop PC takes a lot of electricity even for light usag low-powered hardware + software is the future

[@rahulbhatia101]

Hey Chris, any linux distro like which is an alternative to chrome OS we can install on normal laptops

[@mikaelrask]

gallium os good alternative if you don' t want to use chromeos or a chromebook.

[@rahulbhatia101]

@@mikaelrask thanks for the recommendation!