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To set up a Chromebook, power it on, choose your language and keyboard, connect to Wi-Fi, accept the displayed terms, and sign in with the Google Account appropriate for the device. Then install any available ChromeOS updates and configure the files, offline tools, and peripherals you need. If your Chromebook belongs to a school or employer, use the account and instructions it provided; its administrator may control setup options.
Complete the first-run setup
- Power on and choose basic settings. Plug the Chromebook into power, press the power button, then choose your preferred language and keyboard layout. Open Accessibility during setup if you need an available feature. Follow Google’s Chromebook startup instructions.
- Connect to a network. Select Wi-Fi and enter the password if prompted. A workplace or school network may require a certificate or details from its administrator. Google cautions that information sent over an open public network can be visible to other people, so choose a trusted, secure network when possible. See Google’s Wi-Fi connection guidance.
- Accept the displayed terms and sign in. Use an existing Google Account or create one if the setup flow offers that option. Google notes that bookmarks, extensions, and apps can appear after you sign in. For a school- or employer-managed Chromebook, use the organization-issued account and follow its instructions; a personal Google Account may not provide access to organization services. See Google’s account sign-in guidance.
If this Chromebook is for work or school
A school or employer may own and manage the Chromebook. Its administrator can restrict websites, apps, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, or accessibility features. If a setting or setup step is unavailable, ask the school or IT administrator for the right account, network certificate, or permission. Do not try to bypass management controls. Google explains some school-managed device policies in its school Chromebook guidance.
For a work or school network, get the required credentials or certificate from the organization rather than guessing at network settings. Wi-Fi network syncing is optional, not a required part of setup, and an administrator may turn it off.
Install ChromeOS updates
Chromebooks check for and download ChromeOS updates automatically when connected to the internet. If setup does not prompt you to update, check for updates in Settings and restart if one is available so installation can finish. Google’s current steps are in Update your Chromebook’s operating system.
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#1 Best Overall
- Intel Celeron N4120: 4 Cores & Threads, 1.1GHz Base Clock, Up to 2.6GHz Boost Clock, 4MB Cache, Intel UHD Graphics 600. The perfect combination of performance, power consumption, and value helps your device handle multitasking smoothly and reliably with four processing cores to divide up the work.
If a managed Chromebook cannot update, contact its administrator. Update support schedules vary by model; check the device’s own “Update schedule” details rather than assuming a general support end date.
Move files and prepare your everyday setup
Find and transfer files
Open the Files app to work with files stored on the Chromebook or on connected storage. When moving from another computer, back up important files first. Google describes using Google Drive or another cloud storage service, or a compatible USB thumb drive or external hard drive. Connect removable storage to the Chromebook and open it in Files; compatibility can vary by Chromebook and storage device. See Google’s Chromebook migration guide.
Rank #2
- Storage: 16GB Flash Memory
- OS: Chrome OS
- Screen Size: 11.6"
Prepare for offline tasks
Set up the offline features you need while you are online. Google gives Google Docs and Gmail Offline as examples, but not every website or app works without an internet connection. Check that the specific files and services you rely on are available offline before leaving a network.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Set up printing or scanning if needed
Printing
A compatible internet-connected printer or USB printer may work with a Chromebook. For network printing, connect both devices to the same network and follow Google’s printer setup instructions. Bluetooth printing is not supported; compatibility and manufacturer-specific steps may vary.
Rank #3
- Intel Processor Up to 2.80GHz, 4GB DDR4, 128GB Storage
- 15" FHD IPS Display, Intel UHD Graphics
- 1x USB Type C, 1 x USB Type A, 1x Headphone/Microphone Combo Jack, HDMI
- Fast WiFi and Bluetooth, Integrated Webcam
- Chrome OS, AC Charger Included, Pastel Silver
Scanning
Google says most printers and scanners connected over Wi-Fi or a wired network can be used, and a Chromebook camera can also scan. Bluetooth scanning is not supported. Check Google’s scanner setup guidance for connection steps and device compatibility.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- FOR HOME, WORK, & SCHOOL – With an Intel processor, 14-inch display, custom-tuned stereo speakers, and long battery life, this Chromebook laptop lets you knock out any assignment or binge-watch your favorite shows..Voltage:5.0 volts
- HD DISPLAY, PORTABLE DESIGN – See every bit of detail on this micro-edge, anti-glare, 14-inch HD (1366 x 768) display (1); easily take this thin and lightweight laptop PC from room to room, on trips, or in a backpack.
- ALL-DAY PERFORMANCE – Reliably tackle all your assignments at once with the quad-core, Intel Celeron N4120—the perfect processor for performance, power consumption, and value (2).
- 4K READY – Smoothly stream 4K content and play your favorite next-gen games with Intel UHD Graphics 600 (3) (4).
- MEMORY AND STORAGE – Enjoy a boost to your system’s performance with 4 GB of RAM while saving more of your favorite memories with 64 GB of reliable flash-based eMMC storage (5).
Rank #4
- THE BETTER WAY TO LAPTOP – Imagine a Chromebook that’s as flexible as your day: thin and lightweight with built-in Google apps and stress-free security.
- TAKE HITS KEEP MOVING – Sleek, light, and built to last- the Chromebook 2-in-1 is just 0.69” thick and 3.3lbs. Enjoy long-lasting battery life, fast charging, and military-grade durability for nonstop productivity wherever life takes you.
- PERFORMANCE THAT MATCHES YOUR HUSTLE – Fuel your ideas with an Intel Core processor and 128GB storage. Boot up in under 10 seconds to start the day powerfully efficient.
- FLEX YOUR CREATIVITY ANYWHERE, ANYTIME – Create, work, or unwind your way with a versatile 2-in-1 design. Flip easily between laptop, tent, and tablet modes with a responsive touchscreen built for flexibility.
- BRILLIANT VIEWS AND IMMERSIVE AUDIO – See, hear, and create with awesome clarity. The WUXGA display brings rich detail to your work and play, while audio tuned by Waves MaxxAudio provides immersive, balanced sound.
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