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Usually, yes: when you first sign in to a Chromebook, you use the password for the Google Account linked to it. But supported devices can also use a separate PIN or device password to unlock the screen or sign in. Changing that local option does not change your Google Account password.
Which password does a Chromebook use?
At initial sign-in, enter the email address or phone number for the Google Account associated with the Chromebook, then enter that account’s password. That credential also authenticates you to Google services. See Google’s Chromebook sign-in instructions.
After setup, the sign-in experience can depend on the device and its settings. A supported Chromebook may let you use a PIN or configured device password for screen unlock and, on some devices, instead of the Google Account password at sign-in. Those are device sign-in options, not replacements for the Google Account password. Google describes these options in its guidance on locking and unlocking the screen.
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| Credential | Where it applies | What changing it affects |
|---|---|---|
| Google Account password | Google Account authentication and initial Chromebook sign-in | Access to the account; it is distinct from the local PIN or device password. |
| Chromebook PIN or device password | Supported local sign-in or screen unlock | The device sign-in option, not the Google Account password. Availability varies by device and settings. |
| Saved website password | A website or app login, stored through Chrome Password Manager | That site’s credential; it is not the Chromebook sign-in password. Chrome can save passwords in a Google Account or locally on the device. See Google’s password-management guidance. |
Set or change a Chromebook PIN or password
- On the Chromebook, open Settings → Privacy and security → Lock screen and sign in.
- Confirm the account password if prompted, then choose the available PIN or password option and follow the on-screen instructions.
- If setting a PIN, use at least six digits.
Google’s sign-in settings instructions describe the setup and change flows. Controls can vary with the Chromebook and ChromeOS version, so a label or option may differ on your device.
#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 you cannot sign in
Forgot the Google Account password
Use Google Account recovery. Google may ask questions to verify that the account is yours before offering a password reset. Do not give your password or verification codes to a third-party recovery service; Google says it does not work with services that claim to provide account or password support.
The password was changed recently
If the new password is not accepted on the Chromebook, Google advises trying the old password and checking the internet connection and account details. Its sign-in troubleshooting guide covers these checks.
Rank #2
- Storage: 16GB Flash Memory
- OS: Chrome OS
- Screen Size: 11.6"
It is a work or school Chromebook
An organization can set sign-in requirements for managed devices and accounts. You may be asked to enter a password periodically, or policy may affect access and recovery. If the usual recovery steps do not work, ask your organization’s administrator for help.
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.
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
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