To get started with a new Chromebook, connect it to Wi-Fi, sign in with a Google Account, move over your files and bookmarks, then set up the apps, shortcuts, and accessories you use every day. These 10 steps take you from first-time setup to a Chromebook that fits your work or home routine.
1. Complete first-time setup
Turn on the Chromebook and follow the on-screen prompts. Google’s Chromebook setup instructions guide you through choosing a language and keyboard, optionally enabling accessibility features, connecting to a network, accepting the terms, and signing in with a Google Account. Internet access is required for setup.
Signing in brings over items associated with your Google Account, including Chrome bookmarks, extensions, and apps. If you are using a shared Chromebook and do not want a personal sign-in, Guest browsing is an alternative for temporary use.
2. Move bookmarks, files, and settings
Before switching from another computer, make sure you can access the items you need. Google’s guide to moving to a Chromebook recommends backing up Chrome bookmarks, apps, and extensions. For files, upload them to Google Drive or copy them to compatible USB storage or an external hard drive.
#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.
| Option | Best for |
|---|---|
| Google Drive | Opening cloud files across devices and accessing them from the Chromebook when connected. |
| USB storage or external hard drive | Keeping a portable local copy or transferring files without uploading them first. |
After signing in, check that your synced Chrome items are available. For local files, connect the drive and open the Files app to copy them to the Chromebook or another destination.
3. Find your way around Launcher and Files
Use Launcher to find apps and search
Open the Launcher to browse or search for apps and documents. It is the Chromebook’s starting point for finding what you want to open without hunting through folders.
Use Files to manage local and cloud content
Open the Files app to browse downloads, connected storage, and cloud content. Google’s migration guide explains that many Chromebook tasks happen in web apps and Google Drive, while some work can be done offline. Confirm that important files are available locally or set up for offline access before relying on them without an internet connection.
Rank #2
- Storage: 16GB Flash Memory
- OS: Chrome OS
- Screen Size: 11.6"
4. Learn where Settings lives
Open Settings by selecting the time in the bottom-right corner and then selecting the Settings gear, or press Alt+Shift+S to open the system menu and choose Settings. Google’s Chromebook Settings overview covers the areas you are most likely to adjust:
Do these 3 things before closing this tab:
1Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minute2Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problems3Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitches- Network, users, and connected devices
- Wallpaper, accessibility, privacy, and security
- Apps, notifications, language, time zone, and storage
Use the search box in Settings when you know what you want to change but are not sure which section contains it.
5. Learn shortcuts and touchpad gestures
Search for keyboard shortcuts
Open the Key Shortcuts app with Launcher+Ctrl+S to find and customize supported shortcuts. Google’s Chromebook productivity guidance recommends using the app to discover shortcuts rather than trying to memorize them all at once.
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
Try the gestures supported by your model
Touchpad gestures vary by Chromebook model and settings. Check the touchpad section in Settings for the gestures available on your device, then practice the ones you use most, such as scrolling or switching between open windows.
6. Pin frequently used apps to the shelf
The shelf is the row of app icons along the bottom of the screen. Pin apps you use often so they are easy to open. Find the app in Launcher, right-click it (or use a two-finger tap on the touchpad), and choose the pin option if it is available. You can unpin an app later if your routine changes.
Recommended Free Tools
7. Choose the right kind of app
Start with web apps
Many common tasks work in a browser, and web apps are often the simplest choice because they are available through the web and update there. Google’s migration guide also points to the Chrome Web Store and apps that support offline work.
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.
Check device support before relying on an installed app
Some Chromebooks support Android apps from the Google Play Store, but availability depends on the device and can also be limited by administrator policy on a managed Chromebook. If you need a particular app, check whether it is available for your model and whether it works offline before making it part of your routine.
8. Create virtual desks for separate tasks
Virtual desks let you organize open windows into separate workspaces, such as work, school, and personal tasks. Google’s Chromebook guide for home use lists virtual desks as a productivity feature. Create separate desks when too many windows on one screen make it harder to switch between tasks.
9. Connect accessories and make the Chromebook comfortable to use
Connect displays, storage, and peripherals
Chromebooks can work with monitors, USB storage, printers, Bluetooth keyboards and mice, speakers, and headphones. The exact connection options depend on the Chromebook’s ports and supported standards. If you want to connect a monitor and several USB accessories through one cable, a USB-C hub can help—but verify that your Chromebook’s USB-C port supports display output and power delivery, and that the hub matches the ports and standards you need.
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).
Google’s home-use guide also covers Wi-Fi, VPNs, and casting to a TV. Use the relevant settings or connection prompts for the accessory or network you are setting up.
Adjust display and accessibility options
In Settings, look for options such as Night Light, Dark Theme, magnification, screen readers, and keyboard accessibility features. Choose the display and input settings that make the device easier for you to use; available options and controls can vary by model.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.10. Use Guest mode, updates, and Powerwash carefully
Use Guest browsing for temporary access
Guest mode is useful when someone needs to use a shared Chromebook without signing in to a personal Google Account. For your own use, sign in with your account to access its synced settings and apps.
Let automatic updates run and check your model’s support period
Chromebooks receive automatic updates, but the end date is model-specific. Google for Education’s 2024-era policy statement says, “Starting in 2024, all Chromebooks released from 2021 onwards receive 10 years of automatic security and feature updates.” Check your Chromebook’s individual Auto Update policy rather than assuming every model has the same update period. Google provides its Chromebook automatic update policy information.
Back up before using Powerwash
Powerwash resets a Chromebook to factory settings. Back up any files you need before using it, since a reset removes local data. Use it only when you intend to erase the device and set it up again.
Quick Recap
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
