I found an older Chromebook and wanted to install Linux, specifically Zorin OS. Its hardware ID starts with "SNOW," but I can't find this model in the usual compatibility documentation or through online searches. Does that mean Linux is impossible on it, or is it worth trying anyway? I haven't installed custom firmware yet because I wanted to confirm compatibility first.
3 Answers
"SNOW" likely identifies the Samsung Chromebook based on an ARM processor. Linux is possible, but Zorin OS generally isn’t an option because it targets standard x86-64 computers rather than this ARM platform. You’d need an ARM-compatible distribution, such as a lightweight Arch-based setup or another distro designed for this hardware.
Before changing anything, check the device-specific firmware and installation documentation. You may not be able to replace the Chromebook’s firmware with a conventional BIOS, so don’t blindly force an installation. If you do proceed, follow instructions written specifically for the Samsung Chromebook hardware.
I haven’t installed custom firmware yet. I wanted to read the documentation and make sure the model was supported first.
An ARM-compatible Linux system can probably be installed, but this is very old hardware with around 2 GB of memory and a weak processor. You’ll likely need compressed RAM or zRAM, and a lightweight desktop such as i3. Basic Linux experimentation could be fun, but modern browsing and video playback will probably be frustrating. If you want a practical daily laptop, a newer machine would be a much better choice.
Thanks! I’m surprised I couldn’t find the relevant compatibility information during my searches, but this clears things up.