I'm snagging a premium Chromebook for a steal, and I'm wondering if it's worth ditching ChromeOS in favor of Linux to make the most of its higher specs. What are your thoughts on this? Are there any specific issues I should be aware of before making the switch?
5 Answers
There can be challenges moving to Linux, like sound issues. Make sure to look at the Chrultrabook docs for compatibility information. If your model isn’t listed there, chances are it won't work with standard Linux distros.
Before making the leap, consider what issues you're trying to overcome with ChromeOS. If you're not hitting any hard limits, it could be pointless to switch.
If you do want to go full Linux, look into the "Linux under ChromeOS" feature if your Chromebook supports it. It's a safer bet than risking everything with a complete install.
People are saying the built-in Linux environment is the best way to go. But if you're feeling adventurous, just know a few things: only Intel x64 chips work, avoid if you have 4GB RAM or less, and under 64GB storage is a no-go. Also, don’t rely on an SD card for the OS; it’ll drag everything down! I had to open up my HP x360 to make it work, and while it was a hassle, I got everything functioning in the end, sound issues included.
Actually, you might not need to install Linux at all since ChromeOS is already based on Linux! But if you're facing any limitations, it could be worth exploring.
Check this link for model support: https://docs.chrultrabook.com/docs/devices.html. If your crate is compatible, you can also give the built-in Linux environment in ChromeOS a try first. It's more secure and poses no risk of bricking!