Google Chrome OS

[Realitycrash]

I just accidentally broke my laptop by stepping on it. I am in dire need of a new one, and I don't have that much cash. I found a cheap one, but it ships with Google Chrome OS. Is that a workable OS? Will most applications (Steam, Word, etc) work for it?
Help appreciated.

 

[OneCatch]

I just accidentally broke my laptop by stepping on it. I am in dire need of a new one, and I don't have that much cash. I found a cheap one, but it ships with Google Chrome OS. Is that a workable OS? Will most applications (Steam, Word, etc) work for it?
Help appreciated.

No.
Chrome OS doesn't use or recognise applications at all.
Here's a sim of how it works:
http://www.chasms.com/chrome1/chromebook/cdesktop.htm
It's basically all browser based, and while it does have apps like Google Docs for word processing, you won't be able to install any proper programs like Steam or Office or a different browser.
Sorry.

 

[Reiper]

see if you can find the windows product key for your broken laptop. It might have come with install discs, and the key might be on one of them.

 

[CPunchMaster]

Yeah, OneCatch is dead on. It's a great secondary, portable computer to do simple word processing on. As your only computer, it's pretty limiting. At the pricepoint of a chromebook, you're going to be hard pressed to get a computer that will play anything off Steam. I guess you could get it for now and replace it when you have more funds...

Also, I wouldn't try and put Windows on the Chromebook, they've only got a 16GB SSD normally.

 

[Realitycrash]

I just accidentally broke my laptop by stepping on it. I am in dire need of a new one, and I don't have that much cash. I found a cheap one, but it ships with Google Chrome OS. Is that a workable OS? Will most applications (Steam, Word, etc) work for it?
Help appreciated.

No.
Chrome OS doesn't use or recognise applications at all.
Here's a sim of how it works:
http://www.chasms.com/chrome1/chromebook/cdesktop.htm
It's basically all browser based, and while it does have apps like Google Docs for word processing, you won't be able to install any proper programs like Steam or Office or a different browser.
Sorry.

Alright, thanks. I'll guess I'll be shelling out for a Windows-machine.

 

[loc978]

... http://lifehacker.com/how-to-install-linux-on-a-chromebook-and-unlock-its-ful-509039343

Just sayin'. No need to pay for an OS if you just want some basic functionality... Unless you require seamless, no-hassle gaming, in which case Windows is far from stellar in any case. Just the nature of using a PC.

 

[AWAR]

You can try getting a used one.