Linux is envisioned to be the best open-source operating system for Chromebooks. There are multiple reasons why this OS is preferred over other proprietary software platforms like Windows.
Linux Distros have an easy user interface and are less prone to crashes. Installing this next-generation operating system is easier on Google laptops like Chromebook.
It takes an average of 15-20 minutes to set up the Linux operating systems with compatible devices. Moreover, Chromebook users can protect their laptops from malware attacks using Linux’s security tools like ClamAV.
Linux operating systems also run 2x faster compared to Mac or Windows OS. Chromebook owners can update the Linux OS and all software within a few clicks. Besides, it supports professional software for video, photo and audio editing. So, if you use the Chromebook for business purposes, Linux OS is ideal for you.
Now, let’s determine the best Linux for Chromebook models:
Can You Install the Linux Operating System on your Chromebook Laptop?
Not all Chromebooks are compatible with the Linux operating system. If you have a Chromebook that was produced before 2019, Linux won’t work. Moreover, the laptop should have an Intel-powered processor to run the Linux OS. Otherwise, you might encounter random system crashing issues on the Chromebook.
Additionally, you must check whether the device has Chrome OS or later before installing Linux. Chrome OS 103 is the latest system version that works best with the Linux OS. Thus, if you are considering switching from Windows OS to Linux, ensure to check these factors.
Here is what you can do with Linux on Chromebook:
- Users can install Linux command line tools and code editors to design apps and write codes.
- You can gain complete access to the desktops’ productivity tools.
- Connect your Chromebook to other compatible remote computers with Linux Distribution.
- Chromebook owners can use popular Linux programs such as Thunderbird and LibreOffice.
- Developing software in Linux is easier than the other open-source operating systems.
Best Linux OS for Chromebooks: Get the Right One for Your Laptop
Linux has released over 600 distributions for desktop and laptop users. Among them, 8 Linux distros can be used in a Chromebook. Enhance your productivity level and boost the device’s performance by choosing the right OS.
Here is the list of the best Linux distro for Chromebook models:
Arch Linux
Arch is the most light-weight, reliable and simple Linux distribution that you can use in Chromebooks. Millions of web developers and programmers use this OS for its easy accessibility. Chromebook owners can install and customise the Arch Linux OS easily without an expert’s help.
Unlike other available Linux distributions, Arch OS isn’t a software bloat. It allows users to control the software packages’ installations. There is no need to reinstall the software to get the latest update. Arch Linux offers continuous software upgrades on Chromebooks without installing the OS repeatedly.
Here are the reasons to use Arch Linux on your Chromebook:
- With GUI installers like Anarchy, you can install Arch Linux on the laptop within minutes.
- This Linux distro continues updating the OS to fix the bugs and security patches.
- Every update on Arch Linux will be compatible with your system.
- Get all the Arch Linux-related latest updates, statistics and news on Arch Wiki.
- Users can install or upgrade packages easily with Arch Linux’s “Pacman Package Manager”.
- Check which apps and tools you can install on your Chromebook from AUR.
GalliumOS
Are you looking for a fast and easy-to-use Linux OS for Chromebooks? Go for GalliumOS. It is specifically designed for laptops with Chrome OS. It offers a Linux environment with the best hardware specifications and compatibility.
Moreover, Gallium OS has the same interface as Ubuntu which is another popular Linux OS. This is why Gallium OS is compatible with all the Ubuntu repositories. One of the primary reasons to use this Linux distribution is its fast booting time.
Users can limit the system stalls with this next-generation Linux OS. Additionally, you can improve the Chromebook’s speed and performance with GalliumOS.
Do you know the best part about this Linux distribution? It helps Chromebook owners to extend their device’s battery life.
Here are the exclusive features of GalliumOS that you must be aware of:
- A fresh installation of GalliumOS takes only 2.9 GB, reducing memory usage.
- It has a built-in ChromeOS mouse driver that improves the touchpad experience.
- This Linux OS helps Chromebook users to eliminate HDMI issues and other bugs.
- GalliumOS offers a fully functional desktop with advanced features.
Crostini
You might have heard about this Linux distribution, right? It is one of the best Linux for Chromebook that was released in 2019. This operating system is ideal for web developers who wish to create or test Android apps.
You can run web apps like MailChimp on the Chromebook after installing Crostini. You can install all the latest Linux apps with Crostini. It allows the users to run Linux programs directly from their Chromebook’s desktop.
Besides, finding the required Linux apps is easier in Crostini with its simple navigation bar. If you are looking for a reliable Linux distribution, Crostini might be the right choice.
To install this OS, tap on the clock icon from the Chromebook desktop. Click the Settings icon and scroll down to “Linux development environment” when the next screen appears. If you don’t find this option, your Chromebook might not support the Crostini OS. However, if you see the option, select “Turn On” and choose “Install” to get this Linux distribution.
Solus
When it comes to ease of use and performance, Solus is one of the best Linux OS to run on Chromebooks. It is ideal for those who need a Windows-like experience on their ChromeOS devices.
This Linux distribution features several reliable productivity apps. Moreover, Solus OS is easy to set up and install on Chromebooks.
Can’t find the apps from the curated lists on the taskbar? Simply use the Solus OS search function, and you will get the app you are looking for. You will also get a calendar, a Settings pane and a notification centre in the taskbar.
If you need the best Linux for Chromebook for gaming, Solus is the ultimate option. You can find online game streaming platforms like Steam on this Linux distribution. Besides, Chromebook users can install and run their favourite games easily on Solus.
However, this Linux operating system takes up a lot of space on Chromebooks. Thus, if your laptop runs out of space, consider choosing an alternative option. But, if you have more than 25Gb on the laptop, install Solus OS immediately.
How to Know Whether the Linux OS on Your Chromebook is Updated?
If you are experiencing any issues with the Linux apps, restart the Chromebook. If that doesn’t solve the issue, open a web browser and write “chrome://components” in the address bar. Press the Enter button and navigate to “cros-termina” when the next web page opens.
Select “Check for update” when the new page appears on the Chromebook screen. If you don’t get an update option, you have the latest Linux OS. Additionally, you can access the Linux Terminal to check whether the OS is updated.
Write “sudo apt update” when the black screen opens and hit the Enter button. Wait for a few seconds and then write “sudo apt upgrade” and press “Enter”. These two command lines ensure your Linux OS is updated.
Restart the Chromebook and try to open the Linux app where you’re facing issues. If the error persists, update the problematic apps instead to eliminate the issue.
