Google Chromebooks run on Linux, but normally the Linux they run isn’t particularly accessible to the user. Linux is used as a backend technology for an environment based on the open source Chromium OS, which Google then transforms into Chrome OS.
Another popular question is “Is Chrome OS based on Linux?”.
While Chrome OS is based on Linux, Chrome OS does have some features you can’t use on desktop Linux. For example, you can’t watch Netflix on Linux without a dirty hack, while Netflix is completely supported on Chrome OS. The dirty hack uses Wine to run the Windows version of Silverlight, so it will only work on Intel-based Chromebooks.
If you plan to purchase a Chromebook to install Linux on, it’s a good idea to keep in mind that your choices with Linux operating systems are limited. The best Linux operating system to use with a Chromebook is Gallium OS. It’s a Linux OS dedicated to bringing Ubuntu to Chrome devices, including Chromebooks.
How do I know if my Chromebook is Linux compatible?
The first step is to check your Chrome OS version to see if your Chromebook even supports Linux apps. Start by clicking your profile image in the bottom-right corner and navigating to the Settings menu. Then click the hamburger icon in the upper-left corner and select the About Chrome OS option. The version of Chrome OS you’re running will appear.
Then, what is Linux (beta) on a Chromebook?
Linux (Beta) is a feature that lets you develop software using your Chromebook. You can install Linux command line tools, code editors, and IDEs on your Chromebook. These can be used to write code, create apps, and more. Linux (Beta) is off by default but can be turned on from Settings.
What operating system does the Acer Chromebook 15 run?
The Acer Chromebook 15, like most other Acer Chromebook devices, plays nicely with Linux, and Gallium OS especially.
Does the Asus Asus c423na Chromebook 14 (2019) work with Linux?
The ASUS C423NA is one of the most modern Chromebooks out today that enjoys stellar Linux support. In our testing, we found that the ASUS ASUS C423NA Chromebook 14 (2019) works excellently with most Linux operating systems with only minor issues due to the hardware being very new.
Does the Samsung Chromebook 3 support gallium OS?
The device also has to have excellent support for Linux, and as it turns out, the Samsung Chromebook 3 is officially supported by Gallium OS and many other Linux operating systems. In our testing, we found that despite its age, it manages to run all Linux distributions very well. Especially Gallium OS, which officially supports the device.