Description
NOTE: This article only applies to employees in the Suffolk Region.
This article lists the hardware a Chromebook needs to run ChromeOS comfortably, and the specifications CCE Suffolk recommends when purchasing a new Chromebook.
Google's Published ChromeOS Minimums
- Processor: 64-bit Intel or AMD x86 compatible processor (ARM processors are also supported on specific devices); components manufactured before 2010 may result in a reduced experience
- Memory: 4 gigabytes of RAM
- Storage: 16 gigabytes minimum internal storage
- Update support: Every Chromebook has a fixed Automatic Update Expiration (AUE) date, after which it stops receiving security and feature updates, regardless of physical condition
CCE Suffolk Recommended Minimums
Note: The specifications below exceed Google's published minimums. A 4 gigabyte Chromebook is workable for very light browsing only and is not recommended for a staff workstation.
- Memory: 8 gigabytes of RAM minimum. Most Chromebooks sold under $300 ship with 4 gigabytes, which leaves little headroom for multiple browser tabs, Android applications, or newer ChromeOS features. 8 gigabytes is the current baseline for the Chromebook Plus tier and is CCE Suffolk's recommended minimum.
- Storage: 64 gigabytes minimum, 128 gigabytes preferred. ChromeOS itself is lightweight, but downloaded files, offline documents, and Android applications fill a 16 to 32 gigabyte drive quickly.
- Processor: An Intel Core or AMD Ryzen-class processor is preferred over entry-level Celeron, Pentium, or MediaTek chips for staff who multitask across several applications.
- Automatic Update Expiration date: Check the AUE date before purchasing. Avoid buying a model that is already close to its expiration, since it will stop receiving security updates on a fixed schedule regardless of purchase date.
Notes
- Google has announced a new laptop platform (referred to as Aluminium OS, marketed as Googlebook) expected to launch in fall 2026, with a published hardware floor of a recent processor, 8 gigabytes of RAM, and 128 gigabytes of storage for migration eligibility. Purchases at CCE Suffolk's recommended specification above should already meet that floor; this will be revisited once the platform is finalized.
- These specifications apply to standard staff workstations. Chromebooks are not recommended for roles requiring desktop-class software; see the Windows or Mac articles instead.