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It is better to many people because it is more simple to use. Compared to a traditional PC, you have to care about a whole lot less things.
Especially the lack of need for backups is nice for a lot of people. If the computer breaks or is lost, just replace with another Chromebook and continue to work. All your data is still there.
That Chromebooks are locked down is only true until you flip the developer switch. Then you can install whatever distro you like.
You can work offline with Chromebooks. The 3G versions come with 100MB/month mobile data plan included. And free Wifi may be more common than you think. Some articles mentioned Starbucks.
While it may not meet the requirements of everyone, it does already for a whole lot of people.




Member since:
2005-07-06
I still remain somewhat confused about why a Chromebook exists at all. How is it better than a laptop or netbook (with the Chrome browser if you really must) that can work offline so much more easily?
Couple that issue with the fact that mobile data plans are expensive, free wi-fi isn't often available outside the house and Chromebooks are locked down (have fun trying to put a "proper" Linux on them), I remain struggling to work out what advantage a Chromebook gives you.
No wonder I never see anyone using them when I'm out and about because they become a virtual brick when on the move.