Chromebooks have their own disadvantages, just like everything else, and they might not be ideal for everyone. Therefore, before making a choice, it is essential to be aware of the restrictions and drawbacks of Chromebooks.
Disadvantages of Chromebooks
In order to get a complete picture of this new generation of computers, it is advised that you read about the advantages of Chromebooks in addition to the disadvantages that we have listed below.
Limited Storage
Chromebooks typically come with 16 to 32 GB of onboard storage, though there is an option to add another 32 GB of storage using an SD card.
You will therefore need to get used to the idea of storing all of your files on Google’s Cloud Storage service or make do with the built-in storage that Chromebooks, USB sticks, and other external storage devices offer.
Cloud Storage
Chromebooks are basically designed to perform all their computing and storage functions on Google s Cloud platform. In order to make the full use of a Chromebook, you need to get comfortable with the idea of having your files, books, pictures and music on Google Drive.
Cloud storage is practically unlimited and not at all expensive. For two years, Google will give you 100 GB of storage space on Google Drive without charging you anything.
But not everyone feels at ease with the concept of storing files in the cloud. It will take some time for us to get used to the idea of storing files away on the cloud because the idea of having files stored and accessible locally is somewhat hardwired into our system.
Chromebooks Can Be Slow!
Even though Chromebooks are renowned for their lightning-fast startup times, they can become sluggish when performing operations like opening and saving files or working on spreadsheets.
Since all processing is done in the cloud, this is typically caused by your internet connection. Chromebooks’ speed is also influenced by the speed of your internet connection.
Cloud Printing
Unlike regular laptops, there is no way of connecting a Chromebook to a printer. This does not preclude you from printing from a Chromebook, though.
To print your documents on a printer, Chromebooks use Google’s Cloud print technology. This basically implies that Chromebooks will send your work via the internet to a printer that is prepared for the Cloud rather than directly to a connected printer.
Microsoft Office
In the event that you are completely dependent on Microsoft Office products, Chromebooks are not for you.
You can work on papers, spreadsheets that look like Excel, and presentations on Chromebooks using their own free online office suite.
Other Professional Software Programs
If you plan to use professional productivity applications like AutoCAD, Primavera, Timberline, or professional accounting tools, avoid Chromebooks.
Some software products are not supported by Chromebooks, and it can take some time until they are made available online.
Video Editing
You can utilise several excellent online video editing tools on a Chromebook, such as WeVideo.
But, Chromebooks do not support professional video editing apps like Movie Plus, Cyberlink Power Director, Adobe Premier Elements and others.
Some programmes call for local computing power on the device, which Chromebooks lack compared to traditional PCs.
No Photoshop
Chromebooks do not support Photoshop, Photoshop Elements, or any other desktop software programmes from Adobe. You will rely on web-based photo-editing tools like Pixlr, the online Photoshop Express Editor, and others.
Although not designed for professional photo editing, these online photo editing tools are adequate for the majority of casual photo editing tasks.
Adobe is working to release a fully functional version of Photoshop for Chromebooks, which is wonderful news for Chromebook owners.
In partnership with Google, Adobe is proud to introduce Project Photoshop Streaming, a new technology beta. Initially, this beta will be available exclusively to select North America based Adobe education customers with a paid Creative Cloud membership. Adobe
Gaming
You won’t be able to play intense PC games on Chromebooks; instead, you’ll be confined to playing online games like Cut the Rope, Bejeweled, and other titles found in the Google Chrome Store.
It should be noted that less expensive Windows machines designed to compete with Chromebooks are likewise unsuitable for power-demanding gaming play.
Need Internet Connection
Even while Chromebooks can be used offline, they are best utilised when connected to Google Drive over an internet connection.
Optical Disk Drives
You won’t be able to play your beloved DVDs and Blu-Ray Discs on Chromebooks because they lack optical drives. Additionally, as Chromebooks do not allow external optical drives, there is no way to get around this restriction.
Since most laptop computers no longer come with optical disc drives, this is not a significant drawback.