Chromebooks for schools, explained simply
Chromebooks are a classroom favourite because they're simple, quick and tough. But two Chromebooks that look the same can be very different inside. Here's what to check so you don't get stuck.
What is a Chromebook?
A Chromebook is a laptop that runs ChromeOS, made by Google. You sign in with a Google account and most of your work lives online, in places like Google Drive.
- Starts in seconds
- Work is saved online, so a broken Chromebook doesn't lose anyone's homework
- Hard for viruses to get into
- Usually cheaper than other laptops
The most important thing: the update expiry date
Think of it like the date on a milk bottle.
Every Chromebook model gets security updates until a date Google sets. It's called the Auto Update Expiration date, or AUE. After that date, no more security updates.
Newer models get up to 10 years of updates. But older or clearance stock might only have a year or two left. A cheap deal isn't a deal if it expires next year.
We check the update date on every Chromebook we quote.
Jargon buster
| ChromeOS | The system that runs a Chromebook, like Windows runs a PC. |
|---|---|
| AUE date | The date a model stops getting security updates. |
| RAM | Short-term memory. It helps with lots of tabs open at once. 4 GB is fine for basics, 8 GB feels smoother. |
| Storage | Space to save files on the device. 32 or 64 GB is fine, because most work is saved online. |
| Chrome Education Upgrade | A licence that lets your school manage every Chromebook from one place. You can set apps and Wi-Fi, and lock a lost one. |
| Rugged model | Built for kids: rubber edges, spill-resistant keyboards, and tested for drops. |
| 2-in-1 | The screen flips around so it can be used like a tablet. |
Which suits you?
Check before you buy
- The update expiry date for each model.
- How many devices, and which year levels.
- Whether you want management licences.
- Good Wi-Fi in the classrooms.
- A plan for charging: trolley, cabinet or take-home.
- Cases, and when they need to arrive.
Mistakes to avoid
- Buying cheap old stock that's close to its update expiry date.
- Skipping licences, then finding you can't manage the devices.
- Forgetting about charging until 30 flat Chromebooks turn up at once.
- Giving home models to five-year-olds.
Questions people ask
What happens when a Chromebook reaches its update expiry date?
It still turns on and works, but it stops getting security updates. Over time, some school apps and websites may stop supporting it.
How do I find a Chromebook's update expiry date?
Google publishes the date for every model. Or just ask us. We check it on every Chromebook we quote.
Do Chromebooks work without the internet?
Some things do, like writing in Google Docs offline. But Chromebooks work best with good Wi-Fi.
Do we need Chrome Education Upgrade licences?
If your school wants to manage devices from one place, such as setting apps and locking lost ones, then yes. We can include them in your quote.
Know what you need? Or still not sure?
Either way, send us what you've got. We'll come back with options that fit, and explain them in plain English.
More buying guides or see our technology range.