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Why we recommend ChromeOS Flex
Is ChromeOS Flex right for me?
What apps won't work on ChromeOS Flex?
Will my hardware work properly?
Can I game on ChromeOS Flex?
How does file storage work?
Will my printer and scanner work?
What about Microsoft Office and enterprise tools?
Can I customize ChromeOS Flex like Windows?
Is ChromeOS Flex secure?
Can I run virtual machines?
What's the bottom line?
Why we recommend ChromeOS Flex
With Windows 10 reaching the end of support, many older computers can no longer run the latest Windows versions safely. Rather than retiring perfectly functional devices, we recommend ChromeOS Flex to keep them secure and productive.
ChromeOS Flex works very differently from Windows. Before you switch, it's important to understand what changes and whether it fits your needs. This guide will help you decide.
Is ChromeOS Flex right for me?
ChromeOS Flex is a great choice if you:
• Spend most of your time in a web browser
• Use Gmail, Google Workspace, or Microsoft 365 online
• Want a fast, secure system that's easy to maintain
• Want to breathe new life into an older computer
• Mainly use web-based tools like Slack, Zoom, and YouTube
Stick with Windows if you:
• Depend on specific Windows desktop applications
• Need advanced Excel features or Adobe Creative Cloud
• Use specialized equipment that requires custom drivers
• Want to play PC games
Which apps won't work on Chrome OS Flex?
Desktop applications
You can't run traditional Windows programs, including:
• Microsoft Office desktop versions
• Adobe Creative Cloud (full versions)
• Specialized software like AutoCAD or QuickBooks Desktop
• Programs that need custom drivers
Your alternatives:
• Use web versions (like Office online).
• Stream apps through virtual desktops.
• Find web-based alternatives.
Android apps
ChromeOS Flex doesn't support the Google Play Store or Android apps. This is different from regular Chromebooks.
Will my hardware work properly?
What will work well:
• USB storage devices
• Common printers and webcams
• Multiple monitors (basic setup)
• Touchscreens (if supported by standard drivers)
What might not work:
• Fingerprint readers and Windows Hello cameras
• Special keyboard functions and hotkeys
• Advanced touchpad gestures
• Gaming GPU features (G-Sync, specialized drivers)
• Active stylus and pen features
• Some advanced printer and scanner functions
Can I game on ChromeOS Flex?
Traditional PC gaming won't work, and games with anti-cheat software or heavy GPU requirements won't run. However, you can use:
• Cloud gaming services (GeForce NOW, Xbox Cloud Gaming)
• Browser-based games
How does file storage work?
ChromeOS Flex focuses on cloud storage via Google Drive, but you can also store files locally.
External drives:
• NTFS drives: read-only in most cases
• exFAT and FAT32: work better
Working offline
Some apps work without an internet connection, including Gmail and Google Docs (with setup), but the experience is more limited than on Windows desktop.
Will my printer and scanner work?
Printers
Printers work best with IPP- or IPP-Everywhere-compatible models. Advanced printing features from the manufacturer's software may not be available.
Scanners
Use web-based scanning or compatible apps. Windows scanner utilities won't work.
What about Microsoft Office and enterprise tools?
Microsoft 365
Use web versions of Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Outlook. Desktop-only apps like Access and Visio aren't available.
Limitations:
• Complex Excel macros and Power Query may not work well.
• Advanced SharePoint and OneDrive offline features are limited.
• No desktop Outlook with full functionality.
Can I customize ChromeOS Flex like Windows?
Customization is more limited:
• Fewer window management options
• No registry tweaks or system-wide utilities
• Can't use tools like AutoHotkey or Rainmeter
The interface is simpler and more streamlined by design.
Is ChromeOS Flex secure?
Yes, ChromeOS Flex is very secure due to its:
• Strong sandboxing protects you from malware
• Verified boot ensures system integrity
• Regular automatic updates
However, Windows-specific security tools and enterprise agents won't work.
Can I run virtual machines?
There's no support for:
• Hyper-V
• VirtualBox
• VMware Workstation
You can use remote desktop or browser-based VDI clients to access virtual machines hosted elsewhere.
What's the bottom line?
ChromeOS Flex turns older computers into fast, secure web-focused machines. It's perfect for browser-based work but won't replace Windows if you need desktop applications, specialized hardware support, or offline-heavy workflows.
Consider your specific needs carefully before you switch.