Will Chrome OS Ever Surpass Windows or macOS?

Inexplicably, Chrome OS has not quite managed to reclaim a significant market share from Windows or macOS, despite being a lightweight and cost-effective alternative. This article explores the reasons behind this and assesses the potential future of Chrome OS in the tech market.

The Competitive Edge of macOS

One significant factor contributing to the ongoing dominance of macOS is the availability and quality of high-end Apple devices. macOS devices typically start around $1000 after taxes, a price point that is notably expensive for Chromebooks. As far as I know, only the PixelBook is priced similarly, which is quite rare.

Budget Laptops vs. Netbooks

The netbook concept with its weak or cheap hardware running Windows Starter was once quite popular. However, Chromebooks have largely claimed this market niche. The reason for this shift is simple: Windows devices capable of more than basic web browsing are scarce. These low-end systems were often referred to as netbooks due to their limited use case, but Chromebooks excel in this realm, offering a capable alternative for web browsing and basic applications.

Chromebooks in the Midrange Market

While some premium Chromebooks do compete well in the midrange market, often priced between $500 to $800, they face a significant disadvantage against Windows laptops in the same price range. Windows laptops in this segment offer more functionality than just web browsing, which is critical for many users. Unless max battery life is the primary concern, or the user has a strong preference for Chrome OS, a Windows machine will offer a more comprehensive and versatile experience.

Competitiveness in the Low-End Market

Traditional Chromebooks are designed as cheap, easy-to-replace machines for users who don't need high-end devices. This is where Chromebooks shine. School districts favor Chromebooks due to their affordability and ease of management. They come pre-loaded with essential tools, simplifying the educational environment. Additionally, Chromebooks are ideal for individuals who are not comfortable with technology but still require access to a web browser, email, or basic document editing.

Higher-End Chromebooks for Developers

Highest-end Chromebooks like the Acer Chromebook Spin 713 and the Google Pixelbook Go can be good development machines for some, but the choice is highly individual and depends on personal usage. While Chromebooks excel in user-friendly and lightweight environments, gaming is not one of their strong suits. That said, the advent of WebAssembly (WASM) technologies is slowly changing this, allowing some games to run in the browser.

Conclusion

While Chrome OS has a strong case for certain types of users and specific use cases, it is unlikely to surpass Windows or macOS in terms of general computing dominance. Its strength lies in affordability, ease of use, and specific market niches like education and light computing tasks. As technology evolves, the lines between these operating systems may blur further, but for now, Windows and macOS remain the leaders in the market.

So, while Chrome OS continues to be a compelling choice in certain scenarios, it seems that Windows and macOS will maintain their positions of power for the foreseeable future.