Whenever there’s a job to get done, it’s important that you have the right tools. This is true from the skilled artisan crafting handmade goods to the surgeon preparing to operate on a patient. This is also true for academics, content creators, and other people that use computers to get their work done. Stanford University professor Vincent Barletta relies on his laptop for writing papers, preparing lectures, and collaborating with students and colleagues. Here are his thoughts on switching from a MacBook running Apple software to a Chromebook with Chrome OS.

Counting the Costs

Let’s face it. Apple’s products are usually sold at a premium. From iMacs to smartphones, you’ll need to fork over quite a bit of cash. Chromebooks are noted for being budget-friendly alternatives to both laptops and MacBooks. Chrome OS has low hardware requirements, so on average, Chromebooks tend to be lighter and smaller. Lightweight MacBooks start around $999, whereas a premium, top-of-the-line Chromebook tends to be in the $600 to $700 price range. When it comes to portable computers, there are many options out there, so it’s important to consider which features are most important to you as a user.

Getting Your Money’s Worth

Different users have different priorities when it comes to computer technology. One of the biggest criticisms against MacBooks is the lack of touchscreen capabilities. Can you imagine paying well into the four figures for a device that lacks this functionality? Most Chromebooks have touch screens, providing another method of input that is conducive to the daily routine of professors like Vincent Barletta. Additionally, advances in Chrome OS design and app development have enabled Prof. Barletta to complete all of his work on a Chromebook, including drafting articles, developing coursework, and collaborating.

Protecting Your Stuff

Everyone needs a laptop or mobile device that is secure from cyber-attacks. Chrome OS includes data encryption, verified startup, resource access limits, automatic updates, and full operating system recovery. Devices running Chrome OS are designed to operate smoothly and without much effort or energy on your part. Unlike MacBooks, Chromebooks are immune to viruses. This is especially important for Internet usage and file exchanges with others.

Covering Quality

Apple devices are generally well regarded for their build quality. They’re also known for having specs that meet performance demands, especially for multimedia applications and content. While Chromebooks have had build quality issues in the past, today’s devices are much better in terms of having a premium feel and top-of-the-line specs. Similar to PCs, Chromebooks are made by various manufacturers at different price points. HIgh-end Chrome OS laptops are available from Samsung, HP, Lenovo, and even Google, which makes and distributes the Chrome operating system.

Only you can know which laptop is right for you. Vincent Barletta was once an Apple user, but discovered the value of switching over to Chrome OS devices. He enjoys the power, the flexibility, the security, and the value of Chromebooks. He hasn’t looked back since.