Android vs Chrome OS

by Gralio Feb 27, 2025

Android and Chrome OS are both operating systems developed by Google, but they cater to different needs. Android is versatile and works across a wider range of devices, while Chrome OS prioritizes simplicity, speed, and cloud integration.

At Gralio.ai we help to simplify your decision-making process by offering detailed, side-by-side software comparisons like this one, to help you confidently choose the tool that aligns with your business goals.

This comparison was created by analysing 1503 reviews and 60 websites, saving 8 hours, 51 minutes of reading.

Android

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Chrome OS

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About

Android is a versatile operating system powering billions of phones, tablets, TVs, and even cars. Developed by Google, Android focuses on making technology simple and helpful for everyone. It stands out with its customizable features, wide device compatibility, and a vast app ecosystem. Android promises a user-friendly experience across various devices, making your digital life smoother.

Chrome OS is Google's operating system. It's known for being simple, fast, and secure, running on laptops called Chromebooks. It's particularly well-suited to businesses because it offers centralized management features, making it easy for IT departments to control and secure devices. Chrome OS is designed to work primarily with web-based applications and cloud storage, making it a good option for businesses looking to reduce reliance on traditional software.

Summary

Main difference

Android offers a versatile platform with broader device compatibility and a vast app ecosystem, ideal for diverse user needs and offline access. Chrome OS excels in simplicity, speed, and cloud integration, making it best for users primarily working online and within the Google ecosystem.

Relative strengths of Android (compared to Chrome OS)

Wider device compatibility (phones, tablets, TVs, cars).
Vast app ecosystem with offline access.
Greater flexibility and customization.

Relative weaknesses of Android (compared to Chrome OS)

Less seamless integration with Google cloud services.
Can be more resource-intensive.
Software updates can be fragmented.

What companies are using Android and Chrome OS?

No data

Taco Bell

CHarles Schwab

Sanmina Corporation

Mercado Libre & Portalinmobiliario.com

SAG

Hackensack Meridian Health

STrawberry

Who should use Android VS. Chrome OS

Android is a versatile and user-friendly operating system ideal for both individuals and businesses. Users appreciate its intuitive interface and customization options, while businesses benefit from its broad device compatibility and vast app ecosystem. However, some users have raised concerns about security and battery life.

Chrome OS is a fast, simple, and secure cloud-based operating system ideal for businesses of all sizes. Users love its speed, ease of use, and seamless Google integration. However, some find its limited offline functionality and software compatibility challenging. It's best for organizations prioritizing cost-effectiveness and ease of management, particularly in education.

Ideal for businesses of all sizes, from startups to large enterprises.
A versatile solution for various sectors, including healthcare, finance, and education.

Ideal for businesses of all sizes, especially those heavily reliant on Google services.
Strong fit for education, and suitable for various other sectors like government and professional services.

Android and Chrome OS features

Supported

Partially supported

Not supported

Type in the name of the feature or in your own words tell us what you need

Processor compatibility

Supported

Android supports a wide range of processors, including ARM, x86, and x86-64 architectures. It also demonstrates flexibility in running on various hardware configurations.

Supported

Chrome OS supports a variety of Intel and ARM processors.
Peripheral compatibility

Supported

Android supports a wide range of peripherals, including printers, scanners, and cameras. It offers built-in features like the Mopria Alliance framework for printing and scanning, and leverages its native camera capabilities for various applications. Third-party apps further extend these functionalities.

Supported

Chrome OS supports various peripherals, including printers, scanners, and cameras, but compatibility may vary.
Driver availability

Supported

Android has a comprehensive set of device drivers, as confirmed by the sources.

Supported

Chrome OS has built-in drivers for supported hardware.
Storage compatibility

Supported

Android supports connecting and accessing data from hard drives and solid-state drives through USB OTG, provided the necessary hardware and software conditions are met.

Supported

Chrome OS supports various storage devices, including hard drives and SSDs, primarily for external storage.
Regular updates

Supported

Android supports regular updates, including security patches, to protect against vulnerabilities and new threats. The frequency and duration of these updates depend on the device manufacturer.

Supported

Chrome OS receives regular security patches and updates automatically.
System Configuration

Supported

Android offers various system configuration tools for developers, enterprise management, and network settings.

Supported

Chrome OS offers system configuration tools like cros_config and the Admin console.

Qualities

Value and Pricing Transparency

+0.75

Strongly positive sentiment

+0.71

Strongly positive sentiment
Customer Service

+0.6

Rather positive sentiment

+0.57

Rather positive sentiment
Ease of Use

+0.95

Strongly positive sentiment

+0.99

Strongly positive sentiment
Reliability and Performance

-0.63

Rather negative sentiment

+0.46

Rather positive sentiment
Ease of Implementation

+0.56

Rather positive sentiment

+0.67

Rather positive sentiment
Scalability

No data

-0.5

Rather negative sentiment

Android and Chrome OS Pricing

No data

User sentiment

Strongly positive

+0.75

We couldn't find a pricing page for Android.

Chrome OS offers different device management upgrades for businesses. The standalone Chrome Enterprise Upgrade allows remote management and configuration of existing ChromeOS devices, priced at $4.17/device/month. The bundled Chrome Enterprise Upgrade is included with Chromebook Enterprise devices and covers the device's lifetime. The Kiosk & Signage Upgrade, priced at $2.08/device/month, enables remote management and configuration of kiosks and signage devices. Free trials are available for the standalone and kiosk upgrades.

User sentiment

Strongly positive

+0.71

See full Pricing page

Android and Chrome OS review insights

1503 reviews analysed from

Users love

Easy to use.
User-friendly interface.
Customizable.
Vast app ecosystem.

Fast and lightweight.
Simple and easy to use.
Seamless integration with Google services.
Secure with automatic updates.
Affordable.

Users dislike

Security is a major concern.
Slow software updates.
Too many updates.
Battery drains too fast.

Limited offline functionality.
Limited compatibility with certain software.
Limited local storage.
Android apps can behave inconsistently.

Android and Chrome OS Ratings

G2

4.6/5

(1111)
Glassdoor

3.5/5

(2)

G2

4.5/5

(392)
Glassdoor

3.5/5

(2)

Company health

Employee growth

No data

Web traffic

No data

Financing

No data

How important is a vast app ecosystem accessible on the device?

A vast app ecosystem is very important for Android, as it's a key selling point highlighted by users. While Chrome OS has access to Android apps, user reviews indicate some inconsistency, making the breadth and reliability of Android's app ecosystem a significant advantage.

Which operating system better suits a business reliant on web applications?

Chrome OS is a better fit for a business reliant on web applications. It is explicitly designed for web-based workflows and cloud storage, offering a streamlined experience optimized for this purpose. While Android offers broader device compatibility and a vast app ecosystem, its focus is not solely on web applications, and some users report inconsistencies with Android apps on Chrome OS. For a business prioritizing web applications, Chrome OS's simplicity, speed, and security, combined with its centralized management features, make it the more suitable choice.

What are the advantages of Android?

Android's advantages include its vast app ecosystem, offering a wider selection than Chrome OS, particularly for mobile devices. Android's flexibility and customization options are also greater, allowing for personalized user experiences and broader hardware compatibility. While Chrome OS excels in simplicity and cloud integration, Android caters to a larger range of use cases and user preferences.

What are the disadvantages of Android?

Disadvantages of Android include security concerns, slow software updates, frequent updates that can be disruptive, and a tendency for battery drain. Users also report inconsistent behavior with some Android apps.

Alternatives to Android and Chrome OS

Apple iOS

Apple iOS is the operating system that powers iPhones and iPads. Known for its user-friendly interface and focus on simplicity, iOS offers a wide range of apps and features designed for both personal and professional use. Apple consistently updates iOS with new features and security enhancements, making it a popular choice for millions of users worldwide.

Chromium OS

Chromium OS is a Google-developed operating system designed to make your computing experience fast, simple, and secure. Ideal for users who primarily rely on web-based applications, it centers around the Chrome browser and cloud storage. With a focus on speed, security, and ease of use, Chromium OS offers a streamlined alternative to traditional operating systems for a modern, web-centric workflow.

FydeOS

FydeOS is a cloud-based operating system that prioritizes speed, security, and simplicity. It boasts a familiar user interface and offers automatic updates and built-in virus protection. FydeOS supports Web, Android, and Linux applications, making it versatile for various tasks. Additionally, its compatibility with a range of devices, including PCs, tablets, and ARM SBCs, makes it a flexible choice for different hardware setups. FydeOS also provides enterprise solutions like device management, brand customization, and kiosk mode, catering to business needs.

Red Hat Enterprise Linux

Red Hat Enterprise Linux is a stable operating system used by businesses of all sizes. It's known for its flexibility and security, especially important for companies moving operations online. Red Hat offers support, helping your business use this system whether your data is stored locally, or accessed through the cloud.

Amazon Linux 2

Amazon Linux 2 is a server operating system designed by Amazon Web Services (AWS) for businesses running applications in the cloud. It's reliable, secure, and frequently updated with the latest software. Amazon Linux 2 provides a user-friendly interface and can be easily deployed on various cloud platforms, making it a stable and efficient choice for businesses hosting applications on AWS.

Google Meet

Google Meet is a video conferencing tool by Google that allows you to host and join online meetings. It is part of the Google Workspace suite and integrates with other Google services like Calendar and Drive. Google Meet is known for its simplicity and ease of use, making it easy to connect with colleagues, clients, and partners. Key features include screen sharing, live captions, noise reduction, and breakout rooms (some features require a paid plan). Google Meet is suitable for businesses of all sizes and emphasizes a secure and reliable connection.

Page co-authored by

Michal Kaczor

CEO at Gralio

Michal has worked at startups for many years and writes about topics relating to software selection and IT management. As a former consultant for Bain, a business advisory company, he also knows how to understand needs of any business and find solutions to its problems.

Tymon Terlikiewicz

CTO at Gralio

Tymon is a seasoned CTO who loves finding the perfect tools for any task. He recently headed up the tech department at Batmaid, a well-known Swiss company, where he managed about 60 software purchases, including CX, HR, Payroll, Marketing automation and various developer tools.

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