📅July 27, 2025
Top 5 Best OS Alternatives for Chromebook in 2025
If you're feeling limited by the default ChromeOS on your Chromebook, you're not alone. While ChromeOS is fast and cloud-friendly, it lacks advanced software support, offline flexibility, and full control that many users want — especially developers, tinkerers, and privacy-conscious users.
Here’s a list of the best operating system alternatives for Chromebooks in 2025, including links to download and install them safely.
1. Linux (GalliumOS, Ubuntu, or Linux Mint)
Best for: Developers, coders, and advanced users
Why Choose It:
Linux offers a full desktop experience, access to thousands of open-source apps, and complete control over your system. GalliumOS is specially optimized for Chromebook hardware, while Ubuntu and Linux Mint are beginner-friendly.
Pros:
Full Linux desktop environment
Lightweight options available
Great for coding, app development, and privacy
Download Links:
GalliumOS (Optimized for Chromebook)
Linux Mint
2. FydeOS (ChromiumOS with Android and Linux Support)
Best for: Users wanting a ChromeOS-like feel with more freedom
Why Choose It:
FydeOS is based on ChromiumOS, but unlike ChromeOS, it supports Android apps and Linux packages out of the box. It’s perfect if you love ChromeOS but need more flexibility.
Pros:
Android app support
Linux environment built-in
Looks like ChromeOS but is fully open-source
Download Link:
- FydeOS Official Site
3. ChromeOS Flex (by Google)
Best for: Reviving old laptops or using ChromeOS on other devices
Why Choose It:
Google’s official alternative to ChromeOS for non-Chromebooks, ChromeOS Flex is lightweight, secure, and ideal for breathing new life into older laptops. It’s easy to set up and manage.
Pros:
Backed by Google
Cloud-first and fast
Works on most modern hardware
Download Link:
- ChromeOS Flex – Get Started
4. Arch Linux / Manjaro
Best for: Tech enthusiasts who want maximum customization
Why Choose It:
Arch-based systems give you total control. Manjaro is a user-friendly version of Arch, making it more accessible while keeping the power of the Arch ecosystem.
Pros:
Rolling updates
Full system control
Great package management with Pacman
Download Links:
Manjaro Linux
Arch Linux (Advanced users only)
5. Ubuntu Web Remix
Best for: Chromebook-like experience with Linux freedom
Why Choose It:
Ubuntu Web Remix brings a Chromebook-style UI to Linux, supporting web apps (PWAs), while still giving you the power of Linux behind the scenes.
Pros:
Web-focused UI
Great alternative to ChromeOS
Supports full Linux ecosystem
Download Link:
- Ubuntu Web Remix
Final Thoughts
Choosing the best OS for your Chromebook depends on what you want: Linux for control, FydeOS for flexibility, or ChromeOS Flex for simplicity. Each of these options gives your Chromebook a second life beyond the limitations of stock ChromeOS.