The Acer Chromebook C720 is a popular and affordable laptop that has been a favorite among Chrome OS enthusiasts for years. With its sleek design, long battery life, and seamless integration with Google’s suite of productivity apps, it’s an excellent choice for anyone looking for a reliable and easy-to-use laptop. However, as Linux enthusiasts, we can’t help but ask the question: does the Acer Chromebook C720 have Linux?
The Rise of Linux on Chromebooks
In recent years, Google has made significant strides in bringing Linux to Chromebooks. The company’s vision is to create a seamless and integrated experience that allows users to run Linux apps and tools alongside their favorite Chrome OS apps. This move has been met with widespread enthusiasm from the Linux community, who see it as a natural fit given Chrome OS’s own Linux roots.
In 2018, Google announced Project Crostini, an initiative aimed at bringing Linux to Chromebooks. The project’s goal is to enable users to run Linux apps and tools on Chrome OS, without the need for dual-booting or running a virtual machine. This move marked a significant shift in Google’s approach to Chrome OS, as it acknowledged the growing demand for Linux on Chromebooks.
What is Linux on Chromebooks?
Linux on Chromebooks, also known as Crostini, is a Linux environment that runs alongside Chrome OS. It’s a sandboxed environment that allows users to run Linux apps, tools, and command-line interfaces (CLI) without affecting the underlying Chrome OS installation.
Linux on Chromebooks is based on the Debian Linux distribution and provides access to a wide range of Linux apps and tools, including popular development tools like Visual Studio Code, Android Studio, and more. The environment is fully integrated with Chrome OS, allowing users to easily switch between Linux and Chrome OS apps.
Does the Acer Chromebook C720 Support Linux?
Now, back to our original question: does the Acer Chromebook C720 have Linux? Unfortunately, the answer is no. The Acer Chromebook C720 does not support Linux out of the box.
The reason for this is due to the device’s hardware and firmware limitations. The C720 was released in 2013, a time when Linux on Chromebooks was still in its infancy. As a result, the device’s firmware does not support the necessary Linux kernel and drivers required to run Crostini.
However, don’t be discouraged. While the Acer Chromebook C720 may not support Linux natively, there are workarounds and alternatives that can help you get Linux up and running on your device.
Enabling Linux on the Acer Chromebook C720
While the Acer Chromebook C720 may not support Linux out of the box, it’s possible to enable Linux on the device through unofficial means. One popular method is to use a custom firmware that enables Linux on the device.
Warning: Please note that using a custom firmware can potentially brick your device or void its warranty. Proceed with caution and at your own risk.
Another approach is to use a Linux distribution that is specifically designed for Chromebooks, such as GalliumOS or ChrUbuntu. These distributions are designed to run on Chromebooks and can provide a Linux environment on devices that don’t officially support it.
Alternatives to the Acer Chromebook C720
If you’re in the market for a Chromebook that supports Linux, there are several alternatives to the Acer Chromebook C720 that are worth considering. Here are a few options:
- Google Pixelbook: The Google Pixelbook is a high-end Chromebook that supports Linux out of the box. It’s a powerful device with a stunning display and excellent performance.
- Asus Chromebook Flip C434: The Asus Chromebook Flip C434 is a popular Chromebook that supports Linux and features a 14-inch touchscreen display, Intel Core m3 processor, and up to 8GB of RAM.
Key Features to Look for in a Linux-Capable Chromebook
When shopping for a Chromebook that supports Linux, here are some key features to look for:
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Processor | Look for Intel Core i3 or i5 processors, which provide better performance and support for Linux. |
| RAM | Ensure the device has at least 4GB of RAM, which is the minimum recommended for running Linux apps smoothly. |
| Storage | Opt for a device with at least 64GB of storage, which provides ample space for Linux apps and files. |
| Linux Support | Check if the device officially supports Linux or has a compatible Linux distribution available. |
Conclusion
While the Acer Chromebook C720 may not support Linux out of the box, there are workarounds and alternatives available that can help you get Linux up and running on your device. However, if you’re looking for a Chromebook that supports Linux natively, it’s worth considering alternative devices that officially support Linux.
As the Linux on Chromebooks ecosystem continues to evolve, we can expect to see more devices that support Linux out of the box. For now, it’s essential to do your research and carefully consider your options before making a purchase.
Does the Acer Chromebook C720 support Linux?
The Acer Chromebook C720 is a Chrome OS-based laptop, which means it does not support Linux out of the box. However, it is possible to install Linux on the device through a process called Crouton.
Crouton is a popular method for installing Linux on Chromebooks, which allows users to run a Linux distribution alongside Chrome OS. This means that users can switch between Chrome OS and Linux with ease, giving them access to a wide range of Linux apps and tools. With Crouton, users can install popular Linux distributions such as Ubuntu, Debian, and Fedora on their Acer Chromebook C720.
What is Crouton and how does it work?
Crouton is a Linux distribution that is specifically designed to run on Chromebooks. It works by creating a chroot environment within Chrome OS, which allows users to run a Linux distribution alongside Chrome OS. This means that users can switch between Chrome OS and Linux with ease, giving them access to a wide range of Linux apps and tools.
Crouton is a relatively simple process to install, and it does not require users to wipe their Chromebook’s hard drive or make any permanent changes to the device. Instead, Crouton installs Linux alongside Chrome OS, allowing users to switch between the two operating systems with ease. This makes it a great option for users who want to run Linux on their Chromebook without giving up the benefits of Chrome OS.
What are the benefits of installing Linux on the Acer Chromebook C720?
Installing Linux on the Acer Chromebook C720 can provide users with a wide range of benefits. One of the main advantages is that users will have access to a vast array of Linux apps and tools, which can greatly expand the device’s functionality. Additionally, Linux is a highly customizable operating system, which means that users can tailor their experience to meet their specific needs and preferences.
Another benefit of installing Linux on the Acer Chromebook C720 is that it can provide users with greater control over their device. With Linux, users have more flexibility to customize their system and make changes to the underlying code. This can be particularly useful for developers and power users who want to get the most out of their device.
Is installing Linux on the Acer Chromebook C720 difficult?
Installing Linux on the Acer Chromebook C720 using Crouton is a relatively straightforward process. However, it does require some technical knowledge and expertise. Users will need to be comfortable working in a terminal environment and following command-line instructions.
That being said, there are many online resources and tutorials available that can guide users through the process. Additionally, the Crouton community is very active and supportive, which means that users can get help and advice from experienced users if they encounter any issues.
Will installing Linux on the Acer Chromebook C720 void my warranty?
Installing Linux on the Acer Chromebook C720 using Crouton should not void the device’s warranty. Crouton is a non-invasive process that does not make any permanent changes to the device’s hardware or firmware. Therefore, users should still be able to return or repair their device if they encounter any issues.
However, it’s always a good idea to check with Acer’s warranty policies before making any changes to the device. Additionally, users should make sure to follow the correct installation procedures and take backups of their data before attempting to install Linux.
Can I run Linux apps on the Acer Chromebook C720 alongside Chrome OS?
One of the biggest advantages of installing Linux on the Acer Chromebook C720 is that users can run Linux apps alongside Chrome OS. This means that users can access a wide range of Linux apps and tools, while still being able to use Chrome OS for tasks such as browsing the web or checking email.
This is possible because Crouton creates a chroot environment within Chrome OS, which allows Linux apps to run seamlessly alongside Chrome OS. This makes it easy for users to switch between the two operating systems and access the apps and tools they need.
Is the Acer Chromebook C720 powerful enough to run Linux?
The Acer Chromebook C720 is a relatively lightweight device, but it is still powerful enough to run Linux. The device features an Intel Celeron processor and 2GB of RAM, which should be sufficient to run most Linux distributions.
However, users should be aware that the device’s performance may vary depending on the Linux distribution they choose to install. Some Linux distributions are more resource-intensive than others, so users may need to choose a lightweight distribution such as Lubuntu or Puppy Linux to get the best performance.