Chromebooks are popular, affordable, and seemingly everywhere, but are these Google-powered laptops decent picks for gaming, too? They can be—with caveats. Some Chromebooks are now specially designed to play games via cloud-based gaming services, and we've tested most of the field. PCMag has been reviewing gaming laptops and Chromebooks since their creation, evaluating Chromebook performance, battery life, connectivity, display quality, and other features in our reviews and lab tests. (We test more than 100 laptops of all stripes every year.) Our top pick for the best gaming Chromebook is the Acer Chromebook Plus 516 GE, which packs a high-refresh-rate display, a fast-polling keyboard, and a speedier-than-most Wi-Fi radio, all tuned for cloud gaming. But it's hardly your only option. Here's a rundown of our best-bet Chromebooks for gaming, a detailed guide to all the aspects of gaming on ChromeOS, and a spec chart comparing our top picks.
Overview
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![Acer Chromebook Plus 516 GE (2025)]()
Best Overall Gaming ChromebookAcer Chromebook Plus 516 GE (2025)
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![Acer Chromebook Plus Spin 514]()
Best 2-in-1 Convertible Chromebook for GamingAcer Chromebook Plus Spin 514
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![Asus Chromebook Plus CX34 (2025)]()
Best General-Use Chromebook for GamingAsus Chromebook Plus CX34 (2025)
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![Asus Chromebook Plus CX14]()
Best Budget Chromebook for GamingAsus Chromebook Plus CX14
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![Acer Chromebook Plus 514]()
Best Chromebook for Linux GamingAcer Chromebook Plus 514
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![Lenovo Chromebook Duet Gen 9]()
Best ChromeOS Tablet for Android GamesLenovo Chromebook Duet Gen 9
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![Samsung Galaxy Chromebook Plus]()
Best Premium Chromebook for GamingSamsung Galaxy Chromebook Plus
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Deeper Dive: Our Top Tested Picks
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![Acer Chromebook Plus 516 GE (2025)]()
Best Overall Gaming ChromebookAcer Chromebook Plus 516 GE (2025)
Pros & Cons
Why We Picked It
The second iteration of Acer's gaming edition Chromebook, the Acer Chromebook Plus 516 GE (2025), is built for cloud game streaming. It's stuffed full of gamer-friendly features, like a new CPU for boosted performance, a high-resolution IPS screen with a 120Hz refresh rate, Wi-Fi 6E and Ethernet support for smooth streaming, and an RGB keyboard with anti-ghosting for fast-paced input. But it's also a high-quality Chromebook overall, with excellent productivity performance and AI-enhanced features under the Chromebook Plus brand. Plus, at its list price, it's the most affordable gaming machine you'll find, so long as you're OK without a proper GPU.
Who It's For
This deluxe laptop is built for existing Chromebook fans who want to game or gamers who want to ditch the bulky laptop or desktop for an affordable, portable Chromebook. The design balances portability, productivity, and gaming with a cost-conscious price but still includes RGB eye candy.
Specs & Configurations
Boot Drive Capacity (as Tested) 256 Boot Drive Type SSD Class Chromebook Class Gaming Dimensions (HWD) 0.84 by 14.0 by 9.8 inches Graphics Processor Intel Graphics Native Display Resolution 2560 by 1600 Operating System Chrome OS Panel Technology IPS Processor Intel Core i5-120U RAM (as Tested) 8 Screen Refresh Rate 120 Screen Size 16 Tested Battery Life (Hours:Minutes) 9:16 Variable Refresh Support Yes Weight 3.75 Wireless Networking Bluetooth 5.2 Wireless Networking Wi-Fi 6E Learn More Acer Chromebook Plus 516 GE (2025) Review -
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![Acer Chromebook Plus Spin 514]()
Best 2-in-1 Convertible Chromebook for GamingAcer Chromebook Plus Spin 514
Pros & Cons
Why We Picked It
As Chrome becomes as much of an Android app platform as a web browsing experience, having a touchscreen and the choice of laptop or tablet is more handy than ever. The Acer Chromebook Plus Spin 514's convertible 2-in-1 design is great for touch-based apps and games, while the 120Hz IPS panel provides a high refresh rate rarely found in the Chromebook category, ensuring fluid motion for fast-paced gaming. And the MediaTek Kompanio Ultra 910 inside has the speeds necessary for running demanding Android games and cloud-streaming services. It's our top-pick for 2-in-1 Chromebook gaming.
Who It’s For
This one is for anyone who wants the best that ChromeOS with Android support has to offer. The convertible design is great for productivity, creativity, and student life (in addition to gaming), and the high-refresh-rate display will look great with intuitive touch, fluid motion and reduced input lag.
Specs & Configurations
Boot Drive Capacity (as Tested) 256 Boot Drive Type UFS (Universal Flash Storage) Class Chromebook Dimensions (HWD) 0.82 by 12.6 by 9.1 inches Graphics Processor Arm Immortalis-G925 MC11 Native Display Resolution 1,920 by 1,200 Operating System Windows 11 Panel Technology LCD Processor MediaTek Kompanio Ultra 910 RAM (as Tested) 12 Screen Refresh Rate 60 Screen Size 14 Tested Battery Life (Hours:Minutes) 15:46 Touch Screen Variable Refresh Support None Weight 3.31 Wireless Networking Bluetooth 5.4 Wireless Networking Wi-Fi 7 Learn More Acer Chromebook Plus Spin 514 Review -
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![Asus Chromebook Plus CX34 (2025)]()
Best General-Use Chromebook for GamingAsus Chromebook Plus CX34 (2025)
Pros & Cons
Why We Picked It
The Asus Chromebook Plus CX34 (2025) earns our pick for a "Plus" model for ChromeOS gaming with its impressive performance and user-friendly design. Equipped with an updated Intel Core i5 processor, it delivers potent CPU performance, making it suitable for productivity tasks and light gaming. The comfortable keyboard and pleasant touchpad enhance the overall user experience, while extensive connectivity options, including Wi-Fi 7 and multiple ports, add versatility. The 1080p display is ideal for schoolwork and casual gaming, and at a competitive list price (often discounted), it presents an exceptional value. This Chromebook is ready to handle Android apps, online games, and streamed gaming services, making it a well-rounded choice for users seeking a capable device.
Who It's For
The Asus Chromebook Plus CX34 (2025) is ideal for budget-conscious shoppers and anyone looking for a reliable device for both work and play. Its combination of performance and features makes it a smart choice for users who want a Chromebook that excels in productivity while providing legitimate gaming options. Whether it's tackling school assignments, enjoying Android games, or streaming high-end PC games, this Chromebook delivers an excellent experience for a super-affordable price.
Specs & Configurations
Boot Drive Capacity (as Tested) 128 Boot Drive Type UFS (Universal Flash Storage) Class Chromebook Dimensions (HWD) 0.74 by 12.9 by 8.4 inches Graphics Processor Intel Iris Xe Graphics Native Display Resolution 1920 by 1080 Operating System Chrome OS Panel Technology IPS Processor Intel Core i5-1335U RAM (as Tested) 8 Screen Refresh Rate 60 Screen Size 14 Tested Battery Life (Hours:Minutes) 10:51 Touch Screen Variable Refresh Support None Weight 3.17 Wireless Networking Bluetooth 5.3 Wireless Networking Wi-Fi 6E Learn More Asus Chromebook Plus CX34 (2025) Review -
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![Asus Chromebook Plus CX14]()
Best Budget Chromebook for GamingAsus Chromebook Plus CX14
Pros & Cons
Why We Picked It
The Asus Chromebook Plus CX14 is our favorite low-cost Chromebook for gaming, a peppy 14-inch model with an Intel Core 3 processor and 8GB of RAM, ensuring it can handle demanding cloud gaming streams that often cause lower-spec budget devices to stutter. The 14-inch IPS display delivers FHD resolution, the Chromebook Plus standards meet the baseline for cloud gaming services like GeForce Now, and the 10-hour battery life supports extended gaming sessions. Most importantly, the accessible pricing makes it a great entry point for cloud gaming that undercuts most consoles and Windows laptops.
Who It’s For
For a Chromebook that's light on price but strong on gaming and apps, the Asus Chromebook Plus CX14 is an easy choice. Whether you're using it to take notes in class or tackle Android games at night, stream movies on the couch, or enjoy the best games Nvidia's GeForce Now streaming platform has to offer, the CX14 does it all at a pleasantly affordable price.
Specs & Configurations
Boot Drive Capacity (as Tested) 128 Boot Drive Type UFS (Universal Flash Storage) Class Chromebook Dimensions (HWD) 0.78 by 12.8 by 8.4 inches Graphics Processor Intel UHD Graphics Native Display Resolution 1920 by 1080 Operating System Chrome OS Panel Technology IPS Processor Intel Core 3 N355 RAM (as Tested) 8 Screen Refresh Rate 60 Screen Size 14 Tested Battery Life (Hours:Minutes) 10:20 Variable Refresh Support None Weight 3.06 Wireless Networking Bluetooth 5.4 Wireless Networking Wi-Fi 6E Learn More Asus Chromebook Plus CX14 (CX1405) Review -
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![Acer Chromebook Plus 514]()
Best Chromebook for Linux GamingAcer Chromebook Plus 514
Pros & Cons
Why We Picked It
The Acer Chromebook Plus 514 is another excellent Chromebook Plus model, with the emphasis on a budget-friendly price. For such a low price, you get a capable ChromeOS laptop that offers more than 14 hours of battery life, a sturdy design with plenty of ports, and a touch display that's great for tapping and swiping in Android games. But our favorite benefit of the new model is probably the AI-enhanced Intel Core i3-N305 processor and way-above-average 512GB SSD. That beefier processor and storage combo makes it a perfect choice for dual-booting with Linux, opening all sorts of new gaming opportunities.
Who It's For
The Acer Chromebook Plus 514 is an excellent affordable pick for any budget-conscious buyer. We especially love this Chromebook for its processing power and sizable storage, which make Linux gaming possible. Budget shoppers interested in loading up a Linux distro will appreciate both the price and the capable hardware.
Specs & Configurations
Boot Drive Capacity (as Tested) 512 Boot Drive Type SSD Class Chromebook Dimensions (HWD) 0.81 by 12.87 by 8.86 inches Graphics Processor Intel UHD Graphics Native Display Resolution 1920 by 1080 Operating System Chrome OS Panel Technology IPS Processor Intel Core i3-N305 RAM (as Tested) 8 Screen Refresh Rate 60 Screen Size 14 Tested Battery Life (Hours:Minutes) 14:18 Touch Screen Variable Refresh Support None Weight 3.15 Wireless Networking Bluetooth 5.1 Wireless Networking Wi-Fi 6E Learn More Acer Chromebook Plus 514 Review -
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![Lenovo Chromebook Duet Gen 9]()
Best ChromeOS Tablet for Android GamesLenovo Chromebook Duet Gen 9
Pros & Cons
Why We Picked It
Though it may not be the most powerful option on the market, the Lenovo Chromebook Duet Gen 9 stands out as the best ChromeOS tablet for Android games, thanks to its aggressively low price and versatile 2-in-1 design. With a sharp touch screen and a sturdy build, this device is perfect for casual gaming and everyday tasks. Don't expect robust performance from this light model; its seamless conversion from tablet to laptop is what makes it an ideal choice for people who play lots of tablet games. The detachable tablet portion will be more comfortable to hold for longer gaming sessions than a rotating 2-in-1 could ever be, and features like front and back cameras offer more phone-like feature support than a convertible laptop does.
Who It's For
This tablet/laptop hybrid is perfect for students, younger users, and budget-conscious individuals seeking a dependable device for online activities and light, touch-based gaming. If you need a versatile tool for entertainment while spending as little as possible, the Lenovo Chromebook Duet Gen 9 is an excellent choice that meets essential needs without unnecessary frills.
Specs & Configurations
Boot Drive Capacity (as Tested) 128 Boot Drive Type eMMC Flash Memory Class Chromebook Class Detachable 2-in-1 Dimensions (HWD) 0.30 by 10.1 by 6.6 inches Graphics Processor ARM Mali-G57 MC3 Native Display Resolution 1920 by 1200 Operating System Chrome OS Panel Technology IPS Processor MediaTek Kompanio 838 RAM (as Tested) 8 Screen Refresh Rate 60 Screen Size 10.95 Tested Battery Life (Hours:Minutes) 6:01 Touch Screen Variable Refresh Support None Weight 1.12 Wireless Networking 802.11ax (Wi-Fi 6) Wireless Networking Bluetooth Learn More Lenovo Chromebook Duet Gen 9 Review -
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Credit: Joseph Maldonado
![Samsung Galaxy Chromebook Plus]()
Best Premium Chromebook for GamingSamsung Galaxy Chromebook Plus
Pros & Cons
Why We Picked It
The Samsung Galaxy Chromebook Plus is a fantastic all-around Chromebook, thanks to its capable Intel processor choices, 8GB of RAM, and premium, ultra-light design. This laptop's spec sheet adds up to an ideal Chromebook for streaming games, even if it doesn't have a touch screen, but Samsung's stunning AMOLED panel seals the deal. This better-than-OLED screen enhances the visual experience whether you're streaming AAA games or completing homework. Throw in some of the best battery life a Chromebook can muster, and the Galaxy Chromebook Plus becomes an easy pick—provided you're willing to pay extra for premium perks.
Who It's For
The Samsung Galaxy Chromebook Plus is ideal for gamers who want a premium Chromebook with excellent performance and for anyone who prioritizes a high-quality display for gaming and media consumption. This is the luxury Chromebook experience that just happens to be a fit for gaming.
Specs & Configurations
Boot Drive Capacity (as Tested) 256 Boot Drive Type UFS (Universal Flash Storage) Class Chromebook Dimensions (HWD) 0.46 by 13.99 by 8.89 inches Graphics Processor Intel Graphics Native Display Resolution 1920 by 1080 Operating System Chrome OS Panel Technology OLED Processor Intel Core 3 100U RAM (as Tested) 8 Screen Refresh Rate 60 Screen Size 15.6 Tested Battery Life (Hours:Minutes) 16:20 Variable Refresh Support None Weight 2.58 Wireless Networking 802.11ax Wireless Networking Bluetooth 5.2 Learn More Samsung Galaxy Chromebook Plus Review -
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Best For | Best Overall Gaming Chromebook | Best 2-in-1 Convertible Chromebook for Gaming | Best General-Use Chromebook for Gaming | Best Budget Chromebook for Gaming | Best Chromebook for Linux Gaming | Best ChromeOS Tablet for Android Games | Best Premium Chromebook for Gaming | Best Overall Gaming Chromebook | Best 2-in-1 Convertible Chromebook for Gaming | Best General-Use Chromebook for Gaming |
Class | Chromebook, Gaming | Chromebook | Chromebook | Chromebook | Chromebook | Chromebook, Detachable 2-in-1 | Chromebook | Chromebook, Gaming | Chromebook | Chromebook |
Processor | Intel Core i5-120U | MediaTek Kompanio Ultra 910 | Intel Core i5-1335U | Intel Core 3 N355 | Intel Core i3-N305 | MediaTek Kompanio 838 | Intel Core 3 100U | Intel Core i5-120U | MediaTek Kompanio Ultra 910 | Intel Core i5-1335U |
Processor Speed | ||||||||||
RAM (as Tested) | 8 | 12 | 8 | 8 | 8 | 8 | 8 | 8 | 12 | 8 |
Boot Drive Type | SSD | UFS (Universal Flash Storage) | UFS (Universal Flash Storage) | UFS (Universal Flash Storage) | SSD | eMMC Flash Memory | UFS (Universal Flash Storage) | SSD | UFS (Universal Flash Storage) | UFS (Universal Flash Storage) |
Boot Drive Capacity (as Tested) | 256 | 256 | 128 | 128 | 512 | 128 | 256 | 256 | 256 | 128 |
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Optical Drive | ||||||||||
Screen Size | 16 | 14 | 14 | 14 | 14 | 10.95 | 15.6 | 16 | 14 | 14 |
Native Display Resolution | 2560 by 1600 | 1,920 by 1,200 | 1920 by 1080 | 1920 by 1080 | 1920 by 1080 | 1920 by 1200 | 1920 by 1080 | 2560 by 1600 | 1,920 by 1,200 | 1920 by 1080 |
Touch Screen | ||||||||||
Panel Technology | IPS | LCD | IPS | IPS | IPS | IPS | OLED | IPS | LCD | IPS |
Variable Refresh Support | None | None | None | None | None | None | None | None | ||
Screen Refresh Rate | 120 | 60 | 60 | 60 | 60 | 60 | 60 | 120 | 60 | 60 |
Graphics Processor | Intel Graphics | Arm Immortalis-G925 MC11 | Intel Iris Xe Graphics | Intel UHD Graphics | Intel UHD Graphics | ARM Mali-G57 MC3 | Intel Graphics | Intel Graphics | Arm Immortalis-G925 MC11 | Intel Iris Xe Graphics |
Graphics Memory | ||||||||||
Wireless Networking | Wi-Fi 6E, Bluetooth 5.2 | Wi-Fi 7, Bluetooth 5.4 | Bluetooth 5.3, Wi-Fi 6E | Wi-Fi 6E, Bluetooth 5.4 | Wi-Fi 6E, Bluetooth 5.1 | 802.11ax (Wi-Fi 6), Bluetooth | 802.11ax, Bluetooth 5.2 | Wi-Fi 6E, Bluetooth 5.2 | Wi-Fi 7, Bluetooth 5.4 | Bluetooth 5.3, Wi-Fi 6E |
Dimensions (HWD) | 0.84 by 14.0 by 9.8 inches | 0.82 by 12.6 by 9.1 inches | 0.74 by 12.9 by 8.4 inches | 0.78 by 12.8 by 8.4 inches | 0.81 by 12.87 by 8.86 inches | 0.30 by 10.1 by 6.6 inches | 0.46 by 13.99 by 8.89 inches | 0.84 by 14.0 by 9.8 inches | 0.82 by 12.6 by 9.1 inches | 0.74 by 12.9 by 8.4 inches |
Weight | 3.75 | 3.31 | 3.17 | 3.06 | 3.15 | 1.12 | 2.58 | 3.75 | 3.31 | 3.17 |
Operating System | Chrome OS | Windows 11 | Chrome OS | Chrome OS | Chrome OS | Chrome OS | Chrome OS | Chrome OS | Windows 11 | Chrome OS |
Tested Battery Life (Hours:Minutes) | 9:16 | 15:46 | 10:51 | 10:20 | 14:18 | 6:01 | 16:20 | 9:16 | 15:46 | 10:51 |
Buying Guide: The Best Chromebooks for Gaming in 2026
You're probably familiar with Chromebooks, the laptops running ChromeOS, Google's browser-focused operating system that leverages online storage and apps to offer functionality on par with a basic Windows or Mac laptop. As simple, inexpensive machines for everything from checking email and social media to writing papers and joining Zoom calls for classes and work, Chromebooks are well-suited to today's always-online life. But many recent Chromebooks add gaming to the mix. From online games and Android apps to streaming game services, you can enjoy downtime on a Chromebook more than ever.
(Credit: Joseph Maldonado)The first few Chromebooks made explicitly for gaming are now a couple of years old. No Chromebook then or now qualifies as a "traditional" gaming laptop with a discrete graphics processing unit (GPU), playing demanding 3D games on the laptop itself. Streaming your game experience from powerful cloud servers to your Chromebook's display is the name of the game with Chromebooks. But these low-cost systems are ideal if you want a lightweight machine designed for use with those cloud gaming services. Today, you have several distinct approaches to playing games on Chromebooks, and even a couple of ways to enjoy today's most popular games.
How Does Gaming on a Chromebook Work?
While the term "gaming" may call to mind high-powered gaming laptops or Microsoft's and Sony's dedicated family-room consoles, the reality is that the gaming world is much larger than the so-called AAA or big-budget titles that major studios release. From retro games to the casual games that make smartphones so entertaining, plenty of gaming opportunities don't require an expensive GPU and a big gaming desktop or laptop.
(Credit: Joseph Maldonado)At your disposal today are four main ways to game on Chromebooks, each with unique considerations for the type of hardware you have:
- You can rely on browser-based games that need nothing more than visiting a website.
- You can run Android games as apps within ChromeOS, giving you access to all the best games in the Google Play Store.
- You can stream games through cloud gaming services like Nvidia's GeForce Now.
- If you're willing to do some work, you can install a handful of Linux games directly onto your Chromebook.
(Credit: Joseph Maldonado)Our How to Play Games on Your Chromebook guide has more details, but we'll briefly discuss your options here.
Browser-Based Games: Play It Straight in Chrome
The simplest options for Chromebook gaming are browser-based games. These work right in the Chrome browser, without requiring a download or potent hardware. They range from basic versions of chess and checkers to old-school classics like Pac-Man and Doom, along with a vast number of indie games that are free to play online.
(Credit: Joseph Maldonado)Retro games are freely available for playing in your browser via several legitimate websites, from Classic Games Arcade to the Internet Archive's coin-op arcade. Google even has its own collection of browser-based games, called GameSnacks, that run in HTML5.
While many of these games are accessible via the right website, installing a browser extension can enable some games for play in the Chrome browser. These are the simplest game options on this list, and most game extensions are free.
For these games, you need nothing more than a Chromebook that can go online. The selection is a bit limited, but you might recognize a few titles, like Flappy Bird and Temple Run. Most work with a keyboard and mouse, but they may also offer support for game pads and touch screens.
These games are the perfect option for the average Chromebook because they don't rely on local processing power, large install files, or special input devices. And since they're browser-based, they'll work on any Chromebook, including school-issued systems.
Android and Cross-Platform Games: The Growing Google Play Ecosystem
Next are Android and cross-platform games, which have evolved significantly in 2026. While Chromebooks have long supported Android apps, the focus has shifted toward a unified, multi-platform gaming environment. Through the new "Buy Once, Play Anywhere" model, you can select from single titles and series that allow you to purchase a game once and access it seamlessly across your phone, tablet, and Chromebook. Your progress is automatically synchronized via your Gamer Profile, allowing you to pick up exactly where you left off on any device. The Google Play Store now includes a dedicated PC section and a "PC Badge" to identify games specifically optimized for larger screens and traditional mouse-and-keyboard inputs.
Recommended by Our Editors
(Credit: Joseph Maldonado)Two things are important to note. First, you may not be able to play some Android phone games properly unless your Chromebook has a touch screen. Second, students may be out of luck, since most school districts turn off Android support by default. But if you're one of the millions of Chromebook owners who can freely use Android apps, you can enjoy a wealth of gaming options through the Google Play Store, from viral hits like Among Us and Wordle to a wealth of games in every genre.
Really, any of the best Android games we recommend for phones will work well on ChromeOS—but here's the catch. As noted, with Android games designed for phones and tablets, you'll definitely want to get a Chromebook that offers touch capability.
We'd strongly suggest a 2-in-1 design for anyone who wants to use smartphone-centric Android apps on their Chromebook. Detachable tablet 2-in-1 designs do have an edge over rotating convertible 2-in-1s when it comes to Android gaming. Some of this is due to the form factor—detachable tablets are slimmer and lighter than laptop-size convertibles. If you're playing a game for more than a few minutes, the extra weight of a convertible laptop (with its keyboard) will be a real drag. But it also has to do with a tablet's features, with extras like front and rear cameras and more sensors. These can give you a more phone-like experience than any laptop masquerading as a tablet ever could.
Streaming for Fun: Gaming in the Cloud
If you want to play mainstream AAA games on your Chromebook, you can only do that through cloud game-streaming services. The most widely supported platforms are Nvidia GeForce Now, Xbox Cloud Gaming (Game Pass Ultimate), Amazon Luna, and PlayStation Plus Premium. Many new Chromebooks offer free trial periods for these services, so you can test them before subscribing long-term.
Past attempts at cloud gaming have been short-lived, with major players like Steam and Google shutting down their respective services. But that doesn't mean cloud gaming is on the way out—quite the opposite. Services like GeForce Now and Luna have introduced increasingly demanding AAA games to play on lightweight hardware, often with instant access and cloud saves across devices.
(Credit: Nvidia)The major cloud gaming services mentioned above run directly in the Chromebook browser and support most recent models. However, top-tier streaming (1080p, 4K, ray-tracing) is best on Chromebooks with at least 8GB of RAM, Wi-Fi 6E, and a midrange processor. Always check your Chromebook’s specs against the minimum requirements posted by each cloud gaming service. Most mainstream Chromebooks (including many budget models) support GeForce Now, Xbox Cloud Gaming, and Luna. Models with lesser specs may limit resolution or session quality.
A More DIY Approach: Linux Gaming on ChromeOS
Finally, because ChromeOS is built on the foundations of the Linux kernel, you can try running Linux games on your Chromebook. This arrangement opens up a whole range of software, much of it available for free.
However, once you shift to storing and running programs locally, you need a machine with more processing power and roomier storage than your typical Chromebook. That means a model running on an Intel Core or AMD Ryzen chip rather than the low-powered Arm processors common among budget Chromebooks. You'll also want to step up to more memory and larger, faster solid-state drive (SSD) storage instead of the limited eMMC flash memory of economy models.
That settled, you'll find two paths to take on the Linux front: You can go the official, Google-approved route and install Linux apps using Crostini, or you can install a full Linux desktop using Crouton. Both options are explained in our guide How to Install Linux on Your Chromebook, and either will let you access the Linux game catalogs on Steam and GOG.
(Credit: Joseph Maldonado)Gaming on ChromeOS: Still a Stretch, But Plenty of Fun
We've covered a whole bunch of options for enjoying games on a Chromebook: a round of Pac-Man in your browser; popular Android phone games; streaming games through Nvidia or Amazon; even installing the Linux operating system just for games.
But at the end of the day, it's worth pointing out that not even the best Chromebook will match the cheapest of our choices for the best cheap gaming laptops. Instead, ChromeOS gaming is all about giving you some fun ways to leverage what laptop hardware you already own, or need to buy for other, more critical purposes. Still, if you want to go Chrome and play, just refer to our picks and spec comparison table listing our current gaming Chromebook favorites.