Chrome OS Flex allows you to experience Google’s ChromeOS without buying a Chromebook. While Google claims it runs well on older systems, there are hardware limits, so it is always best to check their official supported device list.
If you want to try it out, read on. But first, let’s understand what it actually is.
What is Chrome OS Flex?
Chrome OS Flex is Google’s cloud-first version of ChromeOS, allowing you to repurpose existing Intel/AMD PCs and Macs within the Google ecosystem. It shares the same core codebase as the standard ChromeOS.
Technically, it is a Linux-based operating system built around the Chrome browser. The OS combines a browser/window-manager layer, system services, and firmware-level boot components—exactly what you would find on an actual Chromebook.
One major difference from the standard ChromeOS is that Chrome OS Flex does not support running Android apps.
How to Install It
Installing Chrome OS Flex requires a few prerequisites:
- A USB drive (8GB or larger)
- A compatible device that supports Chrome OS Flex
- An active internet connection
- The Chrome browser with the Chromebook Recovery Utility extension installed
Once you have everything ready:
- Plug in your USB drive.
- Open the Chrome browser and launch the Chromebook Recovery Utility extension.
- Click Get Started, then choose to select a model from a list.
- Select Google ChromeOS Flex as the manufacturer and ChromeOS Flex as the product.
- Follow the on-screen wizard and wait for the installation media to be created.
After the USB drive is ready, boot your old device from the USB. Follow the prompts to install Chrome OS Flex to your hard drive, reboot, and log into your Google account.
And that’s it! Your Chrome OS Flex device is now ready to use.
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